Majete Wildlife ReserveLiwonde National ParkNkhotakota Wildlife Reserve Nyika National ParkLake Malawi
Malawi is a country known for its stunning wildlife reserves and beautiful national parks and lakes. A tour of the country’s Majete Wildlife Reserve, Liwonde National Park, Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, Nyika National Park, and Lake Malawi promises to be a delightful experience for nature lovers. These destinations provide an opportunity to witness various wildlife, including elephants, leopards, lions, antelopes, and bird species, in their natural habitat. With breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural heritage, This Grand Tour is a must for anyone wanting to experience a true safari.
Itinerary Highlights
Daily Safaris in Parks
Big 5 Spotting
Water activities in Lake Malawi
Learn about tea production
Digital Detox
What’s included
Private tours for most included activities
Meet & greet airport service
Luxury or boutique accommodation at your chosen level
Expert guides in each destination
flexibility
This is an example itinerary. It is fully flexible; you can add or detract days and include hotels at your chosen budget. It departs daily.
21
Nights
Price Guide
$16,500 – $20,500 pp
Our quotes are bespoke for your customised trip. The prices displayed are indicative only, read more
Day 1
Fly to Malawi
Day 2-4
Majete Wildlife Reserve
Welcome to Malawi! On arrival at Chileka International Airport you will be met by a guide who will welcome and transfer you to Thawale Camp situated right within Majete Wildlife Reserve, one of the outstanding success stories of African conservation. You will spend three nights of your tour here.
Situated on the edge of a beautiful clearing with a natural waterhole, Thawale is a rustic haven that offers guests the opportunity to experience the Big 5. The accommodation is comfortable and spacious, and you can enjoy the views over the watering hole where plenty of elephants and other wildlife come to drink, from the comfort of your private veranda.
Day 4-6
Satemwa Tea Estate
Today you will rise and go on your last activity in Majete Wildlife Reserve before being jetted off to the stunning Satemwa Tea Estates. You will be transferred to the wonderful home, Huntingdon House for the next 2 nights.
Go for guided walks around the estates, play croquet on the lawn, take a tour of the coffee factory and do some tea tasting. Don’t forget to take a trip up to the picnic spot for sundowners for a birds eye view of the estate and far beyond.
You can even take a day trip to Mount Mulanje and do some hiking before heading back to the house to enjoy a home cooked meal and a tea/coffee related cocktail by the fire in the drawing room.
Day 6-8
Zomba Plateau
Today you will be transferred to Zomba Forest Lodge in Zomba Forest for your 2 night stay here.
The atmosphere here at this owner run lodge is intimate, cosy and friendly. The owners want to make sure that you have a great time, whatever you wish to do, whether that is hiking, horse riding or spending your day relaxing listening to the sounds of the forest. The property is completely run without any electricity so enjoy a digital detox or make sure that any electronic items are charged prior to arrival.
Day 8-11
Liwonde National Park
Today you will be transferred to the Shire River where you will be met by the Mvuu Camp staff and transferred via boat to your home for the next 3 nights.
You will settle into your room on arrival and rest. That afternoon you will be taken on your first game drive to explore the wildlife of Liwonde National Park. After your activity you will be brought back to the camp in time to freshen up before enjoying delicious three-course dinner.
Up bright and early the next morning for your morning activity, choose from game drives or boating safaris! After your activity, hop in the swimming pool or do some birding on your private deck before lunch. After lunch, why not have a siesta or read a book by the pool before your evening activity. Game drive and dinner and a good nights’ sleep lay ahead.
Day 11-13
Ntchisi Forest
This morning you will rise early for a short drive if you wish, and your boat transfer back to your guide and vehicle, where you will be transferred to The Commonage in Ntchisi Forest for the next 2 nights of your trip. The Commonage is a forward thinking place located in the last indigenous rainforest of Malawi, combining sustainable tourism and specialty coffee with the protection and reforestation of Ntchisi Forest. The Commonage gives you the chance to stay overnight, enjoy the rainforest, relax, recharge, and get in contact with the people and products of the region.
