Visited: July 2021 Reviewed: Feb 19, 2022

2021 ~ In South Luangwa (Zambia) Mike organised an amazing trip to Shawa Camp by Green Safaris and Puku Ridge by Chichele Safaris. This trip was one of the most amazing experiences. We saw lots of game. To top it off we saw 9 leopards in 4 days!

2019 & 2020 ~ In Vilanculos and Inhassaro (Mozambique) we loved it so much we have gone back twice and used Crafted Africa to organise both trips. The team organised a magical trip to the best lodges. We stayed at the most beautiful Lodges – Santorini Mozambique and Rio Azul.

Visited: August 2015 Reviewed: Feb 19, 2022

Mike and team arranged the whole trip which was truly a magical experience. We wanted to experience the magic of the Lake and they didn’t disappoint. Wouldn’t hesitate in recommending and def an experience everyone needs to do.

Visited: April 2019 Reviewed: Feb 18, 2022

A trip of a lifetime for our two families of 5. The advice and bookings Mike and the team gave us was fantastic and everything went very smoothly from the hotel in Victoria Falls, flights to Lusaka, and to and from the Potato Bush Camp on the Lower Zambezi (amazing!) and the South Luangwa National Park. The safari experiences we had were second to none which we will treasure for a lifetime. We will be definitely using Mike’s services again when we get the chance to travel to Africa again.

Visited: October 2021 Reviewed: Feb 18, 2022

As Malawi residents, we have seen and done a lot of local exploring and already have a vast knowledge about the bush. We are therefore not the easiest to please with standard Malawi options. However, Mike and his team go above and beyond with their customer service, hospitality and knowledge of our beautiful country. We have always been so chuffed with our experiences booked through them and come away feeling like we have had a real break. Well done Mike to you and your great team.

Visited: October 2015 Reviewed: Feb 18, 2022

For my third trip to Africa I chose the luangwa valley and Malawi. You will never forget the valley, even the light is special. Every game drive was awe inspiring. I met so many new friends, many I am still in contact with.

Then, Mike drove me through Malawi to an awesome 3 day Mount Mulanje camping hike, Blantyre, Liwonde national park, then Cape Maclear. Boating, diving with the cichlids & exploring the exquisite lake coast.

All with the eyes of a professional expert. I wish I could have seen Likoma island and the Northern parks. Next time. I learned so much about the people and culture of the section of Africa. I highly recommend the heart of Africa with Crafted Africa

Visited: July 2011 Reviewed: Feb 18, 2022

We had an amazing time in Malawi. Having travelled extensively in other parts of Africa, I did not really know what to expect. Mike created a package that was personalised and perfect to our “pre wedding honeymoon”.
Lake Malawi is a unique and amazing place. It will live in my memory forever – and is truly unique in terms of an African experience. Snorkelling is crystal clear, warm water surrounded by thousands of brilliantly coloured fish – all in an African landscape – is truly amazing. Our accommodation and food was great value for money too.
On the whole – we found Malawians friendly and welcoming. We felt safe in Malawi the whole time we were there.
I would highly recommend travelling to Malawi. And if you decide to do so – these are the guys to help you.

Visited: December 2021 Reviewed: Feb 15, 2022

Crafted Africa have huge regional knowledge and worked with us to plan the perfect Christmas getaway for our family. They were speedy, reliable and above all organised a great holiday.

Visited: May 2021 Reviewed: Feb 15, 2022

We used Crafted Africa for our tour of Malawi and couldn’t possibly be any happier with the whole experience. From the get go, Mike and his team responded to all of my communications quickly and professionally.

They arranged everything we needed and at a really fair price. On arrival the wonderful Emmanuelle was at the airport to meet us with a big warm welcome and took care of every part of our trip for us. The vehicle was of a high standard, Emmanuelle was a safe and respectful driver, very organized and made us feel completely comfortable all the time.

From the hustle and bustle of Lilongwe, to the rural areas alongside the lake his knowledge of every aspect of the country was amazing and our stay was so much more enriched for it. I would highly recommend using Crafted Africa and wouldn’t even contemplate doing another trip without them and their expertise!

