The Complete Guide to Livingstone Island and Devils Pool: An Unforgettable Experience

Imagine swimming to the very edge of Victoria Falls, peering over the precipice as millions of liters of water thunder past you into the gorge 108 meters below. This isn't a fantasy – it's the reality of Devils Pool, one of the world's most extraordinary natural infinity pools. Located on Livingstone Island at the lip of Victoria Falls, Devils Pool offers an experience that combines breathtaking beauty, adrenaline, and the surreal sensation of being at the edge of one of nature's most powerful forces.

What is Livingstone Island?

Livingstone Island sits in the middle of the Zambezi River, right at the edge of Victoria Falls on the Zambian side. This small island holds immense historical significance – it's where Dr. David Livingstone first viewed the falls in 1855, becoming the first European to witness this natural wonder. He named the falls after Queen Victoria, though the local name, "Mosi-oa-Tunya" (The Smoke That Thunders), remains widely used.

The island is accessible only by boat during certain times of the year when water levels are low enough to allow safe passage. This exclusivity adds to the appeal – you're visiting a place that's only accessible for part of the year and that relatively few people get to experience.

The island itself is small, covered in vegetation, and surrounded by the rushing Zambezi. From here, you have a unique perspective on Victoria Falls, seeing it from the top rather than from the viewing points on either bank. The experience of standing on the island, feeling the spray, hearing the roar, and understanding that you're literally on the edge of the falls is profound.

Devils Pool: The Ultimate Natural Infinity Pool

Devils Pool is a natural rock pool formed by erosion at the very edge of Victoria Falls. During low water season (roughly August to January), the water level drops enough that a natural rock barrier creates a relatively calm pool right at the lip of the falls. This barrier prevents swimmers from being swept over the edge, creating what is essentially nature's most dramatic infinity pool.

How Devils Pool Works

The physics of Devils Pool are fascinating. The rock lip that forms the pool's edge sits slightly higher than the main flow of the falls. Water flows into the pool from upstream, but the rock barrier prevents the current from pulling swimmers over the edge. The water in the pool is relatively calm, though you can feel the current and the vibration from the massive volume of water flowing past.

When you swim to the edge and peer over, you're looking straight down into the gorge with the Eastern Cataract of Victoria Falls thundering beside you. The sensation is surreal – your rational brain knows you're safe (thanks to the rock barrier and the guides holding you), but your primal brain is screaming that you're about to go over the edge.

Safety Considerations

The most common question about Devils Pool is: "Is it safe?" The answer is yes – when water levels are appropriate and you're with experienced guides. However, it's important to understand the risks and safety measures.

Water Level Monitoring: The tour only operates when water levels are within a safe range. If levels are too high, the rock barrier is submerged and the current becomes too strong. If levels are too low, access to the island becomes difficult. Operators monitor water levels daily and cancel tours when conditions aren't safe.

Experienced Guides: Your guides are locals who know the river intimately. They've done this thousands of times and understand the currents, safe zones, and potential hazards. They'll physically hold you when you're at the edge, ensuring you don't slip or get pulled by the current.

Safety Briefing: Before entering the pool, you'll receive a thorough safety briefing covering what to do, where to swim, and how to position yourself at the edge.

Life Jackets: While not always required in the pool itself, life jackets are worn during the boat transfer to and from the island.

Group Size: Tours are limited in size to ensure guides can properly supervise everyone.

No Alcohol: Participants must be sober. The combination of water, rocks, and the edge of a waterfall is not the place for impaired judgment.

That said, Devils Pool is not without risk. You're swimming in a river at the edge of a massive waterfall. The rocks are slippery, the current is present (though manageable), and the consequences of a mistake would be severe. This is why following guide instructions precisely is essential.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Do Devils Pool

Good Candidates:

• Confident swimmers who are comfortable in moving water
• People in good physical health
• Those seeking a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience
• Adventure travelers who can follow instructions carefully
• Anyone who wants the ultimate Victoria Falls photo

Think Twice If:

• You're not a confident swimmer
• You have mobility issues (the rocks are slippery and uneven)
• You're pregnant
• You have heart conditions or other serious health issues
• You're terrified of heights or water
• You've been drinking alcohol

Age Requirements: Most operators require participants to be at least 12 years old. Some set the minimum at 15 or 16. There's no strict upper age limit, but you need to be physically capable of navigating slippery rocks and swimming in current.

Angels Pool: The Calmer Alternative

For those who want the Livingstone Island experience without the intensity of Devils Pool, Angels Pool offers a fantastic alternative. Located on the same island but in a slightly different position, Angels Pool provides stunning views of the falls without requiring you to swim to the very edge.

