Upon your arrival at the Chileka International Airport, your driver/guide will extend a hospitable welcome. After collecting your luggage, you’ll be chauffeured to Majete Wildlife Reserve. Your home for the first two nights, Thawali Lodge, is nestled within the park. All rooms have spacious living quarters and private viewing areas from all angles. The camp offers a range of activities, from swimming in the pool and dining under the stars to game drives, walking safaris, and the unique option of sleeping under the stars on the star deck. The drive from the airport to the lodge is about 1.5 hours.

Today the driver will transfer the group to Zomba where you will continue your journey. Zomba is Malawi’s historic capital city, and you will indulge in the charm of the past at Sunbird Ku Chawe Hotel, your haven for the next two nights. Perched nearly 7,000 feet high on the illustrious Zomba Plateau, this premier mountain resort promises an unrivaled experience. The plateau offers a breathtaking vista of Shire Highlands and the distant Lake Chilwa.

The region also holds historical significance as the former capital of Malawi during British colonial rule. Immerse yourself in the echoes of the past as you explore colonial-era architecture and landmarks like the Zomba Government House, all contributing to the timeless charm.

Drive time today is short, just about 2 hours.

This morning, your driver/guide will transport you to Liwonde National Park where you will spend two nights at Mvuu Lodge. The lodge is situated on the banks of the Shire River, right within the park. During your stay, you will have the chance to witness diverse wildlife species in their natural habitat, while enjoying delicious meals and spectacular animal sightings on game-viewing activities. This afternoon and tomorrow, you can participate in various activities from the lodge including a riverside game viewing, which is a highlight of the park. You will have the opportunity to take a unique boat safari along the Shire River, which provides a different and intimate view of the wildlife, particularly the abundant hippos and crocodiles.

Liwonde National Park is a magnificent wildlife reserve situated along the Shire River in southern Malawi. Covering an area of approximately 548 square kilometers, it is one of Malawi’s most diverse and prominent protected areas. The park’s picturesque location alongside the Shire River supports a rich variety of wildlife, making it a focal point for both visitors and inhabitants. The park is home to an impressive range of wildlife, including a large population of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and several species of antelope. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide variety of birdlife, with over 400 species identified. Additionally, the park has a designated area known as “The Sanctuary”,  a 4,000-hectare fenced space that serves as a haven for vulnerable wildlife species, including buffalo, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, zebra, roan, eland, and even rare black rhinos.

Drive time today is about 1-2 hours.

After enjoying the wildlife park, the group will embark on another journey. This time to the stunning Lake Malawi. Your dedicated driver/guide will escort you to Senga Bay in Salima. From there, you will board a boat that will take you to the tranquil and private haven of Blue Zebra Island Lodge. You will spend two nights in this eco-friendly retreat, named after the vibrant cichlid fish. Nestled on Nankoma Island, you will experience an immersive stay in the heart of a wild island paradise, boasting some of Malawi’s most diverse flora and fauna.

Lake Malawi, also known as Lake Nyasa and Lago Niassa, is a colossal freshwater gem cradled in the East African Rift System. This African Great Lake is shared by Malawi, Tanzania, and Mozambique. It is the third-largest in Africa and the ninth-largest globally. Its crystal-clear waters create a breathtaking spectacle, offering excellent visibility that transforms the lake into a snorkeler’s and diver’s paradise.

Renowned for hosting the highest number of fish species of any lake globally, Lake Malawi has earned its UNESCO World Heritage status. The colorful cichlids, with their vibrant hues and unique behaviors, make this lake a haven for aquarium enthusiasts. You can explore the underwater wonderland and witness the extraordinary diversity of fish that call Lake Malawi home.

Beyond the aquatic marvels, Nankoma Island is just one of the many jewels adorning Lake Malawi. Each island presents its unique charm and attractions, often serving as sanctuaries for birdlife and providing secluded getaways. Your stay at Blue Zebra Island Lodge is an invitation to uncover the secrets of Lake Malawi and enjoy the unparalleled beauty of this African treasure.

There are many activities and options to enjoy at the lodge where you’re staying. Drive time today is about 3 hours.