Visited: July 2018 Reviewed: Feb 15, 2022

It was great dealing with Malawian Style/Crafted Africa in organising my first safari trip to Malawi and Zambia.

The trip was just incredible, an out of this world experience and Mike had everything figured out and put in place for me.

This was extra efficient as I was travelling alone but really felt my hand was held all the way. A fantastic experience and one I can’t wait to repeat again soon.

Visited: December 2018 Reviewed: Feb 16, 2022

From the moment we landed to the moment we left we were looked after like royalty! The team was so helpful and knowledgeable and would highly recommend using Mike and his team for a Safari of a lifetime.

Visited: July 2017 Reviewed: Feb 16, 2022

We went on our first “African Safari” in 2017 and are so pleased we let Malawian Style/Crafted Africa do ALL the spadework. From the time we landed at Lilongwe and got a brief history of Malawi from our personal driver until he dropped us there 11 days later everything was exceptionally smooth and a wonderful experience of the warmth of Africa.

Our visit to South Luangwa (The Bushcamp Co.) and Lake Malawi where we spent one night on Mumbo Island was effortless with border crossings proving to be no hassle for “our man” and all the bookings handled upfront for us by Mike and his team. Highly recommend them.

Visited: November 2019 Reviewed: Feb 15, 2022

Crafted Africa are a brilliant travel company. From our very first communications the company made us feel like we were their number one priority – they were responsive, helpful, and willing to do everything they could to meet our specific needs and requests.

In recent years Malawi’s National Parks have thrived and they now boast parks with the Big 5, making Malawi an even more appealing safari destination. You can now get a ‘complete safari’ experience at a fraction of the cost of more established safari destinations.

Malawi is known as the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’ and from the moment we arrived the Crafted Africa team brought that description to life – nothing was too much trouble. Our visit to Liwonde National Park was breath taking. Closely regulated visitor and vehicle numbers meant that we felt like we had the park to ourselves and the ability to swap an afternoon game drive for a leisurely river cruise allows you to experience safari from a whole new perspective. Looking up at bull elephants just meters away is something that will live long in our collective memories (and makes you feel very small!).

Crafted Africa also allowed for us to experience a change of pace by organising a long weekend at Cape Maclear, Lake Malawi. Snorkelling amongst the incredible marine life and watching fish eagles hunt were stand two stand out experiences, but top of the pile has to be the sunset boat trip we took, complete with ‘sundowners’ with nature providing the most incredible of sunsets.

I could not recommend Crafted Africa more highly and would definitely use them again. Value for money, amazing locations, hidden gems and the personal touch, there really isn’t anything not to like!

Visited: November 2021 Reviewed: Feb 16, 2022

My wife and I travelled with Crafted Africa to Malawi and Zambia in November/December 2021. This was the second time we had visited Malawi with them, and on each occasion we have been more than satisfied. This trip was proceeding as planned until Saturday 27th November, when the UK Government suddenly decided without warning to red list many southern African countries, and then almost immediately added Malawi and Zambia to the original list. We were in a lodge miles from anywhere and had not the slightest prospect of meeting the deadline for return to the UK before quarantine kicked in.

The following morning, even though he was miles away from us on a day off, our driver Francis came back to our lodge to collect us, without being asked, and returned us to Lilongwe so that we could prepare for an early return home. Flights were rearranged, an overnight stay was booked in Lilongwe, and on the Monday we knew we would have to wait until Wednesday for our flights. A lodge by the lake was booked for 2 nights, we were taken there, and collected on the Wednesday morning and returned to Lilongwe for hastily arranged Covid tests to get us out of the country. The results (negative!) were received very shortly afterwards, we were treated to lunch by Mike Varndell, the owner of Crafted Africa, and given 2 bottles of excellent South African wine as a small consolation for our inconvenience.