What Makes Angels Pool Different

Angels Pool is deeper and larger than Devils Pool, with calmer water and a more relaxed atmosphere. You can swim and float while enjoying spectacular views of the falls and gorge, but you're not right at the edge. The rock formations create a natural pool that feels safer and less intense while still offering an extraordinary experience.

Who Should Choose Angels Pool

• Families with children (minimum age is typically lower, around 6-8 years)
• Less confident swimmers
• Those who want the Livingstone Island experience without the extreme edge factor
• People who want to relax and enjoy the scenery rather than seek maximum adrenaline
• Anyone who finds Devils Pool too intimidating

Can You Do Both?

Some tour packages include access to both pools, allowing you to experience Angels Pool first (to get comfortable) before moving to Devils Pool. This is an excellent option for those who are nervous but don't want to miss out on the full experience.

The Complete Livingstone Island Experience

The Livingstone Island tour is about more than just the pools – it's a comprehensive experience that includes history, scenery, and often a meal.

The Journey to the Island

Your experience begins with a boat ride from the Zambian side of the falls. The boat navigates the Zambezi River, offering views of the falls from the water and the chance to see wildlife on the riverbanks. The journey itself is scenic and sets the stage for what's to come.

As you approach the island, the roar of the falls grows louder and the spray becomes visible. Landing on the island requires careful navigation by the boat operator, as the currents are strong and the rocks are close to the surface.

Exploring the Island

Once on the island, you'll have time to explore before entering the pools. Your guide will share the history of David Livingstone's visit and explain the geology and ecology of the area. The island offers unique perspectives on the falls, with viewpoints that show the water flowing past and over the edge.

The vegetation on the island is lush, sustained by the constant spray from the falls. You might spot birds and other wildlife that inhabit this unique ecosystem.

The Pool Experience

After the briefing, you'll make your way across the rocks to the pool. The rocks are slippery, and you'll need to move carefully. Once in the water, you'll have time to swim, float, and gradually make your way to the edge (if doing Devils Pool).

At the edge, your guide will hold you securely while you peer over into the gorge. This is the moment you've come for – the surreal, terrifying, exhilarating experience of being at the very edge of Victoria Falls. You'll have time for photos (guides are experienced at taking great shots) before swimming back to the calmer part of the pool.

The entire pool experience typically lasts 30-45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the water, take photos, and absorb the incredible setting.

Breakfast or Lunch on the Island

Most Livingstone Island tours include a meal – either breakfast or lunch depending on your tour time. The meal is served on the island, often on a deck with views of the falls. It's a surreal experience to enjoy a meal in such a spectacular setting, with the spray creating rainbows and the constant roar of the falls as your soundtrack.

Breakfast Tours: Typically depart around 7:00-8:00 AM and include a continental or full breakfast on the island. Morning light is excellent for photography, and you'll beat the heat of the day.

Lunch Tours: Usually depart around 11:00 AM-12:00 PM and include a light lunch. Midday sun creates spectacular rainbows in the spray.

High Tea Tours: Some operators offer afternoon tours with high tea service, providing a more relaxed, less crowded experience.

The meals are typically high quality, featuring fresh ingredients and catering to dietary requirements with advance notice. Enjoying breakfast or lunch on Livingstone Island, with the falls as your backdrop, is an experience you'll remember as vividly as the pool itself.

Seasonal Availability and Best Times

Devils Pool and Livingstone Island tours are highly seasonal, operating only when water levels are safe.

Operating Season

Typical Season: Mid-August through mid-January

Peak Season: September through November

Closed: February through July (high water season)

The exact dates vary each year depending on rainfall and water levels. Operators monitor conditions daily and adjust availability accordingly. If you're planning your trip specifically for Devils Pool, aim for September-November when availability is most reliable.

Best Time Within the Season

September: Water levels are usually perfect – low enough for safe swimming but with enough flow to maintain the drama. The weather is warming up but not yet extremely hot. This is arguably the best month for Devils Pool.

October: Excellent conditions continue, though temperatures rise (often 30-35°C/86-95°F). The heat makes the water more appealing. Wildlife viewing on safaris is also excellent this month.

November: Still good conditions, though water levels begin to rise as the rainy season starts. Afternoon thunderstorms become more common but usually clear quickly. The landscape is greening up, creating beautiful scenery.

December-January: Water levels are rising, and availability becomes less predictable. Tours may be cancelled on short notice if levels rise too high. However, if conditions are right, you'll have fewer crowds.

August: The season is just beginning, and water levels may still be slightly high. Availability can be limited in early August.

Weather Considerations

Temperature: September-November brings warm to hot weather (25-35°C/77-95°F). The water is refreshing in the heat.

Rain: November-January sees increasing rainfall, usually in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. Morning tours are more reliable during these months.

Wind: Can affect boat transfers and comfort on the island. Operators will cancel if winds are too strong.

For more detailed seasonal information about Victoria Falls, see our guide on high season vs low season.

