Duration
9-Day
Liwonde National Park, Malawi
9-Day Malawi Wildlife, Lake and Culture
Overview
Your journey begins in Lilongwe, the capital city, the journey unfolds with a visit to the beautiful Lake Malawi in Salima, where golden beach offers a perfect introduction to the country's natural beauty and Malawi culture at Joma. From there, the adventure continues to Liwonde National Park, home to elephants, hippos, and an incredible variety of birdlife. The trip then moves south to the historic city of Zomba, surrounded by lush plateaus and colonial charm, before concluding in Blantyre.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Lilongwe to Blantyre
Via Salima (Town), Liwonde NP, Zomba Plateau
Country & park
Malawi / Liwonde National Park
Style
Mid-range safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
18 years
Activities
game drives, nature hikes/walks, boat trip & beach time
Accommodation
Quest Lilongwe Hotel Mid-range hotel in Lilongwe (City) – Breakfast Included +4 Photos +3 Photos - Mid-range hotel in Lilongwe (City) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included; All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$4,400 USD
$3,850 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$4,400 USD
$3,850 USD
Before booking
Important To Know
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
This tour is unavailable for children.
Quote flow
Request Guidance
We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators ()
Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Route
country
Malawi
Start
Lilongwe (Day 1)
Day 2-3
Salima (Town)
Day 4-6
Liwonde NP
Day 7-8
Zomba Plateau
Day 9
Chileka Airport (Blantyre)
End
Blantyre (Day 9)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour uses lodges and tented camps.
Private tour
This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won't be shared with others.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can be customized
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Suitable for solo travelers
Solo travelers can book this private tour.
18
Minimum age of 18 years
The minimum age for this tour is 18 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: game drives, nature hikes/walks, boat trip & beach time
Game drives: open-sided 4x4 vehicle
Getting around: minivan & normal 4x4 vehicle
This operator can book your international flights
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1
Quest Lilongwe Hotel Mid-range hotel in Lilongwe (City) – Breakfast Included +4 Photos +3 Photos
Mid-range hotel in Lilongwe (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 2-3
Joma Adventure Lodge
Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Salima (Town) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4-6
Kuthengo Camp
Luxury tented camp inside Liwonde NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7-8
Kefi Hotel
Mid-range hotel less than 1hr drive from Zomba Plateau – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast Included
Day By Day
Tour step
Arrival
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Arrival in Lilongwe
Upon arrival at Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Check in at Quest Lodge, where you can relax and unwind after your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may take a short orientation drive through Lilongwe to get a first glimpse of the city or simply enjoy a quiet evening at the lodge. Dinner and overnight stay at Quest Lodge. Mid-range hotel located in Lilongwe (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lilongwe (City) Stay: Quest Lilongwe Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Lilongwe (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Salima Lake Malawi
After breakfast, depart Lilongwe for a scenic drive east to Salima, arriving at the stunning shores of Lake Malawi. Check in at your lakeside lodge and enjoy lunch with panoramic lake views. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the golden beaches, swimming, or exploring the shoreline. In the late afternoon, embark a boat ride on the lake, followed by a sundowner on the water—enjoying drinks as the sun sets over the horizon. Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge. Mid-range lodge located less than 1hr drive from Salima (Town) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Salima (Town) Stay: Joma Adventure Lodge Mid-range lodge located less than 1hr drive from Salima (Town) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Salima Joma Adventure
After breakfast at the lodge, embark on a guided village tour in Lifuwu to experience Malawian culture, interact with local artisans, and learn about traditional crafts and daily life. Return to the lodge for leisure by the beach or pool or enjoy activities like kayaking and a boat ride on Lake Malawi. In the afternoon, take a scenic beach or valley walk to explore the surrounding landscapes. As the day ends, relax with a sundowner on the beach, followed by dinner at the lodge and an overnight stay. Mid-range lodge located less than 1hr drive from Salima (Town) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Salima (Town) Stay: Joma Adventure Lodge Mid-range lodge located less than 1hr drive from Salima (Town) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Liwonde National Park
