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Hours
Sun
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Mon
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tue
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wed
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thu
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Fri
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sat
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
5.0
Travelers' Choice 2024
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Food and ambience
Local cuisine, African, Fusion, Healthy, Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options
Special occasions, Romantic, Scenic view
Is this place primarily a deli?
Details
About
Rated Zambia's TOP restaurant, The Elephant Café encompasses three wonderful experiences and is guaranteed to be a signature highlight of your Livingstone adventure! The first experience is a speedboat adventure through islands and channels up the Zambezi River to an enchanting riverside location where you will be met on arrival by members of a magnificent herd of rescue elephant for a once-in-a-lifetime meeting. Experience an unforgettable close encounter with these gentle giants and viewing of the herd around the vicinity of the venue before being welcomed to The Elephant Café overlooking the Zambezi River for a unique dining experience as the third highlight of the adventure. The meal is prix fixe, so guests can sit back and relax over the delicious bush gourmet cuisine unique to this restaurant including wild edibles and locally-sourced fresh and organic ingredients. Road transfers are available as an alternative method of transport. Advance Reservation is essential.
CUISINES
African, Fusion, Healthy
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks
FEATURES
Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Mastercard, Visa, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Gift Cards Available
Contribute
5.0
667 reviews
Excellent
620
Very good
30
Average
7
Poor
5
Terrible
5
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Sightsee765806
Lambertville95 contributions
Jul 2024 • friends
My friend and I did the dinner package to the Elephant Cafe which included a ride on a jet boat to the cafe, feeding the elephants, dinner and photos of us during the elephant interaction taken by their photographer and a ride back to our hotel in a van. The overall experience was good, especially feeding the elephants and the wonderful dinner. The one disappointment was that we were not sent the photos taken by their photographer. When we were there for dinner there were only 8 people - six people in one family and my friend and I. So, there's no excuse for not sending us the photos. Other than that if you go to the Elephant Cafe you should have an enjoyable experience.
Written July 23, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DaisyMoo101
4 contributions
Aug 2024 • family
Booked a elephant interaction with lunch for four as part of our recent trip to Zambia. It is a bit on the expensive side but to be fair now that I am home and have looked a the cost of doing something similar in a UK safari park, it is actually very reasonable. We had approx 30 mins feeding 3 of the elephants which really is the highlight followed by a high quality 3 course meal. Food really was beautiful and the chef is clearly very talented. All drinks were included in the price. Staff are very attentive. There is also photographer taking photos of the interaction part which are sent to you for free download afterwards. This in itself I was pleased with as often those kind of things are charged as 'extras'.
Overall I would definitely recommend the experience!
Written August 8, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mrs P
Canvey Island28 contributions
Apr 2023 • family
The Elephant Cafe was definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Livingston. Upon arrival, we were met by the supervisor called Africa, who was friendly and put us at ease. He explained the importance of being calm when close to the elephants over refreshments. My daughter, aged 11, was slightly wary, but within a few minutes, she was hand feeding Madina the beautiful 46 year old elephant. We can honestly say you can not go to Livingston and miss this experience. To top it all off, inclusive of the price, a link is sent to your email with all the photos that are taken by the photographer on site. Absolutely fantastic!!
Written February 26, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Safari Par Excellence
Dear Kupz,
Thank you for visiting us at The Elephant Café and for taking the time to write such a lovely review.
We are all thrilled to hear that you had a once in a lifetime experience with our team and our herd of rescued African elephants, your support and kind words are much appreciated.
Safe travels and until next time.
The Elephant Café Team!
Written March 8, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Getaway11475372177
1 contribution
Feb 2025 • couples
Visited the elephant cafe for Valentine’s Day and my birthday with my partner and it was an amazing experience. The interaction with the elephants is an experience I’ll never forget!
The staff were very professional and friendly, the food was absolutely delicious and made with local ingredients. The staff went out of their way to have a little birthday celebration for me which made my day extra special.
I would definitely recommend the elephant cafe to anyone visiting Livingstone !
Written February 14, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Janice O
4 contributions
Jul 2024 • friends
A friend of mine did this and highly recommended it. What an understatement. From our wonderful guide who picked us up and to all the other employees we met, each one was enthusiastic, and it was obvious they valued their job and their guests. We loved the comfy, relaxing porch atmosphere of the cafe setting. Oliver was a knowledgeable and most enjoyable host! After arriving we sat in comfy living room style furniture and enjoyed the traditional drink, Malawi Shanty. It was refreshing and now a favorite! The encounter with the elephants was unbelievable. We got to interact and feed 3 different elephants while a professional photographer took 80 photos and a video, all part of the package! Excellent photos! The lunch was the most delicious gourmet meal we have ever had! The nuts combo appetizer, the delicious and beautiful carrot soup, the main dish of tender beef and a yummy sauce, indescribable vegetables, superb dessert, African wines, and coffee at the end. All local ingredients and very well prepared. This experience was the highlight of our trip and stay in Livingstone. We highly recommend it!
