A adventure into the Warm heart of Africa, Zambia & Malawi from the sweeping plains teeming with wildlife to meeting the friendly locals which charaterizes these unique realms. Often not considered as big safari destinations to most travellers, Zambia and Malawi are however not to be underestimated, in terms of majestic landscapes, humble local experiences and glimpsing some of the rarest animals to roam the earth, these two countries can rival Africa’s best. Begin your expedition in tranquil Lilongwe, and drift through the colourful markets and ambient side street cafes of Old Town. Wave at smiling local kids as we visit a primary school and later watch as Africa’s nocturnal animals awaken during a night game drive. Step between leopards hiding in the woodland and elephants wading in the marshes during a walking safari in South Luangwa National Park. Embrace the chaotic buzz of Chipata’s bustling markets, kayak between remote pristine islands and dive into the crystal clear underwater world of epic Lake Malawi. Cruise passed beautiful Roan and Sable antelope on the water’s edge and sun bathing crocodiles during a sunset boat excursion on the Shire River, in Liwonde National Park. Admire the craggy peaks which rise from the undulating highland plains as you hike along the escarpment of the “Island in the Sky”, Mount Mulanje and relax under sunny skies in Cape Maclear. Embrace your spirit of adventure during this unique safari experience, visiting awe-inspiring remote locations, encountering rarely seen animals and traverse the rugged wilderness whilst staying in intimate safari tents, which will ultimately leave you seduced by Africa’s hidden gems.
Day by Day
Detailed Itinerary
Summary
The establishments used, travel distance and travel times as shown on this itinerary may be subject to change and are approximate only, as travel distances and times especially, are dependent on many tour factors that may be beyond our control. The Rooming description below is based on standard en suite/twin share rooms, however single or triple rooms can be arranged on request.
Day 1: Lilongwe
Arriving in the serene town of Lilongwe, you will be met and transferred from the airport to the joining hotel by our drivers. Our local representativ...
| On this day |
Arriving in the serene town of Lilongwe, you will be met and transferred from the airport to the joining hotel by our drivers. Our local representative will meet you at the joining hotel and will provide details of the upcoming tour as well as any additional tours or activities that you may wish to enjoy, you will also meet your guides and fellow travellers at the pre departure meeting for your epic safari. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Please note this is an arrival day and you may arrive at any time. If you arrive early try to visit to the market on Malangalanga Rd or look into some of the old Indian spice and cloth shops. It's a relatively laid-back and friendly city and at night there are a number of good restaurants and nightclubs. |
| Accommodation
| Barefoot Safari Lodge |
| Rooming |
Standard en-suite Chalet |
| Travel Distance |
37 km / 23 miles |
| Travelling Time |
25 min |
Day 2: South Luangwa National Park
We leave Lilongwe in the early morning and transfer to Zambia’s most famous National Park, South Luangwa. Situated on the valley floor between river...
| On this day |
We leave Lilongwe in the early morning and transfer to Zambia’s most famous National Park, South Luangwa. Situated on the valley floor between river and mountain this impressive reserve is teeming with an extraordinary range of both common and rare wildlife roaming throughout the varied eco-systems and remote open plains. Successfully nursed by the National Parks Association and Wildlife & Environmental Conservation Society of Zambia, to prevent poaching and promote breeding, has left the park unsullied by human intrusion and has allowed the natural world to flourish. En route to the park we stop to visit traditional a fabric factory. Witness the process from start to end of the various types of fabric, the hand painted pattern's direct on to the fabric, by local skilled people. For the next three nights we camp under the stars in this remarkable natural wilderness and set out to explore and witness the dramatic wildlife interaction on scheduled game drives. |
| Accommodation
| Croc Valley Camp |
| Rooming |
Camping |
| Meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| Included Activities |
Transfers by road to Zambia, border crossing, continue onto campsite. Visit of a the Batik Fabric |
| Travel Distance |
270 km / 169 miles |
| Travelling Time |
6 hrs |
Day 3: South Luangwa National Park
Our busy day in Zambia’s Premier Park, begins with a morning game drive and later on afternoon game drive after lunch. Zambia’s premier National p...
