Malawi & Zambia Safari Tour – MZS

Itinerary

Day 1 – Blantyre, Malawi

Arrive in Blantyre, Malawi. On arrival, meet your local representative and transfer to your hotel. Blantyre is Malawi’s commercial capital and a lively introduction to the country, with colonial-era history, local culture and bustling markets. Settle in before enjoying dinner at the hotel.

Accommodation: Amaryllis Hotel Blantyre (or similar)
Meals: D

Day 2 – Blantyre to Majete Wildlife Reserve, Dr Livingstone’s footsteps

Discover some of Malawi’s history with a visit to the Livingstone Memorial Church. Scottish missionary and explorer David Livingstone worked to bring an end to the slave trade in East Africa. Continue to Mandala House, one of Blantyre’s historic landmarks, before travelling south-west to Majete Wildlife Reserve. Once depleted of wildlife, Majete has been restored as a conservation success and is now home to the Big Five: elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo. After lunch and time to settle into the lodge, head out on your first afternoon safari in search of wildlife.

Accommodation: Mkulumadzi Lodge (or similar)
Meals: B, L, D

Day 3 – Majete Wildlife Reserve safari

Sited at the meeting point of two rivers, beneath shady leadwood trees, Mkulumadzi Lodge offers a peaceful base in the African wilderness. Spend the day exploring Majete with shared safari activities and experienced guides. Each outing offers a chance to spot wildlife and enjoy the reserve’s varied landscapes.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 4 – Majete to Zomba Plateau, Mountains & historic charm

Travel north towards Zomba, Malawi’s former colonial capital, then climb to the cool, scenic Zomba Plateau. Known for its pine forests, waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints, the plateau offers a refreshing change of scenery. Stop for an independent lunch at Kefi Café before checking in. The afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Zomba is a pleasant town to explore at your own pace.

Accommodation: Kefi Hotel (or similar)
Meals: B, D

Day 5 – Zomba Plateau

Visit Zomba town and its local market this morning. Later, join a guided walk on the plateau, crossing a dam and heading towards the lowlands. Enjoy sweeping views along the way, with a waterfall providing a lovely stop near the end of the walk.

Meals: B, D

Day 6 – Liwonde National Park, Shire River

Descend from the plateau and travel to Liwonde National Park, one of Malawi’s leading wildlife destinations. The park lies beside the Shire River and is known for its elephants, hippos, crocodiles and abundant birdlife. After lunch at the lodge, enjoy an afternoon safari activity. Depending on local conditions, this may be a boat safari on the river or a game drive in the park.

Accommodation: Mvuu Camp (or similar)
Meals: B, L, D

Day 7 – Liwonde National Park, Wildlife and water

Enjoy a full day of safari experiences in Liwonde. Activities may include an early morning bush walk, an open-vehicle game drive or a gentle river safari. Keep watch for elephants, hippos, crocodiles and birdlife along the water’s edge.

Mvuu Camp overlooks a wildlife-rich stretch of the Shire River. The camp’s photographic hide offers a special chance to observe animals at close range. Dinner may sometimes be served beneath the stars in a traditional boma setting.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 8 – Liwonde National Park

Continue exploring Liwonde’s diverse habitats with your experienced guides. Learn about the park’s wildlife, ecosystems and conservation work as you search for animals in the bush. After a morning of game viewing, you may have time to relax by the pool.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 9 – Liwonde to Lake Malawi

Travel to the southern shores of Lake Malawi, often known as the “Lake of Stars”. Makokola Retreat is beautifully positioned beside one of the lake’s beaches, offering a peaceful place to rest after your safari. Spend the afternoon at leisure by the water or enjoy complimentary non-motorised activities.

Accommodation: The Makokola Retreat (or similar)
Meals: B, L, D

Day 10 – Lake Malawi

Lake Malawi is famous for its clear waters, colourful fish and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy a day at your own pace: try snorkelling or sailing, unwind beside the pool, or simply take in the lakeside setting.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 11 – Lake Malawi, Dedza Pottery, Lilongwe

Travel north to Lilongwe, Malawi’s capital. En route, visit Dedza Pottery and enjoy an independent lunch at the restaurant. On arrival, check in to our accommodation. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax.

Accommodation: Latitude 13 Degrees (or similar)
Meals: B

Day 12 – South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

After an early breakfast, cross into Zambia via the Mwami border post and continue to South Luangwa National Park. Renowned for its wildlife, the park is especially well known for leopard sightings and walking safaris.

Arrive at our Safari Camp in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon safari activity. The camp has a relaxed atmosphere, so you can choose whether to join the available activities or enjoy some quiet time. In the evening, dine in the main area overlooking the river. Camp staff will explain how to move around safely if wildlife is nearby after dark.

Accommodation: Flatdogs Camp (or similar)
Meals: B, L, D

Day 13 – South Luangwa National Park

Spend the day exploring South Luangwa with opportunities to look for elephants, buffalo, giraffes, lions, leopards and many bird species.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 14 – South Luangwa National Park

Visit Mfuwe and browse its craft shops this morning. You may also learn about local community organisations, including a women’s group that transforms discarded snare wire into jewellery and a project specialising in textiles and screen printing. Later, return to the park for more wildlife viewing with experienced guides, exploring areas around the Luangwa River and its lagoons.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 15 – South Luangwa National Park

Enjoy a final full day on safari in this rewarding wilderness. Optional activities may include a walking safari or a night drive, offering a different perspective on the park and its nocturnal wildlife.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 16 – South Luangwa to Lusaka

Enjoy a morning game drive and some time at leisure before transferring to Mfuwe Airport for your scheduled flight to Lusaka. On arrival, transfer to your airport hotel. This evening join us for our included Farewell dinner.

Accommodation: Marriott Lusaka International Airport (or similar)
Meals: B, L, D

Day 17 – Lusaka

Transfer to Lusaka Airport for your onward flights.

Meals: B

THIS ITINERARY IS THE PROPERTY OF THE TOUR COMPANY AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

Available dates: On application
Pricing: Available on application. Email info@travlink.net or within NZ call 0800 99 77 88 for more about this unique tour.