Day 13-15
Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve
Today you will go from one wooded area to another. Your guide will transfer you north to your accommodation in the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, where you will stay for the next 2 nights. Tongole Wilderness Lodge is the only high-end lodge in Nkhotakota and with breathtaking views over the beautiful Bua River, it provides a truly exceptional experience in this pristine region. Paddle the waters of the Bua on a canoe safari, walk through the bush, go on a game drive or do some birding from the lodge. Indulge in their luxurious, open-plan suites that offer the perfect relaxing retreat after an exciting day of exploration. The dining experience at Tongole is often rated as ‘the best in the country’!
Day 15-18
Nyika National Park
This morning you will rise and be transferred to the Nkhotakota Airstrip for your private charter to Nyika National Park. From the airstrip here you will be met by your guide from Chelinda Lodge to transfer you to the beautiful Chelinda for the next 3 nights of your trip.
Compared to the ‘Scottish highlands’ in Africa, Nyika National Park has plenty of plains game, hyenas and even the occasional lion and leopard. The park is fabulous for walking safaris, cycling, fly fishing in the numerous freshwater dams and is famed for its spectacular birdlife, like the bar-tailed trogon.
After a day of exciting activities, spend the evening curled up in front of the roaring fire. Enjoy a sumptuous three-course meal before retiring to your cosy cabin for a bath in the claw-foot bathtub and enjoy the flames in your own fireplace.
Day 18-22
Likoma Island
Off to the Lake we go! Early rise today as you will be transferred to back to the Nyika Airstrip for your private charter flight to the incredible Likoma Island. Settle into your gorgeous chalet at Pure Likoma and take a dip in the warm waters of Lake Malawi.
Take advantage of all the exciting water-based activities like kayaking, snorkelling, or a sunset cruise. A must see is St Peter’s Cathedral. Said to be the same size as Winchester Cathedral. Its stained-glass windows, crumbling masonry and sheer scale are testament to the zeal of its missionary creators’ religious conviction.
Climb the tower for spectacular views. If you’re lucky you might meet the charming verger, who’ll happily give you a tour, and you’re welcome to join in the vibrant service on a Sunday morning. You will stay here for the last 4 nights of your trip.
Day 22
Fly home
A note on price
The prices outlined above are a rough guide to give you an idea of costs and enable you to budget for your trip.
Guide prices are generally for private arrangements based on twin share, in well located, good quality accommodation (excluding international flights).
Please note costs are indicative and may vary due to a number of factors such as; travel date, hotel choice, room category, number of people travelling and prevailing exchange rates.
Price Guide $16,500 – $20,500 per person
When to travel
janfebmaraprmayjunjulaugsepoctnovdec
For most people, the dry (winter) season is most attractive (i.e. April/May to October/November). The chance of rain is slim, daytime temperatures are generally pleasant (in the 20s Celsius), and the low vegetation and limited availability of water mean that game viewing is at its best. However, some of the best bird watching can be had from November to April, and the orchids of Nyika are best seen from December to March/April.
Malawi’s temperatures are moderated by altitude. In the hottest month (usually November) maximum temperatures will be around 30°C. In the coldest month (probably July) maximum temperatures will be in the low 20’s. On the uplands (e.g. Zomba, Nyika and Viphya) it can be quite cold at night. The hottest area, all year, is that at the lowest altitude – the Lower Shire Valley. Rainfall is scarce in the dry season, and even in the so-called wet season, the rains are usually short-lived storms, as is typical of the tropics, and at no time does the climate severely inhibit the traveller. Around the country, rainfall varies, with the highlands causing the highest figures.
January in Malawi marks the rainy season, so it is advisable to pack rain gear and be prepared for occasional showers. The lush green landscapes and blooming flowers add to the scenic beauty of Malawi during this time. Travellers can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife safaris, and exploring the stunning Lake Malawi.
