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9 Days Birding and wildlife safari in Tanzania

12 Days Kenya and Tanzania Wildlife Safari

Liwonde National Park

 Liwonde National Park is the top choice for Malawi tours and safaris focused on wildlife density and water-based activities. Centered on the Shire River, it offers reliable sightings of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and black rhinos, thanks to strong conservation efforts. Game drives at dawn and dusk increase chances of seeing lions and cheetahs, while boat safaris bring you close to river life and bird species like Lilian’s lovebird. Walking safaris and rhino tracking add variety and depth. For Malawi tours and safaris that prioritize animal viewing and photography, Liwonde delivers consistent results and well-managed access. Lodges range from mid-range to upscale, and guides are trained in both safety and wildlife behavior.

2. Majete Wildlife Reserve

 Majete is the only Big Five destination in Malawi and a reliable stop for Malawi tours and safaris that focus on classic game viewing. Once depleted, it’s now a thriving reserve with lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos, plus antelope, zebra, and crocodiles. Game drives cover varied terrain, and birding is strong with over 300 species. The reserve is well-managed, with good roads and professional guiding. For Malawi tours and safaris that want strong wildlife without heavy crowds, Majete offers a practical and rewarding option. Kapichira Falls adds a scenic stop, and lodges here are comfortable and conservation-focused.

Lake Malawi National Park

Lake Malawi National Park offers a different angle for Malawi tours and safaris by combining aquatic life with forest wildlife. It’s known for its colorful cichlid fish, which you can see while snorkeling in clear freshwater. Kayaking and boat trips around Cape Maclear reveal fish eagles, monkeys, and hippos. This park suits travelers who want variety especially those combining safari with relaxation. Malawi tours and safaris that include Lake Malawi give access to both underwater and land-based wildlife, making it ideal for families or mixed-interest groups. Lodges in Cape Maclear range from budget to boutique, and activities are easy to arrange.

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

Nkhotakota is best for Malawi tours and safaris that value solitude and raw wilderness. It’s undergoing a major rewilding project, with elephants relocated from Liwonde and Majete. Walking safaris are the main activity here, offering quiet exploration and strong birding. The terrain is rugged, and tourism is still developing, so expect fewer lodges and limited infrastructure. For Malawi tours and safaris focused on conservation and low-impact travel, Nkhotakota offers a meaningful experience. Visitors directly support wildlife recovery, and guides are trained in bush safety and tracking. It’s ideal for travelers who want to avoid crowds and support long-term ecological efforts.

Nyika National Park

Nyika National Park stands out on Malawi tours and safaris for its high-altitude grasslands and cool climate. It’s home to roan and eland antelope, zebra, leopard, and over 400 bird species. The open terrain is perfect for mountain biking and hiking, with 4x4 drives offering access to remote valleys. Trout fishing is available in the streams, adding a quiet activity for longer stays. For Malawi tours and safaris that want something different from the usual savannah, Nyika offers space, scenery, and strong wildlife. Lodges are few but well-placed, and the park’s layout suits travelers who enjoy active exploration and cooler temperatures.

Chongoni Rock Art Area

Chongoni is ideal for Malawi tours and safaris that combine nature with cultural heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features over 100 rock art sites created by Chewa and Batwa communities. While not a wildlife park, it offers guided hikes through forested hills and ancient paintings that reflect spiritual and historical traditions. For Malawi tours and safaris that want depth beyond game drives, Chongoni adds cultural value and scenic walking. Lodges nearby are simple but comfortable, and local guides provide insight into the meanings behind the art and rituals.

Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve

Vwaza Marsh is a quiet, less-visited reserve near Nyika, perfect for Malawi tours and safaris seeking solitude and strong hippo sightings. The marsh and lake attract elephants, antelope, and abundant birdlife. Game drives are available, but walking safaris offer better access to the wetlands. For Malawi tours and safaris focused on photography or birding, Vwaza is a practical stop. Lodging is basic, but the setting is peaceful, and the wildlife is active around water sources, especially in the dry season.

Mount Mulanje

Mount Mulanje suits Malawi tours and safaris that include hiking and mountain scenery. It’s not a wildlife park, but its granite peaks, waterfalls, and forest trails offer a different kind of outdoor experience. You’ll find rare butterflies, small mammals, and endemic plant species. For Malawi tours and safaris that mix adventure with nature, Mulanje adds variety and cooler temperatures. Local guides lead treks ranging from day hikes to multi-day climbs, and mountain huts provide rustic overnight options.

