5 Day Best Safari Malawi National Parks to Majete and liwonde
This 5 day safari Malawi national parks tour takes you through Majete and Liwonde, two of the country’s most important reserves. From night drives and Big Five sightings in Majete to rhino tracking on foot and river safaris in Liwonde, the itinerary balances wildlife viewing with conservation learning. The program ensures travelers gain maximum value with structured activities, safe guiding, and flexible options right up to departure.
Visit the top best safari Malawi national parks to experience wildlife in protected reserves that combine conservation with traveler-focused activities. Malawi has steadily built a reputation for offering authentic safaris without the heavy crowds found in larger destinations. Majete Wildlife Reserve and Liwonde National Park stand out as the country’s leading highlights, each with unique features that make them worth exploring. Majete is the only Big Five reserve in Malawi, restored through strong conservation programs, while Liwonde is known for its river systems, rhino tracking, and diverse birdlife.
Together, they provide travelers with a balanced safari that covers both land and water experiences, ensuring maximum value in a short timeframe.
This 5-day itinerary is designed for travelers who want structured activities, safe guiding, and practical wildlife viewing opportunities. Safari Malawi national parks are not only about seeing animals but also about understanding the importance of conservation and community involvement. From night drives in Majete to river safaris in Liwonde, each day is planned to give visitors meaningful experiences without unnecessary rush. Safari Malawi national parks also offer flexible options, so travelers can enjoy both adventure and relaxation. This introduction sets the stage for a safari that is direct, rewarding, and carefully planned
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival and proceed to the Heart of Majete and night game drive
Day 2: Full Day Experiencing Majete the Big Five Reserve
Day 3: Transfer to Liwonde National Park and track rhinos on foot
Day 4: Game Drives and River Safaris in Liwonde
Day 5: Final Morning Activity and Departure
Price Includes:
- Park fees for Majete National Park and Liwonde National Park
- 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 and proceed to the Heart of Majete and night game drive
On arrival, you are transferred directly to Majete Wildlife Reserve, the only Big Five destination in Malawi. This first day introduces you to the heart of the reserve where lions, elephants, and buffalo roam freely. After settling in, the evening highlights a night game drive, giving you a chance to see nocturnal species such as hyenas and civets. Safari Malawi national parks are known for their diversity, and Majete sets the tone with its strong conservation success story. Safari Malawi national parks also provide safe guided drives, ensuring visitors experience wildlife without stress. The night drive is practical for spotting animals that are rarely active during the day, making it a valuable addition for travelers who want to maximize sightings in limited time
- Day2Full Day Experiencing Majete the Big Five Reserve
This day is dedicated to exploring Majete in depth with morning and afternoon drives. The reserve is home to reintroduced black rhinos, making it one of the few places in Malawi where all Big Five species can be seen. Safari Malawi national parks emphasize conservation and Majete is a prime example, offering travelers a chance to witness thriving populations in restored habitats. Safari Malawi national parks also provide structured activities, ensuring visitors can balance wildlife viewing with relaxation at lodges. Guides focus on tracking elephants, lions, and antelopes, while explaining the importance of community involvement in protecting the reserve. Spending a full day here allows travelers to appreciate the scale of the park and understand why Majete is central to Malawi’s safari reputation
- Day3Transfer to Liwonde National Park and track rhinos on foot
After breakfast, you transfer to Liwonde National Park, a destination famous for its river systems and rhino conservation. On arrival, the highlight is a guided walk to track rhinos on foot, conducted under strict safety measures. Safari Malawi national parks are unique in offering such close experiences, and Liwonde ensures visitors learn about rhino behavior while maintaining respect for their space. Safari Malawi national parks also prioritize education, so guides explain the challenges of protecting rhinos from poaching and the role of ongoing monitoring. Walking safaris here are practical for travelers who want to connect with nature beyond vehicle drives. This activity provides a deeper appreciation of conservation work while giving guests a memorable chance to see rhinos in their natural environment
- Day4Game Drives and River Safaris in Liwonde
This day combines traditional game drives with river safaris along the Shire River. Liwonde is known for large herds of elephants and impressive birdlife, making both land and water activities worthwhile. Safari Malawi national parks highlight variety, and Liwonde delivers by offering two perspectives of wildlife viewing. Safari Malawi national parks also ensure safety and comfort, with guides managing boat trips to maximize sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and fish eagles. Morning drives focus on plains game and predators, while afternoon river safaris provide cooler conditions and excellent photography opportunities. Travelers benefit from the balance of activities, as water-based safaris reduce fatigue from long drives and allow for unique animal interactions. This combination makes Liwonde one of Malawi’s most rewarding safari destinations
- Day5Final Morning Activity and Departure
The final morning offers one last activity, often a short drive or walk, depending on time and preference. This ensures travelers can enjoy a final view of elephants, antelopes, or birdlife before departure. Safari Malawi national parks are designed to maximize experiences even on departure days, giving guests value until the end. Safari Malawi national parks also provide flexible scheduling, so visitors can choose between a relaxed breakfast or a quick activity before transfers. Guides focus on making the last hours meaningful, ensuring travelers leave with strong impressions of Malawi’s wildlife. Departure is arranged smoothly to connect with onward travel plans, whether domestic or international. This closing day balances practicality with enjoyment, ensuring the safari ends on a high note without unnecessary rush