8 Day Best Malawi Safaris of Great Adventure
This 8-day Malawi safaris itinerary covers city tours, hiking, wildlife tracking, and lake activities. Travelers move through Blantyre, Zomba, Majete, Liwonde, and Lake Malawi with clear pacing and varied experiences. It’s designed for those who want active days, smooth transfers, and practical access to nature and culture.
Experience the best of Malawi safaris with an 8-day itinerary designed for travelers who want active days, smooth transitions, and direct access to nature and culture. This trip starts in Blantyre with a city tour, then moves to Zomba Plateau for hiking, horseback riding, and biking. Each stop is chosen for its practical value short drives, reliable guides, and flexible activities. You’ll track rhinos in Majete, cruise the Shire River in Liwonde, and relax on the shores of Lake Malawi with water sports and island tours. The itinerary is built to keep things simple, with clear pacing and enough downtime to enjoy each location without rushing.
Malawi safaris in this plan are not just about wildlife they include walking trails, local markets, and lake experiences that suit different travel styles. Lodges are selected for comfort and access, with meals that highlight local produce and fresh lake fish. Whether you’re traveling solo or with others, the route is easy to follow and offers a mix of guided and self-paced options. From city life to remote parks and quiet beaches, Malawi safaris here are structured to give you variety without stress. It’s a practical way to explore the country’s highlights while staying active and well-supported throughout
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Malawi with Blantyre city tour
Day 2: Proceed to Zomba Plateau with Hiking and Walking
Day 3: Horseback Riding and scenic drives or Mountain Biking
Day 4: Transfer to Majete Reserve for Rhino Tracking and Night Game Drive
Day 5: Early Game Drive and continue to Liwonde for Boat Safari
Day 6: Early Game Drive and continue to Lake Malawi for relaxation with water sports
Day 7: Continue with Island Tours on Dhow Cruise and transfer to Lilongwe
Day 8: Explore Lilongwe and Departure
Price Includes:
- Park fees for wildlife Reserve 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 (lodges and lakeside resorts)
- Service of an English-speaking driver-guide
- Driver allowances and accommodation
- All mentioned activities except for the optional ones
- Game drives in Majete Wildlife Reserve
- Boat transfers and water activities at Lake Malawi
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 not mentioned in the itinerary
- Laundry fees at accommodations
- Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
- Life insurance coverage
- Other drinks apart from water
- Scuba diving equipment and certification courses
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal snorkeling equipment
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival in Malawi with Blantyre city tour
Arrive in Malawi and settle into Blantyre, the country’s commercial hub. After check-in, take a guided city tour to see key spots like the Mandala House, St. Michael and All Angels Church, and local markets. This is a good time to exchange currency, buy essentials, and get familiar with local customs. Blantyre offers a mix of colonial architecture and modern shops, making it a practical start to your Malawi safaris. Spend the evening at a comfortable lodge with dinner options that include local and international dishes. Use this day to rest and prepare for the active days ahead. Your Malawi safaris begin with a soft introduction to culture, history, and urban life
- Day2Proceed to Zomba Plateau with Hiking and Walking
Leave Blantyre early for next step of Malawi Safaris with a drive to Zomba Plateau, a cool highland area known for walking trails and forest views. The drive takes about 1.5 hours, and most lodges are located near trailheads. Choose from short walks to waterfalls or longer hikes to viewpoints like Emperor’s Chair. Guides are available and recommended for safety and navigation. Wear sturdy shoes, carry water, and pack a light jacket. This day of Malawi safaris focuses on movement and fresh air, ideal for travelers who enjoy active mornings and quiet afternoons. After hiking, relax at your lodge with a warm meal and optional massage. Malawi safaris here offer a peaceful contrast to the wildlife days ahead
- Day3Horseback Riding and scenic drives or Mountain Biking
Start your day of Malawi safaris with horseback riding through forest paths or open trails around Zomba Plateau. Most stables offer beginner-friendly rides with trained guides. If you prefer biking, mountain bikes are available for rent, and routes range from easy loops to more technical tracks. Drivers can also take you on relaxed drives to explore viewpoints and local villages. This day of Malawi safaris is flexible, allowing you to choose your pace and activity level. Bring sunscreen, snacks, and a camera if you plan to stop often. The afternoon is perfect for resting or enjoying lodge amenities. Malawi safaris in Zomba combine nature and comfort, giving you space to recharge before heading into wildlife areas
- Day4Transfer to Majete Reserve for Rhino Tracking and Night Game Drive
After breakfast, transfer to Majete Wildlife Reserve for Malawi safaris, one of Malawi’s top conservation areas. The drive takes about 3–4 hours, and lodges inside the reserve offer direct access to activities. Start with rhino tracking, guided by rangers who use radio signals to locate the animals. It’s a safe and well-managed experience, suitable for most fitness levels. In the evening, join a night game drive to spot nocturnal animals like hyenas, civets, and bush babies. This day of Malawi safaris brings you close to wildlife in a controlled and respectful way. Lodges provide meals and briefings to help you prepare. Malawi safaris in Majete are well-organized, with clear safety protocols and experienced staff
- Day5Early Game Drive and continue to Liwonde for Boat Safari
Begin the Malawi safaris with an early morning game drive in Majete to catch animals during their active hours. After breakfast, continue to Liwonde National Park, known for its river-based wildlife viewing. The drive takes about 4–5 hours, with lunch en route or at your lodge. In the afternoon, take a boat safari on the Shire River to see hippos, crocodiles, and elephants near the water. Life jackets are provided, and guides explain animal behavior and safety rules. This day of Malawi safaris offers a mix of land and water experiences, ideal for travelers who want variety. Lodges in Liwonde are comfortable and well-placed for easy access to activities. Malawi safaris here are calm, informative, and suitable for all ages.
- Day6Early Game Drive and continue to Lake Malawi for relaxation with water sports
Start with a short game drive in Liwonde before heading to Lake Malawi for a change of pace. The drive to the lake takes about 3–4 hours depending on your chosen beach area. Once there, check into a lakeside lodge and enjoy water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming. Equipment is available at most lodges, and staff offer basic instruction. This day of Malawi safaris shifts from wildlife to water, giving you time to relax and enjoy the lake’s clear waters. Meals are fresh and often include fish caught locally. Malawi safaris at the lake are ideal for winding down, with optional spa treatments and quiet beach walks available
- Day7Continue with Island Tours on Dhow Cruise and transfer to Lilongwe
Spend the morning on a traditional dhow cruise to nearby islands. These wooden boats are operated by local crews and offer a slow, peaceful ride. You can stop for swimming, snorkeling, or short walks on the islands. After lunch, begin your transfer to Lilongwe, which takes about 4–5 hours. Arrive in the capital and] check into a hotel near the city center or airport. This day of Malawi safaris combines lake exploration with a return to urban comfort. Use the evening to rest, organize your belongings, and prepare for departure. Malawi safaris end with a smooth transition from nature to city, keeping things simple and well-paced
- Day8Explore Lilongwe and Departure
On your final day, explore Lilongwe with a short city tour if time allows. Visit places like the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, local craft markets, or the Parliament building. Most tours are flexible and can be adjusted based on your flight schedule. This last day of Malawi safaris is practical, giving you a chance to shop, reflect, and prepare for travel. Airport transfers are easy to arrange, and most hotels offer late check-out options. Malawi safaris wrap up with a clean finish, ensuring you leave with good memories and no stress. It’s a well-rounded end to a trip that balances adventure, comfort, and local culture