13 Day Best of Malawi Safari Adventure Trip

On arrival in Lilongwe, you will be welcomed and transferred to Nyika National Park for Malawi safari, one of Malawi’s most unique safari destinations. The drive introduces you to rolling hills and open grasslands that set the tone for your Malawi safari. Nyika is known for its high-altitude setting, offering cooler weather and wide views. Wildlife such as roan antelope, zebra, and eland roam freely, while the park’s rare orchids add interest for nature lovers. This first day is focused on settling in, enjoying the lodge, and preparing for the adventure ahead. A Malawi safari here begins with relaxation and anticipation, giving travelers time to adjust before diving into full activities

 Your second day of Malawi safari in Nyika National Park is dedicated to exploring its diverse habitats. Morning and afternoon game drives reveal antelope, warthogs, and occasional leopards, while walking safaris allow closer views of smaller wildlife and bird species. The forest areas provide a different side of the Malawi safari, with rich plant life and colorful birds. For active travelers, mountain biking is an option, offering a unique way to cover ground across the rolling hills. The day balances wildlife viewing with physical activity, ensuring variety and engagement. A Malawi safari in Nyika is ideal for those who want both adventure and relaxation, with opportunities to tailor the experience to personal interests

After breakfast, you will transfer to Nkhotakhota Wildlife Reserve, one of Malawi’s oldest protected areas. The drive takes you from the highlands to the central region, introducing new landscapes and ecosystems. Nkhotakhota is less visited, making it perfect for travelers seeking quieter Malawi safari experiences. The reserve is home to elephants, antelope, and diverse birdlife, with rivers cutting through its terrain. Arrival at your lodge allows time to rest and prepare for the next day’s activities. A Malawi safari here emphasizes authenticity and solitude, giving travelers a chance to enjoy wildlife without crowds and to appreciate the natural setting in a more personal way.

Nkhotakhota offers a mix of activities that highlight its varied landscapes. Morning game drives provide opportunities to see elephants and antelope, while bush walks bring you closer to tracks, plants, and birdlife. A waterfall hike adds a refreshing change, combining wildlife with natural beauty. Canoeing along the rivers is another highlight, giving a different perspective of the reserve and allowing quiet observation of animals near the water. A Malawi safari here is about variety, with each activity offering a new way to connect with the environment. Travelers benefit from the flexibility to choose what suits them best, ensuring a rewarding day in the reserve

 Today you transfer to Majete Wildlife Reserve for the next Malawi safari, a key destination for Malawi safari travelers. Majete is known for its successful conservation efforts and reintroduction of the Big Five. On arrival, you will enjoy a night game drive, which offers a rare chance to see nocturnal animals such as hyenas, civets, and bushbabies. The cooler evening hours make wildlife more active, and the experience adds a different dimension to the safari. A Malawi safari in Majete combines conservation success with exciting activities, giving travelers confidence that their visit supports wildlife protection while offering memorable experiences

Majete is one of the few places on Malawi safari where you can see the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. Morning and afternoon game drives maximize your chances of spotting these animals, while guides share insights into the reserve’s conservation story. The park’s varied terrain includes rivers, woodlands, and savannah, supporting diverse wildlife. A Malawi safari here is focused on big game viewing, making it ideal for travelers who want to tick off the Big Five. The day is structured to ensure plenty of time in the field, with breaks at the lodge for rest and meals

After breakfast, you transfer to Liwonde National Park, another highlight of a Malawi safari. Liwonde is famous for its rhino tracking program, where visitors join rangers to follow and observe these endangered animals. The experience is both educational and rewarding, showing conservation in action. Later, a boat safari along the Shire River offers views of hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife, with elephants often seen drinking at the banks. A Malawi safari in Liwonde combines land and water activities, giving travelers a balanced experience that highlights both large mammals and river ecosystems

Your last game drive in Liwonde provides another chance to see elephants, antelope, and predators before heading to Lake Malawi. The transfer takes you to Cape Maclear, a popular lakeside destination. Here, the Malawi safari shifts from wildlife to water, with opportunities to relax on the beach and enjoy the lake’s clear waters. The transition from park to lake adds variety to the trip, ensuring travelers experience both inland wildlife and aquatic adventures. A Malawi safari that includes Cape Maclear offers a complete package, combining safari with leisure by the lake

Cape Maclear is perfect for water-based activities, making this day a highlight of your Malawi safari. Options include snorkeling, kayaking, or swimming in the lake’s clear waters, which are home to colorful cichlid fish. In the afternoon, a traditional dhow cruise allows you to enjoy the lake at a slower pace, watching the sunset over the water. The day balances activity with relaxation, giving travelers time to enjoy the lake environment. A Malawi safari here is not only about wildlife but also about appreciating the country’s natural diversity, with the lake offering a refreshing contrast to the parks

Today you head to Zomba Plateau, known for its cool climate and high viewpoints. Hiking trails lead to spots with wide views of the surrounding plains and valleys. The plateau is rich in plant life and bird species, adding interest for nature lovers. A Malawi safari here is different, focusing on landscapes and hiking rather than game drives. Travelers benefit from the change of pace, enjoying physical activity and fresh air. The day is structured to allow exploration of the plateau’s highlights while still keeping the safari theme alive through its natural setting

 Mulanje is famous for its tea plantations, and today’s focus is on learning about this important part of Malawi’s economy. Guided tours explain the growing and processing of tea, with opportunities to walk through the plantations and taste fresh brews. A Malawi safari here shifts to cultural and agricultural experiences, showing another side of the country beyond wildlife. Travelers gain insight into local livelihoods and enjoy the green landscapes of Mulanje. The day balances education with relaxation, making it a valuable addition to the safari itinerary

Mount Mulanje offers hiking opportunities for those who want to explore its trails and enjoy its natural environment. The mountain is Africa’s highest granite massif, and its forests support diverse wildlife and bird species. After exploring, you return to Blantyre, stopping at Chongoni Rock Art, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The paintings provide cultural depth, showing Malawi’s history and traditions. A Malawi safari here combines natural exploration with cultural heritage, ensuring travelers experience both sides of the country. The day is structured to balance activity with travel, keeping the itinerary engaging

 Your last day is spent in Blantyre, where a city tour introduces you to Malawi’s urban life. Markets, historical buildings, and local shops provide insight into daily life and culture. This final activity rounds off the Malawi safari, giving travelers a chance to reflect on their trip and enjoy the city before departure. The tour is practical, offering opportunities for shopping and relaxation before heading to the airport. A Malawi safari that ends with a city visit ensures travelers leave with a complete picture of the country, from wildlife and landscapes to culture and community