6 Day Best Safaris in Malawi with Wilderness experience
This 6-day best safaris in Malawi covers Nkhotakota and Liwonde reserves, Lake Malawi, and Blantyre city. It includes game drives, walking safaris, boat tours, and water sports. Ideal for travelers seeking variety, wildlife, and relaxation in well-managed, quiet locations.
Planning best safaris in Malawi offers a chance to experience wildlife, culture, and lake life in one trip. This 6-day itinerary is designed for travelers who want to see more than just the usual parks. It starts in Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, a quiet and less-visited area where you can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and hikes to viewpoints without the crowds. The reserve is known for its forest elephants, birdlife, and peaceful atmosphere. You’ll also visit the Nkhotakota Pottery, a local craft center that supports community livelihoods and offers handmade souvenirs. These early days focus on nature and culture in a relaxed, low-impact setting.
From there, the itinerary moves to Liwonde National Park, one of the best places in Malawi for river-based wildlife viewing. Boat tours on the Shire River offer close views of hippos, crocodiles, and elephants. Game drives and walking safaris add variety and increase your chances of seeing more animals. After the bush, you’ll head to Lake Malawi for water sports, swimming, and a sunset dhow cruise. The trip ends in Blantyre with time for shopping or a short city tour. This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want a mix of wildlife, local culture, and lake relaxation all in a manageable timeframe with well-paced travel
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival, Transfer to Nkhotakota for First Game Drive
Day 2: Game Drives, Walking Safari and Hiking to Viewpoints
Day 3: Visit the Nkhotakota Pottery and Transfer to Liwonde for Boat Tour
Day 4: Full Day Experiences in Liwonde
Day 5: Continue to Lake Malawi for Water Sports, Relaxation and Sunset Dhow
Day 6: Return to Blantyre for Departure
Price Includes:
- Park fees to wildlife reserves
- 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, Transfer to Nkhotakota for First Game Drive
Your trip begins with arrival in Lilongwe or Blantyre, followed by a transfer to Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve. This is one of the best safaris in Malawi for travelers who want quiet, natural settings with fewer crowds. After settling into your lodge or camp, you’ll head out for your first game drive. Expect to see antelope, elephants, and rare bird species in a rugged, forested landscape. The reserve is managed for conservation, and guides are trained to help you spot wildlife without disturbing it. Best safaris in Malawi often start here for those seeking raw nature and a peaceful introduction to the bush
- Day2Game Drives, Walking Safari and Hiking to Viewpoints
Day two focuses on exploring Nkhotakota in depth. Start with a morning game drive to cover new areas and increase your chances of seeing elephants and bushbuck. Later, take a walking safari with a local guide who explains animal tracks, plants, and reserve history. These walks are safe and informative, ideal for travelers who want more than just vehicle-based viewing. In the afternoon, hike to one of the reserve’s viewpoints for wide views of the forest and river. Best safaris in Malawi include both active and relaxed options, and Nkhotakota delivers that balance with well-planned, low-impact activities
- Day3Visit the Nkhotakota Pottery and Transfer to Liwonde for Boat Tour
Before leaving Nkhotakota, visit the local pottery center where artisans create handmade pieces using traditional techniques. It’s a short stop that supports community development and gives you a chance to buy useful souvenirs. Then transfer to Liwonde National Park, one of the best safaris in Malawi for river-based wildlife viewing. Upon arrival, enjoy a boat tour on the Shire River, where you’ll see hippos, crocodiles, and elephants along the banks. The boat is comfortable and guided by experts who know where animals gather. Best safaris in Malawi often include water-based activities, and Liwonde is the top location for that
- Day4Full Day Experiences in Liwonde
Spend the full day exploring Liwonde by land and water. Start with a morning game drive to look for lions, leopards, and antelope in open plains and woodlands. Later, join a walking safari or another boat tour depending on your interest. Liwonde is well-managed, with strong conservation and reliable guides who know the terrain. Best safaris in Malawi include this park because it offers variety, good wildlife density, and easy access. You’ll also have time to relax at your lodge and enjoy the natural surroundings. For travelers who want structured wildlife viewing with comfort, this is one of the best safaris in Malawi
- Day5Continue to Lake Malawi for Water Sports, Relaxation and Sunset Dhow
After breakfast, transfer to Lake Malawi for a change of pace. This part of the trip focuses on water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, or paddleboarding. The lake is warm and safe for swimming, with clear waters and colorful fish. In the afternoon, relax at your lodge or take a sunset dhow cruise operated by local fishermen. Best safaris in Malawi often end with time at the lake, giving travelers a chance to rest and enjoy nature in a different way. Whether you want activity or quiet time, Lake Malawi offers both, making it a valuable part of the best safaris in Malawi
- Day6Return to Blantyre for Departure
Your final day starts with a transfer to Blantyre, Malawi’s commercial center. Depending on your flight time, you may stop at a local market or café before heading to the airport. Best safaris in Malawi often end here due to good road access and flight connections. Use this time to organize your photos, pick up last-minute gifts, and reflect on the trip. Guides will assist with logistics to ensure everything runs smoothly. For travelers who want a mix of wildlife, culture, and relaxation, this itinerary covers key areas and offers one of the best safaris in Malawi for real value and variety