Booking Your Livingstone Island Tour

Tour Options and Pricing

Devils Pool Tour with Breakfast: $120-$150 per person

• Boat transfer to/from island
• Guided tour of the island
• Devils Pool experience
• Breakfast on the island
• Professional photos (usually included)
• Duration: 3-4 hours

Devils Pool Tour with Lunch: $130-$160 per person

• Similar to breakfast tour but with lunch service
• Duration: 3-4 hours

Angels Pool Tour: $100-$130 per person

• Boat transfer to/from island
• Guided tour
• Angels Pool experience
• Meal on the island
• Duration: 3-4 hours

Combined Devils and Angels Pool: $140-$170 per person

• Access to both pools
• Extended time on the island
• Meal included
• Duration: 4-5 hours

Private Tours: Available at premium pricing (typically $400-$600 for 2 people)

• Exclusive boat and guide
• Flexible timing
• Personalized experience
• Ideal for proposals or special occasions

What's Included

Most tours include:

• Boat transfers from the Zambian side
• Experienced guides
• Safety briefing and equipment
• Access to the pool(s)
• Meal (breakfast, lunch, or high tea)
• Professional photos (digital delivery)
• Park fees

What to Bring

Essential:

• Swimwear (wear it under your clothes)
• Towel
• Sunscreen (waterproof)
• Hat and sunglasses for the boat ride
• Passport (required for park entry)

Recommended:

• Waterproof bag for personal items
• Change of clothes
• Water shoes or sandals with straps (the rocks are slippery)
• Camera (waterproof or in waterproof case)
• Cash for tips

Not Needed:

• Life jackets (provided)
• Underwater camera (guides take photos)

Booking Process

Advance Booking: Essential, especially during peak season (September-November). Tours often sell out days or weeks in advance. Book as early as possible once your travel dates are confirmed.

Where to Book:

• Directly through tour operators' websites
• Through your hotel or lodge concierge
• Via activity booking platforms
• Through travel agents

Cancellation Policy: Most operators allow cancellations up to 24-48 hours before the tour for a full refund. Weather-related cancellations by the operator result in full refunds or rescheduling options.

Weather Cancellations: If water levels rise too high or weather conditions are unsafe, tours will be cancelled. This can happen on short notice. Operators will offer alternative dates or refunds.

Confirmation: You'll typically receive confirmation via email with meeting point details, timing, and what to bring.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Tours depart from the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, typically from the Royal Livingstone Hotel or nearby boat launch points. If you're staying on the Zimbabwe side, you'll need to:

1. Cross the border (bring your passport)
2. Arrange transport to the meeting point (many operators offer pickup)
3. Allow extra time for border crossing (30-60 minutes)

If you're staying on the Zambian side, transport to the meeting point is usually straightforward, and many hotels are within walking distance.

Photography Tips

The Livingstone Island and Devils Pool experience offers incredible photo opportunities. Here's how to make the most of them:

Professional Photos

Most tours include professional photography by your guides. These photos are usually excellent – the guides know the best angles, lighting, and poses. They'll capture:

• You swimming in the pool
• The dramatic edge shots
• Group photos
• Scenic shots of the island and falls

The photos are typically delivered digitally within 24-48 hours via download link or USB drive.

Personal Photography

Waterproof Camera: If you want your own photos, bring a waterproof camera or phone in a waterproof case. GoPros are excellent for this experience.

Timing: Morning tours offer the best light for photography. Midday creates harsh shadows but spectacular rainbows.

Composition: Include the falls in the background of your pool shots to provide context and scale.

Action Shots: Ask your guide to capture you swimming to the edge or peering over – these action shots are often more compelling than static poses.

Scenic Shots: Don't forget to photograph the island itself, the boat journey, and the meal setup – these context shots help tell the complete story.

For more detailed photography advice, check out our comprehensive Victoria Falls photography guide.

Making It Extra Special

Proposals at Devils Pool

Devils Pool has become a popular proposal location, and it's easy to see why. The dramatic setting, the adrenaline, and the once-in-a-lifetime nature of the experience create the perfect moment for popping the question.

How to Arrange: Contact the tour operator in advance to arrange a proposal. They can:

• Position a photographer to capture the moment
• Arrange for champagne to be waiting when you return to the island
• Set up a special table for a post-proposal celebration
• Keep the surprise from your partner

Cost: Proposal packages typically add $100-$200 to the standard tour cost.

Timing: The edge of Devils Pool is the most dramatic spot, but it's also chaotic with water and guides holding you. Some people prefer to propose on the island itself after the pool experience, where it's calmer and more intimate.

