Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Livingstone. Livingstone Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 40 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside LVI
A few things to sort out before you leave LVI:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Zambia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Livingstone takes about 40 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is ZMW. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Livingstone, two standouts are:
- Victoria Falls (Zambian Side) — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Livingstone Museum — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside LVI — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- LVI Departure Lounge
- Duty-Free & Souvenir Shop
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: The Old Farm House Restaurant and Café Zambezi are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Livingstone.
- At the airport: LVI Terminal Cafe and Pre-Security Snack Counter will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Transport from Livingstone Airport to Downtown
The most straightforward way into Livingstone is the Taxi, which takes about 40 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 60 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi is usually the smarter call.
Layover Budget Breakdown
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Livingstone:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $8 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $23 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Livingstone, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at LVI aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Livingstone itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and LVI is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Livingstone and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at LVI include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Zambia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Livingstone is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Livingstone.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.