How to explore David Livingstone Museum

Not only is the David Livingstone Museum the largest in all of Zambia but it is also considered the oldest of its kind in the African nation. Boasting a vast reservoir of information and exhibits, this edifice pays tribute to David Livingstone

Know about the man himself

Dr David Livingstone was once described by Florence Nightingale as the “greatest man of his generation” which is an honour that is brought to light within the four walls of the magnificently appointed David Livingstone Museum. Known as the 1st European to have stumbled upon the famed Victoria Falls which is a symbol of Zambia, David Livingstone dedicated his life to exploring and discovering new cultures and countries and is said to have travelled extensively across the African continent. As part of his exploits, Livingstone journeyed from the Indian Ocean across to Africa before making for the Atlantic in the west. In fact, Livingstone’s work was instrumental in successfully mapping out the African continent which also included a long fight against the slave trade which once plagued the region.

The David Livingstone Museum

The collection of artefacts and exhibits speak volumes of the rich heritage that Zambia has benefitted from and therefore, serves as one of the best things to do in Zambia. Found a short distance away from Avani Victoria Falls Resort which is a good base to retire to after your travels in and around Victoria Falls, the Museum will ensure you have a memorable time. Value and variety are placed on the highest pedestal at this cultural attraction that will take you back in time and help you get your head around the nuances of the ways of life in Zambia. Divided into various sections and galleries that combine in exemplifying the tireless efforts of David Livingstone and his obsessions with the nation, a tour of the Museum will awaken your senses in every sense of the phrase.  

Which areas of the Museum must you devote the most time at?

Spend as much time as you desire to move through the area titled as the ‘Livingstone Section’ which undoubtedly, is the most important part of the Museum itself. Housed within the Section is a priceless display of personal effects, authentic maps and actual diaries of the great explorer which contain detailed descriptions of his many travels and interactions with local tribes. Once you have acquired a sound grasp of what David Livingstone managed to achieve during his lifetime, you can move over to the Archaeology Gallery. Once here, visitors like yourself can gain a thorough understanding of the region, and its history followed by the Zambian people's human evolution and cultural progression. Next up are the Ethnographic and Art Galleries which provide invaluable insights into the nation's different cultures through an array of exhibits. Should you want to uncover each and every fascinating facet surrounding the Bantu people who migrated from northern parts of Zambia, then waste no time in beelining for the History Gallery where you can also trace the nation’s past up until Zambia gained independence from the British in 1964.

Tours

Tours of the David Livingstone Museum are conducted on a daily basis and do not adhere to set timeframes which is a positive given that you may include such a trip as and when deemed fit. However, prior requests will need to be made as guided tours can last anywhere between 2 – 3 hours. In fact, you can plan your trip to coincide with outings to Livingstone Town as well as the historic site of the Railway Museum that will transport you to the 1930s and the height of Zambia’s railway industry. However and regardless of where your paths lead you, you must not make the mistake of ignoring the monument erected in honour of David Livingstone outside the entrance to the Museum. The setting will serve as an outstanding way to strike that perfect pose and join in celebrating an important chapter of Zambian history that continues to attract culture buffs and leisure guests alike.