Livingstone, Zambia
What 90% of solo women don't know about staying safe in Livingstone.
Town center has cheaper prices and local atmosphere, but only go during daylight. After sunset, head back to your accommodation.
Downtown has colonial-era buildings along Mosi-oa-Tunya Road with cafés, restaurants, and small shops. During the day you can walk around, visit the Livingstone Museum, or check out craft markets where prices beat the tourist areas. Locals go about their business and it's generally friendly. Staff at restaurants speak English - places like Olga's Italian Corner and Café Zambezi work fine for eating alone. There are two small malls, Falls Park Mall and Mosi-oa-Tunya Square, for daytime shopping. After 6pm the situation changes completely. Streets empty fast, lighting is poor, and locals who work downtown leave for other neighborhoods. Don't walk around at night, even short distances. During the day, watch for pickpockets near transport hubs and markets - keep valuables out of sight. Come here for budget meals and local atmosphere during daylight, but head back to your accommodation or the tourist zone before evening.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
PoorHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
ModeratePickpocketing Risk
HighScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
ModerateSolo Dining
GoodDrug Activity
ModerateHomelessness Visibility
ModerateGetting By in English
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"Fine during the day but get out before dark"
"Kubu Café works well for solo coffee and wifi"
"Cheaper than tourist zones but basic quality"
"Watch your bag at markets, vendors push hard"
"Friendly during the day but unsafe at night"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Authentic local life and cheap food, but limited English and safety issues at night. Go during daytime with a guide or local contact.
Residential area with expats and good security, but nothing nearby for tourists. Works for extended stays if you value quiet safety over convenience.
The tourist area near Victoria Falls has maximum safety and English-speaking staff, but you'll pay tourist prices and it doesn't feel particularly Zambian.
Help other women stay safe in Town Center / CBD
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.