Travel in Malawi
Malawi is referred to as “the warm heart of Africa - rightfully so because Malawians tend to be extremely friendly, and they will go out of their way to make you feel at home.
About Malawi
The Republic of Malawi, formerly known as Nyasaland, is a small landlocked country with spectacular highlands and extensive lakes. It occupies a narrow, curving strip of land along the East African Rift Valley.
Stretching about 840 kilometres from north to south, it has a width varying from 10 to 160 kilometres and is bordered by Tanzania to the north, Mozambique to the east and south, and Zambia to the west. Its total area of 118,484 square kilometres includes 9,347 square miles of lake surface dominated by the 8,900 square miles of Lake Nyasa (known in Malawi as Lake Malawi).
Malawi is referred to as “the warm heart of Africa - rightfully so because Malawians tend to be extremely friendly towards tourists, and they will go out of their way to make you feel at home.
Lake Malawi provides a warm and romantic atmosphere that cannot be described in words. The golden beaches, beautiful sunsets and tranquillity will certainly touch your soul and leave you speechless.
Malawi is a nature-lover’s paradise with lots of National Parks, Game Reserves, Mountains and the massive Lake Malawi. You can participate in various activities ranging from hiking to diving or snorkelling.
The vegetation includes lowland Mopani’s, evergreen forests, grasslands and wetland areas of lakeshores and riverbanks. Malawi has many different indigenous wildflowers and it is particularly famous for its more than 400 recorded species of orchids.
Lake Malawi is also well known for its more than 500 different fish species, which is more than any other inland body of water in the world.
LUXURY GUIDED TOURS
Itinerary
Depart Amsterdam Schiphol International Airport at 10:35 on flight KL567
to Julius Nyerere International Airport, Dar es Salaam.
Upon arrival, You will be transferred to your overnight hotel.
Overnight: Hotel Blue Sapphire
300 Km
Early morning transfer to Julius Nyerere International Airport for your 07:40 flight
to Lilongwe.
Upon arrival at 09:40, meet your guide and begin the journey to
the Mwami/Mchinji Border Post, where you cross into Zambia. Continue via the D104 to South Luangwa National Park.
Your lodge is located on the banks of the Luangwa River. A welcome
dinner is served at 20:00.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Thornicroft
Wake-up call at 05:00,
followed by coffee before departing at 06:00 for an early morning game drive. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the lodge’s amenities
and facilities.
The lodge is located on the banks of the Luangwa River, offering
opportunities to observe wildlife as they come down to drink.
At 16:00, depart for an afternoon game drive, followed by dinner
at 20:00
Wake-up call at 05:00,
followed by coffee before departing at 06:00 for an early morning game drive.
The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the lodge’s amenities
and facilities.
At 16:00, depart for an afternoon game drive, followed by dinner
at 20:00.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, 2 Game Drives
Overnight: Thornicroft
Wake-up call at 05:00,
followed by coffee before departing at 06:00 for an early morning game drive.
The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the lodge’s amenities
and facilities.
At 16:00 depart for an afternoon game drive, followed by dinner at 20:00.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, 2 Game Drives
Overnight: Thornicroft
Overnight: Thornicroft
300 Km
After breakfast, depart for Chipata, with a comfort stop en route. Continue to the Mwami/Mchinji
Border Post to cross into Malawi, then proceed to Lilongwe.
On arrival, enjoy a city tour before checking in to your hotel.
The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the hotel’s facilities and
amenities.
Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Crossroads Hotel
380 Km
Today involves a long drive to Mzuzu, as sections of the road are currently under
construction.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Ilala Crest Lodge
140 Km
After breakfast, descend through the scenic highlands to the shores of Lake Malawi, often referred to as the “Lake of Stars” for its sparkling waters and vibrant lakeside communities.
Visit Nkhata Bay, one of Malawi’s most picturesque lakeside towns, renowned for its natural harbour, relaxed atmosphere, and stunning views across the lake. This charming settlement has long served as an important trading and fishing centre and remains a popular destination for visitors exploring the northern shores of Lake Malawi.
Continue south along the lake, enjoying beautiful views of the shoreline and surrounding countryside. En route, pass extensive rubber tree plantations, an important agricultural industry in the region and a notable feature of the landscape.
