Malawi’s Wildlife, Plantations & Lake Adventure

Itinerary information

On arrival at Chileka International Airport you will be met and transferred to the Majete Wildlife Reserve. Your home for the next two nights, Mkulumadzi is found in the heart of 7,000 hectares of private concession, and the confluence of two rivers.

Spend your days under the shade of giant leadwood trees and venturing out on twice daily game drives to discover your spectacular surroundings. Between the game drives, and walking safaris, enjoy endless opportunities for exciting wildlife sightings, including safari big hitters, the Big 5.

Each luxurious chalet enjoys views of the river, ample natural light, contemporary furnishings, and both indoor and outdoor showers. Wake to the sounds of dawn's chorus and the rumble of the river before greeting the world from your private deck. As the property has no phone reception or Wi-Fi, it's the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and embrace a holistic safari experience.

Itinerary information

Enjoy one final activity in Majete Wildlife Reserve before your transfer to the spectacular Satemwa Tea Estates. For the next two nights, Huntingdon House will be your host.

Embrace old world luxury and play croquet and badminton on the lawn or take a guided walk around the estates. Guests would be remiss to leave without a tea tasting – sample a selection of teas with a comprehensive explanation of the full process from your guide. Despite being a tea-focused estate, Satemwa has also grown coffee since the 70's, and in-season guided walks are not only scenic, but incredibly interesting.

Keep your bird book on hand as the estate is home to a seemingly endless array of aviary species, including the endangered Thyolo Alethe. For the adventurous at heart, take a day trip to Mount Mulanje, the third highest free-standing peak in Africa, and do some hiking. Before you leave, be sure to take a trip to the picnic spot for sundowners and sensational views over the estate.

In the evenings, enjoy a tea or coffee-based cocktail in front of the fire and a delicious home cooked meal before retiring to your unique suite – each room has its own story, so find out more about yours before departing.

Itinerary information

Today, a transfer to the Shire River is on your itinerary. From there, a boat transfer will take you to the next exciting installment on your tour, Kuthengo Camp. On arrival, settle into your room and spend a few hours at leisure before your first game drive into the incredible Liwonde National Park. Your first evening promises and enticing al fresco dinner and fireside stories before a good night's rest.

Rise and shine bright and early for your morning activity – make an impossible selection between a game drive, walking safari, or boating safari (water levels permitting). Whichever you choose, keep an eye out for resident wildlife such as sable and roan antelope, impala, and buffalo. Upon your return, enjoy a dip in the pool or do some birding on your private deck before lunch is served. Watch as hippos graze and herds of elephants make their way across the river, providing your mealtime entertainment. Have an afternoon snooze, read a book, or relax on the deck before your evening game drive and dinner.

This is the ideal time to rest and recuperate, both inside and out of your spacious safari tent. Set beneath beautiful baobabs and ancient fever trees, with views across the lush grass plains, the tents are designed to provide a tranquil oasis. At night, state-of-the-art Evening Breeze air-conditioned canopy beds ensure a comfortable sleeping environment, and a restful night.

Itinerary information

After breakfast, embark on a transfer to Kayak Africa Cottage in Cape Maclear for the second stage of your journey, a boat transfer to Mumbo Island. The warm waters of Lake Malawi and striking vistas welcome you to your new abode. Tucked away in an exclusive concession of the Lake Malawai National Park, the camp offers an idyllic island lifestyle for the duration of your stay. Gently sway in a hammock with the book you keep meaning to read, float along the lake's surface, or make the most of all the activities on offer – from kayaking and bird watching to scuba diving and snorkeling.

As part of a World Heritage Site, Mumbo Island Camp has embraced a rustic, characterful design, complete with bucket showers and materials including timber, thatch, and reed – the epitome of eco-architecture.

There is no set itinerary during your stay here, it's the ultimate opportunity to do exactly as you please. Sun loungers on the beach provide an ideal spot for relaxation while the watersport gazebo awaits any adventure activity you wish to undertake. Alternatively, take a walk around the island and discover hidden beaches and nature trails before a sundowner on the popular pod rock.

Itinerary information

Say farewell to Mumbo Island and begin the next part of your journey with a boat ride back to the mainland to meet your guide. A transfer will ensure your passage to Whistler's Cottage in Senga Bay where you'll catch the Blue Zebra boat to Nankoma Island.

Discover the exquisite unspoiled paradise of the island during your time at Blue Zebra Island Lodge with nature trails water-based activities such as kayaking, snorkelling, and boat cruises. To experience ultimate relaxation, spend time at the on-site spa found under an ancient fig tree while listening to the water brush against the shore or take part in restorative yoga. For the thrill seekers and adventurous at heart, try your hand at watersports such as tubing, banana-boating, wakeboarding, and water-skiing on the spectacular Lake Malawi.

While there are ample activities to enjoy, the lodge is also a perfect place to relax and unwind by the infinity pool, or on your private balcony, while watching the prolific bird population fly by. Keep an eye out for the African Fish Eagle and migrating African Pitta during your stay.

Wake to the sound of birds chirping and the gentle ebb and flow of water, and dine in the open-air restaurant overlooking a baobab garden and across the pool area to the lake. In the evenings, head to the Fig-Tree Bar for sundowners before enjoying a leisurely dinner. Your stay at Blue Zebra Island Lodge offers the opportunity to be selective and spend your time as you please.

Itinerary information

Today, it's time to say a fond farewell to Lake Malawi. A transfer will ensure your passage back to the mainland before another guide takes you to Lilongwe International Airport for the next leg of your journey.