Since 1986
Land & Lake Safaris
Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe & Beyond
Known as the "Warm Heart of Africa" for its friendly and welcoming people, Malawi has become a popular solo traveller, families and self-drivers choice within Southern Africa.
The small country is mostly made up of the infamous "Lake of Stars" - Lake Malawi. Crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches open up to miles of fresh water filled with life, dotted with islands and hosting unending activities such as scuba diving, sailing, swimming, snorkelling and kayaking.
Conservation efforts across the country has meant wildlife thrives and Malawi's national parks, most undiscovered and still maintaining their wild seclusion, rival those of its neighbours.
Sit back overlooking the mighty Shire river listening to the distant roar of lions, walk in the footsteps of rhino on a game walking safari, rock with the waves on the river that elephants create as they bathe, and keep up with the cheetah hunt in an open jeep on the dusty African roads.
An ornithologists dream - Malawi is an exceptional birding destination with the multiple landscapes in short driving distances. Miombo woodland, plateaus and riverine habitat are scattered amongst savannah and montane.
Home to the towering Mulanje Massif makes Malawi every hikers dream, scaling rock faces, plunging into fresh mountain springs and waterfalls and sleeping in picturesque mountain huts and overlooking fields of lush green Malawi tea and macadamia estates.
Bustling cities and compact road-side markets are a colourful amalgamation of African materials, fruits and vegetables that wind down to the open and wild landscapes of Malawi's big 5 game reserves.
The culture in Malawi is really what ties this country together. With over ten ethnic groups, Malawi culture and history can be found in all major cities as well as on the road and within rural communities. Learn how to make traditional food and drink, dance, sing and immerse yourself in home life, explore ancient rock paintings and visit the numerous markets and museums.
Essentials:
Malawi airports:
Lilongwe - Kamuzu International Airport
Blantyre - Chileka Airport
Malawi Currency:
Malawi Kwacha (MWK) - All major currencies and debit and credit cards are accepted in most standard - upmarket properties, some fuel stations and large shopping markets. Kwacha cash is essential.
Malawi Entry Requirements:
Check out: Visa Guide | Malawi Tourism - For updates on entry and visa requirements.
Travelling around:
In addition to the international airports, Malawi does have charter flights across the country to make things easier to travel the country in a shorter time-frame.
All game reserves have airstrips as well as Mangochi, Likoma Island and Mzuzu.
Local transport consists of minibuses.
Large coach travel is between major cities such as Lilongwe - Blantyre and Mzuzu with occasional stops between.
Local taxis are readily available and there are a few we suggest for a cheaper and more efficient way of travelling from one destination to another.
Malawi also has bicycle taxis, motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks which are suitable for short travel conveniences.
Many options have their pros and cons and we suggest to leave plenty of time between each location, ensure you do not travel at night and choose a registered or recognised operator for safety and convenience.
Self-driving is a perfect choice - Roads can be congested in towns and trading centres and it's best to keep an eye out for road hazards that are often present on Malawi roads such as potholes, bicycles, people, goats, chickens and other domestic animals. Police stops are frequent with the occasional speed traps so it's best to stick to 50km per hour in towns, cities and trading areas and 80km per hour on major roads.
Most destinations are accessible throughout the year but some areas south of Malawi can be prone to flooding in March and accessibility inside National Parks such as Majete, Liwonde and Nyika may be limited in peak rain season.
Weather:
January - April - This is the period around the peak of the rains but don't let that put you off! Warm days and cool, stormy nights make the perfect beach weather. Malawi is thriving with crops and greenery and game reserves are packed with babies.
June - August - Winter in Malawi. The best time for hiking and cycling across the country. Malawi is still green after the rains and mid-day is still hot enough to catch a good tan!
September - December - Summer! As it approaches November and December the humidity rises and the occasional rainstorm breaks the heat. This is the best time for game viewing!
Property Highlights
Huntingdon House - Thyolo - Southern Malawi
Morocco
Kaya Mawa - Likoma Island - Northern Lake Malawi
Brazil
Mkulumadzi - Majete Wildlife Reserve - Southern Malawi
Morocco
Kuthengo - Liwonde National Park - Southern Malawi
Scotland
Chelinda Lodge - Nyika Plateau - Northern Malawi
Brazil
Mumbo Island - Cape Maclear - Southern Malawi
Scotland
Malawi Travel Inspiration
13 Day Paddle, Peddle & Peaks
Adventure awaits around every bend in the trail. This itinerary is for the active travelers, those with a desire to see the world from the bottom to the top of it. Cycle through Rolling tea estates, down the Shire river, paddle across the crystal clear waters of Lake Malawi and Hike to the peaks of Mulanje Massif - Surround yourself with wildlife, bird life and friendly communities as you explore Malawi a little differently...
10 Day Northern Circuit
Northern Malawi takes you on a new African journey - The rolling highlands of Nyika Plateau call for roaring fires and hot chocolate and the white beaches of Chintheche call for a Malawi gin and tonic in the sun.
This laid back and gentle journey highlights some of the best birding in the region.
12 Day Southern Circuit
Southern Malawi is thriving with activities and rapidly changing scenery. This Southern circuit takes you through tea fields, along mighty rivers, up mountains, to islands and can be an action packed exploration suitable for the whole family. Wildlife, beaches, history, culture and short driving distances between gives you more time to soak up the Malawian hospitality.
SELF-DRIVE MALAWI
Lodge Based
Malawi hosts a number of simple and budget friendly accommodation coupled with a small selection of up-market and more exclusive properties. Self-driving in Malawi can be a rewarding and easy journey from each of your chosen destinations giving you the flexibility to explore and partake in numerous activities during your stay.
Find out more about lodge-based self-driving routes from the north to the south of the country and what vehicle may suit you best.
Camping
Malawi has numerous camping spots, many budget friendly properties have nearby/ adjoining campsites that gives you the flexibility to self-cater or enjoy surrounding restaurants.
From camping in the middle of Liwonde National Park to the beaches of Lake Malawi, overlooking plateaus and secreted away in forests.
Find out more about what your fully kitted camping journey across Malawi could look like from North to South - Mountains to Lakes and Forests to Valleys.
Combo
The perfect combo does exist. enjoy the luxuries of all inclusive accommodation coupled with the soft adventure of camping. Explore islands and hidden treasures with the thrill of sleeping under the stars and listening to lions roar in the distance.
Suit everyone's comfort levels and interests by combining lodge/ hotel accommodation for a revive before setting up your own style in a fully kitted. We can help develop the perfect mixture that breaks the journey.