3 Day Malawi Tours and Safaris in Lilongwe and Senga Bay
This 3 day Malawi tours and safaris in Lilongwe and Senga Bay offer a balanced mix of wildlife, culture, and lake activities. The itinerary includes city highlights, a full-day beach trip, and a choice of forest hike or pottery visit. Short travel times and flexible options make it ideal for a quick yet rewarding Malawi experience.
Planning a short escape? A 3-day Malawi tours and safaris itinerary in Lilongwe and Senga Bay offers a practical mix of wildlife, culture, and lake relaxation without long travel times. Start in Lilongwe with visits to the Wildlife Centre and local markets, giving you a feel for Malawi’s conservation efforts and daily life. Day two takes you to Senga Bay on Lake Malawi, where you can swim, enjoy fresh fish, and explore fishing villages all within a comfortable day trip. On the final day, choose between a forest hike in Dzalanyama or a pottery visit in Dedza before heading back to Lilongwe for departure. Malawi tours and safaris like this are ideal for travelers with limited time who want variety, comfort, and easy logistics. The itinerary suits solo travelers, couples, and small groups looking for a relaxed but meaningful experience
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Lilongwe with Wildlife and Markets
Day 2: Take a Day Trip to Senga Bay on Lake Malawi
Day 3: Hike in Dzalanyama Forest or Visit Dedza Pottery and Departure
Price Includes:
- All activities as mentioned in the itinerary
- Ground transport per 4WD custom safari vehicle
- Bottled water in the safari vehicle throughout the journey
- Full board accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary (lodges or camps)
- Service of an English-speaking professional driver-guide
- Driver allowances and accommodation
- All mentioned activities except for optional ones
- Boat safari on Shire River
- Game drives in both national parks
- Government taxes and park conservation fees
Price Excludes:
- Malawi Visa fees
- International and internal flights
- Personal needs such as gratuities, beverages, souvenirs, etc.
- Visa processing and application fees
- Air ticket costs (international and domestic)
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Laundry fees and services
- Tips for guides, drivers, lodge staff, and boat crew
- Life insurance coverage
- Other drinks apart from bottled water
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal travel and medical insurance
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival in Lilongwe with Wildlife and Markets
Your Malawi tours and safaris begin with arrival in Lilongwe, where you’ll explore the city’s highlights at a relaxed pace. After settling in, visit the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, a rescue and rehabilitation sanctuary for injured animals. It’s a good introduction to Malawi’s conservation efforts and offers short walking trails. Later, head to the Old Town markets for a look at local crafts, fabrics, and fresh produce. Malawi tours and safaris in Lilongwe give you a mix of nature and culture without long transfers. The city is compact, so you can cover key spots in a few hours. Dinner at a local restaurant rounds out the day, with options for both local and international dishes. Overnight in a comfortable guesthouse or hotel near the city center
- Day2Take a Day Trip to Senga Bay on Lake Malawi
Malawi tours and safaris on day two take you east to Senga Bay, just two hours from Lilongwe. This lakeside town offers a relaxed beach setting with clear waters and soft sand. Spend the day swimming, enjoying a boat ride, or visiting local fishing villages. Malawi tours and safaris in Senga Bay also include fresh fish lunches and optional visits to nearby islands. The area is safe and easy to navigate, making it ideal for a full-day trip. You can rent kayaks or take a guided walk along the shoreline. Return to Lilongwe in the evening for dinner and rest. This day adds variety to your itinerary and gives you a feel for Malawi’s lake culture without needing an overnight stay
- Day3Hike in Dzalanyama Forest or Visit Dedza Pottery and Departure
On the final day of your Malawi tours and safaris, choose between a morning hike in Dzalanyama Forest or a cultural visit to Dedza Pottery. Dzalanyama offers shaded trails, birdwatching, and a peaceful setting just over an hour from Lilongwe. It’s a good option for travelers who enjoy walking and want a quiet start to the day. Alternatively, Dedza Pottery is known for handmade ceramics and local art, with a café and showroom for browsing. Malawi tours and safaris that include either option give you a soft ending before departure. Return to Lilongwe in time for your flight or onward travel. This flexible day lets you match your energy level and interests while still making the most of your time