7 Day Best Wilderness Safaris Malawi and Lake Malawi
This 7-day wilderness safaris Malawi itinerary covers Nkhotakota, Majete, Liwonde, and Lake Malawi. It combines bush walks, boat cruises, and Big 5 game viewing with lake relaxation. The route suits travelers seeking varied wildlife and practical planning across Malawi’s top reserves.
Dive into a well-structured 7-day wilderness safaris Malawi itinerary that combines remote reserves, river wildlife, and lake relaxation. This route is designed for travelers who want meaningful wildlife experiences without rushing or overpacking their schedule. Starting in the north at Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, the trip offers quiet bush walks and game drives in a less-visited area. It’s a good place to begin wilderness safaris Malawi for those seeking privacy and a slower pace. The reserve’s terrain and wildlife are ideal for walking and learning from local guides before heading south.
The itinerary continues to Majete Wildlife Reserve for Big 5 viewing and a sunset boat safari, followed by Liwonde National Park’s river cruises and evening drives. These parks offer strong chances to see elephants, hippos, antelope, and predators in well-managed settings. Wilderness safaris Malawi end at Lake Malawi, where travelers can swim, snorkel, or rest by the beach. The lake portion adds comfort and flexibility, with optional activities and good lodge support. Transfers are manageable, and each stop offers reliable accommodation and guiding. This plan suits travelers who want variety, clear logistics, and a balance of activity and rest across Malawi’s top wilderness and lake destinations
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to the Wild North Nkhotakota
Day 2: Experience Nkhotakota's Wilderness on Game Drives and Bush Walks
Day 3: Transfer to Majete for Sunset Boat Safari
Day 4: Proceed with Big 5 Game Viewing in Majete
Day 5: Continue to Liwonde for Boat Cruise and Evening Game Drive
Day 6: Proceed with Lake Malawi Paradise and Relaxation
Day 7: Continue to Blantyre and Departure
Price Includes:
- Park fees for 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
- 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 and Transfer to the Wild North Nkhotakota
Kick off your wilderness safaris Malawi with arrival in Lilongwe or Blantyre, followed by a transfer to Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve in the north. The drive takes 4–6 hours depending on starting point and road conditions. Nkhotakota is known for its quiet atmosphere and fewer crowds, making it a good first stop for wilderness safaris Malawi. Lodges near the reserve offer basic comforts and easy access to walking trails and river views. It’s important to arrive before dark to settle in and prepare for the next day’s activities. Most lodges provide meals and guided options for the following morning. This day focuses on reaching the reserve and getting ready for wildlife viewing
- Day2Experience Nkhotakota's Wilderness on Game Drives and Bush Walks
Day two of wilderness safaris Malawi is spent exploring Nkhotakota through guided game drives and bush walks. The reserve is home to elephants, antelope, and birdlife, with terrain that includes miombo woodland and river valleys. Wilderness safaris Malawi here are quiet and personal, with fewer vehicles and more chances to learn from guides. Bush walks offer insight into tracks, plants, and animal behavior, while game drives cover more ground. It’s important to wear proper shoes, carry water, and follow guide instructions. This day gives a slow-paced but rewarding introduction to Malawi’s wildlife and helps you adjust before heading south
- Day3Transfer to Majete for Sunset Boat Safari
After breakfast, wilderness safaris Malawi continue with a transfer to Majete Wildlife Reserve, located in the south near Blantyre. The drive takes 5–6 hours, so plan for a midday arrival. In the late afternoon, you’ll join a sunset boat safari on the Shire River, known for hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife. Wilderness safaris Malawi in Majete offer both water and land-based viewing, and the boat trip is a good way to relax after travel. Lodges near the river provide access to launch points and offer meals and rest areas. This day combines travel and wildlife in a manageable schedule, with time to settle in before the next day’s game drive
- Day4Proceed with Big 5 Game Viewing in Majete
Day four of wilderness safaris Malawi focuses on Big 5 game viewing in Majete, which includes lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo. Morning and afternoon drives are available, with guides helping track animals based on recent sightings. Wilderness safaris Malawi in Majete are well-organized, with clear rules and reliable vehicles. Lodges provide packed meals and flexible schedules to match wildlife movement. The terrain is varied, so sturdy shoes and sun protection are useful. Spending a full day in Majete allows for better chances of seeing key species and understanding the park’s conservation efforts. This is one of the most active days in the itinerary
- Day5Continue to Liwonde for Boat Cruise and Evening Game Drive
After breakfast, wilderness safaris Malawi move east to Liwonde National Park, a 3–4 hour drive from Majete. Upon arrival, you’ll join a boat cruise on the Shire River, followed by an evening game drive. Wilderness safaris Malawi in Liwonde are known for elephants, hippos, and antelope, with strong birdwatching opportunities. The boat cruise offers quiet viewing from the water, while the evening drive focuses on nocturnal animals and predators. Lodges near the river provide easy access to both activities and offer meals and rest areas. This day balances water and land-based viewing and prepares you for the final lake portion of the trip
- Day6Proceed with Lake Malawi Paradise and Relaxation
Day six of wilderness safaris Malawi shifts to Lake Malawi for rest and water-based activities. The drive from Liwonde takes 3–4 hours depending on lodge location. Once at the lake, you can swim, kayak, snorkel, or relax by the beach. Wilderness safaris Malawi often end here to give travelers time to recover and enjoy the lake’s biodiversity. Lodges offer gear rentals, meals, and shaded areas for quiet time. The lake is freshwater and safe for swimming in designated zones. This day is slower-paced and focused on comfort, with optional activities based on interest and energy levels. It’s a good way to close the wildlife portion of the trip
- Day7Continue to Blantyre and Departure
Your final day of wilderness safaris Malawi begins with a transfer to Blantyre for departure. The drive takes 4–6 hours depending on traffic and lodge location, so plan for an early start. Wilderness safaris Malawi end here, with options for a short city tour or direct airport drop-off. It’s important to confirm flight times and allow buffer hours for delays. Some travelers choose to overnight in Blantyre before flying out, especially if flights are early. This day wraps up your itinerary and gives space to reflect, organize photos, and prepare for departure