Duration
12-Day
Liwonde National Park, Malawi
12-Day Budget Birding in Malawi
Overview
Malawi is a top birding destination with over 650 species in diverse habitats. Dzalanyama Forest offers miombo specials like Boulder Chat. Liwonde National Park combines birding and wildlife, with species like Pel's Fishing Owl and Lilian's Lovebird. Zomba Plateau hosts montane forest birds such as the White-winged Apalis, while Lake Malawi National Park offers rich waterbird life. Safe, scenic, and welcoming. Malawi is perfect for budget birders.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Lilongwe to Blantyre (City)
Via Dzalanyama FR, Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi), Liwonde NP
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, specialized birding (with a professional birding guide), nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Accommodation
Dzalanyama Forest Lodge - Mid-range lodge inside Dzalanyama FR – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included; Meals at Own Expense
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$6,600 USD
$6,050 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$6,600 USD
$6,050 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
Dzalanyama FR
Day 4-6
Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi)
Day 7-9
Liwonde NP
Day 10-11
Zomba Plateau
End
Blantyre (City) (Day 12)
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, specialized birding (with a professional birding guide), nature hikes/walks & boat trip
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
Dzalanyama Forest Lodge
Mid-range lodge inside Dzalanyama FR – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4-6
Chembe Eagles Nest Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7-9
Chimwale Bush Camp
Mid-range self catering accommodation inside Liwonde NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10-11
Sunbird Ku Chawe
Mid-range hotel inside Zomba Plateau – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Meals at Own Expense
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 and Transfer to Dzalanyama Forest Lodge
On arrival at Lilongwe International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our team and begin your birding adventure in Malawi. After a short meet-and-greet, we’ll transfer you southwest through rural landscapes to Dzalanyama Forest Lodge (approx. 2.5 hours). Nestled in miombo woodland, the lodge offers a peaceful setting ideal for birders. On arrival, check in, settle into your chalet, and take time to relax after your journey. Enjoy the natural surroundings and keep an eye out for your first bird sightings around the lodge. In the late afternoon, we’ll gather for a trip briefing where your guide will outline the itinerary, key species to look out for, and what to expect in the days ahead. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and prepare your gear. Later, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner in the cozy lodge dining area, followed by a quiet evening under the stars. Tomorrow, the birding begins in earnest! Mid-range lodge located inside Dzalanyama FR All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lilongwe (City) Stay: Dzalanyama Forest Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Dzalanyama FR Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Birding
Your first full day of birding begins early with coffee and light snacks served at 5:30 AM. By 6:00 AM, we head into the rich miombo woodlands of Dzalanyama Forest Reserve for a 4-hour birding walk. This habitat is home to several miombo specialists and regional endemics such as Miombo Pied Barbet, Sterling's Wren-Warbler, Boulder Chat, Olive-headed Weaver, and Whyte’s Barbet. With luck, we may also encounter the elusive Miombo Rock Thrush or the striking Western Miombo Sunbird. After a rewarding morning, we return to the lodge for a well-earned brunch, followed by time to relax, either birding casually around the lodge, resting, or enjoying the serene surroundings. In the late afternoon, we set out again for a shorter birding session, targeting species missed earlier and exploring new parts of the reserve. Return to the lodge by sunset for a hearty dinner, a checklist review, and stories by the fire. Mid-range lodge located inside Dzalanyama FR All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Dzalanyama Forest Reserve Stay: Dzalanyama Forest Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Dzalanyama FR Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
More Birding and Hike to Water fall
Another exciting day begins with coffee at 5:30 AM, followed by a morning birding walk at 6:00 AM through the miombo woodlands. We’ll explore different trails to increase our chances of spotting more miombo specialists such as the Cabanis’s Bunting, Green-capped Eremomela, Miombo Tit, and Black-eared Seedeater. Dzalanyama’s diverse terrain offers excellent opportunities for photography and quiet observation. We return by late morning for a relaxing brunch and rest at the lodge. In the afternoon, we embark on a scenic hike to the forest waterfall, a peaceful spot deep within Dzalanyama. Along the way, keep your binoculars ready for forest-edge birds like the Southern Hyliota or the secretive Grey-olive Greenbul. After enjoying the cool spray of the falls, we bird our way back toward the lodge, aiming for a few last sightings before dusk. The day ends with a warm dinner, bird checklist review, and time to relax under the stars. Mid-range lodge located inside Dzalanyama FR All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Dzalanyama Forest Reserve Stay: Dzalanyama Forest Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Dzalanyama FR Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Lake Malawi via a Cultural Village
