10 things older kids will enjoy in Livingstone

Written by Kim Barnett

In Livingstone, we know that keeping kids entertained while on holiday is a priority for families. If the kids are busy, then the parents can also relax a little and enjoy themselves. However, whereas young kids are appeased with a jungle gym or colouring books, it takes a bit more ingenuity to get older kids off of electronics and interacting with the outside world.

That is why we have devised a list of ten things older will love to do in Livingstone, Zambia. You’re encouraged to chat with your kids and see which activities they would like to do on their next Livingstone adventure.

Design a chitenge dress or outfit

Age: Any age

Livingstone-based tailors are fabulous at making a pattern simply from a photo or a sketch. They can often then whip up a fantastic outfit within 24 hours, in time for you to take home as a lasting souvenir of your time in Livingstone.

If your children love fashion or have a flair for design, this will be the ideal excursion to keep them busy. We recommend printing the photos or sketching the plans so that they can be left with the tailor, who can then assist with shopping for the correct amount of chitenge material in the nearby shops.

Wayi Wayi art studio

Age: Any age

Located off Airport Road, there is a hidden gem for art-loving families with children. Wayi Wayi Art Studio boasts an art gallery overflowing with unique pieces from the talented Yombe family. They also offer art lessons, including upcycling, painting, crafting, and pottery. Age-appropriate art lessons are available upon request by qualified teachers, and there is also a jungle gym for little ones to work off some energy.

Segway Tours

Age: 12 years and above

Your kids will love the Segway Tours and the only problem is that they will be asking you to book it again and again! Departures are from AVANI Hotel, where guests will have a short safety briefing before learning to glide with ease. The trails are all well marked, and everyone departs in a group, so this is the perfect activity to send older kids off on their own. Giraffes, zebras, impala, and monkeys can often be seen along the way.

Walking Safari in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Age: 12 years and above

Walking safaris through Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park are available early morning and in the afternoon. There is no safari experience quite as intimate as walking through the bush and tracking spoor. Kids will (unexpectedly) learn a lot of information about the local flora and fauna and get the chance to see white rhinos, zebra, giraffe, elephants, impala, bushbuck, warthogs, and more while on foot. An experienced guide and armed scout always escort the trip.

Salaula shopping

Age: Any age

Salaula translates to second-hand clothing and is big business in Livingstone. There are shops on the main street such as DAPP where fashion-frenzied teenagers can find name-brand bargains. Alternatively, head to the markets and check out the stalls selling everything from designer handbags to winter jackets. We encourage you to add a bit of competition to the mix and see who can bring back the best find.

Bicycle Tour

Age: Any age

Bicycle tours enable your kids to get out and see the lesser-known areas of Livingstone and the day-to-day life of town residents. Routes can be tailored to your preferences, but we highly recommend going through the local markets and the Local Cowboy School supported by bicycle tours. Alternative routes include going to Victoria Falls or local villages.

Big air experience

Age: 6 years for the bridge slide; 14 years for bungee or bridge swing and be 40kg+

In our opinion, everyone should make a point of going to the Victoria Falls Bridge even if it is just to have a drink at the café and gaze at the breathtaking view. Older kids can work up the courage to do the whole Big Air Experience, where they do a bridge slide, bungee jump, and bridge swing. They will certainly get some comments on Instagram when those photos are released!

Rafting on the Zambezi River

Age: 16 years and above

The Zambezi River is arguably the best one-day rafting experience on the planet. With rapid names like The Muncher and Stairway to Heaven, this trip is obviously pretty intense, but they will be buzzing about it for days.

Volunteer

Credit: Unsplash

Age: Any age

Volunteering is a great way to showcase a destination and have your older kids give back to a destination. They can book for a half-day or multiple days and participate in projects including education, literacy, healthcare, and girl empowerment. This experience has been known to be just as valuable to the volunteers as to those they aim to assist.

Nampene Island

Age: Any age

If you have a few days to add to your itinerary, Livingstone is a fantastic add-on to a trip. The whole family can enjoy the sandy beaches, bush walks, fishing trips, and village tours. Groups of kids from seven years can sign up for their Nampene Island Survival Camps, where they learn basic life skills and how to take care of themselves in the African bush.

In Cape Town, families will not be at a loss for activities to enjoy together. Visit a museum, a planetarium, aquarium, or zoo with them. Moreover, the area is home to numerous stunning parks and nature preserves perfect for a day of cycling or hiking. Of course, there are always great places to eat and shop to keep everyone entertained.

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