Duration
12-Day
Liwonde National Park, Malawi
This 12-day Malawi journey combines wildlife, culture, and lakeside relaxation. Begin with safari experiences in Majete Wildlife Reserve, followed by a stay in the scenic Satemwa Tea Estate. Continue to Liwonde National Park for exciting game drives along the Shire River. The adventure ends at Lake Malawi with time on the pristine Mumbo Island and a luxury lakeside lodge, offering swimming, snorkeling, and breathtaking views of the "Lake of Stars.".
Plan snapshot
Duration
12-Day
Route
Blantyre to Lilongwe
Via Majete WR, Thyolo District, Liwonde NP
Country & park
Malawi / Liwonde National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
18 years
Activities
game drives & walking safaris (with an armed guide)
Accommodation
Mkulumadzi Lodge - Luxury lodge inside Majete WR
Meals
Day 1: Lunch & Dinner Included; Day 2: All Meals Included; All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
USD
Before booking
Quote flow
This luxury tour uses lodges and tented camps.
This tour will be organized exclusively for you. However, wildlife viewing activities are run by the lodges/camps and will be shared with others.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Solo travelers can book this private tour.
The minimum age for this tour is 18 years.
Day 1-2
Luxury lodge inside Majete WR
Day 1: Lunch & Dinner Included; Day 2: All Meals Included
Day 3-4
Luxury guest house in Thyolo District – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5-7
Luxury tented camp inside Liwonde NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8-9
Mid-range tented camp on Mumbo Island (Lake Malawi) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10-11
Luxury lodge at Nankumba Peninsula (Lake Malawi) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
(No accommodation)
Breakfast Included
Tour step
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Upon arrival at Chileka (Blantyre) International Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to Majete Wildlife Reserve, a scenic drive of approximately 2.5 hours. Majete, located in the southern region of Malawi, is one of Africa’s most inspiring conservation success stories and the only Big Five reserve in the country. Upon arrival, check in to your comfortable bush chalet and enjoy lunch overlooking the surrounding wilderness. In the afternoon, embark on your first exciting game drive through the reserve, where you may encounter elephants, buffalo, rhino, lion, leopard, and a wide variety of antelope species. Return to the lodge as the sun sets for a delicious dinner and overnight stay surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the African bush. Luxury lodge located inside Majete WR Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included) All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)
Day 2
Wake up early to the sounds of the bush and head out on a morning game drive with your experienced ranger. The cool morning hours offer excellent opportunities to observe wildlife as animals become active before the heat of the day. After breakfast back at the lodge, enjoy some leisure time to relax by the pool, admire the surrounding riverine forest, or simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the reserve. Later in the afternoon, set out on another safari activity, which may include a game drive or guided bush walk. As the day draws to a close, return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay under the African stars. Luxury lodge located inside Majete WR All meals included All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)
Day 3
After breakfast, depart Majete Wildlife Reserve and travel through the scenic landscapes of southern Malawi to the beautiful Satemwa Tea Estate in the Thyolo district. This region is renowned for its rolling emerald-green tea plantations and breathtaking views of Mount Mulanje and the Shire Highlands. Upon arrival, check in at Huntingdon House, a historic colonial residence set within the working tea and coffee estate. Spend the afternoon exploring the manicured gardens, enjoying a tea tasting experience, or simply relaxing while taking in the tranquil surroundings. Dinner and overnight are enjoyed at the estate. Luxury guest house located in Thyolo District All meals included Drinks not included
Day 4
Today is dedicated to experiencing the charm and heritage of Satemwa Tea Estate. After breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of the tea and coffee plantations, learning about the history of the estate and the traditional processes used in tea production. A tea tasting session allows you to sample some of the estate’s finest blends. Guests can also enjoy optional activities such as mountain biking, hiking through the surrounding forests, or a visit to nearby communities. In the evening, return to the lodge for dinner and a relaxing overnight stay. Luxury guest house located in Thyolo District All meals included Drinks not included
Day 5
