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Liwonde National Park

 Liwonde National Park is the top destination for Malawi safari tours, offering reliable big game viewing and strong conservation results. Managed by African Parks, it’s the best place in Malawi to see elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and the rare African wild dog. Malawi safari tours here include boat safaris along the Shire River, classic game drives, walking safaris, and rhino tracking in a protected sanctuary. The park’s accessibility and wildlife density make it ideal for first-time visitors and photographers. Lodges near the river offer great views and easy access to activities. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want consistent sightings and a well-managed safari experience.

Lake Malawi

Lake Malawi is a must-visit stop on Malawi safari tours, especially for travelers looking to relax after time in the bush. With crystal-clear water and hundreds of colorful cichlid fish, it’s a freshwater safari in its own right. Malawi safari tours often include Cape Maclear for beach stays and access to Lake Malawi National Park, or Likoma and Chizumulu Islands for privacy and luxury. Activities like snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and village visits add variety to your itinerary. It’s ideal for couples, families, or anyone wanting a mix of wildlife and water-based experiences. The lake complements inland parks perfectly.

Majete Wildlife Reserve

 Majete Wildlife Reserve is the only Big Five destination in the country and a key stop on Malawi safari tours. Once empty of wildlife, it’s now home to lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo thanks to African Parks’ restoration efforts. Malawi safari tours here offer rugged landscapes, strong game drives, and black rhino tracking. The reserve is less crowded than Liwonde, making it ideal for travelers who prefer quiet, dry-country safaris. Lodges are well placed for access to the Shire River and the nearby hydropower dam. It’s a good fit for repeat safari-goers or those wanting a more traditional African bush experience.

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve offers a remote, conservation-focused experience for Malawi safari tours. It’s known for one of the largest elephant translocations in history and features dense miombo woodland, rivers, and mountainous terrain. Wildlife densities are lower, but the sense of wilderness is strong. Malawi safari tours here focus on walking safaris, birding, and scenic drives rather than ticking off big game. It’s ideal for travelers who value solitude, nature, and conservation impact. Lodges are eco-friendly and well spaced, and guides are knowledgeable about the reserve’s restoration. This is a good choice for those seeking a quieter, more reflective safari.

Nyika National Park

Nyika National Park stands out on Malawi safari tours for its high-altitude grasslands and unique wildlife. Located over 2,000 meters above sea level, it offers sightings of Crawshay’s zebra, roan and eland antelope, and seasonal wildflowers. Malawi safari tours here include mountain biking, hiking, and fly-camping activities rarely found in other African parks. Leopards are present but hard to spot, adding an element of surprise. The landscape feels more European than African, making it ideal for travelers who want something different. It’s best visited during the dry season and pairs well with other parks for a varied itinerary.

Elephant Marsh

 Elephant Marsh is a top birding destination for Malawi safari tours, located in the Lower Shire Valley. It’s not a traditional game park but a vast wetland home to storks, herons, egrets, and raptors. Malawi safari tours here focus on boat trips, the only way to explore the marsh properly. It’s ideal for birdwatchers and photographers who want to see rare species in a quiet, natural setting. The area is also important for conservation and wetland restoration. Lodges nearby offer access to the marsh and guided excursions. It’s a strong add-on for travelers looking to expand their safari beyond big game

The best time for Malawi safari tours is during the dry season from July to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak. During these months, animals gather around permanent water sources, making sightings more predictable and rewarding especially in Liwonde and Majete. The skies are clear, and temperatures are pleasant, though October can be very hot in lowland areas. This period is ideal for game drives, boat safaris, and rhino tracking. Lodges are in high demand, so early booking is recommended. For Lake Malawi, the dry season also offers great conditions for snorkeling, kayaking, and beach relaxation, with cooling breezes from the water.

