12 Days Malawi explorers holiday safari

12 Days Malawi explorers holiday safari

Described as the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’, this relatively little-known gem of this diverse continent has so much to offer; wildlife, culture, adventure, scenery, and of course the third largest lake in Africa. A year-round destination, some even go as far as to describe Malawi as the most attractive country in sub-Saharan Africa!

Lying within the Western Rift Valley, Lake Malawi is one of the deepest lakes in the world. The property is an area of exceptional natural beauty with the rugged landscapes around it contrasting with the remarkably clear waters of the lake. The property is home to many hundreds of cichlid fish, nearly all of which are endemic to Lake Malawi, and are known locally as “mbuna”. The Mbuna fishes display a significant example of biological evolution.

Safari highlights

• Nankoma Island
• Thyolo Tea Estates
• Zomba Plateau
• Liwonde National Park
• Cape Maclear

Detailed safari itinerary

Day 1-3: Nankoma Island, Blue Zebra Lodge (Luxury Safari Tents)

Upon arrival at the Lilongwe International Airport, you will meet your guide for a short briefing after you will start driving to Senga Bay – Salima for your boat transfer to Nankoma Island.

Nankoma Island is a wild paradise and a haven for flora and fauna, supporting diverse ecosystems. The island drastically transforms throughout the year. After the first rains (usually late November), Nankoma comes to life as trees bloom with a lush, green cover that quickly envelops the land, met by rising lake levels. Rains subside around April and over time leave and fruits fall to the ground, their nutrients seeping into the soil. Surrounding waters become crystal clear and rocky outcrops teeming with colorful fish.

Your accommodation will be at the Blue Zebra Lodge in their luxury safari tents offers 5 luxury safari tents which are centrally located in an unspoiled environment and guests are surrounded by nature and luxury. Guests are free to chill at the infinity pool, kayak around the island, or enjoy a game of volleyball as part of the full board package. The lodge also offers free use of snorkeling equipment to view the unique colorful fish that gives the lodge its name and inhabit every inch of the coastline.

Day 3-5: Thyolo Tea Estates, Game Haven lodge

Arguably the most scenically beautiful region of Malawi, the Thyolo district forms the heart of Malawi’s tea-producing region, with rolling hills of immaculately cultivated, emerald green plantations and some of the oldest estates in the country. Game Haven Lodge is set in serene and beautiful 500-acre Chimwemwe Game Park, located in one of the last remaining indigenous forests. The lodge also boasts a small wildlife population that roams the grounds, consisting of zebra, giraffe, and various antelope, which are entertaining to watch and certainly enhance the view from your room!

Day 5-7: Zomba Plateau, Zomba Forest Lodge

Enjoy your last morning at Game Haven Lodge. After breakfast, we will depart from Thyolo and head towards Zomba Plateau. The estimated time of arrival is around lunchtime, we will drive straight to the Zomba Forest Lodge on the stunning Zomba Plateau.

This is an inviting, charming lodge with 4 rooms (2 twins and 2 doubles, all en-suite) and boasts a colorful and lush garden to explore; a real treat to walk around and bird watching.

Zomba Forest Lodge is a fantastic location, just a few minutes away from the stables so saddle up and go for a horse riding trail on the breathtaking Zomba Plateau, you won’t regret it!

Day 7-10: Liwonde National Park, Mvuu Camp

From the mountains, it is now time to drive to Mvuu Camp in Liwonde National Park.

Mvuu Camp overlooks a broad stretch of the Shire River (pronounced ‘Shiree’), with a profusion of hippos, crocodiles, and the amazing birdlife of the Liwonde National Park. An impressive thatched dining and lounge area is situated nearby, offering a magnificent vista of the Shire River. Dinners are sometimes held under the stars in a specially constructed boma. Activities at Mvuu Camp revolve around boating trips on the Shire River and game drives (morning and afternoon/evening). Nature walks and bike rides are also incredibly popular.

Day 10-12: Cape Maclear, Mumbo Island

After breakfast, get ready now to drive to Cape Maclear to the Kayak Africa reception offices. At 10:30 am your boat transfer will depart for the stunning Mumbo Island, which is approximately 45 minutes.

Mumbo is a deserted tropical island on the expansive waters of Lake Malawi. With amazing underwater boulders, around 500 species of colorful Cichlid fish, and placid, clear water, the national park offers what many consider the best freshwater snorkeling and scuba diving in the world.

Day 12: Departure Lilongwe

All good things must come to an end and today after breakfast you will be transferred by boat to Cape Maclear – mainland. You will meet your Malawian Style guide and will then start driving back to Lilongwe International Airport for your flight back home.

Trip includes

• Transfers
• Accommodation
• Game drives in 4×4 vehicles
• Walking safaris
• Expert Guide
• Fuel
• Government taxes
• Enroute meals and drinking water

Trip excludes

• International flights
• Malawi tourist visa
• Travel insurance
• Tips for guides and hotels
• Personal expenses like Alcoholic drinks

When to book this safari package

We recommend 6months to 1 year in advance for proper planning of your dream holiday.

Best time to visit Malawi for a holiday

July to October are the best wildlife viewing months (from the middle to the end of the Dry season) as all water in the bush has dried up, and animals congregate around permanent water sources. Keep in mind, however, that October is extremely hot. The exception is Nyika Plateau, which gets very cold in the dry winter months. In Nyika, a more pleasant time is from November to May.