Malawi and Zambia Encompassed
Malawi and Zambia Small Group Tour
Tour Overview
This tour combines many of Malawi’s unique and attractive areas and the strong community involvement and interaction is a key aspect of the tour. Game viewing in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia, one of Africa’s best National Parks is an added attraction. There are opportunities for walking and hiking for more active travellers, on this well- balanced tour, suitable for families and individuals alike.
Tour Highlights
• Enjoy a well-balanced, all-round tour, ideal for the first-time visitor
• A tour with strong community involvement and interaction
• Stay on the shore of Lake Malawi and enjoy optional boat trips, scuba diving, kayaking, and sailing
• Search for big game in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park, one of Africa’s most unspoilt and off-the-beaten-track destinations
Tour Rating
To help our travellers choose the right tour for them we have applied a grading system of 1 to 5. Tours with a fitness level of 1 will generally be suitable for all ages and will not be particularly strenuous, whereas tours with a fitness level of 5 are likely to be physically challenging. To find out more please contact our well-travelled team who will often have first-hand experience of the destination.
Fitness
3/5
Unexplored
4/5
Culture
3/5
History
2/5
Wildlife
5/5
Tour Pace
3/5
Map + Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Blantyre, Malawi
Arrive in Blantyre where you will be met and transferred from the airport to the lodge. Your guide will meet everyone at the lodge for introductions. Overnight at Leslie Lodge or similar. (D)
Day 2: Majete (approx. driving time 3-4 hours)
After breakfast depart south to Majete Park, arriving just before lunch. This afternoon take a game drive around the lodge and watering hole. Overnight Thawale Lodge or similar. (BLD)
Note – no WIFI at Thawale Lodge.
Day 3: Majete
Spend the day in Majete National Park, with morning and afternoon game drives. Overnight Thawale Lodge or similar. (BLD)
Day 4: Zomba
Today it is a 5-hour drive back through Blantyre, Limbe and onwards to Zombe. After a picnic lunch and visit to the colourful Zomba market we make the ascent to Ku Chawe Inn, atop of Zomba Mountain. This afternoon we take a walk to the dam along the stream and past the trout farm before returning to the hotel for the evening. Overnight Ku Chawe Inn or similar. (B, Picnic Lunch, D)
Zomba
Zomba is a historic city known for its cultural and natural attractions. It was once the capital of Malawi and carries a colonial legacy seen in its architecture, including the renowned Zomba Plateau Hotel (now the Ku Chawe Inn). The Zomba Plateau, a majestic mountain rising above the city, offers scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The plateau's lush forests and diverse flora contribute to its ecological significance. Zomba is also home to Chancellor College, part of the University of Malawi, and its vibrant markets provide insight into local life. The city's rich history, coupled with its picturesque surroundings, makes Zomba a captivating destination in Malawi.
Day 5: Liwonde – Mvuu Camp
From the plateau it is a short 2-hour drive to Liwonde park. From the gate its an hour’s game drive to Mvuu Camp where we arrive in time for lunch. This afternoon head back into the park for game viewing before returning to the camp for dinner. Overnight Mvuu Camp or similar. (BLD)
Day 6: Liwonde
Spend today at Liwonde park with morning and afternoon game activities. Choice of boat safari or game drives. Overnight Mvuu Camp or similar. (BLD)
Day 7: Cape Maclear
Cross the river by boat and head towards Cape Maclear, stopping en route at fishing villages, historical sites, and local points of interest. On arrival check in to your lodge and the rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight Chembe Eagles Nest or similar. (BLD)
Day 8: Cape Maclear
Spend today exploring the lake. Boat trips, scuba diving, kayaking, and sailing are all available as optional extras. Overnight Chembe Eagles Nest or similar. (BD)
Day 9: Senga Bay
From the lake it is a 3-hour drive to Mua Mission where we stop for our picnic lunch and a visit to the cultural museum, before continuing to Senga Bay for an overnight stay (approx. 2 hours). Overnight Safari Beach Lodge or similar. (B, Picnic Lunch, D)
Day 10: South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Depart the lake after an early breakfast and after a brief stop in Lilongwe to collect your picnic lunch, continue to Zambia. Cross the border and arrival in Mfuwe, South Luangwa late afternoon. Overnight at Flatdogs Lodge or similar. (B, Picnic Lunch, D)
South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is a wildlife haven renowned for its diverse ecosystem and intimate safari experiences. Nestled along the Luangwa River, the park is home to a plethora of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and abundant bird species. Its pioneering walking safaris, led by knowledgeable guides, offer a unique perspective on the park's flora and fauna. Night drives provide glimpses into the nocturnal activities of predators. The park's picturesque landscapes, ranging from woodlands to riverine habitats, add to its allure. With over 400 bird species, it is a paradise for birdwatchers. South Luangwa offers a more secluded and authentic safari experience, supporting conservation initiatives and providing opportunities for cultural interactions with local communities.