Arrive at your lodge in the late afternoon and enjoy the tranquil setting on the shores of the lake.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Makuzi Lodge
Today is at leisure to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Lake Malawi at your own pace.
Guests may choose to explore the lodge’s herb garden, which showcases a variety of indigenous and cultivated plants, or simply unwind and enjoy the tranquil lakeside setting.
For those seeking a little more activity, a scenic walk to a nearby hill offers rewarding panoramic views across Lake Malawi and the surrounding countryside.
Whether relaxing by the water, enjoying the natural environment, or taking in the spectacular lake vistas, the day provides an opportunity to experience the beauty and serenity of this remarkable destination.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Makuzi Beach Lodge
280 Km
After breakfast, continue south along the shores of Lake Malawi, enjoying scenic views of the lake and the surrounding countryside. The route passes extensive sugarcane plantations, highlighting the importance of agriculture to the local economy and landscape.
En route, stop at the vibrant market in Nkhotakota, where visitors can experience everyday Malawian life and browse a variety of locally produced goods, fresh produce, and traditional crafts. Once a major trading centre on the shores of Lake Malawi, Nkhotakota has a rich cultural and historical heritage.
Continue south via Salima to the popular lakeside destination of Senga Bay. Known for its sandy beaches and beautiful lake views, Senga Bay offers a relaxing atmosphere and an ideal setting to enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Malawi.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Joma Adventure Lodge
200 Km
After breakfast, travel south along the shores of Lake Malawi via Monkey Bay to Cape Maclear, one of Malawi’s most popular lakeside destinations.
Upon arrival, enjoy time to explore the nearby village of Chembe, where visitors can experience the local culture, interact with residents, and observe daily life in this vibrant fishing community.
Following lunch, transfer by boat to your overnight accommodation on one of the islands within Lake Malawi National Park. Established in 1980, the park was the world’s first freshwater national park and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 in recognition of its exceptional biodiversity. The park protects hundreds of species of colourful cichlid fish, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth.
Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and pristine natural scenery, the island offers an idyllic retreat and a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Lake Malawi. In the evening, enjoy a memorable sunset cruise, taking in the spectacular colours reflected across the lake as the day draws to a close.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Sunset Cruise
Overnight: Mumbo Island Camp
Today is at leisure to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquillity of Mumbo Island, located within the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi National Park.
Relax on the island’s secluded shores, soak up the peaceful atmosphere, or explore the island’s scenic walking trails. Snorkelling equipment is available for those wishing to discover the remarkable underwater world of Lake Malawi, home to hundreds of species of colourful cichlid fish found nowhere else on Earth. Kayaks are also available, providing an excellent opportunity to explore the island’s rugged coastline and hidden coves at your own pace.
As the day draws to a close, enjoy another memorable sunset cruise on the lake, taking in the spectacular colours of the African sunset reflected across the water.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Sunset Cruise
Overnight: Mumbo Island Camp
220 Km
After breakfast, transfer by boat from the island back to the mainland and continue south along the shores of Lake Malawi. En route, stop at Nkopola Lodge to enjoy the beautiful lakeside setting before continuing to Mangochi for lunch.
Following lunch, travel alongside Lake Malombe and the Shire River towards Liwonde National Park, one of Malawi’s premier wildlife destinations. Renowned for its diverse habitats of riverine forest, floodplains, and savannah, the park supports a rich variety of wildlife, including elephant, buffalo, hippo, crocodile, antelope species, and an impressive array of birdlife.
Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon boat cruise on the Shire River. This relaxing excursion offers excellent opportunities to observe wildlife from the water, with hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and numerous bird species frequently seen along the riverbanks.
The day’s activities include two game-viewing experiences, allowing you to fully appreciate the remarkable biodiversity and scenic beauty of Liwonde National Park.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, 2 Game Drives
Overnight: Mvuu Camp
Start the day with an early morning coffee before setting out on a game drive through Liwonde National Park. The cooler hours of the morning offer excellent opportunities to observe wildlife as many animals are most active shortly after sunrise. Following the drive, return to camp for a leisurely breakfast.
The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing time to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the camp overlooking the Shire River. Guests may choose to unwind, observe wildlife from camp, or simply appreciate the sights and sounds of the African bush.