| On this day |
Our busy day in Zambia’s Premier Park, begins with a morning game drive and later on afternoon game drive after lunch. Zambia’s premier National park and is renowned for its herds of elephants, which gather to drink from the lakes whilst large Nile crocodiles bask along the sunny banks. famous for its exceptional herds of dusty Cape and African buffalo followed by their cunning predators. Sightings of African wild dog, bushbucks, giraffes and perhaps the allusive leopard are promising.
|
| Accommodation
| Croc Valley Camp |
| Rooming |
Camping |
| Meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| Included Activities |
Morning and afternoon scheduled game drives |
Day 4: South Luangwa National Park
Another exciting day of both morning and afternoon game drives in the National Park awaits us. As an optional activity walking safaris in the park is...
| On this day |
Another exciting day of both morning and afternoon game drives in the National Park awaits us. As an optional activity walking safaris in the park is high recommended as the Luangwa valley is home of the walking safari be it a morning guided bush walk or a weeklong expedition. The idea of walking safaris in Luangwa were pioneered by British conservationist Norman Carr in 1954, which allows for a more personal, physical and sensory stimulating wildlife experience all by foot.
|
| Accommodation
| Croc Valley Camp |
| Rooming |
Camping |
| Meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| Included Activities |
Morning and afternoon scheduled game drives |
| Travel Distance |
133 km / 83 miles |
| Travelling Time |
3 hrs 30 min |
Day 5: Senga Bay
Today is spent travelling to one of the greatest lakes in all of Africa, Lake Malawi. We stop at visit a local school en-route, meeting the children a...
| On this day |
Today is spent travelling to one of the greatest lakes in all of Africa, Lake Malawi. We stop at visit a local school en-route, meeting the children and interacting with him during their daily life before continuing to the lake shores. It’s inviting sparkling surfaces and remote islands beckons to be explored by travellers. Discovered by David Livingston in 1859 and named Lake Nyaza, this 560 to 580 kilometre stretch of clear tropical water is home to such an abundance array of various fish, that is has been reported to host more fish species than any other body of water on the planet. Life here revolves around the tides of the Lake as its rich abundances of fish are a main source of food for both human and animals alike, all sharing its bounty. The scenic beauty of the Lake is legendary, where reeds sway in the cool breeze, monkeys rustle in the trees above you, fish Eagle’s cry pierce the big Africa sky, a fisherman casts his net into the shimmering depths whilst hippos graze neutrally beneath distant mountains in the background. |
| Accommodation
| Steps Campsite |
| Rooming |
Camping |
| Meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| Included Activities |
Road transfer to Senga Bay ,visit of a school on the way. afternoon optional activities of your choice |
| Travel Distance |
400 km / 250 miles |
| Travelling Time |
5h 30 min |
Day 6: Senga Bay
This morning we head out of the camp and visit the village of "sand fire." You will meet the local children of the village whilst you take a orientati...
| On this day |
This morning we head out of the camp and visit the village of "sand fire." You will meet the local children of the village whilst you take a orientation walk and enter a traditional house, the local bakery, the brewery, the movie theater, and see how they bake clay bricks for the fishing village. We also visit a small local restaurant and take a look at the fresh produce such as the fish from the lake and vegetable market. We return to camp by means of a "Taxi bike" where a local peddlers cycles on a push bike with a carriage attached. You have the remainder of the day to take a stroll along the lakes edge or up to a nearby view to admire the sunset views of Senga Bay.
|
| Accommodation
| Steps Campsite |
| Rooming |
Camping |
| Meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| Included Activities |
Visit the sand fire village for a cultural encounter |
Day 7: Mount Mulanje
With the lake behind us, we continue our journey to the Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve, it’s near vertical cliffs and bare rocks rise from the high...
