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Zambia and Malawi's Bush & Beach
This off-the-beaten-track safari brings together the adventure of Victoria Falls, the remote wilderness of South Luangwa and the lake island paradise on Lake Malawi. Spend 10 days in beautiful landscapes, having incredible wildlife encounters and bucket list experiences. Stay at Tongabezi Lodge for two nights enjoying the balance of busy and peaceful with days out exploring the adventure capital of Africa and peaceful moments at the lodge. Pop over to a secluded island on the Zambezi to enjoy a night at Sindabezi Island Camp, indulging in island picnics and sunset cruises.
Next, venture to Shawa Luangwa Camp in South Luangwa National Park for three nights of wildlife encounters on foot, in an electric game viewer, or by boat. Follow this with three nights at Kaya Mawa on Likoma Island, Lake Malawi. Here, an array of water activities awaits along with some time to relax on the beach, enjoy relaxing massages and romantic candlelit dinners.
This safari is an excellent choice for both a first-time traveller hoping for something special and seasoned safari-goers looking for a unique experience. With family-friendly accommodations available at each lodge, it can be tailored for families. Additionally, the lodges offer a secluded and romantic atmosphere, making this an ideal choice for honeymooners and couples. Your travel investment in this itinerary directly contributes to uplifting the local communities and conserving precious wildlife. This ensures a harmonious relationship and a sustainable environment for all.
Expert Opinion: The sprawling grounds provide a tranquil oasis with beautiful riverfront views. This hand-built & owner-managed lodge is serviced by the most hospitable team and their philosophy of giving back, creating jobs and empowering the locals is inspiring.
After arriving at Livingstone's International Airport, a driver will meet you for your road transfer to Tongabezi Lodge. Idyllically set on the bank of the great Zambezi River just upstream from the Victoria Falls, Tongabezi's dreamy location showcases beautiful panoramic views of the Zambezi water making its way to the plunge over the Falls' edge. Contrary to expectations, the calm surface of the river conceals its powerful nature, creating a serene backdrop to the lodge, occasionally enlivened by the bellows of a hippo or cries of a fish eagle.
Victoria Falls has an array of activities to choose from, such as scenic helicopter rides over the Falls, zip lining over Batoka Gorge, bungee jumping, sundowner cruises, a tour of the Falls, high tea at the famous Victoria Falls Hotel, and shopping at a local craft market. At the lodge, take leisurely strolls through the lodge's gardens, relax poolside, or pamper yourself with a spa treatment. With breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere, the lodge provides the perfect retreat after a day out enjoying all that this incredible destination offers.
Fantastic Zambezi River location, close to Victoria Falls
Extraordinary views from The Lookout Island
This romantic hideaway is a great choice for honeymooners
Honeymoon House won Travel Africa's 'Best Room in Africa'
Experience a range of activities, like a boat trip to Livingstone Island
The Dog House private villa available for families
Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)
Expert Opinion: The sprawling grounds provide a tranquil oasis with beautiful riverfront views. This hand-built & owner-managed lodge is serviced by the most hospitable team and their philosophy of giving back, creating jobs and empowering the locals is inspiring.
I cannot even tell you how much I loved it here! We basically had a private island to ourselves since there were no other guests! The manager, Timothy, really took care of us, he makes an amazing Old Fashioned, and it was nice talking to him by the fire. He did trick us about being able to see a hippo from our room, we were surprised and delighted by the foam hippo in the rose-filled bath that was drawn for us!
It’s cool that you can only get to the chalets by boat, we saw so many hippos! The sunset boat ride is a must-do! And so convenient, with yummy snacks! The falls were beautiful, we actually got double rainbows the day we went! Angel’s pool though, was a major hig...
A night at Tongabezi's sister property, Sindabezi Island Camp, takes you to an idyllic island on the river. Hop on a boat to be whisked away to an off-grid luxury eco-lodge. After an island picnic lunch, settle into your room overlooking the river. The romantic open-fronted thatched chalets are designed for indoor-outdoor living, with all locally sourced materials used in a captivating design.
Spend the day at your leisure: take a refreshing dip in the lodge plunge pool, head out with your guide for an island picnic, a spot of fishing, a walk on the island, drift off on a leisurely sunset cruise, and perhaps be delighted by a signature Sinda Sand Bar stopover – a refreshing sundowner setting before returning to the lodge for a scrumptious dinner.
Close to the iconic Victoria Falls, the adventure capital of Africa
Romantic open-fronted chalets overlooking the great Zambezi River
Sustainable eco-camp supporting the local community & wildlife
Off-the-grid for a complete refresh of body & soul
Exclusive & authentic bush camp experience in a unique setting
Plunge pool to cool off in after a day of exploration
Abundant birdlife for superb birdwatching
Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)
I cannot even tell you how much I loved it here! We basically had a private island to ourselves since there were no other guests! The manager, Timothy, really took care of us, he makes an amazing Old Fashioned, and it was nice talking to him by the fire. He did trick us about being able to see a hippo from our room, we were surprised and delighted by the foam hippo in the rose-filled bath that was drawn for us!
It’s cool that you can only get to the chalets by boat, we saw so many hippos! The sunset boat ride is a must-do! And so convenient, with yummy snacks! The falls were beautiful, we actually got double rainbows the day we went! Angel’s pool though, was a major highlight of our trip! It is not to be missed! Coolest thing I’ve done in a long time! We walked with rhinos, which was super cool and was the last of the big 5 we had left to see.
It was a nice treat to have a complimentary massage. Again, very nice of them to make a birthday cake for Matt! Our last night there, Horris the Hippo came to visit (I have a recording of him eating by our chalet and jumping into the water). I would like to come back here in the summer, it’s a lovely place but I think it would be more enjoyable in hotter weather. The visit to Tongabezi School was definitely a highlight, the kids were so cute and it’s really great to see how the company gives back to the local community.
