Southern Malawi & South Luangwa Adventure

Arrive at Blantyre (Chileka) International Airport for a transfer to the Thyolo district, the heart of Malawi’s tea-producing region. Settle into The Thyolo House, a historic colonial-era farmhouse surrounded by emerald-green plantations and indigenous forest. Enjoy the temperate climate and relaxed atmosphere of the Satemwa Tea Estate.

During your stay, explore the rolling hills of some of the country’s oldest estates or take in views of Mount Mulanje and the Lower Shire Valley. The on-site restaurant serves Malawian cuisine using organic ingredients from the garden, paired with local coffees and teas.

Transfers: A swift road transfer by a Crafted Africa Guide from Chileka – Blantyre Airport connects guests directly to Thyolo through the beautiful landscapes of Southern Malawi.

Travel to Zomba, the former capital of Malawi, and head to the outer slopes of the Zomba Plateau. Your base is Zomba Forest Lodge, a boutique, completely off-grid guest house lit by candles and paraffin lamps. Nestled in 20 acres of woodland, the lodge offers a quiet escape focused on simplicity and nature.

Spend your days hiking the many trails on the plateau or birdwatching from the veranda, where rare species are often spotted. In the evenings, relax by a roaring log fire and enjoy a peaceful environment designed for reconnecting.

Transfers: A scenic transfer by Crafted Africa links Thyolo with Zomba, passing through changing highland scenery and rural communities.

Continue north to Liwonde National Park, Malawi’s most prolific wildlife area. Check into Mvuu Camp, which overlooks a broad stretch of the Shire River. The river acts as a natural magnet for wildlife, including dense populations of hippo, crocodile, and elephant.

Enjoy game drives and river safaris to encounter the park’s diverse fauna, from buffalo and waterbuck to prolific birdlife. The camp features a unique dining area situated between two enormous baobabs and offers a boma for dinners under the stars.

Transfers: Road transfer from Zomba connects seamlessly into Charlie Charlie followed by a short 20 Minute boat transfer to Mvuu Camp.

Transfer to the shores of Lake Malawi to stay at The Lake House in Chembe Village. This boutique property sits directly on the lakeshore, offering uninterrupted views across the “inland sea”.

Take advantage of the crystal-clear freshwater for snorkeling, where you can see a kaleidoscope of colorful tropical fish right off the rocks. The lodge features a swimming pool and provides a full food service with locally sourced ingredients.

Transfers: Scenic road transfers connect Liwonde National Park with the southern shores of Lake Malawi through rural villages and lakeside landscapes up to The Lake House

Head to Mumbo Island, a pristine, unpopulated island within an exclusive concession area of Lake Malawi. Mumbo Island Camp is an eco-friendly retreat built from timber, thatch, and canvas, perched on high rocks overlooking the water.

Embrace barefoot luxury with activities like kayaking hidden coves, snorkeling in fish-filled bays, or hiking Miombo forest trails. The camp maintains a strict “green” ethos, using solar-heated bucket showers and eco-loos to preserve the island’s natural state.

Transfers: A short 45 Minute boat transfer from Kayak Africa mainland connects guests to Mumbo Island through the scenic views of Lake Malawi.

Return to the mainland for a transfer to Lilongwe, staying at The Crafted Residence. This tranquil retreat in the heart of the capital provides a comfortable stopover before your journey continues across the border. Relax in a self-contained room with garden views and enjoy a quiet evening in preparation for your final safari destination.

Transfers: A full-day scenic road transfer connects Lake Malawi with Lilongwe through central Malawi’s rural landscapes and towns.

The final stage of the itinerary takes guests into Zambia’s legendary South Luangwa National Park, widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest safari destinations and the birthplace of the walking safari. Flatdogs Camp occupies a prime location near the park entrance along the Luangwa River, providing excellent access to the park’s diverse habitats and abundant wildlife. The camp combines comfort, flexibility, and an authentic safari atmosphere within a relaxed riverside setting.

Activities include professionally guided game drives, night drives, walking safaris, and wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the park. South Luangwa is particularly renowned for leopard sightings, large hippo populations, elephants, lions, giraffes, and exceptional birdlife. The combination of classic safari experiences, varied landscapes, and outstanding guiding creates a memorable conclusion to the journey.

Transfers: Road transfer by Crafted Africa connects Lilongwe with South Luangwa National Park through Mchinji boarder before onward departure arrangements from Mfuwe Airport.

After breakfast, road transfer by Flatdogs representative to Mfuwe Airport for your flight to Lusaka – Keneth Kaunda Airport to catch your international departure flight, marking the conclusion of your journey through the highlights of Malawi and Zambia.