We start the day with an early breakfast at the lodge before saying goodbye to the miombo woodlands of Dzalanyama. Our journey takes us eastward toward the sparkling shores of Lake Malawi, specifically the laid-back village of Cape Maclear, located within Lake Malawi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, we make a brief but enriching stop at Chingalire Cultural Village, where you'll experience traditional Malawian music, dance, and storytelling, offering a deeper connection to the culture and people of Malawi. After the visit, we continue through scenic landscapes to Cape Maclear, arriving in the afternoon. Upon arrival, we check in at Capricorn by Quest Lodge, a cosy, lakeside retreat perfect for relaxing after the journey. Enjoy some downtime before gathering for a special welcome dinner on the lake’s edge, with the soothing sounds of water and a stunning sunset to mark the beginning of your Lake Malawi birding experience. Mid-range lodge located in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) All meals included Drinking water (Other 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 Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Birding at the Lake Malawi National Park
The day begins with coffee at 5:30 AM, followed by early morning birding along the shoreline of Lake Malawi. This peaceful area is home to species like the African Fish Eagle, White-breasted Cormorant, African Finfoot, and Malachite Kingfisher. After shoreline birding, we head into Lake Malawi National Park for a guided hike to Otter Point, offering stunning views of the lake and chances to spot terrestrial species like the Livingstone’s Flycatcher and Brown-breasted Barbet. We return to the lodge for a relaxed breakfast and some downtime. In the late afternoon, we set off on a sundowner boat ride to Thumbi Island, a scenic journey across the lake. Here, you’ll enjoy snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, discovering the park’s famous colourful cichlid fish, found only in Lake Malawi. As the sun sets over the water, we cruise back to shore and wrap up the day with a peaceful evening and lakeside dinner at the lodge. Mid-range lodge located in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) All meals included Drinking water (Other 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 Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
More of Lake Malawi
We begin with coffee at 5:30 AM, then head out for early morning birding along the trails near Cape Maclear. As we explore, we pass by historic missionary graves, silent reminders of Malawi’s colonial and spiritual past, nestled peacefully in the landscape. Expect sightings of Lilac Breasted Roller, Three banded Plover, Drongos, Trumpet hornbill, Bohn, Cromberk, Mocking and Rock Chats, Fire finch wax bill, Puff back and big Owl. After a fulfilling morning, we return to the lodge for a hearty brunch and time to relax. In the afternoon, we embark on another scenic boat ride to "The Gap", a narrow channel towards Domwe Island, great for spotting kingfishers, cormorants, and possibly otters. Later, we enjoy a guided village walk through Cape Maclear, meeting locals, visiting a fish market, and learning about daily life. It’s a warm, cultural experience that adds meaning to the trip. We return to the lodge for a delicious dinner, closing the day by the lake under the stars. Mid-range lodge located in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) All meals included Drinking water (Other 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 Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Liwonde National Park
After an early breakfast, we depart Cape Maclear and drive south to the renowned Liwonde National Park, one of Malawi’s top wildlife and birding destinations. Arrive by midday and check in at Chimwala Bush Camp, a peaceful, eco-friendly camp located on the park’s edge. After settling in, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch, followed by a short rest before heading out on your first birding safari in the park. Liwonde offers an incredible mix of riverine, savannah, and woodland habitats. We’ll look for specials like the Collared Palm Thrush—a Liwonde highlight and other species such as the African Pitta (seasonal), White-backed Night Heron, Southern Ground Hornbill, Lilian’s Lovebird, White-browed Coucal, African Openbill, Hadada Ibis, African Darter, Grey Heron, and Helmeted Shrike. The Shire River draws in both birds and wildlife, making for spectacular sightings. We return to camp at sunset for a relaxing dinner under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the bush. Mid-range self catering accommodation located inside Liwonde NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Liwonde National Park Stay: Chimwale Bush Camp Mid-range self catering accommodation located inside Liwonde NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
More of Liwonde National Park
