Duration
12-Day
Liwonde National Park, Botswana
12-Day 11 Nights in Malawi and South Luangwa
Overview
An 11 night tour through Malawi and South Luangwa offers the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and wildlife. You'll explore Lake Malawi's golden beaches and vibrant villages, then journey into Liwonde National Park for thrilling game drives and boat safaris. You'll cross into Zambia's iconic South Luangwa, renowned for walking safaris and abundant big game. From stunning landscapes to rich cultural encounters, this trip delivers a truly unforgettable African experience.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Blantyre to Lilongwe
Via Majete WR, Mt Mulanje, Zomba Plateau
Country & park
Botswana / Liwonde National Park
Style
Mid-range safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
15 years
Activities
game drives, specialized birding (with a professional birding guide), nature hikes/walks, boat trip & beach time
Accommodation
Thawale Lodge - Mid-range tented camp inside Majete WR (Malawi) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included; Breakfast Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$6,050 USD
$4,400 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$6,050 USD
$4,400 USD
Jan 1, 2028 - Dec 31, 2028
$6,050 USD
$4,400 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 accepts children who are 15 years and older.
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
Blantyre (Day 1)
Day 1-2
Majete WR
Day 3-4
Mt Mulanje
Day 5
Zomba Plateau
Day 6
Liwonde NP
Day 7-8
Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi)
Day 9
Lilongwe (City)
country
Zambia
Day 10-11
South Luangwa NP
Day 12
Mfuwe Airport (Mfuwe)
country
Malawi
End
Lilongwe (Day 12)
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.
15
Minimum age of 15 years
The minimum age for this tour is 15 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: game drives, specialized birding (with a professional birding guide), nature hikes/walks, boat trip & beach time
Game drives: open-sided 4x4 vehicle
Getting around: bus & normal 4x4 vehicle
This operator can book your international flights
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1-2
Thawale Lodge
Mid-range tented camp inside Majete WR (Malawi) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3-4
Kara O'Mula Resort
Mid-range lodge near Mt Mulanje (Malawi) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5
Sunbird Ku Chawe
Mid-range hotel inside Zomba Plateau (Malawi) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6
Chimwale Bush Camp
Mid-range self catering accommodation inside Liwonde NP (Malawi) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7-8
Capricorn by Quest-Cape Maclear Budget guest house in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi, Malawi) – All Meals Included
Budget guest house in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi, Malawi) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9
Quest Lilongwe Hotel Mid-range hotel in Lilongwe (City, Malawi) – All Meals Included +4 Photos +3 Photos
Mid-range hotel in Lilongwe (City, Malawi) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10-11
Flatdogs Camp
Mid-range lodge just outside South Luangwa NP (Zambia) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
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 to Majete Wildlife Reserve
Set within the pristine wilderness of Majete Wildlife Reserve, your safari experience is centred around expertly guided morning and evening game drives. You will head out at sunrise, when the bush comes alive, offering excellent opportunities to spot elephants, buffalo, antelope, and predators such as lions and leopards as they begin their day. In the late afternoon, you will venture out again as the light softens and wildlife becomes active once more. These evening drives are ideal for tracking the Big Five and enjoying the dramatic African sunset, often accompanied by sundowners in the bush. In between game drives, you can relax at the lodge, take in the surrounding views, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the reserve. This rhythm of early morning and late afternoon safaris ensures a rich and rewarding wildlife experience. Mid-range tented camp located inside Majete WR (Malawi) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Majete Wildlife Reserve (Malawi) Stay: Thawale Lodge Mid-range tented camp located inside Majete WR (Malawi) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Mount Mulanje
Set at the foot of the majestic Mount Mulanje, your two-night stay offers a refreshing blend of adventure and scenic beauty in one of Malawi’s most iconic landscapes. Dominating the skyline, Mount Mulanje rises dramatically with its forested slopes, granite peaks, and cool mountain air, creating the perfect setting for exploration and relaxation. During your stay, you will embark on a guided hike to Dziwe la Nkhalamba a natural rock pool nestled within the mountain, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim surrounded by untouched nature. You will also explore nearby streams and hidden pools, each offering tranquil spots to unwind and take in the stunning surroundings. The trails wind through lush forests, tea-growing landscapes, and open viewpoints, providing breathtaking vistas across the plains below. Whether hiking or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Mulanje offers a peaceful yet invigorating escape into nature. Mid-range lodge located near Mt Mulanje (Malawi) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Mount Mulanje (Malawi) Stay: Kara O'Mula Resort Mid-range lodge located near Mt Mulanje (Malawi) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Zomba Plateau
Perched above the old capital, your two-night stay on the scenic Zomba Plateau offers a peaceful escape into cool mountain air, lush forests, and sweeping views across southern Malawi. The plateau is known for its rolling grasslands, pine forests, and tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for both relaxation and light adventure. During your stay, you will enjoy guided hikes to some of the plateau’s most beautiful spots, including the impressive Williams Falls, where cascading water drops into a serene natural setting. You may also explore viewpoints such as Queen’s View and Emperor’s View, offering breathtaking panoramas stretching as far as Lake Malawi on clear days. Gentle walks through forest trails, visits to hidden streams, and quiet moments in nature complete your experience, making Zomba a perfect balance of activity and relaxation. Mid-range hotel located inside Zomba Plateau (Malawi) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Zomba Plateau (Malawi) Stay: Sunbird Ku Chawe Mid-range hotel located inside Zomba Plateau (Malawi) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Liwonde National Park
