Rare Old Map of Dr. Livingstone's African Route by Arrowsmith, 1857: Linyanti, Quelimane, Victoria Falls, Zambezi, Kalahari

Embark on a journey through history with this exquisite map illustrating Dr. David Livingstone's legendary route across Africa, crafted by the esteemed cartographer John Arrowsmith in 1857. This map is not merely a depiction of geographical features; it is a testament to the spirit of exploration and discovery during the 19th century. Highlighted in red, Livingstone's path vividly captures his monumental trek from Linyanti to Quelimane, a journey that expanded European understanding of the African continent. This map stands as a remarkable fusion of science and adventure, constructed from meticulous astronomical observations and enriched by the explorer's interactions with local communities.

The map's design is a masterclass in cartographic elegance, featuring discontinuous lines to represent rivers and lakes, and hairline lettering for indigenous names. These elements reflect the geographical insights Livingstone gleaned from his discussions with local inhabitants, offering a rare glimpse into the cultural landscapes of the time. The attention to detail is unparalleled, showcasing not only the physical terrain but also the rich tapestry of human interaction and cultural exchange that defined Livingstone's journey.

Historically, this map is a significant artifact, marking the "discovery" of the majestic Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya. Livingstone's documentation of this natural wonder and other geographical features was pivotal in shaping European perceptions of Africa's interior. The map also highlights regions such as Londa, Balonda, and Bulozi, underscoring the diverse cultures and societies that Livingstone encountered. It serves as a window into a transformative period of exploration, where the thirst for knowledge and adventure led to groundbreaking discoveries.

This map is more than a geographical record; it is a narrative of exploration, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Livingstone's route traverses significant landmarks, from the Zambezi River to the Batoka Plateau, each location echoing stories of endurance and discovery. The map captures the essence of a time when uncharted territories beckoned explorers to venture into the unknown, driven by curiosity and a desire to expand the boundaries of human understanding.

Owning this map is akin to holding a piece of history, a tribute to the indomitable spirit of exploration that defined an era. It is a celebration of the confluence of geography, culture, and history, offering a captivating glimpse into the past. This map is not just a decorative piece; it is a conversation starter, an educational tool, and a testament to the enduring legacy of Dr. David Livingstone's contributions to the world of exploration.

Places on this map

• Linyanti
• Quelimane
• Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya)
• Zambezi River
• Londa
• Balonda
• Bulozi
• Batoka Plateau
• Kalahari Desert
• Sheva
• Maravi
• Barotse
• Makololo
• Ovampo
• Benguela
• Luanda
• Tete
• Shire Highlands
• Mazaro

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Dr. Livingstone's route highlighted in red
• Starting point: Linyanti
• Ending point: Quelimane
• Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya)
• Rivers and lakes depicted with discontinuous lines
• Local geographical names in hairline letters
• Exploratory camps along the route
• Major geographical features like mountains and plains
• Interaction points with local communities
• Regions such as Londa, Balonda, and Bulozi
• Notable landmarks like the Batoka Plateau
• Routes through the Kalahari Desert
• Crossing the Zambezi River
• Areas of significant cultural interaction

Historical and design context

• Created by John Arrowsmith in 1857
• Published by J. Murray for the Journal of the Royal Geographical Society
• Reflects Dr. David Livingstone's exploration route across Africa
• Based on astronomical observations and local knowledge
• Enhanced European understanding of African geography and cultures
• Map design includes discontinuous lines and hairline letters
• Significant artifact marking the "discovery" of Victoria Falls
• Testament to the spirit of exploration and discovery in the 19th century

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 16in (40cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.

This map is wider than most maps, which would make it a perfect statement piece above a mantelpiece, sofa or desk.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.

My maps are extremely high quality reproductions of original maps.

I source original, rare maps from libraries, auction houses and private collections around the world, restore them at my London workshop, and then use specialist giclée inks and printers to create beautiful maps that look even better than the original.

My maps are printed on acid-free archival matte (not glossy) paper that feels very high quality and almost like card. In technical terms the paper weight/thickness is 10mil/200gsm. It's perfect for framing.

I print with Epson ultrachrome giclée UV fade resistant pigment inks - some of the best inks you can find.

I can also make maps on canvas, cotton rag and other exotic materials.

Learn more about The Unique Maps Co.

Map personalisation

If you're looking for the perfect anniversary or housewarming gift, I can personalise your map to make it truly unique. For example, I can add a short message, or highlight an important location, or add your family's coat of arms.

The options are almost infinite. Please see my map personalisation page for some wonderful examples of what's possible.

To order a personalised map, select "personalise your map" before adding it to your basket.

Get in touch if you're looking for more complex customisations and personalisations.

Map ageing

I have been asked hundreds of times over the years by customers if they could buy a map that looks even older.

Well, now you can, by selecting Aged before you add a map to your basket.

All the product photos you see on this page show the map in its Original form. This is what the map looks like today.

If you select Aged, I will age your map by hand, using a special and unique process developed through years of studying old maps, talking to researchers to understand the chemistry of aging paper, and of course... lots of practice!

If you're unsure, stick to the Original colour of the map. If you want something a bit darker and older looking, go for Aged.

See some amazing examples of Aged maps.

If you are not happy with your unique map for any reason, contact me for a no-quibble refund.

I am very confident you will like your old map. I have been doing this since 1984. I'm a 5-star Etsy seller. I have sold tens of thousands of maps and have over 4,000 real 5-star reviews.

I use a unique process to restore my maps that is massively time consuming and labour intensive. Hunting down the original maps can take months. I use state of the art and eye-wateringly expensive technology to scan and restore the maps. As a result, I guarantee my maps are a cut above the rest - that's why I can offer a no-quibble refund.

Almost all of my maps look amazing at large sizes (200cm, 6.5ft+) and I can frame and deliver them to you as well, via special oversized courier. Contact me to discuss your specific needs.