5 Day Best Safaris in Malawi from Majete to Lake Malawi
This 5-day Best Safaris in Malawi itinerary combines wildlife and water, giving you a full taste of Malawi’s natural highlights. Starting in Majete Wildlife Reserve, you’ll spend two days tracking the Big Five in a quiet, well-managed park known for its conservation success. From rhino tracking to riverside drives, Majete offers real sightings without the crowds. Then you’ll head to Lake Malawi for two days of swimming, kayaking, and relaxing by the water. It’s a smooth shift from land to lake, perfect for travelers who want variety without rushing. The final day wraps up with a sunrise and easy departure. This is one of the best safaris in Malawi for combining comfort, wildlife, and local culture in just five days.
The itinerary combines two of Malawi’s top nature experiences Majete Wildlife Reserve and Lake Malawi. You’ll start with Big Five game drives and rhino tracking in Majete, known for its quiet trails and strong conservation. Then shift to Lake Malawi for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing by the water. It’s a practical mix of land and lake, ideal for travelers who want variety without rushing. Lodges are comfortable, guides are knowledgeable, and the pace is easy to follow. This is one of the best safaris in Malawi for people who want real wildlife, local culture, and time to unwind in just five days.
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in the Wild with Majete's Welcome
Day 2: Proceed with The Big Five Immersion in Majete
Day 3: Rhino Tracking and Continue to the Lake Malawi
Day 4: Experience Lake Malawi Water and Island Paradise
Day 5: Final Sunrise 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 (Thawale Lodge, Huntingdon House, Mumbo Island, Chembe Eagles Nest, Mitengo House)
- Service of an English-speaking driver-guide
- Driver allowances and accommodation
- Boat transfers to and from Mumbo Island
- Tea plantation tour and tasting at Satemwa Estate
- Fish eagle feeding experience
- Sundown cruise on Lake Malawi
- Chongoni Rock Art Site entrance and guided tour
- Game drives and bush walks in Majete Wildlife Reserve
- Snorkeling equipment at Mumbo Island
- All mentioned activities except for the optional ones
Price Excludes:
- Malawi Visa fees (available on arrival)
- International and internal flights
- Personal needs such as gratuities, beverages, etc.
- Visa processing fees
- Air ticket costs
- 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 water (alcoholic and soft drinks)
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal snorkeling or diving equipment
- Souvenirs and personal shopping
- Phone calls and internet usage
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival in the Wild with Majete's Welcome
Start your 5-day best safaris in Malawi adventure with a drive to Majete Wildlife Reserve, one of the best safaris in Malawi for seeing wildlife in a quiet, well-managed setting. After checking into your lodge, enjoy lunch and relax before heading out for your first afternoon game drive. Expect to see antelope, elephants, and birds along the riverbanks. Guides are knowledgeable and focus on safety and real sightings, not staged experiences. The evening includes a simple bush dinner and time to settle in. This is one of the best safaris in Malawi for travelers who want a calm introduction to nature without crowds or pressure. You’ll get a feel for the land and start spotting animals from day one
- Day2Proceed with The Big Five Immersion in Majete
Day two is focused on tracking the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. Majete is one of the best safaris in Malawi for seeing these animals in a protected, natural space. Morning and afternoon drives cover different areas, increasing your chances of spotting all five. Guides share useful facts and help you understand animal behavior without overloading you with jargon. Lunch is served at the lodge or packed for the bush. This is one of the best safaris in Malawi for people who want real wildlife experiences with time to ask questions and take photos. The day ends with dinner and a chance to talk about what you saw
- Day3Rhino Tracking and Continue to the Lake Malawi
Start early with a focused rhino tracking session led by trained rangers. Majete is one of the best safaris in Malawi for rhino sightings thanks to its conservation efforts. After breakfast, check out and begin the drive to Lake Malawi. The road is smooth and passes through small towns and farms. Arrive at your lakeside lodge in the afternoon and settle in. Lake Malawi is known for its clear water and relaxed pace, making it a great follow-up to Majete’s wildlife. This combination makes for one of the best safaris in Malawi, offering both land and water experiences. Spend the evening by the lake, enjoying fresh fish and quiet views
- Day4Experience Lake Malawi Water and Island Paradise
Spend the day exploring Lake Malawi’s water activities. Go for a swim, try kayaking, or take a boat ride to nearby islands. This is one of the best safaris in Malawi for mixing wildlife with beach time. The lake is safe for swimming and full of colorful fish, perfect for snorkeling. Local guides offer short boat trips and explain the area’s history and fishing culture. Lunch is fresh and simple, often featuring local produce. This day adds variety to your trip and proves why combining Majete and Lake Malawi creates one of the best safaris in Malawi. The evening is quiet, with time to relax and enjoy the sunset
- Day5Final Sunrise and Departure
Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise over Lake Malawi. It’s a peaceful way to end one of the best safaris in Malawi. After breakfast, pack up and prepare for your transfer back to Blantyre or Lilongwe, depending on your flight. The drive is easy and gives you time to reflect on your trip. This final day is not rushed, allowing you to leave without stress. Whether you saw all the Big Five or just enjoyed the lake’s calm, this has been one of the best safaris in Malawi for combining wildlife, water, and comfort. You leave with clear memories and a better understanding of Malawi’s natural beauty