| On this day |
With the lake behind us, we continue our journey to the Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve, it’s near vertical cliffs and bare rocks rise from the highlands to plateau basins with its maximum attitude of 3002m above sea level. As it is often misty along the escarpment and the mountain highest peaks are covered in heavy cloud, these features give rise to the local name of “Island in the Sky”. Once we have arrived at camp and settled in, you have the remainder of the day to relax or take a self guided walk under the lush canopies of the forest. |
| Accommodation
| Mount Mulanje Golf Club |
| Rooming |
Camping |
| Meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| Included Activities |
Road transfer to the Mount Mulanje, remainder of the day at leisure |
| Travel Distance |
370 km / 231 miles |
| Travelling Time |
5 h 30 min |
Day 8: Mount Mulanje
Our day is spent exploring the mountain and forest reserve on foot as we hike beneath the shadowy peaks, enthralled by the rich vegetation and panoram...
| On this day |
Our day is spent exploring the mountain and forest reserve on foot as we hike beneath the shadowy peaks, enthralled by the rich vegetation and panoramic views of the below landscape stretching for kilometres. The stunning scenery of the surrounding rich forested reserve is home to many endemic plant and animal species and it is the source for nine perennial rivers in the area. Once on the mountain the vegetation changes with altitude and there’s plenty of wildlife from the klipspringer, a tiny antelope, to various other small mammals and, of course, a variety of birdlife. After our nature hike we visit a Thyolo (pronounced cholo) estate whihc is a picturesque area of neat tea plantations on the gentle slopes of an escarpment overlooking the Lower Shire Valley in the south of Malawi. Tea has been grown in this area since 1908 and in fact, the first tea ever grown in Africa was in Malawi. The climate here is perfect for growing tea and the first bushes were imported from India during the days of the Nyasaland colony and tea growing quickly became a major industry (and still is) for Malawi employing thousands of people as it is a very labour intensive way of farming. |
| Accommodation
| Mount Mulanje Golf Club |
| Rooming |
Camping |
| Meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| Included Activities |
Day hike/walk in Mulanje. Visit to local Thyolo tea estate |
Day 9: Liwonde National Park
With the mountain peaks fading behind us, travel to our next destination, the Liwonde National Park, situated on the upper Shire River plain. A tradit...
| On this day |
With the mountain peaks fading behind us, travel to our next destination, the Liwonde National Park, situated on the upper Shire River plain. A traditional Africa wildlife reserve, this park is home to a diverse array of fascinating mammals and rich birdlife which colours the sombre bushveld. Due to its unspoilt environment and prolific game, Liwonde is generally regarded as the best game reserve in Malawi. You have the remainder of the day to choose to either relax at camp or take part in a activity offered at the camp such as a night game drive or nature walk (at own expense) |
| Accommodation
| Mvuu Wildlife Camp |
| Rooming |
Camping |
| Meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| Included Activities |
Morning transfer to Liwonde National Park. Afternoon optional activities. |
| Travel Distance |
185 km / 116 miles |
| Travelling Time |
3h 30 min |
Day 10: Cape Maclear
Early in the morning we set out on a river safari on the Shire River. The landscape before you is filled with large herds of rambling elephants, croco...
| On this day |
Early in the morning we set out on a river safari on the Shire River. The landscape before you is filled with large herds of rambling elephants, crocodiles lazing on the sunny banks and antelope cautiously sipping at the treacherous water edge with many other interesting animals present. . Birdlife is exceptionally varied as the river attracts fish eagles and weaver birds which build their nests in the thin woodland and the Pel’s fishing owl is often seen at dusk along the river’s edge. After the river safari we head Northwards towards Cape Maclear, renowned for its sun, sea, rest and recreation. It is an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the beauty and serenity of Lake Malawi. The surrounding forest and bay area has been declared a National Park and UNESCO World heritage site. En-route to the peninsula we stop and admire the colourful arts and crafts at a local market and ejoy lunch. |
| Accommodation
| Fat Monkeys |
| Rooming |
Camping |
| Meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| Included Activities |
Morning river safari on the Shire River, lunch at the village market transfer to Cape Maclear, afternoon at leisure |
| Travel Distance |
190 km / 119 miles |
| Travelling Time |
3 hours |
Day 11: Cape Maclear
In the morning we head out to visit the island of Thembi West for a full day excursion. The crystal-clear, warm waters of Lake Malawi are the first in...
