Duration
10-Day
Liwonde National Park, Malawi
10-Day Malawi Culture and Wildlife
Overview
You'll explore beautiful Malawi's rich culture and wildlife in this immersive tour. The journey begins in Lilongwe with local market visits and a village cultural exchange at Chingalire Cultural Village. You will experience the UNESCO-listed Gule Wamkulu dance. Discover Lake Malawi's cichlid fish, visit a fishing village at Cape Macclear and then head to Liwonde National Park for some Game Drive and beautiful sceneries. You will explore the first capital city of Malawi, Zomba, and its landscape.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Lilongwe (Day 1-3) to Blantyre
Via Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi), 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, walking safaris (with an armed guide), nature hikes/walks, boat trip & beach time
Accommodation
Kumbali Country Lodge - Luxury lodge in Lilongwe (City) – All Meals Included
Meals
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
$4,950 USD
$3,850 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$4,950 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 1-3)
Day 4-5
Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi)
Day 6-7
Liwonde NP
Day 8-9
Zomba Plateau
Day 10
Chileka Airport (Blantyre)
End
Blantyre (Day 10)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour uses lodges and hotels.
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, walking safaris (with an armed guide), 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 1-3
Kumbali Country Lodge
Luxury lodge in Lilongwe (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4-5
Chembe Eagles Nest Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6-7
Mvuu Camp
Mid-range lodge inside Liwonde NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8-9
Kefi Hotel
Mid-range hotel less than 1hr drive from Zomba Plateau – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10
End of tour
(No accommodation)
All Meals 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
You'll arrive in Lilongwe and settle at Kumbali Lodge on a peaceful farm estate. You'll explore the city by visiting the vibrant Old Town market, where local crafts and fresh produce abound. You'll stop by Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary for a walk in the wilderness and learn about wildlife conservation. You'll visit the Kumbali Cultural Village for an authentic Malawian cultural experience. You will end the day with a farm-to-table meal at the lodge, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Luxury lodge located in Lilongwe (City) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Lilongwe (City) Stay: Kumbali Country Lodge Luxury lodge located in Lilongwe (City) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 2
Explore Chingalire Cultural Village
After breakfast, you'll head to Chingalire Cultural Village, located near Lilongwe, for an authentic Malawian cultural experience. Founded by renowned local musician and activist Ben Mankhamba, the village showcases traditional music, dance, and storytelling. Visitors can engage with the community, learn about local customs, participate in cooking and craft-making, and witness the vibrant Gule Wamkulu masked dance. A visit to Chingalire is a unique opportunity to connect with Malawi’s heritage while supporting sustainable community development. Luxury lodge located in Lilongwe (City) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Lilongwe (City) Stay: Kumbali Country Lodge Luxury lodge located in Lilongwe (City) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 3
Exploring Lilongwe Down Town
Last day in Lilongwe to explore the lively Old Town Market for local produce, crafts, and textiles. You'll visit the Lilongwe Craft Market for traditional carvings and souvenirs. You'll learn about conservation at the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, a sanctuary for rescued animals. You will get a city tour to see the Parliament Building and key landmarks such as the Kamuzu Banda mausoleum and World War 1 memorial tower where you can get to hear stories of the fallen fighters who fought in the world wars. If you are strong enough, you will climb the tower to have a view of Lilongwe city from above. Luxury lodge located in Lilongwe (City) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Lilongwe (City) Stay: Kumbali Country Lodge Luxury lodge located in Lilongwe (City) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 4
Off to Lake Malawi
After breakfast, you will head to Lake Malawi at Cape Maclear where among other things you will snorkel in Lake Malawi’s crystal-clear waters, home to colorful cichlid fish. You'll take a boat tour to a nearby island for birdwatching and scenic views. You will enjoy kayaking along the tranquil shores or hiking the surrounding hills for stunning lake vistas. Mid-range lodge located in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) Stay: Chembe Eagles Nest Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 5
More of Lake Mlawi
This will be your second day at Cape Maclear. You'll unwind by Lake Malawi’s serene shores. You'll swim in its warm, clear waters or simply relax on the sandy beaches with stunning lake views. You'll engage with locals by visiting fishing villages, learning about their daily lives, and experiencing traditional culture. You will chat with artisans selling handmade crafts. Cape Maclear offers the perfect mix of relaxation and cultural connection in a laid-back, friendly environment, ideal for unwinding and rejuvenating. Mid-range lodge located in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) Stay: Chembe Eagles Nest Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 6
Off to Liwonde National Park
After breakfast, you'll head to Liwonde National Park. Liwonde National Park, located in southern Malawi along the Shire River, is one of the country’s most famous wildlife reserves. Established in 1973, it covers diverse landscapes including riverine swamps, savannahs, and woodlands. Liwonde is home to elephants, hippos, crocodiles, antelope, and a growing population of lions and cheetahs due to successful conservation efforts. Birdwatching is also popular, with over 400 species. The park’s rich biodiversity and serene setting make it a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Mid-range lodge located inside Liwonde NP All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Liwonde National Park Stay: Mvuu Camp Mid-range lodge located inside Liwonde NP Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 7
Early Morning Game Drive in Liwonde National Park
In Liwonde National Park, you will enjoy thrilling game drives to spot elephants, hippos, and predators like lions and cheetahs. You will explore the Shire River on a boat safari for unique wildlife views, including crocodiles and a variety of bird species. You will Participate in guided walking safaris for a closer look at the park’s flora and fauna. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting over 400 species. Additionally, you will have the chance to visit the park’s conservation projects to learn about ongoing efforts to protect and preserve its wildlife. Mid-range lodge located inside Liwonde NP All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Liwonde National Park Stay: Mvuu Camp Mid-range lodge located inside Liwonde NP Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 8
Depart to Zomba Plateau
After breakfast, you will start for Zomba. In Zomba, you'll explore the scenic Zomba Plateau with its lush forests, waterfalls, and panoramic views. You will enjoy hiking along the plateau’s trails and spotting wildlife like baboons and various bird species. You'll visit the local market to experience vibrant Malawian culture and shop for unique crafts. Mid-range hotel located less than 1hr drive from Zomba Plateau All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Zomba Plateau Stay: Kefi Hotel Mid-range hotel located less than 1hr drive from Zomba Plateau Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 9
More of Zomba Plateau
On the last day of the tour, you'll explore the Zomba market which is one of the most unique with a local touch. You'll engage and interact with the local community to exchange culture and some aspects of Malawian culture. You will take the afternoon for yourself while waiting for a delicious farewell dinner at Kefi Hotel. Mid-range hotel located less than 1hr drive from Zomba Plateau All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Zomba Plateau Stay: Kefi Hotel Mid-range hotel located less than 1hr drive from Zomba Plateau Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 10
Depart through Chileka Internation Airport in Blantyre
After breakfast in Zomba, you will head out to Blantyre at Chileka International Airport where you will catch your return flight while taking beautiful memories of Malawi and its beautiful and diverse culture. All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Chileka International Airport (Blantyre) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: All meals included 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)
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
Drinks
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?
Kumbali Country Lodge - Luxury lodge in Lilongwe (City) – All Meals Included. Meals: All Meals 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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