Your Malawi safari holiday kicks off upon your arrival at Chileka International Airport, where the warm and friendly locals greet you. From the airport you will drive for a distance of about 20 km southward to Chimwenya game park which is the lesser known but pristine game park. This private reserve, located just outside the capital, is an excellent introduction to Malawi’s diverse wildlife.

Chimwenya’s lush savannahs and woodlands are teeming with antelopes, zebras, and a variety of bird species. Guided walking safaris and game drives allow you to witness these animals in their natural habitat. As dusk falls, enjoy a sundowner overlooking the serene landscape, the perfect end to your first day on safari.

Next on this Malawi Safari itinerary is Mount Mulanje, Malawi’s highest peak and a hiker’s paradise. The drive to the base of the mountain is scenic, offering glimpses of rural Malawian life. The climb can be challenging, but the routes cater to different fitness levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.

Trek through dense forests and past cascading waterfalls as you ascend. The views from the top are nothing short of breathtaking, with the rolling tea estates at the mountain’s foothills and the distant horizon. Camping overnight on the mountain provides a unique opportunity to stargaze in the African sky, a memorable highlight of your safari.

After descending Mount Mulanje, a short journey leads you to the historical Zomba Plateau. This is a place of unmatched tranquility, with its cool climate and serene environment that once made it a favorite retreat for British colonial administrators.

The plateau offers numerous trails that meander through forests of pine and cedar, alongside streams and around tranquil lakes. Horse riding is a popular activity here, allowing you to connect with nature at a leisurely pace. Be sure to visit the plateau’s viewpoints, such as Queen’s View and Emperor’s View, which offer panoramic vistas of the countryside below.

Liwonde National Park is arguably Malawi’s best-known wildlife haven, and for good reason. The park is home to large populations of elephants, hippos, and a variety of antelope species. It’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species recorded within its boundaries.

Embark on game drives and boat safaris along the Shire River, the lifeblood of Liwonde. You’ll have the chance to spot crocodiles basking on the riverbanks and colorful fish eagles soaring overhead. The park’s recent reintroduction of lions and cheetahs has restored its status as a Big Five destination, making your safari experience even more thrilling.

No Malawi safari is complete without a visit to the jewel in the country’s crown, Lake Malawi. This vast body of freshwater, part of the Great Rift Valley, is famous for its clear turquoise waters and abundant fish life. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after the excitement of the previous days.

Spend your time here snorkeling or diving among the hundreds of species of cichlid fish that call the lake home. Their vibrant colors and patterns are a visual feast. Alternatively, you can enjoy kayaking, sailing, or simply relaxing on the sandy beaches. The lake’s islands, like Likoma and Chizumulu, are worth exploring for their laid-back atmosphere and cultural experiences.

As your 11-day Malawi safari holiday comes to a close, take a moment to reflect on the experiences that have filled your days. Malawi’s landscapes have provided a backdrop for adventure, its wildlife has inspired awe, and its people have welcomed you with open arms.

After a leisure breakfast, we will transfer you to Lilongwe International airport where you will board your international flight back home.

Welcome to the Wild of Majete

Your Majete safari begins with a scenic drive from Blantyre, the commercial capital of Malawi. As you navigate the undulating roads, the bustling city life fades away, replaced by the tranquil charm of rural landscapes. Upon arriving at Majete Wildlife Reserve, a sense of excitement fills the air. Ypu will greeted by the warm smiles of the staff, who will be your guardians through this wild terrain.

After settling into your accommodation — a choice of luxurious lodges, tented camps, or rustic chalets — you gather for a sumptuous lunch featuring local and international flavors. As we dine, your guide briefs you on the thrilling activities ahead, and the reserve’s remarkable conservation success story.

Majete Safari Into the Bush

With the African sun casting long shadows, you embark on your first game drive of the Majete safari. The open-top vehicle offers unobstructed views and the thrill of being immersed in nature. Majete is a sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife, and your guide will help you spot the animals  in their natural habitat.

As the drive continues, you might encounter varied species of animals such as impalas and  warthogst. If lucky you might spot pride of lions lazing under the trees or stalking their prey.

