Malawi Safari Tours

5 Days Southern Malawi Wildlife Tour

Experience the best of southern Malawi on this 5-day Malawi lodge safari, starting with arrival in Blantyre before venturing to Majete Wildlife Reserve, home to the Big Five thanks to African Parks’ conservation success. Continue to Liwonde National Park, where dense elephant herds, hippos, crocodiles, and sunset boat safaris along the Shire River create unforgettable wildlife encounters. The journey concludes atop cool, forested Zomba Plateau, offering waterfalls, hiking trails, and sweeping valley views. Combining game drives, river cruises, and highland scenery, this itinerary delivers a diverse and immersive Malawi experience — ideal for travelers seeking wildlife, adventure, and natural beauty in one well-paced trip.

Day 01: Arrival in Blantyre – Transfer to Majete Game Reserve

Arrive at Chileka Airport in Blantyre, where your guide welcomes you for a scenic two-hour transfer south into the Shire Valley. Check in at your lodge in Majete Wildlife Reserve, Malawi's only true Big Five destination, revived through African Parks' conservation efforts. After lunch, head out on an afternoon game drive as elephant, buffalo, and rhino emerge with the cooling light. Return for dinner under the stars and your first night immersed in Malawi's wilderness, setting the tone for the days of wildlife and landscape exploration ahead.

Day 2: Majete Game Drive & Transfer to Liwonde National Park

Rise early for a sunrise game drive through Majete's woodlands, prime time for spotting lion or leopard on the move. After breakfast, transfer three hours north to Liwonde National Park along the Shire River valley. Check in at your riverside lodge, then enjoy the afternoon's highlight: a sunset boat safari past hippos, crocodiles, and elephants drinking at the water's edge, with exceptional birdlife throughout. Dinner is served riverside, ending a day that shifts from dry bushveld to lush waterway scenery.

Day 3: Full Day in Liwonde National Park

Spend a full day exploring Liwonde, home to Malawi's densest elephant population alongside reintroduced lion and cheetah. A morning game drive covers open plains and riverine forest, followed by a relaxed lunch back at the lodge. In the afternoon, choose between a walking safari for an up-close bush experience or a second boat cruise to catch different wildlife activity. Overnight again in Liwonde, having covered the park's varied habitats thoroughly by land and water.

Day 4: Transfer to Zomba Plateau

After breakfast, depart Liwonde for a scenic drive to Zomba Plateau, Malawi's cool highland escape rising above the surrounding plains. Check in at your mountain lodge and spend the afternoon exploring forested trails, waterfalls, and trout streams framed by pine and indigenous woodland. Weather permitting, visit a viewpoint over the Shire Valley for sweeping views. The change in altitude and scenery offers a refreshing contrast to the game reserves, with a quiet, cool evening and dinner overlooking the plateau.

Day 5: Zomba Plateau & Departure via Blantyre

Enjoy a final morning walk or drive around Zomba Plateau, taking in highland views and birdlife before breakfast. Depart for the scenic road transfer to Blantyre, roughly two hours, arriving in time to connect with your onward flight from Chileka Airport. This closing day blends relaxation with gentle exploration, rounding off a five-day journey that moved from Big Five wildlife plains to riverine safaris and cool mountain forest — a well-rounded introduction to southern Malawi's landscapes.

Included in the Tour

Excluded from the Tour

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What to Explore during Malawi Trip

Malawi’s safaris offer an intimate wildlife experience featuring elephant herds, hippos, and crocodiles along the Shire River in Liwonde National Park, while Majete Wildlife Reserve proudly hosts the Big Five. Birdwatchers will spot over 650 species, and Lake Malawi dazzles with colourful cichlid fish in crystal-clear waters.

7 Days Malawi Wildlife Safari
Malawi Wildlife Safari Tour

Frequently Asked Questions for the Daytrips in Tanzania (FAQ's)

What is the best time to visit Malawi for a safari?

The best time for a safari in Malawi is during the dry season, from May to October. Wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources and vegetation is less dense.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many travelers can obtain a visa on arrival or apply online before travel. It is recommended to check the latest entry requirements before booking your trip.

The most popular safari destinations are Liwonde National Park, Majete Wildlife Reserve, and Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, offering excellent opportunities to see elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and many bird species.

Malawi is home to the Big Five restoration efforts, with elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo found in selected reserves. Visitors can also see hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, zebras, and diverse birdlife.

Yes. Malawi offers authentic, less crowded safari experiences, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality. It is often combined with beach relaxation on Lake Malawi, making it a unique safari destination.

A safari of 4–7 days is ideal for exploring one or two parks, while 10–14 days allows you to combine wildlife viewing with relaxation at Lake Malawi and other attractions.

Malawi is generally considered one of the safest and friendliest countries in Africa for tourists. As with any destination, visitors should take normal precautions, follow their guide’s instructions, and secure valuables.

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