A Detailed 12-Day Malawi Safari & Beach | Majete, Liwonde & Lake Malawi

Day 1-3: Welcome to Malawi! | 2 Nights

Your transportation to the Majete Wildlife Reserve will begin upon your arrival at Chileka International Airport. Located at the meeting point of two rivers, Mkulumadzi is your home for the following two nights on 7,000 acres of private concession.

Take two daily game drives to explore your breathtaking surrounds and relax in the shade of towering leadwood trees during the day. Exciting animal encounters, including the Big 5, are possible on an ongoing basis during game drives and walking safaris.

Indoor and outdoor showers, plenty of natural light, modern furnishings, and river views are all features of this five-star chalet. First thing in the morning, you can hear the birds singing and the river rumbling as you wake up and welcome the world from your own private deck. Because there is no cell service or Wi-Fi on the site, you may fully immerse yourself in the natural environment and enjoy a safari without technology.

Days 3-4: Tea Estate Elegance | 2 Nights

Relax and have fun at Majete Wildlife Reserve one more time before you’re transferred to the breathtaking Satemwa Tea Estates. You are cordially invited to spend the next two evenings at Huntingdon House.

Play badminton and croquet on the lawn or go on a guided tour of the estates to experience old-world elegance. No proper tea tasting would be complete without offering guests a chance to try a variety of teas while listening to an in-depth history of each one. Despite its reputation as a tea estate, Satemwa has been growing coffee since the 1970s. During the harvest season, visitors may enjoy breathtaking scenery while learning fascinating facts on the estate’s history.

The estate is a haven for a dizzying assortment of bird species, including the critically endangered Thyolo Alethe, so be sure to bring your bird book. Mount Mulanje is the third-highest free-standing peak in Africa; thrill seekers can go hiking there on a day excursion. Make a pit stop at the picnic area before you go for some sundowners and breathtaking estate views.

After a hearty home-cooked dinner and a tea or coffee-based cocktail by the fire in the evening, retire to your one-of-a-kind suite. Each room has a story, so make sure to read up on yours before you go.

Days 5-6: Explore Liwonde National Park | 2 Nights

Today, your schedule includes a transfer to the Shire River. You will then be transferred to Kuthengo Camp, the next thrilling stop on your journey, via boat. After you check in, relax in your hotel for a while before your first game drive through the breathtaking Liwonde National Park. An alluring outside dinner and cosy tales told by the fire will cap off your first night here.

First thing in the morning, get ready for your morning adventure. You have to decide between a walking safari, a game drive, or a boating safari (depending on the water levels). No matter what you do, be on the lookout for native animals including buffalo, sable and roan antelope, impala, and other plains game. Before lunch is served, return to the villa and relax in the pool or go birdwatching from your private terrace. While you dine, you may enjoy the sights and sounds of the river as you watch hippos feed and elephant herds cross. In the afternoon, take it easy on the terrace, read a book, or get some sleep before heading out for a game drive and dinner.

Now is the perfect moment to relax and rejuvenate in the comfort of your roomy safari tent. The tents are arranged in a serene oasis beneath majestic fever trees and baobabs, offering views of the verdant grasslands. Nighttime comfort and relaxation are guaranteed by the state-of-the-art Evening Breeze air-conditioned canopy beds.

Days 7-8: A Water Lovers Paradise | 2 Nights

Your second leg of the tour will involve a boat transfer to Mumbo Island, so after breakfast you will be transferred to Kayak Africa Cottage in Cape Maclear. Upon entering your new home, you will be greeted by the beautiful scenery and the soothing waves of Lake Malawi. Located in a private area of Lake Malawai National Park, this camp provides a picture-perfect setting for an island vacation. Relax in a hammock while reading that book you’ve been wanting to get to, float leisurely across the lake, or try your hand at one of the many water sports, birdwatching, scuba diving, or snorkelling that are available.

Mumbo Island Camp is the quintessential example of eco-architecture; it is a World Heritage Site that has adopted a rustic, distinctive style, right down to the bucket showers and the use of materials like timber, thatch, and reed.

Here, you have the freedom to do as you like, without worrying about following a rigid schedule. You may unwind on the beach’s sun loungers or get wet in the watersports gazebo, depending on your mood. Another option is to wander around the island, where you may find secluded beaches and natural paths, and then enjoy a sundowner on the famous pod rock.

Days 9-11: On the Shores of the ‘Lake of Stars’ | 3 Nights

Bid farewell to Mumbo Island and set sail for the mainland to reunite with your guide for the next leg of your tour. Your three-night stay at Pumulani Lake Lodge is guaranteed with a transport.

Enjoy water sports like wakeboarding and tubing while you’re in Pumulani, and explore the beautiful lake shores by kayaking, snorkelling, and going on boat tours. Sunbathing on the private beach of the lodge, with its powdery white sand and pristine blue waters, is the ideal way to unwind if that’s more your speed.

Even while there are plenty of things to do at the lodge, you can also just kick back and relax by the infinity pool or on your balcony while you watch the abundant birdlife swoop by. If you’re lucky, you might see an African Pitta or an African Fish Eagle while you’re there.

Day 12: A Fond Farewell

The time has come to bid Lake Malawi a tearful goodbye. Your return to the mainland is guaranteed by a transfer, and then you will be transferred to Lilongwe International Airport by another guide.

End of the 12-Day Malawi Safari & Beach | Majete, Liwonde & Lake Malawi

Inclusions

• Meals:
  Mkulumadzi : Full Board Plus (All Meals, Select Extras)
  Huntingdon House : Full Board Plus (All Meals, Select Extras)
  Kuthengo Camp : Full Board Plus (All Meals, Select Extras)
  Mumbo Island Camp : Full Board Plus (All Meals, Select Extras)
  Pumulani Lake Lodge : Full Board Plus (All Meals, Select Extras)
• All necessary permits, conservancy and park fees
• All activities specified, including morning and evening game drives each full day on safari
• 24/7 assistance and support during your trip

Exclusions

• Your international flights to and from Africa + any related taxes
• Any travel visas you require (though we help you with this)
• Tips
• Personal items (eg. travel insurance, souvenirs)