The Royal Livingston is named after the intrepid explorer Dr. David Livingston. Even though it has 173 spacious guest rooms, the Five Star hotel offers a high level of personal service.  It is situated along the banks of the Zambezi River just above Victoria Falls. The natives refer to the falls as the mist that thunders.

Clearing customs was reasonably simple at the small airport, and we were shuttled to the Hotel by van. The rooms were in two story structures flanking the lobby, restaurant and swimming pool, much like a motel in plan, but a very luxurious motel. All rooms had balconies with views of the Zambezi River which was about a hundred yards from the hotel and its open air lobby. The Zambezi flows into Victoria Falls a short distance downstream from the hotel. Hippopotamuses froliced in the river a short distance from shore and their grunting and jostling was constant throughout the day

  Royal Livingston  - River Front          Guest Room Wing

After signing in, we were shown to our room, which we found to be beautifully decorated, with a huge luxurious bathroom finished in marble. Our personal Valet introduced himself, decked out in an impeccable white colonial style uniform, with brass buttons down the front. His uniform was complete with a white pith helmet. We were cautioned not to leave the balcony door open because monkeys could enter the room and cause havoc. When we turned in for the night that evening our bed was strewn with fragrant white rose petals which my wife found very romantic.  Whatever works!

  Peggy- Zambezi River beyond        Phillip on River Deck

Beyond the pool, which is between the lobby and the river, there is an elevated wooden deck on the river’s edge where cocktails are served. If one orders hors-d'oeuvres, it is prudent to be alert to the resident Vervet monkeys. In spite of hotel security guards lurking nearby, the monkeys could run over to unsuspecting guests and snatch goodies out of their hands before they knew what happened. When the guards tried to chase the monkeys away, they retreated just out of reach of the guards where they sat, watching them warily. These little monkeys are considered pests in South Africa, and it is legal to kill them in whatever manner one wishes. They should live their lives in fear of being killed by people, but if they are fearful, they hide it well.

The hotel dining room was pleasant enough, though a bit austere. It opened out onto the patio, where one could also dine. The pleasant weather and beautiful views of the River made it a most pleasant place to dine. We chose to dine al fresco. If a more intimate dinner is desired, service is also available in your room. Across from the restaurant there was a large, comfortable lounge and bar decorated in a rustic Colonial African theme.