Home | Itineraries | Malawi and Mozambique safari and beach holiday
Family
Guided
Romantic

Malawi and Mozambique safari and beach holiday

.

A journey through nature and history, adventure and relax

Discover two extraordinary countries on a journey that combines spectacular landscapes, rich cultural heritage and unforgettable wildlife encounters. From the dramatic scenery of the Rift Valley to historic colonial settlements recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from thrilling safaris to relaxing days by the ocean, Malawi and Mozambique offer an exceptional blend of nature, history and authentic travel experiences.

10 Days between safari adventures and the Indian Ocean

To showcase the extraordinary natural and cultural diversity of Malawi and Mozambique, we have designed a varied ten-day itinerary combining wildlife, landscapes, history and relaxation.

The journey begins in Majete Wildlife Reserve, located in the Lower Shire Valley at the southern end of the Rift Valley. Majete is one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife restoration success stories and an ideal destination for travellers hoping to encounter the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and black rhinoceroses. During daytime and night game drives, we will search for these iconic species while also exploring the reserve’s wider biodiversity. Cheetahs, African wild dogs, zebras, warthogs, giraffes and numerous antelope species are among the animals that can be encountered. A boat safari offers another unique perspective on the reserve and its wildlife.

The second stage of the journey takes us to Mount Mulanje Forest Reserve. Our main base is located at the foot of the mountain, and from here we will introduce you to the tea plantations that blanket the surrounding hills. According to local traditions, Mount Mulanje is a mountain of mystery and legend. It is also recognised as one of Malawi’s most important biodiversity hotspots, which you will experience first-hand during guided walks through the forest. You will also have the opportunity to visit local villages and markets and enjoy a swim in the beautiful Mbiya Pools.

Leaving Mulanje behind, we cross into Mozambique and travel through the northern part of the country towards the historic Island of Mozambique. For centuries, this small island served as a crossroads for trade routes linking Africa, Arabia, India and Europe. Today, its extraordinary cultural heritage is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During your stay, you will have time to discover both sides of the island: the historic Stone Town and the more recent Makuti Town. Relax on the beach, snorkel among tropical fish and, depending on the season, enjoy a whale-watching excursion along the coast.

This itinerary offers the perfect balance between adventure and relax, combining wildlife encounters, spectacular landscapes and fascinating history. The accommodation we select is carefully chosen to enhance the overall experience: a lodge within Majete Wildlife Reserve, the AfricaWildTruck Eco Lodge & Camp beneath Mount Mulanje, and a beautifully restored colonial house in the heart of Stone Town.

Should you wish to extend your journey, several options are available. You might choose to spend additional days along Mozambique’s coastline, enjoying some of Africa’s most beautiful beaches. Alternatively, if hiking is your passion, we can arrange a trek on Mount Mulanje, with one or more overnight stays in mountain huts.

Travel Area

Additional information

Things to know

Entry requirements

To enter Malawi and Mozambique, you will need a passport with at least two blank pages and a minimum of six months’ validity remaining. Visa requirements vary according to nationality and may change over time. We recommend consulting official travel advice before departure.

Food and drinks

Local cuisine

Malawi’s culinary specialities include fresh fish from Lake Malawi. Chambo (tilapia) is considered the lake’s signature dish. Nsima, made from white maize, is the country’s staple food and is commonly served with vegetables, fish or meat.

Malawi is also known for its excellent local beers and its growing reputation for gin production.

Mozambique offers some of the finest cuisine in Africa, influenced by Portuguese, African and Indian traditions. Fresh seafood is a highlight, particularly prawns, lobster and freshly grilled fish 

Hygiene and safety

The accommodation and restaurants we select maintain high standards of hygiene. For additional peace of mind, we recommend:

  • Drinking water and beverages only from sealed containers or those supplied by your lodge.
  • Using bottled or lodge-supplied water when brushing your teeth.
  • Avoiding ice in drinks.
  • Avoiding uncooked vegetables and seafood.

Currency and payments

Malawi

Currency: Kwacha

Mozambique 

Currency: Metical del Mozambico 

Electronic payments and cash withdrawal facilities may be limited in remote and rural areas. For further information, please consult our travel preparation guide.

Health information

Vaccination requirements vary according to nationality and country of origin. For up-to-date health information and malaria prevention advice, we recommend consulting official travel health resources before departure.

What to bring

Luggage

We recommend travelling light and limiting luggage to approximately 16–18 kg.

Soft bags are strongly preferred over hard-shell or semi-rigid suitcases.

Clothing

Comfortable, breathable clothing is recommended, with lightweight garments for daytime temperatures and layers for cooler evenings or higher elevations. Comfortable walking shoes, ideally hiking shoes, are recommended, together with sandals for relaxing at your accommodation.

Essential equipment 

We recommend bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, a reusable water bottle and binoculars. Remember to carry all travel documents required for entry into Malawi and Mozambique, as well as a photocopy of your passport.

Medication

Pharmacies are generally only available in larger towns, so we recommend bringing a small supply of any medication you may require.

A detailed packing list, including clothing, equipment and medical recommendations, is available in our travel preparation guide.

Price information

Price includes

  • All transfers, including airport transfers and road taxes
  • All safaris and excursions specified in the itinerary ( 4 activities in Majete Wildlife Reserve, Excursions in Mulanje and Mount Mulanje Forest Reserve, Traditional dhow excursion from the Island of Mozambique)
  • All accommodation as specified in the programme, based on double occupancy
  • Meals where indicated
  • 1% Community Levy
  • Applicable taxes

Price excludes

  • International flights
  • Malawi and Mozambique visas (where applicable)
  • Travel insurance (medical, cancellation and baggage cover)
  • National park entry fees
  • Single room supplement
  • Optional and recommended activities
  • Drinks
  • Meals not specifically mentioned
  • Gratuities
  • Personal expenses
  • Any item not expressly listed under “Price Includes”

Pricing information

Park fees and local levies may be subject to change without notice.

Please note that this itinerary is intended as a starting point and can be fully tailored to your preferences.

The final price will therefore be recalculated at the time of booking, taking into account any modifications to the itinerary, alternative accommodation choices and any supplier price updates.

Interested in this itinerary?

Complete the form with your enquiry and we will contact you as soon as possible to help plan your next journey.