Tour Zambia and Malawi nature inside african national parks

DAY 1 / BLANTYRE - MULANJE Arrival in Blantyre, Malawi. Known for its warm and welcoming people, Malawi is a country renowned for its genuine hospitality—something we’ve yet to experience in any other African nation. Meet our staff, then travel through Blantyre to reach the majestic Mount Mulanje, with its breathtaking tea plantations. The rolling hills stretch endlessly, their bright green foliage contrasting sharply with the labyrinthine red trails that wind through the plantations. Overnight stay in the historic colonial house, Africa Wild Truck Lodge, nestled amidst the tea estates. Dinner included.

DAY 2 / MULANJE MOUNTAIN FOREST RESERVE After breakfast, around 8:30 AM, we will introduce our social responsibility projects with AROUND AWT, including the elementary school founded in 2018, located right in front of the lodge—contribute through donations such as the 5x1000. Thanks to generous contributions from friends, the school was fully renovated, and since 2018, the non-profit AROUND AWT has been supporting it monthly. In the afternoon, visit Mbyia Pools with a scenic 1-hour walk, so bring your swimwear for a refreshing dip. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch immersed in nature. The day will include a short trek through the forest, home to endemic chameleons and unique trees like the famous Mulanje Cedar—one of Malawi's protected species. The mountain, called "the island in the sky," is rich in legends and folklore and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As part of the experience, local storytellers will share legends of this ancient mountain, which extends over 650 km² and rises to 3,002 meters—the highest point in Southern Africa. Return by 3:30 PM for relaxation at Africa Wild Truck Lodge. Full-board accommodation.

DAY 3 / MULANJE MOUNTAIN FOREST RESERVE After breakfast around 8:30 AM, we will visit Limbuli Market, reachable by local taxi, and explore the vast tea plantations. Witness the diligent tea pickers, who patiently harvest the tender young leaves at the top of the plants, filling large baskets carried on their shoulders. Introduction of tea cultivation in Africa occurred here at the end of the 19th century. Next, visit to a nearby village. Enjoy lunch back at the lodge, followed by an afternoon of relaxation. The view from the lodge is unparalleled. Overnight stay as the night before—full-board.

DAY 4 / MULANJE - LIWONDE NATIONAL PARK After breakfast, transfer to the shores of the Shire River and enter Liwonde National Park! Enjoy the famous boat safari, perfect for spotting and photographing the park’s wildlife: numerous elephants, crocodiles, lions, cheetahs, and black rhinoceroses. Guided by an experienced guide operating the boat, accompanied by a naturalist answering questions, the activity offers incredible sighting opportunities—often elephants swim directly in front of us while crossing the river in search of food. An afternoon boat safari enhances your chances for more sightings. Accommodation at Mvuu Camp, full-board.

DAY 5 / LIWONDE NATIONAL PARK Early morning wake-up for a game drive in 4x4, offering the best opportunity to observe and photograph wildlife—elephants, crocodiles, lions, cheetahs, and black rhinos. Return to camp for a break. In the afternoon, another boat safari with guided commentary to deepen the experience. Sightings are spectacular, with elephants often swimming across the river. Activities may vary depending on wildlife movements and preferences. Overnight at Mvuu Camp, full-board.

DAY 6 / LIWONDE - LAKE MALAWI, MONKEY BAY AREA Morning safari in search of animals, then travel to Lake Malawi, heading towards Monkey Bay, Mangochi, and the lakeside. Spend the afternoon relaxing among fishing eagles and local villages that navigate the waters of the third-largest lake in Africa, one of the largest freshwater reserves globally. It’s estimated that around 1,000 endemic cichlid species inhabit these waters. Arrive by lunch, followed by a village walk in the afternoon. Accommodation at Makokola, bed and breakfast.

DAY 7 / LAKE MALAWI, MONKEY BAY AREA The region is dotted with fishing villages, and in the early morning, it’s easy to spot local fishermen returning in their traditional canoes after a night of fishing. Lake Malawi here is part of Lake Malawi National Park, resembling an inland sea, and provides livelihoods to all the villages along its shores. From this base, we can organize a boat trip to Boadzulu Island, a national park within Lake Malawi, where we can fully appreciate the lake’s stunning clarity and natural beauty. Local women dry and prepare fish for sale at the stalls. The day will be spent exploring Lake Malawi’s villages and activities that allow us to immerse ourselves in the local culture. Accommodation at Makokola Retreat, bed and breakfast.

DAY 8 / LAKE MALAWI - LILONGWE Traveling for several hours, we will reach Lilongwe, where we will stay at a charming lodge nestled within well-kept gardens. The day will be dedicated to relaxing and enjoying the peaceful surroundings, with overnight at the lodge. Bed and breakfast included.

DAY 9 / LILONGWE - ZAMBIA, SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK Departure for a half-day journey crossing the Rift Valley border between Malawi and Zambia, heading towards Chipata. After completing immigration formalities on both sides, the trip continues through a landscape of small towns, villages, and markets, as we approach the Luangwa Valley. In the late afternoon, an exciting night game drive begins, searching for predators from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Overnight stay in a lodge, with full-board service.

DAY 10 / SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK Our safaris will showcase the rich diversity of habitats within the park, evident from our very first morning game drive. Later, during the evening night drive in 4x4, sightings of nocturnal animals become more likely—leopards, lions, hyenas, genets, owls, and nightjars. The park’s environment offers a spectacular variety of wildlife in their natural setting. Overnight at the lodge, full-board.

DAY 11 / SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK Today’s safari takes us off-road within the park. In the morning, we may revisit areas that captured our attention the previous evening or explore new regions, seeking unforgettable scenes. In the late afternoon, another night drive offers the chance to spot elusive animals and enjoy the sounds, scents, stars, and atmosphere of the African night. An experience full of wonder and discovery. Overnight in the lodge, full-board.

DAY 12 / SOUTH LUANGWA - MFUWE AIRPORT Transfer to Mfuwe International Airport for your onward connections through Lusaka. Alternatively, a transfer to Lilongwe is available, where an overnight stay may be required before catching your international flight.

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS!
Venture to the Victoria Falls or enjoy pre-extension options in Mulanje for more unforgettable experiences.