If you're visiting Nyika Plateau, the best time is from November to May, when the highlands are greener and temperatures are more comfortable. This season brings wildflowers, orchids, and better conditions for hiking and mountain biking. While some areas may receive rain, many camps remain open and offer birding and walking safaris. For travelers interested in conservation and remote exploration, Nkhotakota and Elephant Marsh are also accessible year-round, though logistics may vary. Malawi safari tours during the green season offer fewer crowds, lower rates, and a more intimate experience with nature

To begin Malawi safari tours, most travelers fly 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 Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Johannesburg, and other regional hubs. From Lilongwe, it’s easier to access Nkhotakota, Nyika Plateau, and Lake Malawi’s northern shores. Blantyre is better for reaching Majete, Liwonde, and the Lower Shire Valley. Domestic flights are limited, so most Malawi safari tours rely on road transfers arranged by your operator. Travel times vary, but roads are generally safe and scenic, with 4x4 vehicles recommended for remote parks.

Once in Malawi, your safari operator will handle all logistics, including park permits, lodge bookings, and guided activities. For Lake Malawi extensions, boat transfers are available to islands like Likoma and Chizumulu, while Cape Maclear is accessible by road. Malawi safari tours often combine wildlife parks with beach stays, so planning your route carefully helps avoid backtracking. If visiting multiple parks, consider starting in the south and moving north, or vice versa, depending on your arrival airport. Always confirm your lodge’s location and transfer options in advance, especially during the rainy season when some roads may be challenging

One of the best things to do on Malawi safari tours is take a boat safari in Liwonde National Park. The Shire River runs through the park and attracts large numbers of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and birds. From the water, you get a unique angle on wildlife behavior watching animals drink, bathe, or interact along the banks. It’s quieter than a vehicle and ideal for photography. Most lodges offer guided boat trips, often in the early morning or late afternoon when wildlife is most active. This activity adds variety to your Malawi safari tours and is especially rewarding during the dry season.

Walking safaris in Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve offer a deeper connection to the landscape. Guided by armed rangers, you’ll learn to read animal tracks, identify plants, and listen for bird calls. Unlike game drives, walking safaris slow things down and help you notice the smaller details. Nkhotakota’s terrain is mountainous and forested, making it ideal for this kind of exploration. It’s a great fit for travelers who want solitude and conservation-focused experiences. Adding a walking component to your Malawi safari tours gives you a more personal and educational perspective on the bush.

Snorkeling and kayaking on Lake Malawi are perfect for relaxing after inland safaris. The lake’s clear waters are home to hundreds of colorful cichlid fish found nowhere else. Cape Maclear and Likoma Island are top spots for water activities, with lodges offering gear and guided excursions. Kayaking lets you explore the coastline quietly, while snorkeling reveals dazzling underwater life. These activities balance out the intensity of game drives and walking safaris. Including Lake Malawi in your Malawi safari tours adds comfort, variety, and a chance to enjoy the country’s natural beauty from a different angle.

Birding in Elephant Marsh or Nyika Plateau is a must for nature lovers. Elephant Marsh is a vast wetland in the south, best explored by boat, and home to storks, herons, egrets, and raptors. Nyika Plateau, with its high-altitude grasslands, offers sightings of rare species and seasonal wildflowers. Both areas are quieter than traditional game parks and ideal for travelers who enjoy slow-paced, observation-based activities. Guides are knowledgeable and often provide checklists and spotting scopes. Birding adds depth to Malawi safari tours and works well as a standalone focus or a complement to big game viewing.

Where to Visit in Malawi Malawi safari tours offer a mix of wildlife, lakeside relaxation, and cultural depth. Top places to visit include Liwonde National Park, known for elephants, hippos, and boat safaris along the Shire River; Majete Wildlife Reserve, the only Big Five destination in the country; and Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, ideal for walking safaris and conservation-focused travel. Nyika National Park provides high-altitude grasslands and unique species like Crawshay’s zebra, while Lake Malawi adds snorkeling, kayaking, and beach stays to your itinerary. Malawi safari tours often combine inland parks with lakeside escapes, giving travelers variety and value. Whether you’re seeking big game, birding, or remote wilderness, Malawi offers a well-rounded safari experience with fewer crowds and strong conservation efforts