We lost 4 days of our holiday, and the Covid quarantine back in the UK was both expensive and unpleasant, but at least we had the memory of how a negative situation was turned into a positive by the prompt, thoughtful and appropriate actions of the agent on the ground in the country. This is not an experience which we hope other travellers will be exposed to, but we certainly can recommend Crafted Africa, its staff and its owner for doing the right things when we needed them. We will we hope return again to Malawi, and we certainly expect to use this operator again.

I travelled with Mike and his team to Zambia on safari a few years ago and had a truly fantastic time. Staff were great, itinerary was very well thought through and I’m currently thinking of ways in which I can go back! Can’t recommend it enough.

Visited: May 2021 Reviewed: Feb 14, 2022

I had a once in a lifetime trip around (a large part of) Malawi during May 2021. From the warm welcome at Lilongwe airport and everything in between, which included a visit to Majete, Liwonde, Lake Malawi and Nkhotakota Reserve, Mike and his team ensured my stay was memorable and just wonderful in every way! Mike has a good knowledge of the country and a great love for the African bush – really appreciated all that was done to ensure a great experience in the Warm Heart of Africa.

Visited: April 2019 Reviewed: Feb 14, 2022

We were taken to Cape Maclear for a beach riddled week of relaxation and fun. The tour operators arranged everything and more. Mumbo island and the walk around the island is engrained as the best times if my life. Nothing beats Africa safaris

Visited: June 2021 Reviewed: Feb 14, 2022

We were very lucky to find a gap in 2021 to travel to Malawi under the guidance and care of Crafted Africa. I had previously visited this beautiful country and enjoyed time at the Lake, and would do so again on this visit, but Crafted Africa uncovered the whole spectrum of what Malawi has to offer on this trip. We were shown the ultimate safari destinations, and managed to experience beautiful tea estates, cultural destinations, and towering granite mountains, all the while sipping on the beautiful wines their sister company provided for the trip. Thanks to Mike and his team for the best visit during a tough time. We will be back!

Visited: May 2019 Reviewed: Feb 14, 2022

Crafted Africa really showed their pedigree when arranging our trip, they know the region and the accommodations like the back of their hand and created a perfect blend of bush and beach for our two week trip to Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia.
Every destination exceeded expectations, and the travel between lodges was seamless. I cannot fault the communications, service or value for money for this tour operator.
We would never have come close to the experience Crafted Africa provided if we’d attempted to arrange this trip without them.
A million thanks!

Visited: December 2015 Reviewed: Mar 26, 2020

A well organised and enjoyable safari for 2 families. A good price point for what is provided.

Visited: April 2014 Reviewed: Feb 2, 2020

I travelled with Mike and his team to Zambia on safari a few years ago and had a truly fantastic time. Staff were great, itinerary was very well thought through and I’m currently thinking of ways in which I can go back! Can’t recommend it enough.

Visited: December 2017 Reviewed: Feb 2, 2020

The service, tour, and cleanliness of accommodation exceeded expectations. Top class!

Visited: January 2017 Reviewed: Jan 27, 2020

Amazing trip! Definitely one of my best ones yet. Hopefully will be able to revisit.

Visited: January 2017 Reviewed: Jan 27, 2020

I met Michael in October of 2016 and booked my trip less than 60 days later. We left at the end of December through mid January. I went with my sister, brother and my father as it has always been his dream to go on safari. This trip made his dreams come true. Everything was handled, we staying at two amazing resorts and the internal flight was also handled. We saw so many amazing sights and had so many memorable experiences. The only downfall is that we all gained weight because the food at both resorts was AMAZING!! Can’t wait to go back again!!! I highly recommend Malawain Style for your safari adventure!

Visited: July 2011 Reviewed: Jan 26, 2020

We had such great time with Malawian Style and great support when needed during the trip. The organization and the itinerary were perfect. The selection of lodges was great, we have so many great souvenirs with this 3 weeks trip in Malawi. Thanks again!

Visited: July 2019 Reviewed: Jan 25, 2020

Mike and the Malawian Style team have been our go-to for the last 6.5 years! They are quick to respond, always happy to help with whatever our needs are and always get our teams great rates. Their knowledge of the options in the area and input has been invaluable. I know we will always be taken care of!

