Royal Livingstone Hotel in Zambia unveils upgrade with Zambezi views

The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara has completed a wide-ranging upgrade of its riverside rooms, reinforcing its position as one of Zambia’s best-known luxury stays along the Zambezi River.

The property sits on the edge of the river, close to Victoria Falls, where it draws international travellers looking for comfort paired with direct access to one of Africa’s most visited natural landmarks. 

The renovation covers 93 rooms, including newly added Junior Suites.

It comes as Zambia continues to attract steady interest from long-haul travellers seeking nature-led holidays and high-end safari experiences that combine wildlife, scenery and heritage. 

The update also reflects a broader effort by hospitality operators in the region to refresh older luxury assets while keeping their original character intact.

At the Royal Livingstone, that balance is shaped by its colonial-era design influence and its setting inside the Mosi-oa-Tunya landscape.

Riverside rooms redone with local design touches 

The upgraded rooms include Deluxe and Grand Zambezi River categories, along with new balcony and terrace suites.

Interiors now feature warmer earth-toned finishes inspired by the surrounding national park, alongside refreshed textiles and safari-style décor. 

Bathrooms have been fully modernised with separate soaking tubs and rain showers.

Rooms also include improved WiFi, upgraded climate control, and updated furnishings.

Larger balconies and terraces have been fitted with new seating to take advantage of direct views of the Zambezi River.

Spa and dining rooted in place 

At the Anantara Spa, treatments are set in open riverside gazebos designed to bring in natural light, fresh air and river sounds.

A signature treatment, the Nalikwanda Lozi Journey, draws from the Kuomboka ceremony and combines massage, facial care and body therapy inspired by seasonal life along the Zambezi. 

Dining across the property focuses on local ingredients and outdoor settings.

Kubu Deck offers open-air meals near the riverbank, with views that include mist rising from Victoria Falls.

Guests can also choose private jetty breakfasts or traditional high tea served in quiet garden spaces.

Experiences beyond the Hotel grounds 

The property continues to emphasise curated travel experiences.

The Royal Livingstone Express steam train offers a fine-dining journey across the Victoria Falls Bridge, while helicopter flights over Batoka Gorge lead to private picnics on remote sandbanks below. 

Wildlife often moves freely through the hotel grounds, adding to its safari atmosphere without leaving the property. 

“This refurbishment balances our 25-year history with what modern travellers expect,” said Laurie Burr, area general manager.

“We wanted to keep the character of the hotel while improving comfort and detail.” 

The Royal Livingstone remains a key part of Zambia’s luxury travel market, built around its riverfront setting, access to Victoria Falls and a mix of heritage and outdoor experiences.