Malawi

Wildlife & Safari

Malawi is not a ‘big five’ safari destination. However it offers some varied and interesting game viewing and the chance to see animals without feeling crowded by other visitors.

Most Malawi safaris head to Liwonde , its leading National Park, characterised by the crocodile and hippo-filled waters of the Shire River. Some of Africa’s finest elephant sightings are enjoyed by those who get to experience the boat safaris on the Shire from Mvuu Wilderness Lodge or Mvuu Camp. An estimated 900 elephants, some 4000 hippos, 600 sable antelope and recently introduced breeding groups of zebra, hartebeest and rhino are resident in the park. Game drives and bush walks are also offered here.

In the north of Malawi are the highlands of the Nyika Plateau and the Vwaza Reserve. The Nyika is made up of rolling grassy hills surrounded by steep escarpments with marvellous views. Elephant trails lead down secluded steep-sided valleys and herds of eland, roan and zebra roam the highlands. At the foot of Nyika is the Vwaza Marsh Game Reserve which lies along the border with Zambia. The marsh feeds the Luangwa River and wildlife migrates between Vwaza Marsh and the South Luangwa so herds of elephant and buffalo coming to drink, as well as kudu and impala.

In the south of Malawi. Two lesser known wildlife reserves of Malawi - Majete and Mwabvi are being systematically restocked with colossal numbers of animals. After years of poaching and neglect, Majete Wildlife Reserve, close to Blantyre, is now a worthwhile game viewing destination.

Finally many people combined a safari in Malawi and some time at Lake Malawi with a more classical big game safari in the South Luangwa National Park of Zambia which is an easy flight from Lilongwe.

View holidays

The Great Malawi Journey

Joing a group of no more than seven others on a comfortable overland journey through Malawi's scenic south. This Wilderness Safaris "discoverer exploration" uses good lodges and camps with character and great locations. Highlights include Lake Malawi and game-viewing on safari in Liwonde National Park

Romantic Zambia & Malawi

This 12 night safari combines the best of Zambia and Malawi and offers a unique take on the classic bush and beach safari. It is ideal as a honeymoon option or for anyone looking for a relaxing yet varied safari. This safari combines 3 nights in Victoria Falls with 4 nights in the South Luangwa National Park on safari. The final 5 nights are spent on the shimmering waters of Lake Malawi.

Best of Malawi

This wildlife and beach tour is a enchanting introduction to Malawi. You stay first at one of the best loved safari camps, Mvuu Wilderness Lodge in the Liwonde National Park. Next you travel by road north to the southern coast of Lake Malawi for two magical nights on Mumbo Island Camp. Finally you fly north to the romantic Likoma Island for 3 nights at Kaya Mawa Lodge.

Mvuu Lodge & Mumbo Island

This tour by road combines two of Malawi's finest attractions. Start with an unforgettable wildlife experience at Mvuu Lodge in the Liwonde National Park, then 3 nights relaxation at Mumbo, an island in the middle of Lake Malawi

View accommodation

Kaya Mawa Lodge

Remote romantic island retreat in Lake Malawi • Built and staffed by the local community • Fresh water diving in Lake Malawi's clear water • Kayaking, sailing and waterskiing

Mvuu Wilderness Lodge

Private luxury tents with river-fronting balconies • Visit the lake where Livingstone crossed the Shire River • Night drives through the riverine forest • Boating Safaris