Starlit Serenity

As dusk falls, we return to camp, and the night comes alive with the sounds of the African bush. A hearty dinner is served under a canopy of stars, and stories are shared around a crackling campfire. It’s the perfect end to an exhilarating day, and as you retire to your beds, the distant roar of a lion lulls you to sleep.

Dawn Chorus and Morning Game Drive

The day begins at first light with a chorus of bird calls. A steaming cup of coffee warms your hands as you set out on a morning game drive. The cool air of dawn is the best time to see wildlife as they are most active. While on game drive you might catch a glimpse of the elusive leopard or perhaps the rare sable antelope.

Your knowledgeable guide emphasizes the importance of preservation and how each species plays a vital role in the ecosystem. We learn about the reserve’s efforts in anti-poaching and community engagement — essential components of Majete’s revival.

Riverside Wonders and Walking Safaris

After breakfast, you will venture out for a guided walking safari. Walking in the bush offers a different perspective; you become part of the landscape, treading softly, attuned to every rustle and call. Your guide points out animal tracks, medicinal plants, and the little five — a delightful contrast to the big game you’ve been admiring from the vehicle.

By midday, you’re at the Shire River, a lifeblood for the reserve’s inhabitants. Crocodiles bask on the banks, and hippos snort in the waters. Lunch is served in a shaded spot with a view of the river, a tranquil pause in your day of adventure.

Sundowner Bliss

The evening game drive in Majete safari is a ritual. As the heat of the day dissipates, you set out with binoculars and cameras ready. The changing light casts a golden hue over the landscape, and the wildlife stirs once more. It’s a chance to see nocturnal creatures begin their nightly routines.

You will pause on a hilltop, drinks in hand, to witness the majesty of an African sunset. The sky blazes with oranges and purples, a spectacle that no words can do justice. It’s a moment of reflection, of connection with the world around you.

Final Encounters

The last day of your safari in Majete begins with a mix of anticipation and the bittersweet feeling of an impending farewell. We go out for one last game drive, each of us silently hoping for a memorable encounter to cap off our Majete safari. Maybe it’s the sight of a majestic kudu or the playful antics of a baboon troop that will stick with you.

Community Connections

After returning to camp and enjoying breakfast, you will visit a nearby community project supported by the reserve. Majete’s success is not only measured in animal numbers but also in its positive impact on local communities. Meet the people whose lives have been changed by the reserve — from employment opportunities to sustainable development initiatives. It’s a poignant reminder that conservation is as much about people as it is about wildlife.

The Journey Home

After spend sometimes with the locals you will return to Lodge for hot lunch and after that pack your luggage for the journey back to Blantyre

Your adventure safari in Nyika national park begins the moment you land at the nearest airstrip, where the vastness of Nyika greets you with open arms. The cool, crisp air of the highlands fills your lungs as you set out on the short journey to your chosen safari lodge or campsite. Accommodations within Nyika are designed to blend seamlessly with the environment, providing comfort without detracting from the rawness of the wilderness.

After you’ve settled in and taken a moment to absorb the stunning vistas, it’s time for your first foray into the park. An afternoon game drive is the perfect introduction to Nyika’s wildlife. As you traverse the undulating hills in an open safari vehicle, keep your eyes peeled for herds of roan antelope, eland, and zebra grazing on the montane grasslands. It’s not uncommon to spot bushbuck and warthogs as well, and if you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of a spotted hyena or side-striped jackal.

As the sun dips low in the sky, signaling the end of your first day, you’ll return to your lodge for a hearty meal. The sounds of the African night provide the perfect backdrop for an evening under the stars, exchanging stories with fellow travelers or simply soaking in the serenity of your surroundings.

The second day your safari in Nyika national park begins at dawn, a magical time in the park when the first light of day paints the landscape in hues of gold and amber. An early morning game drive maximizes your chances of seeing the park’s nocturnal and crepuscular species before they retire for the day. Watch as the mist lifts to reveal the true extent of Nyika’s sprawling wilderness.

For a more intimate experience with the land, consider a guided hike. The park’s network of trails leads you through a range of ecosystems, from grassy plains to lush forests. Walking safaris provide an opportunity to appreciate the smaller details of the bush—the tracks of a leopard, the chattering of a mountain cisticola, or the intricate patterns on a butterfly’s wings.