In the late afternoon, depart on a second game drive to explore different areas of the park. As temperatures begin to cool, wildlife activity increases, providing further opportunities to encounter elephants, buffalo, antelope, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species that make Liwonde one of Malawi’s most rewarding safari destinations.
Return to camp after sunset for dinner and an evening under the African stars.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, 2 Game Drives
Overnight: Mvuu Camp
150 Km
Enjoy an early morning game drive through Liwonde National Park, offering a final opportunity to experience the park’s remarkable wildlife and scenic landscapes. The early hours are often the most rewarding for wildlife viewing, as animals take advantage of the cooler temperatures before the heat of the day.
Return to camp for breakfast before departing at 10:30 for the historic city of Zomba, Malawi’s former colonial capital. Nestled at the foot of the magnificent Zomba Plateau, the town is known for its attractive tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and pleasant climate.
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Guests may wish to explore the surrounding area on one of the many scenic walking trails, which offer beautiful views of the plateau, forests, waterfalls, and the surrounding countryside.
Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Kefi Hotel / Ku Chawe Inn
210 Km
After breakfast, depart the scenic Zomba Plateau and travel south through the picturesque landscapes of southern Malawi to Majete Wildlife Reserve, one of Africa’s great conservation success stories.
Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy lunch while taking in the peaceful surroundings of the reserve. Following your journey, the afternoon is at leisure to relax and unwind. Guests may choose to enjoy the lodge’s facilities, observe wildlife from the comfort of the camp, or simply soak up the tranquillity of the African bush.
Majete Wildlife Reserve is home to an impressive diversity of wildlife, including elephant, buffalo, black rhino, lion, leopard, and numerous antelope species, making it one of Malawi’s premier safari destinations.
As evening falls, enjoy dinner and the unique atmosphere of the wilderness under a canopy of stars.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Ng'oma Safari Lodge
Begin the day with an
early morning game drive, when wildlife activity is at its peak.
Manyete Wildlife Reserve, home to elephant, black rhino, lion, leopard, and a
wide variety of plains game.
Return to the lodge for breakfast. The remainder of the day is at
leisure to enjoy the lodge facilities, relax by the pool, or take in the
surrounding wilderness.
In the late afternoon, enjoy a second game drive in the reserve,
followed by dinner at the lodge.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Ng’oma Lodge (Manyete Wildlife Reserve)
Zanzibar Extension
Travel to Blantyre for a city tour before transferring to Chileka International Airport.
Depart at 17:40 on Malawian Airlines to Dar es Salaam. Upon arrival in Dar es Salaam, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
Board: Breakfast
Overnight: Blue Sapphire Hotel
Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Blue Sapphire Hotel
120 Km
50 Km
Enjoy a city tour of Dar es Salaam before transferring to the airport for your flight to Zanzibar.
Snorkelling and Lunch at The Rock Restaurant.
One of Zanzibar’s most iconic restaurants, The Rock Restaurant is built on a rock in the ocean and is surrounded by water at high tide.
During this excursion, begin with snorkelling at the coral reefs of Michamvi Beach near The Rock Restaurant. After snorkelling, enjoy lunch at The Rock Restaurant, which offers a variety of fresh seafood, including octopus, oysters, lobster, prawns, and more.
In the afternoon, time at leisure to explore Stone Town at your own pace. Visit the birthplace of Freddie Mercury (Queen) and the Forodhani Food Market.
Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Tembo Hotel / Mizingani Seafront Hotel
60 Km
Zanzibar is a melting pot of cultures, with a strong Arab influence.
Full-Day Excursion (Lunch Included):
In the morning, visit Jozani Forest, home to the playful Red Colobus monkeys. Explore the unique mangrove forests and learn about plants used in traditional local medicine.
Continue to a Spice Farm, where you will learn about the cultivation of the spices for which Zanzibar is famous.
Enjoy lunch at the Spice Farm.
After lunch, transfer to Prison Island to learn about the giant tortoises. You will have time to feed them, interact with them, and take memorable photographs.
Visit Christ Church Cathedral of the Anglican Church of Tanzania and the site of the former slave market.
In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the sights and sounds of Stone Town
Board: Breakfast
Overnight:
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, 2 Game Drives
Overnight: Tembo Hotel / Mizingani Seafront Hotel