Visited: April 2019 Reviewed: Jan 22, 2020

Communication was excellent! Service was excellent and the safari was out of this world! We got to see every animal promised and the setting was absolutely beautiful.
The Malawian style driver was very informative and the tour guides were great!
Accommodation for our fairly large group was very comfortable and the service was on point.

Visited: April 2019 Reviewed: Jan 21, 2020

My boyfriend and I had a trip of a lifetime last April, organised by Malawian Style. The itinerary they created for us was perfect, with a mix of beautiful and unique places in Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia. Everywhere we stayed was so special, whether it be on the lake or on safari. I cannot recommend them enough if you are looking to visit this incredible part of the world.

Visited: October 2019 Reviewed: Jan 18, 2020

We used Malawian Style to book two trips in 2019. One beach holiday at Rio Azul in Mozambique and the second to Baines River Lodge on the Zambezi River (Zambia).

The team is very responsive and provided quotes and all information within a day of my request. Tapiwa and Jen handled all our booking arrangements and pre-trip preparations (such as what to take, food requirements, etc).

Highly recommend using Malawian Style for any safari trips across Southern Africa!

Visited: June 2019 Reviewed: Jan 16, 2020

I’ve been using Malawian Style to organize safaris for me for the past 8 years. Each time they have been professional and handled everything for me with ease. They have recommended unique safari options depending on time of year and budget. If you want someone who knows all the ins and outs of safari in this part of the world look no further!

Visited: November 2018 Reviewed: Jan 16, 2020

I contacted Malawian Style about a 3 day Safari at short notice, as an anniverary gift to my partner. We were collected from our previous location by a really friendly member of staff, and transported to Mvuu Camp. When we got there, we were surprised with an upgrade to Mvuu Lodge which was so unbelievably generous of Malawian Style! We had just spent three days hiking and camping on Mt Mulanje, and then were greeted with such luxury and hospitality. The day safari was exceptional, a mixture of boat and land. The guides were so knowledgable and really got to know us and tailored the outings to our interests, while educating us on things we never knew about. The food was fantastic. Then on the last night for our anniversary, we were surprised with a candlelit dinner on our beautiful balcony, all on the house. It was the most magical experience, and I couldnt have asked for anything more. I am definately going to return to this safari lodge, thanks to Mike and his amazing team for the trip of a lifetime!

Visited: April 2013 Reviewed: Jan 16, 2020

For our honeymoon we booked a trip with Malawian Style to the south of lake Malawi. It was breathtakingly beautiful and very well organised. The transfer from the airport to our first lodge and everything in between was arranged by Malawian Style.

Visited: April 2015 Reviewed: Jan 16, 2020

My husband and I, with the help of Malawian Safaris, hosted a YPO (Young Presidents Organisation) family event in Malawi in 2015. The event took place in Lilongwe and at Kaya Mawa on Likoma Island. There were 25 attendees and the Malawian Safari team were instrumental in making this a very successful event for which we received an award from YPO. Mike, Tapiwa and team did all the coordination, bookings, itineraries for the 5 day event and provided all the back up support. Thank you to Malawian Safaris the YPOers who attended this event still talk about it.

Visited: April 2017 Reviewed: Jan 16, 2020

I was fortunate to find Malawian Style Safari tours when planning my dream trip to Africa. After contacting them I knew I was in good hands. They helped me find the perfect Safari Lodge for my family trip. They even arranged a personal driver escort to help us get across the border from Malawi to Zambia with no problems. I am planning another family Safari and will definitely call Malawian Style to take care of my trip!!!

Visited: July 2019 Reviewed: Jan 15, 2020

The Malawianstyle dream team helped me design a beautiful bush & beach trip to Malawi, Zambia and Mozambique. I can highly recommend them!

Visited: April 2019 Reviewed: Jan 15, 2020

Malawian Style are THE experts in the Malawi/Zambia region. They organized an itinerary for us (family of four with 2 adult children) that hit the most luxurious and breathtakingly beautiful lodges and ensured variety as we moved between safari, lakeside relaxation, a tea estate nestled in rolling mountains, and culturally interesting cities. Everything went flawlessly and our driver Eddie was a real professional, and taught us so much about the area and culture. For the Zambia bit, they organized flights on tiny planes that land in the middle of game parks with a lodge car waiting (seeing the hippos and giraffes from the air was AMAZING).