Written July 19, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Adrian D
Dubai4 contributions
Jun 2024 • family
Fantastic location on the Zambezi river approx 30 min boat ride upstream from the Victoria Falls. Enjoyed a river safari before we arrived at the Elephant Cafe. Great reception with drinks, and then an introduction to 5 of the sanctuary's elephants, including a gorgeous big tusker. The elephants were so gentle and accommodating, ranging in age between 8 and 45, the guides were very attentive and informative, and we got some superb photos, ourselves and provided by the Cafe staff as part of the package. Lunch was fantastic, all locally sourced produce in a beautifully crafted restaurant overlooking the Zambezi river, all washed down with complimentary wine or beers. A completely inspiring adventure, with a return boat ride back to our hotel, on a crystal clear and sunny day.
Written June 7, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Анна М
1 contribution
Dec 2024 • family
Really enjoyed this event! Motorboat transfers across the sills, through the whirlpools - it's unforgettable! We met hippos and crocodiles on the way! The cafe itself is an incredibly atmospheric place!!! You can feed elephants directly from your hand, stroke them, communicate with them. Elephants saved, a bit of a sad story. But they're very nice. Nearby boars are running)))) saw a crocodile swimming on the river. Well done, guys, for setting up such a soulful place! They are fed very delicious, local products - their bread, butter, fish (bream, I think), pumpkin soup and ice cream. We are very pleased - this is the best tour in Zambia!
Automatically translated
Written December 29, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
carolyng1964
Cardiff31 contributions
Apr 2024 • couples
What an incredible experience. The jet boat took us up the Zambezi where we saw hippos in and out of the water and crocodiles along with many birds. We arrived at the elephant cafe after 30 minutes.
The herd of elephants are left to wander and live their lives in the bush, we could see them in the distance. 2 were brought to us for interactions and feeding. They were enormous with huge tusks. We were able to feed the elephants which was unbelievable and a bit scary at first, but you soon lost your fear. It was simply magical. There was a professional photographer there which was all included in the price. After the interaction we were taken to the most fantastic lunch. We were greeted with Prosecco overlooking the Zambezi. The food was first class, the presentation exceptional and the staff very attentive. All wines and drinks were included. The menu apparently changes everyday. This trip is simply a must.
Written April 8, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Safari Par Excellence
Dear Carolyn,
Thank you for visiting us at The Elephant Café and for taking the time to write such a lovely review.
We are all thrilled to hear that you had an amazing experience with our team and our herd of rescued African elephants, your support and kind words are much appreciated. It is wonderful to hear that you enjoyed all aspects of the experience/service, it was an absolute pleasure to host you at our special spot in Livingstone, Zambia.
Safe travels and until next time.
The Elephant Café Team!
Written June 3, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Connector733678
1 contribution
Sep 2024 • friends
From the moment we walked onto the property the staff was there to greet us and explain how the night would unfold. We were lead over to visit with the elephants where we fed them and took numerous pictures and asked several questions to the staff about these beautiful animals.
We then sit down Made our way to the dining area where we were given a glass of champagne before dinner. We then listened to the explanation of the food that would be coming our way shortly. Every dish was prepared with great care and was delicious! Wonderful evening all the way around!
Written September 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Clare C
Brighouse91 contributions
Aug 2023 • family
Wow just wow!! The Elephant cafe was recommended to us by our travel agent and was the very last night of what had been an incredible 3 week trip to Africa.
It had to be pretty amazing to top a remarkable safari in South Africa and an exhilarating bungee jump at the Victoria Falls. I think it’s fair to say it was a fitting end to an unforgettable holiday.
From the exciting speedboat arrival to the exceptional meal with an emotional elephant interaction the evening was everything we’d hoped for and more.
People have said to me on looking at photos ‘isn’t it sad that they are used for tourism’ I can honestly say that this is all about the elephants - it’s a sanctuary not a zoo! They roam free during the day whilst being closely watched over to ensure their safety. Everyone involved with the cafe clearly does it for the love of these amazing animals and they know and care for each one as they do their own family.
The food is beyond compare made with locally sourced ingredients so also supporting the local people.
It was an honour to meet both the animals and the people who run this unique establishment. It is quite expensive but I would urge anyone visiting the area to book at the Elephant cafe!
Thank you to the team and keep up the good work!