The day begins with coffee at 5:30 AM, followed by an early morning birding game drive through the rich landscapes of Liwonde National Park. As the sun rises, the bush comes alive with both birds and wildlife. Look out for specials like Brown-breasted Barbet, Lilian’s Lovebird, African Fish Eagle, Spur-winged Goose, and White-backed Night Heron, alongside iconic mammals such as elephant, sable antelope, hippo, and possibly black rhino. The park’s mix of woodlands, floodplains, and the Shire River offers exceptional sightings. We return to Chimwala Bush Camp for a well-earned brunch, followed by time to relax—enjoy the peaceful surroundings, take a nap, or go through your growing bird list. In the late afternoon, we head out again for an evening game drive, catching the golden hour light as birds like the Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl and Nightjars begin to appear. After sunset, we return to camp for a delicious dinner, rounding off a rich day in the wild. Mid-range self catering accommodation located inside Liwonde NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Liwonde National Park Stay: Chimwale Bush Camp Mid-range self catering accommodation located inside Liwonde NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Birding on the Shire River
Your final day in Liwonde National Park begins with coffee at 5:30 AM, followed by one last early morning birding and game drive. This is a great chance to track any remaining target species or animals not yet seen. Keep an eye out for Böhm’s Bee-eater, African Hawk-Eagle, Yellow-billed Stork, and Purple Heron, along with elephants, buffalo, antelope, and other wildlife in the cooler morning hours. After a rewarding drive, return to Chimwala Bush Camp for brunch and a bit of rest. In the late afternoon, we take to the water for a memorable sundowner boat safari on the Shire River. This peaceful cruise offers close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and often elephants drinking or bathing at the water’s edge. Birding along the shoreline is excellent, with regular sightings of African Jacana, Fish Eagles, White-fronted Bee-eaters, and Pied Kingfishers. As the sun sets over the river, we toast the day with a drink, then return to camp for a final dinner under the stars. Mid-range self catering accommodation located inside Liwonde NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Liwonde National Park Stay: Chimwale Bush Camp Mid-range self catering accommodation located inside Liwonde NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Zomba platue
After an early morning breakfast at Chimwala Bush Camp, we depart Liwonde and head south toward the lush highlands of the Zomba Plateau—a scenic drive through tea estates and rolling hills. By midday, we arrive and check in at Kuchawe Inn, a charming lodge perched on the edge of the plateau, offering cool mountain air and sweeping views. After lunch and a short rest, we head out for afternoon birding in the evergreen montane forests and wooded valleys. Zomba Plateau is known for its rich birdlife and several montane forest endemics. Key species to look out for include the White-winged Apalis, Thyolo Alethe, Green-headed Oriole, Olive Sunbird, Malawi Batis, and Forest Double-collared Sunbird. These forests also shelter Livingstone’s Turaco and Bar-throated Apalis. We return to Kuchawe Inn before sunset to relax and enjoy a delicious dinner, reflecting on the day’s sightings and preparing for more birding adventures ahead. Mid-range hotel located inside Zomba Plateau All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Zomba Plateau Stay: Sunbird Ku Chawe Mid-range hotel located inside Zomba Plateau Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
More of Zomba Platue
Your final day on the Zomba Plateau begins with a leisurely morning of birding, exploring forest trails, streams, and open glades one last time. With the cool mountain air and misty forest paths, it’s a peaceful and rewarding experience. We'll search again for plateau endemics and specials like the White-winged Apalis, Thyolo Alethe, Malawi Batis, and Green-headed Oriole, as well as common forest birds such as the Olive Sunbird, Livingstone’s Turaco, and Bar-throated Apalis. This is your chance to catch any species you may have missed and enjoy one final immersion in Malawi’s birding beauty. After brunch and time to relax at Kuchawe Inn, you can enjoy the serene surroundings or casually birdwatch from the gardens. In the evening, we gather for a special farewell dinner, celebrating the incredible diversity seen, the experiences shared, and the unforgettable journey through Malawi’s birding hotspots. Mid-range hotel located inside Zomba Plateau All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Zomba Plateau Stay: Sunbird Ku Chawe Mid-range hotel located inside Zomba Plateau Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
Departure through Chileka
After a final breakfast at Kuchawe Inn, we say goodbye to the cool highlands of the Zomba Plateau and begin the journey to Chileka International Airport in Blantyre for your departure. The drive offers one last glimpse of Malawi’s scenic beauty—rolling hills, rural villages, and perhaps a final bird sighting along the way. On arrival at the airport, our team will provide full assistance with check-in procedures, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. With your birding adventure now complete, you depart with unforgettable memories, a rich bird list, and a deeper appreciation for Malawi’s natural and cultural treasures. Thank you for exploring the Warm Heart of Africa with us, safe travels and we hope to see you again on another birding journey! Meals at own expense Drinks not included
Destination: Blantyre (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Meals at own expense 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
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?
Dzalanyama Forest Lodge - Mid-range lodge inside Dzalanyama FR – 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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