Your Malawi Safari and Beach Adventure
Malawi is often called the “Warm Heart of Africa”, not only because of its friendly people but also for its year-round pleasant climate, welcoming landscapes, and laid-back rhythm. But what sets it apart is its rare blend of safari wilderness and freshwater beach luxury—two holiday styles that usually require hopping between countries.
Unlike more traditional safari-and-coast pairings like Kenya and Zanzibar or Kruger and Mozambique, Malawi wraps both into one surprisingly compact, easy-to-navigate country. In just over a week, you’ll track wildlife in remote reserves, engage with welcoming communities, and end each day with a sunset over golden sand.
Combining a wildlife safari with a beach escape is the ultimate African adventure—two extraordinary worlds in one seamless journey. On one side, you have the thrill of the wild: open savannas, big game sightings, and early morning game drives in remote, untamed landscapes. On the other, you’ll find tranquil stretches of soft sand, turquoise waters, and the chance to truly unwind under the African sun. It’s a rare combination that satisfies both the craving for adrenaline and the need for deep relaxation. Few travel experiences offer this kind of contrast and balance, making safari-and-beach itineraries one of the most rewarding ways to experience Africa. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, planning a family getaway, or looking for something truly different, this kind of holiday delivers variety, value, and unforgettable memories in a single, well-paced itinerary.
What to Expect on the Southern Malawi Safari Tour
This 9-day itinerary is designed for curious travelers who want to experience the best of Malawi’s natural and cultural assets without backtracking or long transfers. Carefully planned to maximize variety and minimize travel fatigue, the route connects three of the country’s most rewarding destinations: a thriving Big Five reserve, a riverine national park teeming with birds and wildlife, and a serene lakeside retreat. It’s a journey that captures the essence of Malawi—from conservation success stories to vibrant communities and world-class scenery. Ideal for couples, solo travelers, or families, this itinerary delivers a truly immersive African travel experience. Here’s how your journey unfolds:
Day 1–3: Majete Wildlife Reserve – A Conservation Success Story
Your adventure begins at Majete Wildlife Reserve, one of Africa’s lesser-known but most inspiring conservation stories. Once nearly devoid of animals, Majete has been transformed by African Parks into a thriving Big Five reserve.
Spend your days at Mkulumadzi Lodge, an elegant retreat perched on the banks of the Shire River. Game drives reveal elephants, black rhinos, lions, leopards, buffalo, and sable antelope, while boat safaris offer a tranquil way to observe hippos and crocodiles.
Between excursions, relax in your private chalet or watch wildlife from the lodge’s infinity pool. This is the real African bush—untouched, uncrowded, and unforgettable.
Day 4–6: Liwonde National Park – Rivers, Birds, and Big Game
Next stop is Liwonde National Park, a biodiverse sanctuary along the upper Shire River. Known for its riverine landscapes, lush floodplains, and extraordinary birdlife, Liwonde adds another dimension to your safari.
You’ll stay at Kuthengo Camp, a stylish eco-lodge blending comfort and simplicity. Enjoy early morning game drives, sunset river cruises, and guided bush walks led by expert rangers.
Liwonde is home to elephants, hippos, crocodiles, black rhinos, and a growing cheetah population. It’s also one of the best places in southern Africa for birdwatching—with over 400 species recorded.
This part of the journey introduces a softer, more water-connected safari—perfect for photography, serenity, and slowing down.
Day 7–9: Lake Malawi – A Beach Escape with a Twist
From bush to beach, your final days unfold on the peaceful shores of Lake Malawi, a UNESCO-listed freshwater paradise that stretches more like an inland sea than a lake.
Your beach base is Pumulani Lodge, perched on a hillside above the lake in the Lake Malawi National Park. Each villa boasts panoramic views, modern luxury, and a private deck. Dive into the lake’s clear waters, snorkel with colorful cichlids, or set sail on a traditional dhow.
Evenings are for stargazing, romantic lakeside dinners, and reflecting on your journey. This is barefoot luxury in the truest sense—natural, soulful, and deeply relaxing.