After breakfast, depart Salima and enjoy a scenic drive south toward Liwonde National Park, one of Malawi’s premier wildlife destinations. Upon arrival, check in at Kuthengo and settle in with a relaxing lunch while taking in the views of the surrounding savannah and riverine landscapes. In the afternoon, embark your first game drive, venturing into the park’s diverse habitats to spot wildlife such as elephants, hippos, buffalo, antelope, and a variety of bird species. Your guide will share insights into the park’s ecosystem and the behavior of its inhabitants, providing an enriching introduction to Malawi’s wildlife. Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight stay, reflecting on your first encounters with the park’s incredible fauna. Luxury tented camp located inside Liwonde NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Liwonde National Park Stay: Kuthengo Camp Luxury tented camp located inside Liwonde NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Morning Game Drive and River Safari
Start your day early with a morning game drive, when the park’s wildlife is most active. Go through the open savannah and riverine areas, spotting elephants, antelope, buffalo, zebras, and perhaps even elusive predators. Your guide will provide insights into animal behavior and the park’s ecosystem. After the drive, return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast and some relaxation. In the late morning or early afternoon, embark on a river safari along the Shire River, home to hippos, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife including kingfishers, fish eagles, and herons. Glide along the calm waters while observing animals coming to drink at the riverbanks and capture stunning photos of the wildlife against the backdrop of the lush riverine forest. Return to the lodge for some downtime or optional activities, such as a short nature walk, before enjoying dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge. Luxury tented camp located inside Liwonde NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Liwonde National Park Stay: Kuthengo Camp Luxury tented camp located inside Liwonde NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Safari and Cultural Visit
After an early breakfast, set off on a morning game drive to explore deeper into Liwonde’s wilderness. The cool hours of dawn are perfect for spotting wildlife, as predators are often returning from their hunts and herbivores are more active. Return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation before heading out again in the afternoon, preparing to visit a nearby local village. Here, you’ll engage with community members, experience authentic Malawian hospitality, and learn about daily life, traditions, and crafts. This cultural exchange provides a meaningful connection to the people who live alongside the park. As the day winds down, enjoy a sundowner in the bush or along the Shire River, watching the sun set over the horizon as the park transitions into night. Conclude with dinner back at the lodge and overnight stay, reflecting on a day that combined thrilling wildlife encounters with rich cultural immersion. Luxury tented camp located inside Liwonde NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Liwonde National Park Stay: Kuthengo Camp Luxury tented camp located inside Liwonde NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Lwinde to Zomba
After breakfast, depart Liwonde and travel south to the historic city of Zomba, once the colonial capital of Malawi. On arrival, check in at Kefi Hotel & Coffee, a stylish boutique property known for its comfort, warm hospitality, and excellent cuisine. After lunch, explore the city’s highlights, including the colonial-era architecture, bustling local markets, and the historic Zomba Cathedral. In the late afternoon, take a gentle walk through the city or relax at Kefi with a freshly brewed coffee. Dinner and overnight stay at Kefi Hotel & Coffee. Mid-range hotel located less than 1hr drive from Zomba Plateau All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Zomba Plateau Stay: Kefi Hotel Mid-range hotel located less than 1hr drive from Zomba Plateau Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Zomba Plateau Exploration
Enjoy breakfast before heading out for a day on the scenic Zomba Plateau, famous for its cool climate, waterfalls, and panoramic views stretching as far as Lake Chilwa and Mount Mulanje on clear days. Go on a guided hike or drive to viewpoints such as Queen’s View and Emperor’s View, and visit the serene Chingwe’s Hole, steeped in local legend. A picnic lunch on the plateau makes for a relaxing midday break. In the afternoon, return to the hotel for rest or optional cultural activities in town. Conclude the day with dinner and overnight at Kefi Hotel & Coffee. Mid-range hotel located less than 1hr drive from Zomba Plateau All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Zomba Plateau Stay: Kefi Hotel Mid-range hotel located less than 1hr drive from Zomba Plateau Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Zomba to Blantyre Departure
After breakfast, depart Zomba and drive to Blantyre, Malawi’s bustling commercial hub. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a short city orientation tour, passing by key landmarks such as St. Michael and All Angels Church or the Mandala House, the oldest European building in Malawi. Later, transfer to Chileka International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your memorable 9-day journey through Malawi’s culture, wildlife, and lake adventures. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Chileka International Airport (Blantyre) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Tour step
End of tour
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport.
