ROUTE DISCOVER MALAWI & ZAMBIA:
DISCOVER ALL OF
MALAWI AND ZAMBIA’S BEST BITS

Discover Malawi and Zambia’s most scenic spots during your visit to these two countries.

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Brief Itinerary
  • Day 1-2: Lilongwe – Ntchisi Forest Reserve
  • Day 3-5: South Luanga NP – Zambia
  • Day 6: Lilongwe
  • Day 7-8: Liwonde National Park
  • Day 9-11: Cape Maclear – Lake Malawi
  • Day 12: Lilongwe – Departure
  • Day 13: Arrival Home

Route Discover Malawi & Zambia

A private safari to the magnificent national parks of Malawi and Zambia can be perfectly combined with a relaxing visit to the beautiful clear waters of Lake Malawi. View and observe animals of all varieties and sizes from far and close in South Luanga NP in Zambia.

Be amazed by the majestic and absolute isolation and tropical vegetation of the Ntchisi Forest Reserve and experience crystal clear water and tropical fishes at the Lake Malawi.

13 days – customizable

1.368 km

1-4 pers

nature

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1-2

Lilongwe – Ntchisi Forest Reserve

After arrival at Lilongwe International airport, you will be welcomed by your personal guide and driver, who will guide you on all road transfers. Your adventure starts with a drive of about 80 km´s to the Ntchisi Forest Reserve, which lies on the escarpment of the East African Rift Valley, on Ntchisi Mountain, in some of Malawi’s last remaining indigenous rainforest.

 

This vast reserve provides a haven for an impressive variety of flora and fauna including, among others: several species of monkey, hyena, small antelope, bush pig and civet. The main attraction is undoubtedly the bird life which is extensive, but visitors can also expect to see large numbers of butterflies and orchids, as well as a magnificent display of wildflowers just after the rainy season..

 

The reserve offers a range of exhilarating activities including mountain biking, bird watching, visits to a local traditional village, and hiking up Ntchisi mountain to marvel at the spectacular view of Lake Malawi and the lush green valley below.

Day 3-5

South Luanga National Park – Zambia

Bordering the Luangwa River, the northern and southern Luangwa National Parks contain some of the most breathtaking and untouched wilderness in Africa. As a result of this and the parks’ successful anti-poaching campaigns, the area has developed into a world-renowned wildlife haven.

 

The South Luangwa National Park is renowned for its walking safari, which allows visitors to view elephant, hippo and even lion close-up under the supervision of professional and knowledgeable armed guides.

Day 6

Lilongwe

Resting on the banks of the Lilongwe River, the sprawling, bustling city of Lilongwe serves as the capital of Malawi. It is the largest city in Malawi and is the economic and transport hub of the country. It features thriving markets, lush green spaces, and a rich cultural heritage. While the city has all of the twentieth-century urban developments, it retains the appearance of a traditional African settlement.

 

The Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, in the heart of Lilongwe, provides a sanctuary for local wildlife seeking refuge. Other sights worth seeing include the Kumbali Cultural Centre, offering the opportunity to view traditional Malawian dancing and drumming; as well as the nearby Chongoni Rock Art Area featuring over 127 sites displaying ancient rock art.

Day 7-8

Liwonde National Park

The journey continues to the Liwonde National Park, which is situated at the southern tip of Lake Malombe in southern Malawi. Although Liwonde is one of Malawi’s smaller parks, it is arguably the most popular of all the game parks in the country. Malawi’s main river, the Shire, forms its western boundary and is the reserve’s lifeblood.

 

With plentiful wildlife including hippos, kudu, elephants, crocodiles and elephants and even black rhino, the park had become one of Malawi’s premier wildlife-viewing destinations. The birding is excellent and a favourite sighting among birdwatchers is the Pel’s fishing owl.

 

Visitors can look forward to a wide selection of activities including excellent wildlife viewing, canoeing, and boating safaris and overnight stays at well-positioned safari camps.

Day 9-11

Cape Maclear – Lake Malawi

Located on the southern shore of Lake Malawi at the tip of the Nankumba Peninsula, Cape Maclear is a little resort town surrounded by mountains and set within Lake Malawi National Park. This town features an array of beachside bars and local restaurants in a spectacularly scenic setting of golden sand beaches lapped by dazzling turquoise water.

 

Cape Maclear is a Robinson-Crusoe paradise, making it a sought-after tourist destination. Kayak over to the nearby Thumbi island and spot the majestic fish eagle, sail across the lake and catch a picturesque African sunset, or scuba dive into the crystal-clear depths of the lake, which boasts some of the best freshwater diving in the world.

 

Other popular activities include bird watching, windsurfing, hiking, swimming, or shopping in the local craft markets as well as island tours and guided village walks.

Day 12-13

Lilongwe - End of tour - Departure - Arrival Home

After your relaxing stay at Lake Malawi, you will return to Lilongwe, where you will check in for your long-haul flight to your home destination, letting all the amazing and adventurous impressions of the past weeks slowly settle in.

What is included?

Meet & Greet with your personal driver and guide at the Airport

All airport/hotel transfers

All guided road transfers

Local flights (if applicable)

Park fees are included unless mentioned differently

Rooms at mid-range or luxury hotels, guesthouses or lodges, unless otherwise requested.

Most accommodations are booked with breakfast and camping is self-catering.

Most accommodations are booked on basis of DBB (Diner, Bed en Breakfast) or Full-Board.

In some accommodations local drinks are included.

What is not included?

International Flights

Local premium and Imported drinks (unless indicated differently)

Meals indicated as not included

Detours

Single Supplements

Any extra activities (unless indicated as included)

Any items of personal nature

Travel and cancellation insurance

Gratuities and tips

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For who?

Those who want the well-known pictures of these highlight areas, come alive in front of their own eyes

What makes this route unique:

The changing nature and versatile experience, the contrasts of savannah-like wildlife in Zambia to the absolute serene rainforest of the Ntchisi Mountains and crystal-clear waters at the Lake Malawi

How to get most out of it:

Go on a walk safari or a 4x4 game drive to spot the often-seen Leopard going for a hunt in the South Luanga Valley

Tailor-made Travel Advice

Every traveler has their own preferences. Need help deciding to make sure you make the right choice, we’re here to help! Together we fully customize the tour to your personal preferences, wishes and budget. We can assist you in many different ways. Our team of friendly and service-minded Tour Consultants is available in Europe and Africa to assist you making a personalized tailor-made travel proposal and to answer all questions you might have.

From Malawian friendliness to geographical diversity, spectacular highlands and extensive lakes

Other Favourite Routes to Inspire

The Route ‘Discover Malawi & Zambia’ is just one of our sample itineraries. The itineraries we offer are fully customizable to your needs. You can book these, or you can use them for inspiration to build your own, tailor-made adventure. See below some of our other sample itineraries that we have put together. Explore Malawi will always make sure that you will experience the journey of your dreams!

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Length: 13 Days (customizable)

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Length: 14 Days (customizable)

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Gallery Route Discover Malawi & Zambia

Discover Malawi and Zambia’s most scenic spots during your visit to these two countries.