5 Day Best Safaris in Malawi with Exclusive Adventure
This 5-day itinerary offers the best safaris in Malawi by combining wildlife tracking in Liwonde with lake activities on Lake Malawi. Each day is planned to give travelers direct access to rhinos, night drives, and paddling without wasting time. It’s one of the best safaris in Malawi for those who want clear logistics, strong wildlife focus, and a relaxing finish.
ook this perfect 5-day itinerary if you’re looking for the best safaris in Malawi that combine strong wildlife focus with lakeside relaxation. It’s designed for travelers who want clear planning, reliable guides, and direct access to rhinos, elephants, and river life without wasting time. Starting in Liwonde National Park, you’ll walk with trackers, join night drives, and explore the Shire River by boat. These activities are part of the best safaris in Malawi because they offer real value no fluff, no crowds, just well-run experiences that respect your time and safety. Lodges are selected for comfort, good food, and proximity to wildlife zones.
After three days in the bush, you’ll transfer to Lake Malawi for a change of pace. Here, the best safaris in Malawi continue with paddling, swimming, and quiet beach time. You’ll stay at a lodge with access to kayaks and island views, giving you space to relax before departure. This itinerary suits couples, solo travelers, and small groups who want a mix of land and water without overpacking the schedule. Every day is planned to give you something useful whether it’s a conservation insight, a calm paddle, or a safe night drive. It’s a smart choice for those who care about quality and clarity
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to the Wilderness
Day 2: Deep in Liwonde with Walking and Night Drives
Day 3: Rhino Tracking and River Exploration
Day 4: Transfer From Bush to Beach with Lake Malawi Adventure
Day 5: Island Paddling and Departure
Price Includes:
- Park fees for Wildlife Reserves and Lake Malawi 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 (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 and Transfer to the Wilderness
After landing in Lilongwe or Blantyre, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to Liwonde National Park. This area is known for offering some of the best safaris in Malawi, especially for travelers who want privacy and strong wildlife sightings. The drive gives you a first look at rural Malawi, with stops for refreshments and a briefing on safety and park rules. Once inside the park, settle into your lodge and enjoy views of the Shire River. You’ll have time to rest, freshen up, and prepare for the next day’s activities. The best safaris in Malawi begin with good planning, and this day sets the tone with reliable transfers, clear communication, and a peaceful introduction to the bush
- Day2Deep in Liwonde with Walking and Night Drives
Start early with a guided walking safari led by experienced trackers. This is one of the best safaris in Malawi for those who want to learn about animal behavior, tracks, and park ecology. You’ll walk through mopane woodlands and riverbanks, spotting antelope, warthogs, and birdlife. After lunch and rest, the evening brings a night drive using spotlights to find hyenas, civets, and possibly leopards. Night drives are a highlight of the best safaris in Malawi because they reveal wildlife that’s rarely seen during the day. Your guide will explain safety protocols and how to behave around animals. Lodges provide warm meals and secure sleeping arrangements, so you can relax knowing you’re well taken care of
- Day3Rhino Tracking and River Exploration
This day focuses on black rhino conservation and river-based wildlife viewing. You’ll join park rangers for a rhino tracking experience, using radio telemetry and signs to locate these endangered animals. It’s one of the best safaris in Malawi for conservation-minded travelers who want to support real efforts. Later, a boat safari on the Shire River offers views of hippos, crocodiles, and elephants cooling off at the banks. The best safaris in Malawi combine land and water activities to give you a fuller picture of the ecosystem. Guides will share facts about animal habits and how the park manages human-wildlife balance. Expect calm waters, good photography chances, and a relaxed pace that suits all fitness levels
- Day4Transfer From Bush to Beach with Lake Malawi Adventure
After breakfast, you’ll leave Liwonde and head to Lake Malawi, arriving at a beach lodge by early afternoon. This shift from bush to beach is part of what makes the best safaris in Malawi so rewarding. You’ll trade game drives for lake views, soft sand, and fresh fish meals. Lake Malawi is safe for swimming in designated areas, and lodges offer snorkeling gear, kayaks, and shaded spots for reading or relaxing. The best safaris in Malawi often include lake time to balance wildlife with water-based fun. Staff will help with logistics, and you’ll have time to unwind before the final day. This mix of inland and coastal settings gives travelers more variety and value
- Day5Island Paddling and Departure
Your final morning includes guided paddling to nearby islands using kayaks or traditional dugout canoes. This is a quiet, low-impact way to explore Lake Malawi and a soft ending to one of the best safaris in Malawi. You’ll see fish eagles, colorful cichlids, and local fishermen at work. After paddling, return to the lodge for breakfast and packing. Transfers to the airport are arranged based on your flight time. The best safaris in Malawi end with clear planning and no stress, so your guide will confirm all details. If you have extra time, some lodges offer short village visits or spa treatments before departure. This day is about reflection, comfort, and wrapping up your adventure smoothly