Expert Opinion: If you want to feel like you are in Africa, be close to nature, hear hippos and monkeys from your tent, and experience some of the best guiding, walking and game viewing in Africa but without the crowds, I invite you to stay here. Perfect for a relaxed, adventurous, ‘warm-hearted’ experience. And every stay has a direct Positive Impact on various solutions to local education, women’s health and entrepreneurial empowerment.
After a leisurely breakfast at Sindabezi, head back to Tongabezi by boat where you'll meet a driver for your road transfer back to Livingstone's Airport for your flight to Mfuwe Airport at South Luangwa National Park. Upon arrival at Mfuwe Airport, your guide will meet you for a road transfer to your safari home, Shawa Luangwa Camp.
Nestled along the tree-lined banks of the seasonal Luangwa River, in the wildlife-rich Nsefu sector of South Luangwa, Shawa Luangwa is perfectly located for exceptional game viewing. Whether on foot, in an electric game viewer vehicle, or from the solar-powered boat, each activity offers a fresh perspective of the abundant wildlife and their habitat, while ensuring a minimised carbon footprint. Wildlife encounters continue even within the camp's vicinity, as animals gather near the cool river waters and the shaded riverbanks attract a variety of nesting birds. The Nsefu Sector is also a popular area for leopards—so keep an eye out for these incredible cats.
Shawa Luangwa's comfortably furnished eco-tents blend harmoniously into the natural surroundings. The riverine greenery and trees provide natural privacy while keeping you cool and shaded. The open-air bathtub adds a romantic touch and the perfect spot to relax after an exhilarating day exploring this remarkable destination.
Sustainable eco-camp supporting the local community & wildlife
Swimming pool with an expansive view of the river
Solar-powered electric game viewing vehicles for a ‘silent safari'
Outdoor shower & sunken bathtub in each suite for a touch of romance
Incredible leopard sightings in ‘The Valley of Leopards '
Game drives in Nsefu sector & South Luangwa National Park
Walking safaris for an up-close experience of the surrounding habitat
Float along the tranquil Luangwa River on a boat-based safari
Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)
Expert Opinion: If you want to feel like you are in Africa, be close to nature, hear hippos and monkeys from your tent, and experience some of the best guiding, walking and game viewing in Africa but without the crowds, I invite you to stay here. Perfect for a relaxed, adventurous, ‘warm-hearted’ experience. And every stay has a direct Positive Impact on various solutions to local education, women’s health and entrepreneurial empowerment.
This is my paradise: waking up to views over the lake and a freshwater swim, fresh food and juices with your toes in the sand, snorkelling, kayaking, massages to the sound of lapping water, magical sunsets. And your stay is making a difference to thousands of locals. When can I go back? Warning: must be prepared to slow down and relax as you’re on Africa and Island time here!
Conveniently, Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi and the gateway to Lake Malawi, is conveniently accessible with a direct and brief flight from South Luangwa. This makes for an enticing bush and beach combination. Savour a last breakfast on safari at Shawa Luangwa before hopping into the vehicle for the quick drive back to Mfuwe Airport where you'll meet for your flight to Lilongwe. From Lilongwe, board a small aircraft for a flight hop to Likoma Island's airstrip. And on this beautiful island you'll spend the next three days at Kaya Mawa, a paradisiacal island lodge tucked away and surrounded by the ‘Lake of Stars', Lake Malawi.
A day at Kaya Mawa is a blissful retreat moving at a slower and leisurely pace. Wake up to the gentle sound of small waves lapping against the shore and step out onto your private deck overlooking the sparkling lake waters. Head to the waters for a leisurely kayak or paddleboard excursion, explore the vibrant underwater world with a snorkeling or diving session, relax on the picturesque beach, or treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage or spa treatment. Enjoy a leisurely lunch by the water's edge, savouring the delectable fresh ingredients and flavours.
As the day unfolds, take in the sunset while sipping on a refreshing cocktail and learn how to play bao, a local favourite board game. A romantic candlelit dinner under the starlit sky accompanied by the gentle lullaby of the lake followed by stargazing from the comfort of your private deck loungers brings your day to a peaceful close.
Located on the beautiful Lake Malawi
Secluded privacy on idyllic island
Very wide variety of water sports
No two rooms are the same
Ideal for honeymooners
Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)
This is my paradise: waking up to views over the lake and a freshwater swim, fresh food and juices with your toes in the sand, snorkelling, kayaking, massages to the sound of lapping water, magical sunsets. And your stay is making a difference to thousands of locals. When can I go back? Warning: must be prepared to slow down and relax as you’re on Africa and Island time here!
Indulge in a delicious breakfast featuring fresh tropical fruits and locally sourced ingredients and take in the sights and sounds of Kaya Mawa one last time before heading back to the airstrip for your flight back to Lilongwe International Airport.
Date | Price |
---|---|
2026-05-01 - 2026-06-30 | $8,840 |
2026-07-01 - 2026-10-31 | $11,430 |
2026-11-01 - 2026-11-30 | $8,840 |
2026-12-01 - 2026-12-31 | $10,410 |
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Combine Zambia's wildlife and Malawi's serene lakeside beauty. Start with the thrill of Victoria Falls and a stay at Tongabezi Lodge, followed by a night on a secluded Zambezi island. Then, enjoy three days of safari at Shawa Luangwa Camp before relaxing at Kaya Mawa on Lake Malawi. With a mix of adventure and relaxation, it's perfect for first-timers, seasoned safari-goers, couples, and families, while supporting local communities and conservation efforts.
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