Included
Park fees (For non-residents)
All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinking water (On all days)
Excluded
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Some meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Getting There
This tour starts in Lilongwe and ends in Blantyre, Malawi
This operator can book your international flights
Fly to Lilongwe Airport (LLW - Check price)
Fly back from Chileka Airport (BLZ - Check price) near Blantyre
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Offered by
Quest Lodges and Safari
5.0 operator rating
5 reviews
We’re a Malawian tour operator offering bespoke adventure holidays, from Wildlife Safaris to Beach escapes at Cape Maclear and city stays. Passionate about cultural exchange, we offer clients local village life experience, where they learn basic local language, traditions, and daily routines of Malawi. Our safaris and outdoor activities cater to nature lovers, while cultural enthusiasts can enjoy authentic experiences. We also operate 3 lodges (Quest Lodges and Safari).
Office In
Malawi
Size
20-50 employees (Founded in 2020)
Tour Types
Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
Destinations
Malawi, Zambia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5So professional, efficient and personal…they work closely with you to provide the best possible trip
The trip went off without any problems as they are in constant contact with you to make sure everything is going as planned, very reliable as there were no glitches, excellent value for the money, everyone so helpful and kind to deal with…every day was a a new experience
Bruce · Nicaragua
Punctual & Responsible
I had a 12-Day safari & cultural journey in Malawi and South Luangwa (Zambia) with remarkable experience & memories. I visited three national parks: MAJETE, LIWONDE, and LUANGWA. My itinerary started from Blantyre via Lilongwe to South Luangwa before getting back to Lilongwe for my inbound flight. The full-board quote was indeed designed and tailored according to my interest. The program contained detailed information one may need. All transports, incl. airport transfers, were taken care using a private car with Chikondi as a skilled driver. She always showed up according to the plan. Chikondi was informative and flexible to provide answer to my numerous questions & curiousness about the society, culture, nature, etc. during many hours of our road transport. All the accommodations (Thawale Lodge, Huntingdon House, Zomba Forest Lodge, Latitude Hotel, Flatdogs Camp, and Lilongwe Quest lodges and safaris) were of great standards with professional services. Except Kutchire Lodge in Liwonde National Park which is to consider as a “very-low-budget” lodge. Nearly everything was in poor condition with low value. But all the staffs were friendly and tried their best. However, that didn’t overshadow my overall experience through the entire journey in Malawi & Zambia.
Zia · Norway
The operator was efficient and knows the business well.
We had a fantastic trip to Malawi. Chikondi was an excellent guide. She was flexible to all our last minute changes and suggested extra excursions when we had a bit of spare time. I would highly recommend Quest Lodges and Safari.
Heidi · Canada
Very much customer orientated, reliable
Although we are used to travel individually and organize our trips by ourselves, we experienced very valuable help and support from Quest. They organised car, driver, and accommodation for our 14 day tour to Malawi. Very reliable, great help when we had to change our itinerary last minute due to the fuel crisis. Strongly recommended, good value for money.
Helmut · Germany
Practical answers
Tour FAQs
Are rates charged per person?
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Which currency is this tour priced in?
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
Can children join this tour?
This tour is unavailable for children.
Can this tour start on my preferred date?
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can the itinerary be customized?
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Quest Lilongwe Hotel Mid-range hotel in Lilongwe (City) – Breakfast Included +4 Photos +3 Photos - Mid-range hotel in Lilongwe (City) – Breakfast Included. Meals: Breakfast Included
Are airport transfers included?
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
How does the quote request work?
We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators () Requests are sent directly to the tour operator If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Operator policy
Terms and Conditions
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by Quest Lodges and Safari, not SafariBookings.
This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.
The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Quest Lodges and Safari.
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