Set along the scenic banks of the Liwonde National Park, your stay offers one of Malawi’s most rewarding wildlife experiences, known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful riverine landscapes. The park is a haven for elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of birdlife, making it a standout destination for both game viewing and photography. During your stay, you will enjoy a relaxing boat safari along the Shire River, where you will drift quietly past pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, and elephants coming down to drink, all while surrounded by vibrant bird species. This water-based perspective offers a unique and intimate way to experience the park. Before your departure, you will head out on an early morning game drive, the best time to catch predators and other wildlife at their most active. This final safari offers a perfect conclusion to your time in Liwonde, combining exceptional sightings with the peaceful beauty of the African bush. Mid-range self catering accommodation located inside Liwonde NP (Malawi) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Liwonde National Park (Malawi) Stay: Chimwale Bush Camp Mid-range self catering accommodation located inside Liwonde NP (Malawi) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 7
Lake Malawi
Set on the southern shores of the breathtaking Lake Malawi, your two-night stay in Cape Maclear offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and lakeside adventure. Known for its crystal-clear waters and laid-back atmosphere, Lake Malawi is often called the “Lake of Stars,” celebrated for its beauty, warm waters, and vibrant aquatic life. During your stay, you will take a guided village walk, where you will experience daily life in a traditional fishing community, meeting locals and gaining insight into their culture and way of life. You will also enjoy a sunset cruise on the lake, where golden skies reflect over calm waters. For the more active, you can hike nearby hills for panoramic views, enjoy bird watching, or take part in water activities such as swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling among colorful cichlid fish. This lakeside escape offers a unique combination of cultural immersion and natural beauty, making it a perfect end to your journey. Budget guest house in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi, Malawi) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi, Malawi) Stay: Capricorn by Quest-Cape Maclear Budget guest house in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi, Malawi) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 9
Lilongwe
After your time at the lake, you will journey back towards Lilongwe, with a cultural stop at the remarkable Chongoni Rock Art Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you will explore ancient rock paintings that offer a fascinating insight into Malawi’s early inhabitants and rich cultural history. You will then continue to Lilongwe for an overnight stay, giving you time to relax and refresh after your travels. This stop provides a comfortable break before the next leg of your journey, as you prepare to cross into Zambia for the continuation of your adventure. Mid-range hotel in Lilongwe (City, Malawi) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Lilongwe (City, Malawi) Stay: Quest Lilongwe Hotel Mid-range hotel in Lilongwe (City, Malawi) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 10
South Luangwa National Park
You will then cross into Zambia and continue to the renowned South Luangwa National Park for a two-night stay in one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations. Known as the birthplace of the walking safari and famous for its high concentration of wildlife, South Luangwa offers an authentic and uncrowded safari experience. During your stay, you will enjoy two game drives per day—early morning and late afternoon—maximizing your chances of encountering a wide variety of animals. The park is particularly known for its large populations of elephants, buffalo, and Thornicroft’s giraffe, as well as strong predator sightings including lions and leopards, for which the park is especially well known. The Luangwa River and its lagoons attract abundant wildlife year-round, creating exceptional game viewing opportunities in a minimal disturbed environment. This makes South Luangwa a perfect finale to your journey, delivering raw, immersive safari moments in one of Africa’s finest parks. Mid-range lodge located just outside South Luangwa NP (Zambia) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: South Luangwa National Park (Zambia) Stay: Flatdogs Camp Mid-range lodge located just outside South Luangwa NP (Zambia) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
End of Tour
On your final day, after breakfast, you will be transferred to Mfuwe International Airport for your onward flight. This marks the end of your unforgettable journey, filled with diverse landscapes, rich culture, and exceptional wildlife experiences across Malawi and Zambia. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Mfuwe Airport (Mfuwe, Zambia) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not 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)
Drinks (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
Getting There
This tour starts in Blantyre and ends in Lilongwe, Malawi
This operator can book your international flights
Fly to Chileka Airport (BLZ - Check price) near Blantyre
Fly back from Lilongwe Airport (LLW - Check price)
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 accepts children who are 15 years and older.
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?
Thawale Lodge - Mid-range tented camp inside Majete WR (Malawi) – 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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