Royal Livingstone Hotel Introduces Refurbishment in Zambia

Royal Livingstone Hotel Updates Rooms and Guest Experience

The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara has completed a refurbishment of 93 rooms, including four Junior Suites, marking a new phase for the 25-year-old property.

Updated Accommodation

The refurbishment introduces revised room categories, including Deluxe Zambezi River Balcony Rooms, Grand Zambezi River Terrace Rooms, and newly added Grand Zambezi River Balcony Rooms alongside the Junior Suites. The interiors retain elements of the property’s safari-Victorian style while incorporating a contemporary Zambian design approach.

Earth-toned palettes reflect the surrounding landscape, complemented by updated textiles and design details that connect indoor spaces with the natural environment of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.

Bathrooms have been upgraded with separate soaking tubs and rain showers, along with new fittings and amenities. In-room features now include flat-screen televisions, improved Wi-Fi connectivity and updated climate control systems. Private balconies and terraces have also been refreshed, with furnishings positioned to enhance views of the Zambezi River.

Wellness Offering

The wellness experience continues to centre around the Anantara Spa, where treatment gazebos are set within the hotel’s gardens near the pool. Designed with large glass openings, these spaces allow natural surroundings to form part of the experience.

One of the treatments, the Nalikwanda Lozi Journey, draws inspiration from the Kuomboka ceremony. It includes a hot stone massage, a hydrating facial, and a spa pedicure, designed as a sequence that reflects seasonal and cultural elements. The spa is open to both hotel guests and external visitors.

Dining Experiences

Dining at the hotel focuses on regional flavours and fresh ingredients. Kubu Deck offers open-air dining along the Zambezi River, while Designer Dining experiences include private-jetty breakfasts, meals under shaded trees, and a Royal High Tea setting.

Activities and Experiences

Guests can explore experiences within and beyond the hotel grounds. Wildlife such as giraffes can be seen within the property’s surroundings. The Royal Livingstone Express, a restored steam train, offers rail journeys across the Victoria Falls Bridge, with a multi-course dining experience on board.

Additional excursions include a Batoka Gorge picnic, which begins with a helicopter journey over the landscape before descending into the gorge for a meal by the river.

Laurie Burr, Area General Manager, said the refurbishment balances the hotel’s heritage with current guest expectations, while maintaining its connection to local culture and hospitality.

The Royal Livingstone Hotel continues to operate on the banks of the Zambezi River, providing access to Victoria Falls and the surrounding region.