Southern Explorer: South Luangwa & Southern Malawi

Experience the wilds of South Luangwa and then explore Southern Malawi in style. This tour takes you on an epic adventure; encompassing some of Malawi’s best destinations and the Zambian bush… We would be happy to tweak this trip to make it the perfect trip for you.

Upon arrival at Lilongwe International Airport, your Malawian Style guide will welcome you and transfer you to Latitude 13 Hotel for a night before proceeding to South Luangwa National Park. During your stay at Latitude, you’ll be able to relax in style whilst enjoying some of the best food in Lilongwe and the best wine. The collection is extensive.

Here you will spend the next 3 days. Kafunta is in a fantastic location overlooking a game rich flood plain adjacent to the Luangwa River and the South Luangwa National Park. Kafunta River Lodge is said by many to be one of the best wildlife viewing points in Africa. After a day of game drives you will be able to relax around the camp fire and share stories of your game drive experience.

After breakfast it’s time to hit the road and head to Salima, it’s approximately a 7-hour drive from South Luangwa. From Salima there is a boat transfer to the island which takes about 20 minutes. Blue Zebra Island Lodge is tucked away on Nankoma Island, a part of the Marelli Island archipelago. During your time on the island you will be able to enjoy drinks by the pool, soak in the sun on the beach, snorkel and discover the Blue Zebra Cichlids, and even play badminton. The Island is renowned for its dazzling array of bird life, you will find yourself on an un-spoilt island paradise, surrounded by nature and luxury.

Rise and shine. It’s time to dust off those walking boots and get ready for your 3 night hike up Mulanje. After an energy fuelled breakfast you will be driven to your starting point (about 1 hr from Game Haven) where you will meet your guide and your porters. You will spend the next 3 days walking through the breathtaking scenery of the mountains; whether this be the steep ascent up to Sapitwa* or a climb to another of the many peaks, the views will be spectacular and worth the climb. Be sure to stop off by some of the waterfalls and small swimming lakes along the way for a refreshing dip.

*Please note in rainy season (Dec-Mar), hiking in Mulanje may not be possible – please contact us for more details.

From Mulanje your Malawian Style guide will drive you two hours to Zomba. You will spend the next two nights at Kuchawe Hotel. Rising 1800 meter, Zomba is a beautiful location to go biking, horse riding or just relaxing and enjoying pleasant walks through forest, beside streams or across open grassland. Due to the higher altitude the plateau often feels pleasantly cool compared to other parts of the country. At Zomba Plateau you will also have the chance to see many different birds.

It is now time to drive to Liwonde National Park. You will spend the next two nights at Mvuu Lodge situated right inside Liwonde National Park. The lodge nestles discreetly in a quiet lagoon just off the Shire River with the main lounge area set above the water to make the most of the exceptional birdlife along with the hippos, elephants and crocs.

After breakfast your guide will transfer you by car to Cape Maclear. Here a boat will take you across to Mumbo Island, a short 40 minute transfer to a secluded paradise where you will be taken into another world. Being recently confirmed as one of the top 50 sustainable camps in Southern Africa, you will get to enjoy true island paradise away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Explore the island by foot or go on a mini adventure kayaking around the rocky coves and watch the sun go down with a drink in hand. Be sure to enjoy a snorkel in the turquoise water among the hundreds of colourful Cichlids.

Unfortunately it’s time to say goodbye to Mumbo hopefully with some special memories of an Zambian and Malawi adventure. You will be transferred by boat to Cape Maclear where you will meet your guide for your final road transfer back to Lilongwe to catch your international flight.

Prices shown are based on 2017 rates. For 2018 prices, please get in touch.

– 2 game activities a day in Zambia + Parks Fees + All Meals
– All road & boat transfers

– International flights + Visas + Drinks (Except where included)

If you like this tour but would rather explore Northern Malawi, check out this Northern Malawi and South Luangwa tour.

This itinerary is merely an example and should be used as a guideline, as we will happily personalise the trip to make your adventure in Malawi and Zambia perfect. If you would like to consider some extensions we would strongly recommend some of the below locations, where more information can be found under Zambia and Beyond:

– Livingstone/ Victoria Falls – Kafue National Park & Busanga Plains – Liuwa Plains- Chobe National Park – Mvuu – Nyika Plateau – Nkotakota Wildlife Reserve – Majete Wildlife Reserve – Liwonde National Park