7 Day Best Malawi Tours and Safaris
This 7-day Malawi tours and safaris itinerary combines wildlife, lake activities, cultural visits, and highland exploration. It covers top destinations like Liwonde, Lake Malawi, and Zomba Plateau. Designed for variety and comfort, it offers strong value for travelers seeking a well-rounded safari.
Malawi tours and safaris offer a well-balanced mix of wildlife, lake activities, cultural visits, and highland exploration all within a compact and welcoming country. This 7-day itinerary is designed for travelers who want variety without long travel times. From the predator-rich plains of Liwonde National Park to the peaceful beaches of Lake Malawi and the cool trails of Zomba Plateau, each destination adds a new layer to your experience. Whether you're tracking black rhinos on foot, sailing on a traditional dhow, or hiking through misty forests, every day brings something different.
The itinerary begins with a relaxing stay at Lake Malawi, followed by cultural tours and water-based activities. It then moves to Liwonde for classic game drives and boat safaris, offering strong chances to see elephants, hippos, and cheetahs. Later, you’ll explore Zomba’s colonial charm and highland scenery. Malawi tours and safaris are ideal for those who value meaningful travel, combining wildlife with real community connections. With good planning and reliable logistics, this trip delivers strong value, comfort, and a wide range of experiences. It’s a practical and rewarding way to explore one of Africa’s most underrated safari destinations
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Lilongwe, Transfer to Lake Malawi
Day 2: Cultural Tour with Beach Adventures
Day 3: Continue to Liwonde National Park for Game Drive
Day 4: Morning Game Drive and River Safari
Day 5: Cultural Visit and Proceed to Zomba for City Tour
Day 6: Zomba Plateau Exploration
Day 7: End the Tour and Departure
Price Includes:
- Park fees
- All activities as mentioned in the itinerary (shared game drives)
- Ground transport per 4WD custom safari vehicle
- Bottled water in the safari vehicle throughout the journey
- Full board accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
- Service of an English-speaking driver-guide
- Driver allowances and accommodation
- All mentioned activities except for the optional ones
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
- Government taxes and levies
Price Excludes:
- Malawi Visa fees
- International and internal flights
- Personal needs such as gratuities, beverages, souvenirs, etc.
- Visa processing fees
- Air ticket costs
- Optional activities (motorized water sports, scuba diving, island trips, fishing expeditions)
- Laundry fees
- Tips for guides, drivers, lodge staff, and local service providers
- Life insurance coverage
- Other drinks apart from water
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal equipment and gear
- Telephone and internet charges
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival in Lilongwe, Transfer to Lake Malawi
Your Malawi tours and safaris begin with arrival at Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe. After a brief orientation, you’ll transfer by road to the shores of Lake Malawi. The drive offers a first look at the country’s rural life and landscapes. Once at the lake, settle into your lodge and enjoy the calm atmosphere. This part of your Malawi tours and safaris is designed to ease you into the trip with time to relax, swim, or take a short walk along the beach. It’s a good chance to adjust to the pace and prepare for the days ahead. Early arrival allows for daylight travel and a smooth check-in at your accommodation
- Day2Cultural Tour with Beach Adventures
Start the day with a guided visit to a nearby village to learn about local customs, crafts, and daily life. This cultural experience is a key part of Malawi tours and safaris, offering real insight into the country’s warmth and hospitality. After the tour, return to the lake for beach activities like kayaking, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the sand. The water is clear and safe, with colorful fish visible even near the shore. This day balances cultural learning with downtime, giving you space to enjoy Malawi’s natural beauty. It’s a relaxed but meaningful part of your Malawi tours and safaris itinerary
- Day3Continue to Liwonde National Park for Game Drive
After breakfast, travel to Liwonde National Park, one of the top wildlife destinations in the country. This transfer is part of your Malawi tours and safaris route, connecting lake life with inland wildlife. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and head out for an afternoon game drive. Expect to see elephants, hippos, antelope, and possibly lions or cheetahs. The park is well-managed, and guides are skilled at tracking animals. This day marks the shift from water-based activities to land-based wildlife viewing, a key feature of Malawi tours and safaris. The drive is comfortable, and the park’s layout allows for productive sightings
- Day4Morning Game Drive and River Safari
Begin with an early morning game drive when animals are most active. Your guide will focus on areas known for predators and large mammals. After breakfast, enjoy a boat safari on the Shire River, a highlight of Malawi tours and safaris. This river trip offers close views of hippos, crocodiles, and elephants at the water’s edge. It’s quieter than a vehicle safari and ideal for photography. The combination of land and water activities makes this day one of the most balanced in your Malawi tours and safaris. You’ll return to camp in the afternoon with time to rest or review photos
- Day5Cultural Visit and Proceed to Zomba for City Tour
Leave Liwonde and stop at a local village for a short cultural visit. This adds depth to your Malawi tours and safaris by connecting wildlife with community life. Continue to Zomba, a historic town known for its colonial architecture and relaxed vibe. Upon arrival, take a guided city tour covering the old parliament building, botanical gardens, and local markets. This urban stop contrasts with the natural settings of earlier days, making your Malawi tours and safaris more varied. The drive is manageable, and the town offers good accommodation and dining options. It’s a practical and interesting transition point
- Day6Zomba Plateau Exploration
Spend the day exploring Zomba Plateau, a highland area with walking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views. This part of your Malawi tours and safaris is ideal for light hiking and photography. You’ll visit spots like Chingwe’s Hole and Emperor’s View, with time to enjoy the cooler climate and quiet surroundings. The plateau is home to birds, monkeys, and small antelope, adding a wildlife element to the day. Guides are available to lead walks and explain the area’s history. This slower-paced day helps balance the itinerary and gives you a chance to reflect on your Malawi tours and safaris before departure
- Day7End the Tour and Departure
After breakfast, check out and transfer back to Lilongwe for your flight. Depending on your schedule, there may be time for a short stop or lunch en route. This final leg of your Malawi tours and safaris is focused on smooth logistics and timely arrival at the airport. Your operator will confirm flight details and assist with any last-minute needs. It’s the closing chapter of your Malawi tours and safaris, wrapping up a week of wildlife, culture, and lake experiences. With proper planning, this day runs efficiently, leaving you with clear memories and no stress before departure