9 Days Nyika plateau and Lake Malawi safari

9 Days Nyika plateau and Lake Malawi safari

A holiday vacation to Malawi is one of the bucket list holidays you should not miss while planning a safari to Africa, described as the warm heart of Africa is a small landlocked country located in southern Africa with exceptionally diverse wildlife and beauty from the famous Lake Malawi to Nyika Plateau and the famous Rift valley, Our 9 Days Nyika plateau and Lake Malawi safari will take you to some of the most fascinating places in this beautiful country.

Safari highlights

• Lilongwe city
• Nyika plateau
• Relaxation at Likoma Island

Detailed safari itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lilongwe the Main capital of Malawi

On arrival at Lilongwe international airport, our representative from Wilderness Explorers Africa will receive you and transfer you to your hotel.

Lilongwe is small Sprawling, chaotic, and seemingly never-ending; Malawi’s main capital city has a dynamic atmosphere that’s a far cry from the laid-back vibe pervading the rest of the country. But then, that’s what a capital city is all about! It’s a city of two portions – the Old Town and the New Town. Dotted around both partitions are restaurants of the hidden gem variety, beautiful green oases, and a couple of elegant boutique hotels, which make a visit wonderfully worthwhile. Depending on the time of arrival you may explore the city for shopping, money exchange, and sightseeing.

Day 2: Charter flight from Lilongwe to Nyika national park

After morning breakfast you will transfer to the airport for your charter flight to Nyika national park, the park covers much of the Nyika Plateau (a staggering 2500 meters at its highest point), the bucolic landscape of rolling hills, dreamy views and flower-strewn grasslands is breathtaking. You’ll find a good spread of wildlife dotted across the hills and valleys, including zebra, eland, roan, elephant and even leopard, on arrival you will be received and transferred to your hotel for relaxation later in the evening you will take a walking safari in the park with the expert guides.

Day 3-5: Explore Nyika national park

During the next two nights at Chelinda lodge which sits 2300 meters above sea level (or 7590 feet), at the backs of a large pine plantation and overlooks rolling grasslands dotted with herds of zebra, eland, and roan. The landscapes are simply breathtaking. Because of its higher altitude, temperatures can get chilly, though there’s bound to be a log fire burning to keep you warm. At the lodge, you will enjoy traditional 4×4 game drives which is an excellent way to explore the park, world-class walking safaris, and hiking – truly the best way to experience the stunning flora up-close and sport fishing.

Day 5-8: Charter flight from Nyika national park to Lake Malawi

After morning breakfast you will you’ll take your charter flight from Nyika national park to Lake Malawi’s Likoma Island, on arrival you will be impressed by the laidback rhythm of island life. On arrival you will be transferred to Kaya Mawa, tucked away on a cotton-candy beach overlooking the lake, and life just gets better and better. One of those fabulous lodges that have the effortlessly-relaxed, beach-chic style down to Gin and Tonic, Kaya is truly a slice of heaven. Think immaculately decorated rooms built into the granite rocks, chilled-out water activities, and gourmet food, all mixed with incredible views and even better cocktails. In the local Nyanja language, Kaya Mawa actually means ‘Maybe Tomorrow’ – and relaxation is most certainly the order of the day here. During your stay you will enjoy activities like Bird watching, walking on the white sandy beaches, Island tours, Snorkeling, Diving, fishing, and sunset boat cruises.

Day 8: Drive back from Lake Malawi to Lilongwe

After a memorable safari experience, you will be transferred to Lilongwe for you overnight, depending on the time of arrival you will enjoy a short city tour of the vibrant Lilongwe and enjoy dinner at the finest restaurants in town if you would wish to.

Day 9: Departure

Depending on the time of your departure flight you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey.

Trip includes

• Domestic charter flights
• Accommodation
• All activities at the lodges as described on your final itinerary
• Transfers
• Pre and post-safari accommodation
• All meals
• Government taxes

Trip Excludes

• International flights
• Malawi Tourist Visa
• Travel insurance
• Tips for guides and hotels
• Personal expenses like shopping and alcoholic drinks

When to book this safari itinerary

We recommend booking this safari package at least 6 months to 1 year in advance to allow us to secure the services like the charter flights and accommodation since most safari lodges in Malawi are intimate and small with few rooms available.

Best time to travel to Malawi

The best time to visit Malawi is during the dry season between May and October. It’s a cooler time of year, with bright sunshine, lush green landscapes, and fresh evenings.