Zomba Plateau

Zomba Plateau is a highland destination for Malawi tours and safaris that want forest walks, panoramic views, and relaxed pacing. Wildlife includes baboons, bushbuck, and diverse birds, while the plateau’s rivers and waterfalls add scenic interest. Horse riding and hiking are popular, and the cooler climate makes it a good escape from the lowland heat. For Malawi tours and safaris that include Nyika or Mulanje, Zomba offers a midpoint with comfortable lodges and easy access from Blantyre.

Kasungu National Park

 Kasungu is one of Malawi’s oldest parks, offering a classic safari setting for Malawi tours and safaris that want open plains and fewer tourists. Wildlife includes elephants, antelope, and occasional predators, though sightings are less dense than in Liwonde or Majete. The park is undergoing recovery, and visiting supports ongoing conservation. For Malawi tours and safaris focused on quiet drives and landscape photography, Kasungu is a good fit. Lodges are modest, and guides are knowledgeable about the park’s history and challenges

The best time for Malawi tours and safaris is from May to October, during the dry season when wildlife viewing is most reliable. Vegetation thins out, and animals gather around permanent water sources, making sightings easier and more consistent. Parks like Liwonde and Majete offer excellent game drives during this period, with clear skies and cooler temperatures ideal for photography and outdoor activities. July to September is especially strong for spotting elephants, predators, and birdlife, though October can be very hot in lowland areas. Booking early is recommended, as this is also the most popular travel window.

From November to April, Malawi enters its rainy season, which brings lush landscapes and fewer tourists. While game viewing is more challenging due to thicker vegetation and dispersed wildlife, this period is excellent for birdwatching and seeing newborn animals. Nyika Plateau is best visited between November and May, when its high-altitude grasslands are green and accessible. Lodges may offer discounts during the wet season, but some activities like walking safaris or remote drives can be limited by rain. For travelers seeking solitude, dramatic scenery, and lower costs, this shoulder season offers a quieter alternative to peak safari months

Getting to Malawi for tours and safaris typically begins with flying into Chileka International Airport (BLZ) in Blantyre or Kamuzu International Airport (LLW) in Lilongwe. These are the country’s two main international gateways, with connections from regional hubs like Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Johannesburg, and Doha. Most travelers arrive via connecting flights from Europe or other African countries. Once in Malawi, domestic transfers to safari destinations are arranged by your tour operator. Road travel is common and scenic, though some parks like Nyika or Nkhotakota may require 4x4 vehicles due to rough terrain. Charter flights are available for remote areas but are more costly.

For Malawi tours and safaris, working with a trusted operator ensures smooth logistics between airports, lodges, and parks. Transfers from Lilongwe are ideal for visiting Nkhotakota, Lake Malawi, and Nyika, while Blantyre is better positioned for Majete and Liwonde. Entry requirements include a valid passport, visa (available online or on arrival for many nationalities), and proof of yellow fever vaccination if arriving from a risk country. Travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for remote safaris. Booking early helps secure reliable guides and accommodations, particularly during the dry season when demand is higher

Malawi tours and safaris offer a mix of wildlife, water, and highland experiences that go far beyond traditional game drives. In parks like Liwonde and Majete, early morning and late afternoon drives provide strong chances to see elephants, lions, and antelope in action. Guides tailor each outing based on recent sightings, and the smaller size of these parks means less driving and more time with wildlife. Boat safaris on the Shire River are especially valuable, giving close views of hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife without the dust and bumps of land travel. These water-based experiences add comfort and variety to your safari days.

For travelers who want more than just viewing, Malawi tours and safaris include walking safaris in reserves like Nkhotakota, where you explore on foot with armed guides trained in tracking and bush safety. These walks focus on smaller details tracks, plants, bird calls and offer a quiet, immersive way to understand the ecosystem. In Nyika National Park, hiking and mountain biking across open grasslands give you access to remote valleys and herds of roan and eland antelope. The cool climate and wide views make it ideal for active travelers who prefer movement over long drives.

Cultural depth is another strength of Malawi tours and safaris. Visits to local villages near parks like Majete and Liwonde offer insight into how communities live alongside wildlife and participate in conservation. These experiences are best arranged through operators who work directly with community-owned lodges or projects, ensuring respectful interaction and fair benefit. Buying crafts directly from artisans supports local economies and adds meaning to your trip. Photography is usually welcome, but asking first shows respect. These cultural elements help travelers connect with Malawi beyond the parks and landscapes.

