7 Day Best Safaris in Malawi to Beaten-Path parks and Lake of Stars
This 7-day itinerary pairs the best safaris in Malawi with remote parks and lakeside relaxation. From Majete’s Big Five to Nyika’s highland trails and Lake Malawi’s beaches, it offers variety and value. Ideal for travelers seeking wildlife, walking, and water in one seamless trip.
Malawi offers a safari experience that’s quiet, diverse, and full of contrast. This 7-day itinerary Best Safaris in Malawi to Beaten-Path Gems and Lake of Stars is designed for travelers who want more than just game drives. It starts in Majete Wildlife Reserve, where well-managed Big Five sightings and river safaris offer strong wildlife access without the crowds. From there, it moves to Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, a forested area known for walking safaris and community engagement. These two parks show different sides of conservation and give travelers a chance to see wildlife in varied terrain. For those seeking value and variety, this is one of the best safaris in Malawi.
The second half of the itinerary shifts to Nyika National Park and Lake Malawi. Nyika’s high-altitude grasslands offer hiking, open views, and quiet wildlife watching. It’s a break from the heat and a chance to explore on foot. The final days at Lake Malawi bring rest and water activities, rounding out the trip with comfort and light adventure. This combination of inland parks and lakeside relaxation makes it one of the best safaris in Malawi for travelers who want balance, privacy, and a mix of land and water. It’s a smart choice for those who value real experiences over tourist crowds
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Malawi, proceed to Majete for Boat Safari
Day 2: Proceed with Big Five Majesty of Majete and Transfer to Nkhotakota
Day 3: Experience A True Wilderness Walk and Community Visit
Day 4: Transfer to Nyika National Park
Day 5: Hiking and Vistas on the Nyika Plateau
Day 6: Transfer to Lake Malawi for Relaxation at the Beaches
Day 7: Soak into Water Adventures and Departure
Price Includes:
- Park fees for national parks and 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
- Service of an English-speaking driver-guide
- Driver allowances
- All mentioned activities except for the optional ones
- Boat safari excursions on the Shire River
- Game drives with professional guides
- Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Price Excludes:
- Malawi Visa fees
- 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
- Tips for guides and lodge staff
- Life insurance coverage
- Other drinks apart from water
- Personal travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Telephone calls and internet charges
- Souvenirs and personal shopping
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival in Malawi, proceed to Majete for Boat Safari
Start your best safaris in Malawi with an Arrival in Malawi and head straight to Majete Wildlife Reserve, a well-managed park in the southern region. After settling in, enjoy a boat safari on the Shire River, where crocodiles, hippos, and birdlife are easy to spot from the water. This is one of the best safaris in Malawi for travelers who want a quiet start with wildlife viewing that doesn’t require long drives. The boat safari offers a relaxed way to see animals and get used to the environment. With fewer crowds and well-trained guides, Majete sets the tone for the best safaris in Malawi by combining comfort with real wildlife access
- Day2Proceed with Big Five Majesty of Majete and Transfer to Nkhotakota
The best safaris in Malawi Kicks off early with a game drive in Majete to look for elephants, lions, buffalo, and antelope. The park is fenced and well-protected, making sightings more consistent. After the drive, transfer north to Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, known for its forested terrain and conservation efforts. This shift from dry savannah to miombo woodland adds variety to the best safaris in Malawi. Nkhotakota is less commercial, offering privacy and a chance to see Malawi’s rewilding success. Combining Majete and Nkhotakota gives travelers two very different but equally valuable experiences within the best safaris in Malawi
- Day3Experience A True Wilderness Walk and Community Visit
Nkhotakota is ideal for walking safaris led by local guides who know the terrain and wildlife patterns. The reserve is home to elephants, bushbuck, and rare birds, and walking allows for quiet observation. After the walk, visit a nearby village to learn about local life, farming, and conservation partnerships. This day adds depth to the best safaris in Malawi by connecting wildlife with people. Travelers who value authenticity and education will find this combination rewarding. Nkhotakota’s focus on low-impact tourism and community engagement makes it a standout in the best safaris in Malawi
- Day4Transfer to Nyika National Park
Drive northwest to Nyika National Park, Malawi’s highland reserve with rolling hills and cooler temperatures. The transfer takes time, but the change in landscape is worth it. Nyika is known for its open grasslands, zebra herds, and orchid-filled valleys. It’s one of the best safaris in Malawi for those who enjoy wide views and less heat. The park’s altitude and terrain offer a break from the lowland reserves, and its quiet atmosphere suits travelers who prefer solitude. Nyika’s contrast with previous stops adds balance to the best safaris in Malawi
- Day5Hiking and Vistas on the Nyika Plateau
Spend the day hiking across the Nyika Plateau, where trails lead to viewpoints, waterfalls, and wildlife sightings. This is not a typical game drive day it’s about movement, fresh air, and seeing animals like eland and reedbuck on foot. The plateau’s elevation makes hiking comfortable, and the open terrain allows for safe exploration. This active day is part of the best safaris in Malawi for travelers who want more than just sitting in a vehicle. Nyika’s hiking options and peaceful setting make it a valuable addition to the best safaris in Malawi
- Day6Transfer to Lake Malawi for Relaxation at the Beaches
Leave the highlands and head east to Lake Malawi, arriving at one of the beach lodges near Chintheche or Nkhata Bay. After days of wildlife and walking, this is the time to rest. The lake’s clear water and soft sand offer a calm setting to recharge. Many lodges provide fresh fish, hammocks, and quiet rooms. This shift from safari to beach is what makes the best safaris in Malawi so appealing they combine inland exploration with lakeside comfort. Lake Malawi’s beaches are clean, safe, and perfect for unwinding after the best safaris in Malawi
- Day7Soak into Water Adventures and Departure
Start the day with water activities like kayaking, snorkeling, or paddleboarding. Lake Malawi is known for its colorful cichlid fish and warm water, making it ideal for low-impact fun. After lunch, prepare for departure, either back to Lilongwe or onward to another destination. This final day wraps up the best safaris in Malawi with a light, refreshing experience. Travelers leave with a mix of wildlife, walking, and water all in one trip. Ending at the lake gives a soft landing after the best safaris in Malawi, making the whole itinerary feel complete and well-paced