Yes, you can see the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo on Malawi safari tours, but only in Majete Wildlife Reserve. Thanks to African Parks’ restoration efforts, Majete is now a fully stocked Big Five reserve with strong guiding and reliable sightings. While Liwonde and Nkhotakota offer excellent wildlife viewing, they don’t have all five species. For travelers focused on Big Five experiences, Malawi safari tours should prioritize Majete and include rhino tracking and intensive game drives. Combining Majete with Liwonde or Lake Malawi adds variety and comfort. It’s important to manage expectations Malawi is more about conservation and intimacy than mass tourism, making Big Five sightings more meaningful and less crowded

To act responsibly on Malawi safari tours, follow park rules, respect wildlife, and support conservation-focused lodges and operators. Stay on designated tracks, avoid loud noises, and never feed or approach animals. Use reusable water bottles and avoid single-use plastics to reduce waste. Choose cultural visits that are community-approved and avoid exploitative interactions. If walking or boating, listen closely to your guide’s safety instructions. Responsible behavior on Malawi safari tours helps protect fragile ecosystems, supports local communities, and ensures a safer, more meaningful experience for everyone involved

To get the most out of your Malawi safari tours, choose the right parks based on your interests and travel season. Liwonde is best for reliable big game and boat safaris, while Majete offers Big Five sightings in a rugged setting. If you prefer walking and birding, Nkhotakota and Nyika Plateau are ideal. Plan your trip during the dry season (July–October) for easier wildlife viewing and smoother road access. Book lodges early, especially near the Shire River or Lake Malawi, as top spots fill quickly. Work with a trusted operator who understands local logistics, conservation areas, and how to pair inland safaris with lakeside relaxation.

Pack light but smart neutral clothing, insect repellent, sun protection, and binoculars are essential. Malawi safari tours often include walking safaris, so comfortable shoes and layered clothing help with changing temperatures. Ask guides questions they’re knowledgeable and often involved in conservation efforts. Respect wildlife and local communities by following park rules and choosing lodges that support sustainability. If you’re adding Lake Malawi, bring swimwear and water shoes for snorkeling and kayaking. Staying flexible with your itinerary allows for better wildlife sightings and smoother travel. Combining multiple parks with a beach extension gives you a balanced, rewarding experience

Top places to stay during Malawi safari tours include Mvuu Lodge and Mvuu Camp in Liwonde National Park, both offering excellent access to boat safaris and game drives along the Shire River. These lodges are known for strong guiding, comfortable accommodation, and proximity to wildlife. In Majete Wildlife Reserve, Thawale Lodge provides a peaceful setting with views of a waterhole and easy access to Big Five game drives. For travelers heading to Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, Tongole Wilderness Lodge offers eco-luxury in a remote forested setting, ideal for walking safaris and birding. These lodges are well-integrated with conservation efforts and provide reliable logistics for park activities.

For Lake Malawi extensions, Kaya Mawa on Likoma Island is a top choice for luxury and water-based activities like snorkeling and kayaking. Near Cape Maclear, Pumulani Lodge offers lakefront villas and guided excursions into Lake Malawi National Park. In Nyika National Park, Chelinda Lodge provides chalet-style accommodation with panoramic views of the high-altitude plateau, perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing. These properties complement inland safaris with comfort and variety. When planning Malawi safari tours, pairing a wildlife lodge with a lakeside retreat gives travelers a balanced and rewarding experience

Booking Malawi safari tours with Dav Safaris ensures a smooth, well-planned experience tailored to your interests whether you're focused on Big Five sightings in Majete, boat safaris in Liwonde, or walking adventures in Nkhotakota. Our team handles all logistics, including park permits, lodge reservations, and guided activities, making it easy to combine wildlife viewing with Lake Malawi relaxation. Dav Safaris prioritizes conservation-friendly travel and works with trusted partners to deliver safe, comfortable, and meaningful tours. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, or family, Our Malawi safari tours are designed to match your pace, budget, and expectations with expert support throughout