Malawi’s lakeside parks and highlands add a refreshing contrast to the bush. Lake Malawi National Park offers snorkeling, kayaking, and boat trips that reveal colorful cichlid fish and fish eagles in clear freshwater. Cape Maclear is a relaxed base with easy access to aquatic activities and forest walks. Zomba Plateau and Mount Mulanje provide cooler temperatures and forest trails, ideal for travelers who want to mix safari with hiking or birding. These areas are less crowded and offer a slower pace, making them perfect for winding down after wildlife-focused days. Malawi tours and safaris that include both land and water give a fuller, more balanced experience

Most Malawi tours and safaris last between 7 to 12 days, depending on how many parks and regions you want to include. A week is enough to cover highlights like Liwonde, Majete, and Lake Malawi with strong wildlife and water-based activities. If you want to add remote areas like Nyika Plateau, Nkhotakota, or Mount Mulanje, plan for 10 to 14 days to avoid rushed transfers and enjoy varied landscapes. Spending at least 2 nights per park allows time for game drives, walking safaris, and relaxation. Malawi tours and safaris that combine wildlife with hiking or cultural visits benefit from a slower pace and flexible planning

To get the most out of Malawi tours and safaris, plan your itinerary around the dry season (May to October) when wildlife viewing is strongest and road conditions are reliable. Spend at least two nights in each park to allow time for morning and evening game drives, walking safaris, and relaxation. Choose lodges that support conservation and community partnerships these often provide better guiding and more meaningful experiences. Book early if traveling in peak months, and confirm which parks and activities are open during the rainy season. Always travel with a reusable water bottle, insect repellent, and layered clothing for changing temperatures.

Respect local customs and wildlife rules to ensure a smooth and responsible safari. Ask before taking photos of people, avoid loud behavior near animals, and follow your guide’s instructions at all times. Support local businesses by buying crafts directly from artisans and tipping guides and lodge staff appropriately. If combining safari with lake or highland activities, pack for both warm and cool conditions. Malawi tours and safaris are most rewarding when travelers stay flexible, choose operators with strong local knowledge, and prioritize quality over rushing through multiple stops. A well-paced, respectful approach leads to better sightings, safer travel, and deeper connections

Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing that covers arms and legs to protect against sun and insects, along with a fleece or jacket for cool mornings in highland areas like Nyika or Zomba. Bring sturdy walking shoes, a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. A reusable water bottle, insect repellent, and a small daypack are essential for game drives and walking safaris. Include personal medications, a basic first aid kit, and a power bank for charging devices in remote lodges. Binoculars and a camera with extra batteries help you get the most out of wildlife viewing. Travel documents, a flashlight or headlamp, and a waterproof bag for electronics are also useful. If combining safari with lake or hiking activities, pack swimwear and quick-dry layers for comfort and flexibility

The best places to stay on Malawi tours and safaris combine strong wildlife access, comfort, and community involvement. In Liwonde, lodges like Mvuu Camp and Mvuu Lodge offer riverfront views and guided activities close to elephant and hippo hotspots. Majete’s Thawale Lodge provides reliable Big Five access with well-trained guides and relaxed pacing. For Lake Malawi, Cape Maclear has a range of options from budget to boutique, with easy access to snorkeling and kayaking. Chelinda Lodge in Nyika Plateau offers cozy cabins and sweeping views of highland wildlife. Tongole Wilderness Lodge in Nkhotakota blends luxury with conservation, ideal for walking safaris and birding. These stays support local communities and conservation, making them practical and meaningful choices for Malawi tours and safaris

Booking Malawi tours and safaris with Dav Safaris means working with a team that prioritizes practical planning, conservation-focused travel, and real value for every traveler. Our itineraries avoid rushed schedules and generic stops, focusing instead on well-paced experiences in top parks like Liwonde, Majete, and Nyika. Dav Safaris matches travelers with reliable guides, community-run lodges, and seasonal highlights whether you're after walking safaris, Big Five sightings, or lake-based activities. We offer clear advice on what to pack, when to go, and how to travel responsibly. With strong local knowledge and a commitment to ethical tourism, Dav Safaris delivers Malawi tours and safaris that are well-organized, respectful, and tailored to your interests