In the afternoon, take a break from the wildlife to visit a local village at the edge of the park. Here, you can interact with the warm-hearted people of Malawi and learn about their traditions and way of life. Purchasing local handicrafts not only provides you with unique souvenirs but also supports the community’s economy.

After dinner, you might embark on a night drive. This thrilling adventure allows you to witness the park’s nocturnal creatures in action. Armed with a spotlight and the keen eyes of your guide, look out for the elusive leopard, the bizarre-looking aardvark, and the graceful serval. The night sky in Nyika is a marvel in itself, with the Milky Way stretching across the firmament, so vivid it feels like you could reach out and touch it.

On your final day of Nyika Safari, you may choose to dedicate your time to tracking lions or searching for the elusive leopard. Though these sightings are not guaranteed, the pursuit is an adventure in itself. With an experienced guide, you can learn to read the signs of the bush and understand the behavior of these majestic predators.

Today lunch will take the picnic lunch at one of the park’s scenic viewpoints. Chelinda Falls or Lake Kaulime are great options, offering not just delicious food but also panoramic views that are the perfect accompaniment to your meal. Savor the flavors of African cuisine as you reflect on the experiences of the past days.

As afternoon Lunch you will be transferred to the airstrip for the light flight back to Lilongwe.

End of the 3 days Safari in Nyika National Park

Morning – Safari in Liwonde National Park

The Safari in Liwonde National Park begins by departing from the nearby city of Blantyre or capital Lilongwe. The drive to the park is a scenic introduction to Malawi’s diverse landscapes. The excitement builds as we leave the bustle of Malawian life behind and draw closer to the sanctuary of wild Africa.

Upon arrival at Kutchire lodge which is located within the park, the transformation is palpable. The air is fresher, the sounds more natural, and the feeling of anticipation is undeniable. Safari-goers are greeted by the friendly lodge staff and, after a swift check-in process, you will  whisked away to your room which overlooking the tributary of Shire River. The lodge is well designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding environment and fixed with all necessary amenities.

Afternoon – The River Safari in Liwonde National Park

After settling in and enjoying a light lunch, it’s time for the first foray of the 2 day liwonde safari into the wilderness. One of Liwonde’s unique features is the Shire River, a life-giving artery that flows along the park’s western boundary. A river safari in Liwonde national park offers a different perspective on the wildlife and is an absolute must-do.

As you glide along the calm waters, the riverbanks come alive. Hippos submerge with a splash, only to resurface with a telltale yawn, showcasing their cavernous mouths. Crocodiles bask in the sun, their prehistoric gaze surveying their domain. The water is also a haven for birdlife – African fish eagles soar above, while colorful kingfishers dart from branch to branch.

The serenity of the river is a stark contrast to the wild encounters it presents. Each twist and turn bring a new surprise, from elephants bathing in the shallows to a herd of waterbucks grazing peacefully. As the sun begins to dip towards the horizon, the sky turns a brilliant orange, casting a warm glow over the entire scene. It’s the perfect end to the first half of your 2 day Liwonde safari adventure.

Evening – The Night Game Drive (done on special request)

As darkness falls, the park transforms once again. Nighttime in Liwonde is a different world altogether, and a night game drive is an opportunity to see the nocturnal side of the bush come to life. Equipped with spotlights, we set out into the African night.

The sounds are more intense in the dark, from the chirping of crickets to the distant roar of a lion. Your guide will skillfully navigate the trails as you seek out the elusive creatures of the night. 

After an evening filled with excitement and discovery, your will retire to the lodge while the day’s sights and sounds still vivid in your minds, as you drift off to sleep under the star-studded African sky.

This is the final final day of your 2 day safari in Liwonde national park and it the last chance witness the diversity of the park. Embark on a sunrise game drive on a 4WD open sided safari vehicle which will offer a panoramic view of the park. The early hours the temperature is low and most predators such as lions, leopards, cheetah and hyena are still active so if lucky you can spot some of them on a hunt. Your driver guide will take you through various areas of the park include the vast open plains and mopane woodlands of Liwonde. After 3 hours of exploring the park you will return to the Lodge for breakfast and depart for the journey back to Blantyre or Lilongwe.

End of the 2 day Safari in Liwonde National Park