Lion in dry forest landscape
Rhinos in Majete Game Reserve
Elephant herd in Liwonde National Park
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Wild Frontiers: A Journey Across Malawi & Zambia

Wild Frontiers: A Journey Across Malawi & Zambia

A 15‑day guided Malawi and Zambia circuit combining Majete, Liwonde, Lake Malawi and South Luangwa for wildlife, boat safaris, community visits and non‑motorized water activities.

Trip Summary

This fully inclusive 15‑day itinerary takes travellers from southern Malawi through highland tea country and lake shores, finishing in Zambia’s South Luangwa. Guests experience a mix of game drives in Majete and Liwonde, boat safaris and water‑based activities on Lake Malawi, plus cultural visits to Mua Mission and community programmes. Accommodation is a mix of lodges and camps (Ng’ona Lodge, Game Haven, Ku Chawe, Mvuu, Thornicroft), with transfers by road and a cross‑border transfer into Zambia. The trip is paced to combine wildlife viewing (shared game drives), easy hikes and community interaction, making it suitable for travellers wanting a varied Malawian experience. Included are park fees, guided activities and most meals as per itinerary; exclusions typically cover international flights, visas, motorized water sports and personal expenses. The tour works well for travellers seeking wildlife plus cultural context and lake relaxation.

Key Features

  • Game drives in Majete and Liwonde National Parks
  • Boat safaris and water‑based activities on Lake Malawi
  • Cultural visits to Mua Mission and community programmes
  • Cross-border travel experience to Zambia
  • Mix of wildlife viewing and cultural interaction
  • Non-motorized water activities and kayaking

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Blantyre

Arrival in Malawi through Blantyre and you will be met on arrival at the airport, meet and greet, get transferred to Leslie Lodge. Pre-tour briefing this evening from your guide.

Stay: Leslie Lodge (Bed & Breakfast)
Day 2 Blantyre to Majete Game Reserve

After breakfast depart south and drive to Majete Park - it's a 3 - 4 hr. drive so arrival is before lunch. Afternoon local walk along the river or at leisure on the banks of the river - optional boat cruise or fishing.

Stay: Ng'ona Lodge (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)
Day 3 Full Day in Majete

Full day of game activities in Majete Wildlife Reserve. Morning and afternoon game drives with opportunities to see elephants, lions, and other wildlife.

Stay: Ng'ona Lodge (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)
Day 4 Majete to Thyolo Highlands

After breakfast and morning game activity we will depart Majete and drive up to Thyolo highlands, your destination is Game Haven Lodge. Lunch at the historical Mandala house and arrival at the lodge early afternoon.

Stay: Game Haven Lodge (Executive Nyala room)
Day 5 Thyolo Highlands Experience

Explore the beautiful Thyolo tea estates and highlands. Visit tea plantations and enjoy the cooler mountain climate.

Stay: Game Haven Lodge
Day 6 Thyolo to Zomba

Depart and head Northwards with a stop at the post office museum before continuing to the old capital Zomba. A brief tour of the town, then head up the escarpment to the comfortable Ku Chawe Inn. Time for a guided walk into the hills.

Stay: Ku Chawe Inn
Day 7 Zomba to Cape Maclear

Breakfast then continue to Liwonde town, where you will do a boat safari into Liwonde National Park. Game viewing by boat is rewarding and peaceful. Lunch at the boat drop off point, then continue towards Cape Maclear.

Stay: Chembe Eagles Nest (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)
Day 8 Cape Maclear Lake Activities

Full day at Lake Malawi with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and relaxation on the beautiful beaches.

Stay: Chembe Eagles Nest (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)
Day 9 Cape Maclear to Mua Mission

Depart and it's a 3 hr drive to Mua Mission - the cultural epicenter of Malawi. Cultural program including a tour and visit of the museum, a tour of the craft workshop then a 2 / 3 hr. cultural dance.

Stay: Mua Mission Chalets (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)
Day 10 Mua Mission to Lilongwe

Drive up the escarpment, with a stop in Dedza pottery for a light refreshment, before continuing to Lilongwe and arriving at the Sunbird Capital Hotel.

Stay: Sunbird Capital Hotel (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)
Day 11 Community Visit in Lilongwe

Full day of community visit activities to learn about local life and culture in Malawi's capital city.

Stay: Sunbird Capital Hotel (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)
Day 12 Lilongwe to South Luangwa, Zambia

Breakfast then it's a 2 hr. transfer to the border, where you will be handed to our Zambian counterpart to transfer you for 3 hrs. to Mfuwe area of South Luangwa National Park. Picnic lunch en route.

Stay: Thornicroft Lodge (Full Board)
Day 13 South Luangwa Game Activities

Full day in South Luangwa National Park with morning and afternoon game drives. Known for its walking safaris and excellent wildlife viewing.

Stay: Thornicroft Lodge (Full Board)
Day 14 Final Day in South Luangwa

Last day of game activities in South Luangwa with 2 x shared game drives, park fees and all meals included.

Stay: Thornicroft Lodge (Full Board)
Day 15 Departure

Today you will be transferred to the airport in Mfuwe for your flight to Lusaka [Not Included] or transfer to Lilongwe [included] and the end of your tour.

Included Items

  • Accommodation as per schedule
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Game Park Fees
  • Game drives and guided activities
  • Non-motorized water sport activities and kayaking
  • Walking, hiking and community contribution
  • Services of a professional guide
  • Vehicle and Fuel
  • Airport transfers

Excluded Items

  • International flights
  • Visas
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Drinks and alcoholic beverages unless specified
  • Motorized water sports and scuba diving
  • Gratuities and personal spending
  • Activities not explicitly listed in the inclusions

Route Map

Map shows approximate locations
From
$6,623.23 per person

Trip Details

Duration 15 Days / 14 Nights
Group Size Small Groups
Difficulty Moderate
Location Malawi & Zambia

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