5 Days Malawi Wildlife Safari – Liwonde & Majete Reserves + Lake Malawi

Upon arrival at Lilongwe International Airport, you’ll be welcomed by a local guide who will provide an introduction to your safari. Begin your journey south toward Liwonde National Park, Malawi’s premier wildlife destination, managed by African Parks.

Liwonde spans over 548 km² and protects large populations of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and buffalo. The park has seen recent reintroductions of lions, cheetahs, and black rhinos. Bird lovers will find over 400 recorded species here.

Settle in at a riverside lodge such as Mvuu Camp. Later, head out on an afternoon game drive to explore the park's diverse habitats. Expect views of antelope herds, elephants, and plenty of bird activity.

Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge in Liwonde.

Start your day early with a sunrise game drive, where chances are higher to see predators such as hyenas or lions. The early morning also offers cooler weather and better wildlife movement.

Return to your lodge for breakfast and some downtime. In the afternoon, enjoy a Shire River boat safari, a popular activity in Liwonde. The boat allows for silent observation of hippos, crocodiles, and colorful birds. Elephants often come to drink, providing good photography opportunities.

Evening at leisure, with dinner and a second overnight stay at the lodge.

After breakfast, depart for Majete Wildlife Reserve, located southwest of Liwonde near Blantyre. This 700 km² reserve was the first in Malawi to host the Big Five, lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino, after successful rewilding efforts.

Arrive in time for lunch and check-in at your camp or lodge, such as Thawale Lodge. In the afternoon, set off for your first game drive in Majete, where you’ll explore miombo woodlands, riverine vegetation, and open savannahs.

Return for dinner and overnight stay inside the reserve.

Today, enjoy a morning game drive through new parts of the reserve. Majete is home to species such as sable antelope, kudu, warthogs, hyenas, and crocodiles, along with a growing number of large predators.

Return to your lodge for lunch. The afternoon offers optional activities including a guided nature walk with an armed scout or a local village visit to learn about life near the reserve.

Dinner and overnight stay at Majete.

After breakfast, check out and begin your drive back. You may choose to:

Return to Lilongwe to catch your flight home.

Or transfer to Lake Malawi (e.g., Cape Maclear or Mangochi) for a beach extension where you can unwind along the lake's sandy shores.

Lake Malawi is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant cichlid fish, and opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling.

This concludes your 5-day Malawi wildlife safari, combining two of the country’s finest national parks with the potential for a lakeside finish.

Package Includes:

4 nights’ accommodation (Liwonde x2, Majete x2)

All meals during the safari

Park entrance fees

4 game drives + 1 boat safari

Professional guide and private 4x4 transport

Drinking water during game drives

Airport pick-up and drop-off

Package Excludes:

International flights

Optional Lake Malawi extension

Alcoholic drinks and tips

Personal items and travel insurance