After breakfast, depart the tea estate and travel approximately four and a half hours to Liwonde National Park, one of Malawi’s most scenic and wildlife-rich protected areas. After arriving at the pick-up point, a short transfer brings you to your safari camp set along the banks of the Shire River. Check in and enjoy lunch while overlooking the surrounding plains where wildlife often gathers. Later in the afternoon, head out on a game drive through the park’s diverse landscapes of riverine forests, floodplains, and baobab-dotted savannahs. Return to camp in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay. Luxury tented camp located inside Liwonde NP All meals included All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)
Day 6
Start your day with an early morning safari activity as the park awakens. Game drives offer the chance to see elephants, hippos, crocodiles, antelope, and a variety of bird species. After breakfast, enjoy some leisure time at camp, relaxing on your private deck or watching wildlife gather near the river. In the afternoon, set out on another safari activity, which may include a game drive, guided walking safari, or boat safari along the Shire River. As the sun sets over the floodplains, return to camp for dinner and overnight. Luxury tented camp located inside Liwonde NP All meals included All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)
Day 7
Another day in Liwonde allows for deeper exploration of this beautiful national park. Begin with a morning game drive to search for predators and other wildlife species. The Shire River provides exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for large herds of elephants and pods of hippos. After lunch and some relaxation time at camp, enjoy a late afternoon safari activity before returning to camp for dinner under the stars. Luxury tented camp located inside Liwonde NP All meals included All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)
Day 8
After breakfast, depart Liwonde and travel to the shores of Lake Malawi. From the mainland, a boat transfer takes you across the crystal-clear waters to Mumbo Island, a small, pristine island within Lake Malawi National Park. This unspoiled tropical paradise is known for its spectacular snorkeling and clear waters filled with colorful cichlid fish. Upon arrival, check in to your island chalet perched on the rocks overlooking the lake. Spend the afternoon swimming, kayaking, or relaxing in a hammock with breathtaking lake views before enjoying dinner and an overnight stay in this tranquil island setting. Mid-range tented camp located on Mumbo Island (Lake Malawi) All meals included Drinks not included
Day 9
Today is free to enjoy the natural beauty of Mumbo Island. Guests can swim in the warm waters of the lake, snorkel among vibrant fish-filled reefs, kayak along the island’s hidden coves, or hike along scenic forest trails. Alternatively, relax on the beach or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere from your private deck. As evening approaches, watch the sunset over Lake Malawi before gathering for dinner and another relaxing night on the island. Mid-range tented camp located on Mumbo Island (Lake Malawi) All meals included Drinks not included
Day 10
After breakfast, return by boat to the mainland before transferring to Pumulani Lodge, located on the scenic Nankumba Peninsula along the shores of Lake Malawi. The lodge is beautifully positioned among lush hills and rocky outcrops with spectacular views over the lake. Check into your spacious villa and enjoy lunch before spending the afternoon relaxing by the infinity pool, walking along the sandy beach, or enjoying optional water activities such as kayaking or sailing. Dinner and overnight are enjoyed at the lodge. Luxury lodge located at Nankumba Peninsula (Lake Malawi) All meals included All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)
Day 11
Spend the day enjoying the many activities offered by the lodge and the surrounding lake. Guests may choose to snorkel, sail, kayak, take guided nature walks, or join a traditional dhow sunset cruise across the shimmering waters. Lake Malawi is famously known as the “Lake of Stars,” and in the evening you may witness fishermen lighting lanterns on their boats, creating a magical scene across the lake. Return to the lodge for dinner and your final overnight stay. Luxury lodge located at Nankumba Peninsula (Lake Malawi) All meals included All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)
Day 12
After breakfast, depart the lodge and transfer approximately four and a half hours to Kamuzu International Airport for your onward flight (not included in costs). As your journey comes to an end, take with you unforgettable memories of Malawi’s diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, warm hospitality, and the tranquil beauty of Lake Malawi. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Non-alcoholic drinks
Tour step
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport.