After this first trip with Malawian Style in July 2013, I was aching to go back, finally making it happen again in April 2019. My husband and I called it our extremely belated “honeymoon” and Malawian Style organized an incredible itinerary. This time we drove ourselves between lodges, armed by the Malawian Style team with a phone, contact details, itinerary, GPS/map, and vouchers. It was so easy, and interesting to be driving through villages, then arrive at a lodge to be greeted with cold towels and wrapped in the arms of luxury.

I really can’t say enough how great our trips were and how Malawian Style made the planning so easy and the travel so simple! Thank you!!! (In particular Mike, Razzia, and Guide Eddie) Can’t wait for #3 😛

Visited: June 2019 Reviewed: Sep 27, 2019

Excellent and friendly customer service, they organised an awesome tour through Zambia and Malawi for me and my husband and for an affordable price! 10/10

Visited: April 2019 Reviewed: Jan 17, 2020

In April last year I travelled with my girlfriend to Malawi. We wished to self drive the route Lilongwe, Cape Maclear, Mvuu Lodge, Blantyre back to Lilongwe. Communication from the start was prompt, informative and friendly. On arrival we were met by another friendly and knowledgeable representative with an excellent vehicle full with fuel. The representative also provided a mobile phone with all our required contacts and detailed directions for our trip. Our trip was a relaxed adventure, Cape Maclear is beautiful, laid back and a requirement in life. We moved easily onto Mvuu driving down the lakeshore road with all its bustle and then open spaces. Mvuu lodge is luxury, tranquility and nature all around you. We saw all the game we wanted guided by local experts who had an answer for all our questions. Malawi is stunning for its sights and people, Malawian Style ensures the whole experience is easy and relaxed. We will return to Malawi and we will be in contact with Malawian Style when we return.

Visited: April 2016 Reviewed: Jan 16, 2020

Mike is so personable and accommodating.He collected and drove us to Zambia and was a great host. The lodge we stayed in South Luangwa was comfy, clean and had everything we needed.

We stayed for 3 days doing morning and night safaris. It was AMAZING. Everything was really well organised. Couldn’t recommend it more. Brilliantly organised, highly professional and great great fun. 5 stars

Visited: July 2015 Reviewed: Jan 24, 2020

Michael was awesome. He drove our group from Malawi to Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park. They provided drinks and sandwiches during our travel. Once at the camp, our lodging was excellent. I had the privilege of securing a luxury tent which made the safari experience even more fun. If you you’re looking for a safari adventure, be sure to call Malawian Style and ask for Mike. You won’t be disappointed!

I met Michael in October of 2016 and booked my trip less than 60 days later. We left at the end of December through mid January. I went with my sister, brother and my father as it has always been his dream to go on safari. This trip made his dreams come true. Everything was handled, we staying at two amazing resorts and the internal flight was also handled. We saw so many amazing sights and had so many memorable experiences. The only downfall is that we all gained weight because the food at both resorts was AMAZING!! Can’t wait to go back again!!! I highly recommend Malawain Style for your safari adventure!

We had such great time with Malawian Style and great support when needed during the trip. The organization and the itinerary were perfect. The selection of lodges was great, we have so many great souvenirs with this 3 weeks trip in Malawi. Thanks again!

Mike and the Malawian Style team have been our go-to for the last 6.5 years! They are quick to respond, always happy to help with whatever our needs are and always get our teams great rates. Their knowledge of the options in the area and input has been invaluable. I know we will always be taken care of!

My boyfriend and I had a trip of a lifetime last April, organised by Malawian Style. The itinerary they created for us was perfect, with a mix of beautiful and unique places in Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia. Everywhere we stayed was so special, whether it be on the lake or on safari. I cannot recommend them enough if you are looking to visit this incredible part of the world.