Written August 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Safari Par Excellence
Dear Clare,
Thank you for visiting us at The Elephant Café and for taking the time to write such a lovely review.
We are all thrilled to hear that you had an amazing experience with our team and our herd of rescued African elephants, your support and kind words are much appreciated.
Safe travels back to the UK and until next time.
The Elephant Café Team!
Written August 28, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Shashank1986
64 contributions
Jul 2024 • friends
The interaction with the gentle giants and the boat ride to the cafe is worth all the money. Food is decent but nothing extra ordinary. However the worst part is the way staff pushes you for tips. At each stage you are told that the staff who is feeding the elephants is different, your serving staff is different and even the Chef personally shows up to seek tips. It is really sad and makes the whole experience half of what it would otherwise. It’s like everyone eagerly looking for more tips, I hope the management gets a hint and changes the greedy staff.
Written January 19, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susan P
18 contributions
Apr 2024 • family
We visited today via jetboat for lunch. The boat ride and the lunch were amazing. Good sightings of various wildlife en route including hippo and crocs plus a large number of birds. We were greeted by the team at the Elephant cafe. The story of the elephants and the cafe was explained to us and how they came to be taking care of the elephants. We then met two of their herd and we were able to feed them and interact. The elephants then went to bathe in the Zambezi and wander around on one of the islands. There were also a number of wild elephant in the area that we were able to observe whilst eating an absolutely first class lunch. Each course was explained by the waiter and ingredients locally sourced. This was an experience not to be missed.
Written April 25, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Safari Par Excellence
Dear Susan,
Thank you for visiting us at The Elephant Café and for taking the time to write such a lovely review.
We are all thrilled to hear that you had an amazing experience with our team and our herd of rescued African elephants, your support and kind words are much appreciated. It is wonderful to hear that you enjoyed all aspects of the service, it was an absolute pleasure to host you at our special spot in Livingstone, Zambia.
Safe travels and until next time.
The Elephant Café Team!
Written June 3, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
d2moly
Horley1 contribution
Sep 2023 • none
My lovely wife and I had the most amazing experience at The Elephant Café. We opted for the Dinner with Elephant experience and were treated to 30-45 minutes of feeding two magnificent elephants before dining beside the Zambezi River. We enjoyed a tasty three-course meal while watching the sun set in the African sky.
Written March 25, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Safari Par Excellence
Dear Moly,
Thank you for visiting us at The Elephant Café and for taking the time to write such a lovely review.
We are all thrilled to hear that you had an amazing experience with our team and our herd of rescued African elephants, your support and kind words are much appreciated. It is wonderful to hear that you enjoyed all aspects of the service, it was an absolute pleasure to host you at our special spot in Livingstone, Zambia. We are grateful that you were treated to a spectacular African sunset too.
Safe travels and until next time.
The Elephant Café Team!
Written March 26, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mdssls
65 contributions
Mar 2024 • couples
The reviews do not do this trip justice (nor will this one).
From the moment you arrive to when you leave this all inclusive experience is service of the top level. From our host to the elephant handlers, photographer, and the food staff (waiters and chef) you are treated as honored guests
You get to feed the elephants and are told their back story and adoption process before you head to dinner
The food, wine and service was all excellent
Thank you to the Elephant Cafe #theelephantcafezambia for one of the best experiences of an absolutely amazing trip
Written March 18, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Safari Par Excellence
Dear Mdssls,
Thank you for visiting us at The Elephant Café and for taking the time to write such a lovely review.
We are all thrilled to hear that you had a wonderful experience with our team and our herd of rescued African elephants, your support and kind words are much appreciated. It is wonderful to hear that you enjoyed all aspects of the experience, it was an absolute pleasure to host you at our special spot in Livingstone, Zambia.
Safe travels and until next time.
The Elephant Café Team!
Written March 26, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jacqueline M
6 contributions
Jan 2024 • friends
We visited the Elephant Cafe with friends an experience not to be missed.
Having been welcomed by Africa we got to meet and feed the elephants it was so wonderful to meet these huge animals who roam the park freely.
Afterwards we had the most delicious lunch with all products sourced with in 20 mile radius accompanied by delicious wines. The staff who look after the elephants and run the cafe are tremendous and deserve a BIG THANK YOU for doing a wonderful job.
Definitely a day to remember and would recommend to anyone
Written January 25, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Safari Par Excellence
Dear Jacqueline,
Thank you for visiting us at The Elephant Café and for taking the time to write such a lovely review.
We are all thrilled to hear that you had a memorable experience with our team and our herd of rescued African elephants, your support and kind words are much appreciated.
Safe travels and until next time.
The Elephant Café Team!
Written January 30, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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