Flatdogs
Flatdogs Camp is something of a Luangwa institution. Once a camp known for its overland trucks, backpackers, and lively bar, it has now changed direction slightly, offering accommodation for those looking for a more comfortable stay in the valley. The camp prides itself on offering this at a fraction of the price of the more upmarket lodges. It has a good-sized pool, plenty of space to relax under a tree with a book and guests can enjoy birdwatching between game drives. Walking and driving safaris with passionate guides explore the Mfuwe area of the South Luangwa National Park.
Days 11-12: Luangwa – Flatdogs
Spend two days exploring the park with morning and afternoon/evening game drives Overnight Flatdogs Lodge or similar. (BLD)
Day 13: Dzalanyama Forest, Malawi
Return back through Chipata and re-enter Malawi, then it is a 2-hour drive to Dzalanyama reserve. Arrival at the lodge is late afternoon. Spend the evening at leisure. Overnight Dzalanyama Lodge or similar. (B, Picnic Lunch, D)
Day 14: Dzalanyama Forest
A day to explore the forest - walking or cycling is included or we can arrange a cultural program for the morning. Overnight Dzalanyama Lodge or similar. (BLD)
Day 15: Dzalanyama Forest – Lilongwe Departure
From Dzalanyama it is a 2-hour drive to Lilongwe and the airport for your departure flight. (B)
Tour Inclusions
Arrival and departure transfers
Overland transport throughout with professional driver
Flight from Mfuwe to Lusaka or Lilongwe
All accommodation
Game drives
National Park Fees
Services of English-speaking guide / tour leader
Meals as listed
B – Breakfast
L – Lunch
D – Dinner
Entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary
Feedback from our Travellers
Essential Info
Foreign Office Travel Warnings
Before booking your tour, please familiarise yourself with the country specific information provided by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) - www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. This includes important information such as latest immigration requirements, and details of any travel advisories.
We constantly monitor the advice posted by the FCDO. In particular we will always advise clients of any travel warnings. At present there are no warnings against travel to the parts of Malawi and Zambia that we visit on this tour. Please feel free to contact us should you have any specific concerns or would like to know in detail what measures are being taken to ensure visits remain trouble free and without incident.
It should be noted that this information applies to British citizens. Other nationals are asked to check the current position of their respective government.
Visa Information
At the time of writing British, US and Australian nationals require a visa for a tourist visit to Malawi and Zambia. For further details please visit the applicable website shown below.
British Nationals - www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
US Nationals - travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html
Australian Nationals - www.smartraveller.gov.au
Other nationals should check the latest requirements with the authorities in their home country, or with the destination’s nearest embassy or consulate.
Should you require any documentation to support a visa application, such as a letter of invitation, upon request this will be provided by Undiscovered Destinations after receipt of your balance payment.
As it is the travellers’ responsibility to ensure that they meet all entry requirements it is essential that you check the rules and any other conditions at the time of booking and again when making your balance payment. In addition, we would strongly advise that you make a final check around two weeks before your arrival. This is important as requirements can change at short notice. Undiscovered Destinations, when possible, will provide guidance about entry rules, but in the first instance please contact the relevant authorities, including the applicable embassy or consulate for assistance.
Passports
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, valid for at least six months after the date of return to your country.
We strongly advise that your passport contains a minimum of two blank pages, as this may be a requirement of the local immigration authorities. In addition, certain countries will stipulate that the two blank pages are opposite each other. If you are unable to meet these requirements, you may be refused boarding by your airline or denied entry by the immigration authorities.
For specific information about the requirements for your destination please check with the country’s embassy or consulate. Alternatively, UK citizens can visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
Vaccinations & Protection
As with travel to most parts of Africa, we strongly recommend that you contact your doctor’s surgery or a specialist travel clinic for up-to-date information, advice, and the necessary vaccinations. For a visit of less than one month, almost certainly you will be advised to have immunisations against the following: Diphtheria and Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Meningitis. The use of a DEET-containing insect repellent is highly recommended.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in your home country can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of booking with Undiscovered Destinations that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses (including cover for Covid-19 conditions) and emergency repatriation to your home country and be valid for the entire duration of your holiday.
Local Conditions
When travelling to our destinations, many of which are underdeveloped and untouristed by mainstream tourism, a good deal of patience and a sense of humour is an important attribute. This will help you to cope with problems such as ageing or poor infrastructure and when maintenance may not be as high as we would always like.
The choice of appropriate accommodation in some towns and cities (particularly the smaller places) can be limited, and standards of both service and maintenance can be less than polished. Guides and other service providers in some of our destinations do not always have the decades of collective practice and experience that their counterparts in more developed countries can draw upon. Although we will always try and resolve any issues as quickly as possible, on occasions there may be some shortcomings which no matter how hard we try will be unavoidable.