Malawi enjoys warm temperatures during this month, with average highs ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. The region experiences minimal rainfall during February, creating dry and sunny conditions. Travellers can expect clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the country's stunning landscapes and wildlife reserves.
With temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, visitors can enjoy comfortable days and cool evenings. March falls within the rainy season in Malawi, so travellers should expect occasional showers and thunderstorms. However, these rainfall events are usually short-lived and do not significantly impact travel plans. It is advisable to pack light clothing, including shorts and T-shirts, as well as a light rain jacket or umbrella for any unexpected rainfall.
The days are mostly sunny, providing ample outdoor exploration and sightseeing opportunities. However, it is advisable to carry a light jacket or sweater for the evenings, as temperatures can drop slightly. April is also a relatively dry month, with minimal rainfall, allowing visitors to enjoy their outdoor activities fully. Whether you plan to visit the stunning Lake Malawi, explore the national parks, or immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, April offers favourable weather conditions for a memorable trip to Malawi.
The weather in Malawi during May is generally warm and pleasant, making it a favourable time for travel. With average temperatures ranging from 19 to 25 degrees Celsius, visitors can enjoy mild and comfortable weather during their stay. May marks the end of the rainy season, so while occasional showers are still possible, they are less frequent compared to earlier months. Travellers can expect to see green landscapes and blooming flora, adding to the beauty of the country.
Malawi experiences good travel weather in June. As the country transitions from autumn to winter, the temperatures are relatively mild, ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. The weather is generally dry, with little to no rainfall during this time. The skies are often clear, allowing for beautiful vistas and pleasant outdoor activities.
While the days can be pleasant and sunny, the nights tend to be colder. The average daytime temperature ranges from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. However, it is advisable to carry a light jacket or sweater for the evenings and early mornings when temperatures can drop to around 10 degrees Celsius. July is generally a dry month in Malawi, with minimal rainfall, allowing travellers to explore beautiful landscapes and national parks without interruption.
The weather in Malawi during the month of August can be quite enjoyable for travellers. August falls within the dry season, which means that rainfall is minimal. Travellers can expect warm and sunny days, with temperatures ranging from around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. The evenings may be slightly cooler, so it is advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater.
In September, the travel weather in Malawi is characterized by mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. As the country transitions from the dry season to the start of the rainy season, the weather becomes more pleasant and comfortable for travellers. During this time, temperatures range from around 16 to 26 degrees Celsius, making it an ideal time to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural attractions that Malawi has to offer. It is important to note that while the chances of rain increase, precipitation levels are usually lower compared to the following months.
In October, Malawi experiences transitional weather as it moves from the dry season to the start of the rainy season. The weather in Malawi during this time is generally warm and pleasant, with temperatures averaging around 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. However, it is important to note that rainfall increases gradually throughout the month, especially in the southern and central regions of the country. Travellers visiting Malawi in October should be prepared for occasional showers and thunderstorms. It is advisable to pack a light rain jacket or umbrella to be prepared for any sudden changes in weather.
Malawi experiences a transition from dry to wet season in November, making it an interesting time to travel. The weather in Malawi during November is characterized by increasing rainfall and rising temperatures. The average temperature ranges between 22°C and 32°C, creating a warm and humid climate. The northern regions tend to receive more rainfall compared to the southern parts of the country. It is important to note that the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional heavy showers and thunderstorms. Therefore, travellers should be prepared for varying weather conditions and pack accordingly.
The average temperature ranges from 22 to 28 degrees Celsius, offering pleasant conditions for sightseeing, wildlife safaris, and enjoying the country's stunning landscapes. Rainfall is generally low during this time, ensuring clear skies and optimal visibility for capturing memorable photographs. However, it is advisable to pack some light layers as temperatures can drop slightly during the evenings.
Add on’s
There are a multitude of add on holiday options to this Malawi itinerary, for example you could head to Zambia and visit Victoria Falls and Livingstone, or spend a few days in Cape Town or Johannesburg and soak up South African urban culture.
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