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)
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)
Offered by
Discover Africa’s wild beauty with Ranger Buck Safaris, specialists in arranging custom designed luxury safaris across Southern and East Africa. From the Serengeti to the Okavango Delta, enjoy bespoke itineraries featuring world-class lodges, expert guides, and exclusive wildlife experiences. With personalized service and unforgettable encounters, Ranger Buck Safaris offers the ultimate in high-end safari experiences..!!
Office In
South Africa
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2019)
Member Of
APTA & SATSA
Tour Types
Custom luxury tours that can start every day
Destinations
Botswana, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Traveler feedback
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Every part of our trip, including Johannesburg, Mala Mala, Victoria Falls and Cape Town, was well managed and included knowledgeable guides. Each experience was full of learning and an amazing trip overall. The safari in Mala Mala was the highlight where our guide, Nick, did his best to assure we would see all the possible animals in this game reserve. Even last minute adds, like our helicopter tour over Victoria Falls and the hot air balloon ride over wine country in Cape Town, were handled extremely well. I would highly recommend this trip put together by Ranger Bucks! We felt the cost of the trip was very fair, with the fine places we stayed, the management of our time and communication was great.
Karen · United States
We use the amazing Lindsay, from Ranger Buck for all our Safari bookings and have yet to deal with a more professional team. Each step of the process is handled with the utmost care and expertise. There is an exceptional attention to detail which ensures every aspect of the trip is perfect. You always feel like a VIP! I highly recommend the Ranger Buck team for a seamless and extraordinary travel experience. :-)
Avril Reitz · South Africa
Archie and Johnny at Ranger Buck Safaris were a pleasure to work with. They arranged everything for our fabulous trip, not missing any details. During the planning they were responsive and helpful, answering all our questions in a timely manner. During the trip they were easy to reach and so helpful! Their service, along with the service at all the places they arranged for us to visit, was fantastic. All of the places they picked for us were amazing...the hotels, the safari lodges, the animals, the activities, the game drives, etc were all top-notch. The food was out of this world. I'm at a complete loss for words when it comes to describing the amazing people that took care of us at the hotels and safari lodges. From the safari guides to the chefs, the greeters to the housekeeping staff...everyone was beyond belief. I really can't think of the words to express how blown away we were by the level of service and the friendliness of everyone we encountered. From now on when anyone I know expresses interest in a trip to Africa, I will immediately say "GO!", and I will give them the number for Ranger Buck Safaris. And if (when?!) we get a chance to go back, I wouldn't trust anyone else to plan my trip. Thank you Archie and Johnny!!! You're the best.
Jacquie · United States
Our Deserts and Waterfalls adventure in Namibia during May and June was nothing short of spectacular. From the initial planning phase to the very end, everything was meticulously organized. Johnny from Ranger Buck Safaris provided excellent suggestions based on our brief. Our request was quite complex—we moved around a lot and wanted to experience everything. We had a once-in-a-lifetime experience staying in a POD in Sossusvlei. The 3.5-hour transfer from Walvis Bay to Sossusvlei allowed us to truly immerse ourselves in Namibia’s desert landscape. The POD itself was breathtaking—no signs of villages or cities, just us, the desert, and the wildlife, including oryx, hyenas, and birds." We flew to Zimbabwe to experience the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. Our itinerary included a guided visit to the falls, a thrilling helicopter flight over the cascades, and a delightful lunch at a restaurant with a view of the falls. Afterward, we moved downstream to a lodge on the Zambezi River, where we enjoyed a few relaxing nights.” Wonderful trip
Jackie · South Africa
Practical answers
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.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Mkulumadzi Lodge - Luxury lodge inside Majete WR. Meals: Day 1: Lunch & Dinner Included; Day 2: All Meals Included
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
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
This tour is offered by Ranger Buck Safaris, 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.
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