| On this day |
In the morning we head out to visit the island of Thembi West for a full day excursion. The crystal-clear, warm waters of Lake Malawi are the first in the world set aside for the protection of freshwater fish and birdlife. The day is spent at leisure, swimming or relaxing on the pristine shores of the island. Masks and snorkels are provided for the snorkeling enthusiasts wish to explore the underwater world. We enjoy a seafood beach BBQ on the island for lunch. |
| Accommodation
| Fat Monkeys |
| Rooming |
Camping |
| Meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| Included Activities |
Visit of the island of Thembi West and seafood BBQ |
Day 12: Lilongwe
Waking up early we set out to travel back to the city of Lilongwe today. En-route we stop to visit a local craft market and enjoy lunch. On arrival in...
| On this day |
Waking up early we set out to travel back to the city of Lilongwe today. En-route we stop to visit a local craft market and enjoy lunch. On arrival in the picturesque town we set out on an afternoon city tour marveling at the local sights and sounds. The traditional Old Town, with its interesting markets, is the modern city and seat of government with its imaginative architecture in a garden setting.
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| Accommodation
| Barefoot Safari Lodge |
| Rooming |
Standard en-suite Chalet |
| Meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| Included Activities |
Morning road transfer to Lilongwe. Stop en route to the craft market Afternoon city tour |
| Travel Distance |
404 km / 253 miles |
| Travelling Time |
4 hours |
Day 13: Lilongwe
Your final day of the tour, after your breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home unless alternative arrangements have been...
| On this day |
Your final day of the tour, after your breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home unless alternative arrangements have been made to join another adventure tour or extend your stay in Malawi.
|
| Meals |
Breakfast |
| Included Activities |
Airport departure transfer to Lilongwe International airport |
| Travel Distance |
38 km / 24 miles |
| Travelling Time |
45 minutes |
Travellers wishing to extend their stay in Southern Africa after the Zambia & Malawi Adventure can either join a Classic South Africa tour, explore the Kruger National Park & Kwazulu coast or follow our explorer tour from Lilongwe to Dar es Salaam.
Rates & Prices
Dates & Availability
| Duration |
13 days |
Code |
ASZM |
Select a departure:
More DeparturesLess Departures
Price Breakdown
| Departure Date | Local Payment |
| 06 May 2012 | R 2,760 |
Tour Inclusions
Arrival & Departure airport transfers, Transportation, Accommodation per itinerary or similar, Excursions & activities as per itinerary, National park & game reserve entrance fees as per itinerary, Safari tents and sleeping mattresses, All meet and greet services
Trip Details
What's Included
Arrival & Departure airport transfers, Transportation, Accommodation per itinerary or similar, Excursions & activities as per itinerary, National park & game reserve entrance fees as per itinerary, Safari tents and sleeping mattresses, All meet and greet services
What's Excluded
Visas and related costs, Personal Border Taxes, Drinks, tips, laundry, telephone calls and other items of a personal nature, International flights and arrival and departure taxes, Meals not listed on the itinerary, Travel and personal accident insurance, Optional excursions and activities, Sleeping bags & cushion or pillow
Transport
Land arrangements and safaris may include overland safari trucks, small 4x4 Toyota Land cruisers and other custom built safari vehicles.
Guiding
Accompanied throughout tour by an English speaking Driver/Guide
Accommodation
Lodges (2nts) Camping (10nts)
Meals
12 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches and 11 Dinners
Transfers
Arrival and Departure transfers are included in this tour; therefore travellers need to supply us with their flight details as soon as possible. If you require a pre and post tour accommodation this can be organised through our offices.
Optional Extras
All prices quoted are accurate on publication but subject to change. Prices will be confirmed or requoted on enquiry.
We are able to pre-book a wide range of services not listed here, please contact us should you require more information.
Activities & Excursions
- Walking Safari with armed scout
- South Luangwa Night Game Drive
- Canoeing on Senga Bay
- Boat trip to Lizard Island
- Shire River Boat Safari
- Half day Kayak/Snorkel in Cape Maclear
- Cape Maclear Boat Cruise
