9 Day Best Budget Safari Malawi Escape

This 9 day Best Budget Safari Malawi Escape combines highland hikes, intimate wildlife reserves, and Big Five encounters. From Nyika’s rolling grasslands to Majete’s conservation success and Liwonde’s river safaris, each stop offers affordable yet rewarding experiences. The tour ends at Lake Malawi, balancing adventure with relaxation on sandy shores.


Experience the magic of Malawi on this 9 Day Best Budget Safari Malawi Escape, a trip designed to combine affordability with unforgettable adventure. From the rolling grasslands of Nyika National Park to the rugged wilderness of Nkhotakota, each destination offers a unique perspective on Malawi’s diverse landscapes and thriving wildlife. Travelers are welcomed into peaceful reserves where roan antelope, zebras, elephants, and even the elusive leopard roam freely. Guided hikes, walking safaris, and game drives provide immersive encounters, while affordable lodges ensure comfort without stretching your budget. This itinerary balances activity with relaxation, making it ideal for those seeking value-driven exploration without compromising on authentic safari experiences.


As the tour unfolds, guests witness Malawi’s conservation success stories in Majete Wildlife Reserve, where the Big Five have been reintroduced, and Liwonde National Park, famous for its Shire River safaris and nocturnal game drives. The adventure culminates at Lake Malawi, where water sports and sandy beaches offer a refreshing contrast to days spent tracking wildlife. Each stop is carefully chosen to highlight Malawi’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and commitment to sustainable tourism. By blending affordable accommodations, diverse activities, and breathtaking scenery, this safari ensures travelers leave with lasting memories of both adventure and tranquility

Tour highlights

  • Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Nyika National Park

  • Day 2: Experience Hiking and Wildlife on the Nyika Plateau

  • Day 3: Transfer to Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

  • Day 4: Proceed with Guided Walking Safari and Game Drives

  • Day 5: Continue to Majete Wildlife Reserve

  • Day 6: Experience the Big Five and Walking Safari

  • Day 7: Transfer to Liwonde National Park for River Safari and Night Game Drive

  • Day 8: Track Rhinos on Foot and Continue to Lake Malawi for Water Sports

  • Day 9: Relaxation and Departure

Price Includes:
  • Park fees 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 (Thawale Lodge, Huntingdon House, Mumbo Island, Chembe Eagles Nest, Mitengo House)
  • Service of an English-speaking driver-guide
  • Driver allowances and accommodation
  • Boat transfers to and from Mumbo Island
  • Tea plantation tour and tasting at Satemwa Estate
  • Fish eagle feeding experience
  • Sundown cruise on Lake Malawi
  • Game drives and bush walks in Majete Wildlife Reserve
  • All mentioned activities except for the optional ones
Price Excludes:
  • Malawi Visa fees (available on arrival)
  • 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 and services
  • Tips for guides, drivers, lodge staff, and boat crew
  • Life insurance coverage
  • Other drinks apart from water (alcoholic and soft drinks)
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Personal snorkeling or diving equipment
  • Souvenirs and personal shopping
  • Phone calls and internet usage

Itinary in details

  • Day1

    On arrival in Malawi, you will be met and transferred to Nyika National Park, a unique highland reserve known for its rolling grasslands and rich wildlife. This first day of the budget safari Malawi gives you time to settle in and enjoy the cool climate of the plateau. The park is home to roan antelope, zebras, and leopards, offering a strong start to the adventure. Comfortable yet affordable lodges provide a base for the days ahead, ensuring value without compromising on experience. Budget safari Malawi travelers appreciate Nyika’s peaceful setting, which contrasts with busier reserves, making it a perfect introduction to the country’s natural highlights

    Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner

  • Day2

    The second day of the budget safari Malawi focuses on hiking across the Nyika Plateau, where open grasslands stretch endlessly and wildlife roams freely. Guided walks allow you to spot herds of antelope, zebras, and bird species unique to this high-altitude environment. The cool climate makes hiking comfortable, and the varied terrain keeps the day active and engaging. Budget safari Malawi visitors enjoy the chance to explore on foot, gaining a closer perspective of the park’s biodiversity. Affordable lodges provide hearty meals and rest after a day outdoors, ensuring both comfort and value. This combination of hiking and wildlife viewing sets Nyika apart as a rewarding destination

    Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Day3

    After breakfast, the budget safari Malawi continues with a transfer to Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, one of Africa’s oldest protected areas. The reserve is known for its rugged terrain, rivers, and growing elephant population thanks to recent conservation efforts. Budget safari Malawi travelers appreciate the reserve’s quiet atmosphere, offering a more intimate wildlife experience compared to larger parks. Affordable lodges and camps provide simple but comfortable stays, keeping costs manageable while still close to nature. The transfer itself is scenic, giving you a sense of Malawi’s varied landscapes. By evening, you settle into accommodation ready for the next day’s guided activities

    Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Day4

    This day of the budget safari Malawi is dedicated to exploring Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve through guided walking safaris and game drives. Walking safaris provide a chance to track wildlife with expert guides, focusing on elephants, antelope, and birdlife. Game drives complement the walks, covering larger areas and increasing chances of spotting diverse species. Budget safari Malawi travelers value the balance between active exploration and relaxed viewing from vehicles. The reserve’s rivers and woodlands create varied habitats, making each activity rewarding. Affordable lodges ensure a comfortable stay, with meals included to keep the trip practical and cost-effective. This day highlights the reserve’s growing importance in Malawi’s conservation story

    Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Day5

    The budget safari Malawi then moves south to Majete Wildlife Reserve, a conservation success story where the Big Five have been reintroduced. The transfer brings you to a well-managed reserve that combines wildlife richness with affordable safari options. Budget safari Malawi travelers enjoy Majete’s reputation for strong conservation and reliable game viewing. Lodges here are designed to provide comfort without high costs, making it accessible for those seeking value. By evening, you settle in and prepare for the next day’s activities, knowing Majete offers a chance to see elephants, lions, and rhinos in a protected environment. This reserve is a highlight for those seeking authentic wildlife experiences

    Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Day6

    This day of the budget safari Malawi is focused on game drives and walking safaris in Majete Wildlife Reserve. With the Big Five present, visitors have strong chances of seeing elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. Guided walks add variety, allowing you to appreciate smaller details of the bush, from tracks to birdlife. Budget safari Malawi travelers value Majete’s balance of affordable accommodation and high-quality wildlife experiences. The reserve’s management ensures sustainable tourism, making it a reliable destination for those seeking both conservation and adventure. Meals and lodging are included, keeping the trip practical and cost-conscious while delivering memorable wildlife viewing

    Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Day7

     The budget safari Malawi continues with a transfer to Liwonde National Park, famous for its Shire River and diverse wildlife. A river safari offers close views of hippos, crocodiles, and elephants along the banks, while birdlife is abundant. At night, guided drives reveal nocturnal species such as hyenas and civets. Budget safari Malawi travelers appreciate Liwonde’s variety, combining water-based activities with traditional game viewing. Lodges here provide affordable comfort, ensuring accessibility for budget-conscious visitors. The park’s mix of habitats makes it one of Malawi’s most rewarding destinations, offering both daytime and nighttime experiences that add depth to the safari

    Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Day8

    This day of the budget safari Malawi begins with tracking rhinos on foot in Liwonde, guided by experts who focus on conservation and safety. It is a rare chance to see these endangered animals up close. Later, the trip continues to Lake Malawi, where water sports such as kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming provide a refreshing contrast to wildlife activities. Budget safari Malawi travelers enjoy this balance of land and water experiences, making the itinerary diverse and engaging. Affordable lakeside lodges offer simple comfort, keeping costs manageable while providing access to the lake’s activities. This combination of rhino tracking and lake relaxation is a highlight of the trip

    Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Day9

    The final day of the budget safari Malawi is dedicated to relaxation by Lake Malawi before departure. Guests can enjoy the calm waters, sandy beaches, or simply rest at their lodge. Budget safari Malawi travelers value this downtime after days of active wildlife viewing, as it allows them to recharge before heading home. Affordable lakeside accommodations provide a peaceful setting, ensuring the trip ends on a comfortable note. Transfers are arranged to the airport or onward destinations, keeping logistics simple. This closing day balances activity with rest, making the safari complete and practical for those seeking both adventure and relaxation

    Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner

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