Special Occasions

Celebrating an anniversary, birthday, or other special occasion? Let the operator know when booking. They can often arrange:

• Champagne or special drinks
• Cake or special desserts
• Decorations on the island
• Personalized service

Private Tours

For the ultimate experience, book a private tour. You'll have the island, guides, and boat to yourselves, allowing for:

• Flexible timing
• More time in the pool
• Personalized attention
• Better photography opportunities
• A more intimate, less rushed experience

Private tours are significantly more expensive ($400-$600 for two people) but worth it for special occasions or if you want the experience without other tourists.

Combining with Other Activities

Livingstone Island tours typically take 3-4 hours, leaving plenty of time for other activities on the same day.

Morning Tour Combinations

If you do a morning Livingstone Island tour (departing around 7:00-8:00 AM), you'll be back by 11:00 AM-12:00 PM, allowing for:

• Afternoon guided tour of the falls
• Afternoon helicopter flight
• Evening sunset cruise
• Relaxation at your lodge

Afternoon Tour Combinations

If you do a lunch or high tea tour (departing around 11:00 AM-12:00 PM), you can combine it with:

• Morning guided falls tour
• Morning microlight flight
• Morning at leisure
• Evening activities

Multi-Day Itineraries

For a comprehensive Victoria Falls experience, consider this sample itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive, afternoon guided falls tour, evening sunset cruise

Day 2: Morning Livingstone Island/Devils Pool tour, afternoon at leisure, evening at lodge

Day 3: Full-day Chobe safari

Day 4: Morning helicopter flight, afternoon bungee jumping or other adventure activity

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if I'm scared of heights? A: Devils Pool is more about water than heights – you're swimming rather than standing on an edge. However, when you peer over into the gorge, the height is very apparent. If you have severe acrophobia, this might not be for you.

Q: Can non-swimmers do the tour? A: You need to be a confident swimmer for Devils Pool. Angels Pool is more accessible for weaker swimmers, and you can enjoy the island tour and meal without entering the pools at all.

Q: What if water levels rise and my tour is cancelled? A: Operators will offer alternative dates or a full refund. This is why booking early in your trip is wise – if cancelled, you have other days to reschedule.

Q: Can I bring my phone/camera in the pool? A: Only if it's waterproof or in a waterproof case. Guides will take photos of you, so you don't need to worry about capturing the moment yourself.

Q: How cold is the water? A: The Zambezi is relatively warm year-round (20-25°C/68-77°F), though it can feel cool when you first enter. The warm air temperatures during the operating season mean you'll be comfortable.

Q: Is it safe for children? A: Devils Pool typically requires participants to be 12-16+ years old (varies by operator). Angels Pool accepts younger children (usually 6-8+). The decision depends on your child's swimming ability, maturity, and comfort level.

Q: What if I'm pregnant? A: Pregnant women should not do Devils Pool due to the physical demands and risks. Angels Pool may be acceptable in early pregnancy, but consult your doctor and the operator.

Q: Can I do Devils Pool if I can't swim? A: No. Confident swimming ability is required for safety.

Q: How many people are on each tour? A: Group sizes are typically limited to 8-12 people to ensure safety and quality experience. Private tours are available for 2-6 people.

The Bucket-List Factor

Devils Pool consistently ranks on "bucket list" compilations and "world's most extreme pools" lists. It's been featured in countless travel magazines, documentaries, and social media posts. But what makes it truly bucket-list worthy isn't just the bragging rights – it's the experience itself.

There's something profound about being at the edge of Victoria Falls, one of the world's great natural wonders. The combination of beauty, power, and the slight edge of danger creates a moment of pure presence. You're not thinking about work, bills, or daily concerns – you're completely in the moment, experiencing something extraordinary.

The photos are spectacular and will impress your friends, but the real value is the memory and the sense of accomplishment. You've done something that relatively few people get to do, something that requires courage and a sense of adventure. That feeling stays with you long after you've dried off and returned to normal life.

Conclusion: An Experience Like No Other

The Livingstone Island and Devils Pool experience is unlike anything else you'll do at Victoria Falls – or anywhere else in the world. It combines natural beauty, history, adventure, and that perfect touch of adrenaline that makes a travel experience truly memorable.

Whether you choose the full Devils Pool experience or the slightly calmer Angels Pool, whether you visit for breakfast or lunch, whether you go with a group or book a private tour, you're in for something special. The sensation of swimming at the edge of Victoria Falls, the views from Livingstone Island, and the meal with the falls as your backdrop create a complete experience that engages all your senses.

Yes, it's seasonal and requires planning. Yes, it's more expensive than many Victoria Falls activities. Yes, it requires some courage and physical ability. But ask anyone who's done it, and they'll tell you it's worth every penny and every moment of nervousness.

Ready to experience the ultimate natural infinity pool? Book your Livingstone Island and Devils Pool tour and prepare for one of the most extraordinary experiences of your life.

The edge of Victoria Falls is waiting. The question is: are you brave enough to swim to it?