Today, you can continue to enjoy a wide range of activities at the lodge. Take a dip in the infinity pool, relax, and let the serene atmosphere wash over you. For those seeking adventure, you can choose from kayaking, birdwatching, and snorkeling experiences to explore the vibrant birdlife and underwater wonders. You can also visit the lakeside community to experience the local traditions, skilled craftsmanship, and warm hospitality of the region.

As the sun begins to set, embark on a mesmerizing sunset cruise. You can complement your experience with a refreshing Malawi gin & tonic. It’s the perfect moment to unwind and take in the breathtaking beauty of Lake Malawi and the African sky.

Continue your enchanting journey with an overnight stop in Lilongwe, where you will overnight. You should arrive at your accommodation at Kumbali Country Lodge by late morning. Drive to Kumbali and enjoy an idyllic retreat nestled on a 650-hectare forest reserve and dairy farm.

Enjoy yourself this afternoon as you enjoy a genuine farm-to-table dining experience, surrounded by the splendor of nature. Marvel in the ambiance as you spot birds and playful monkeys from the privacy of your terrace, basking in the warmth of this relaxed and friendly environment.

Time permitting, you can embark on journeys to banana plantations, delve into cultural sites, or set out on nature walks, hikes, and bike rides. The lodge offers bird safaris, coffee tours, and spa treatments for those seeking a touch of luxury. For a more leisurely pace, stroll through the beautifully landscaped botanical gardens or unwind with a cocktail by the inviting pool.

Lilongwe, the capital city of Malawi, is nestled in the central region and bordered by the Lilongwe River, it strategically bridges the northern and southern realms of Malawi. The city is divided into two distinct areas – the traditional and historical charm of Old Town and the modern urban development of New Town, creating a dynamic blend of the past and the present.

From here, you will embark on the next leg of your captivating journey, as we transfer to South Luangwa National Park in Zambia – a wildlife haven. The drive today will take around 5 hours. This park is located in the eastern part of Zambia and is considered a crown jewel among premier wildlife destinations. Surrounded by the Great Rift Valley, South Luangwa National Park boasts a diverse landscape, featuring riverine woodlands, expansive grasslands, and the enchanting meanders of the Luangwa River that grace the park.

The accommodation for the next three nights will be at Msandile River Lodge, which is situated on the banks of the Luangwa River. During your stay, we will enjoy a variety of activities, including game drives, enlightening bush walks, captivating village and cultural tours, and rejuvenating spa experiences. With its comfortable accommodations, Kafunta River Lodge promises panoramic views over the picturesque floodplains, ensuring that every moment is etched with the beauty of the African wilderness.

Enjoy two exhilarating days of a variety of immersive activities arranged with the lodge, game drives, bush walks, and village visits. There is even a spa for those looking to be pampered at the end of your safari.

Here you will witness a breathtaking array of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and an assortment of antelope species. South Luangwa National Park has earned its reputation as a predator’s paradise, with lions, leopards, and spotted hyenas captivating visitors in their natural habitat. Considered one of Africa’s prime locations for predator observation, every moment along the Luangwa River is an opportunity to witness the untamed beauty of the wild.

South Luangwa National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts as it boasts over 400 species. You can find majestic raptors, vibrant waterbirds, and melodious songbirds in the park, making it a haven for those who appreciate the winged wonders of the African skies.

South Luangwa is also known as the innovator of walking safaris, which provide a unique opportunity to explore the wilderness on foot, accompanied by experienced guides. Alternatively, traditional game drives are a popular choice for uncovering the park’s treasures. Both morning and evening drives offer a chance to encounter diverse wildlife, from diurnal to nocturnal species, ensuring an all-encompassing safari experience.

Experience unforgettable moments at South Luangwa National Park, where the rhythm of the Luangwa River orchestrates the symphony of the African wilderness.

As this extraordinary journey ends, you will be transferred to Mfuwe Airstrip, for a flight to Lusaka International Airport and your continuing journey home. The departure flight leaves at 12:20 pm and arrives at 1:30 pm.

If you have never been before, consider extending your travels with a visit to Victoria Falls or other phenomenal sites, parks, and countries in the region.