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Safari and beach holidays to Malawi in Southern Africa

Safari Holidays to Malawi

Zebra in Nyika National Park - Northern Malawi

Waterskiing and active holidays on Lake Malawi

Malawi, known as the ‘warm heart of Africa’ offers the alternative luxury safari and beach holiday. For safari, Liwonde National Park is the place to go; and combines well with the Zomba Plateau and the tea plantations further south. For beach holidays, Lake Malawi is ideal and with golden beaches and plenty of water-sports. There are a handful of intimate and luxury lodges across Malawi – all of which are ideal for a luxury holiday or honeymoon to this stunning and off-the-beaten track country.

For a tailor-made Malawi luxury holiday quote, please contact our Africa specialists...
Call us on 020 7622 5114

In the north of Malawi, the rolling highlands of the Nyika National Park, with 660 species of orchids and huge herds of eland, roan and other antelope, are ideal for cycling and horse riding safaris. To the south of the country, visitors will find vibrant green tea plantations and the lofty Zomba Plateau, with its vast forest, waterfalls and lakes. Mount Mulanje at 3, 002 metres, the highest mountain in Central Africa is ideal for a few days hiking in the clear mountain air.

The mighty Shire River flows out of Lake Malawi and meanders south through the humid lowlands of Liwonde National Park, home to sable antelope, waterbuck, bushbuck and hippo, making this the ideal spot for a safari. At the heart of the country lies Lake Malawi, also known as the ‘Lake of the Stars’ or the 'Calender Lake' with its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, which, at 365 miles long and 52 miles wide, is the third largest lake in Africa, as well as the fourth deepest in the world.

This vast inland sea provides the perfect location for wind-surfing, fresh water scuba diving, fishing, sailing and simply cruising on the lake. Malawi makes a great stand alone destination but also combines with Zambia to which it is well connected. Zambia with its enormous parks and wild nature makes a wonderful contrast to the more gentle Malawi. For those looking to get off the beaten track, Malawi’s striking landscapes, warm-hearted people and rich cultural history are the answer.

When To Go

Malawi has three seasons: May to August is generally cool and dry, while September to mid-November tends to be hot and dry. From mid-November to April it is hot and humid.The best time to go on safari is from May to November, as the bush starts to dry out and wildlife is easier to spot and tends to concentrate more along the water courses.

Getting There

The best way to get to Malawi is flying via Johannesburg or Lusaka. British Airways, South African Airways and Virgin all have daily flights from London to Johannesburg. South African Airways has five flights a week into Lilongwe and two into Blantyre. Kenya Airways/KLM has four flights a week into Lilongwe. Air Malawi also serves Harare, Johannesburg and Nairobi.

Visas

UK, EU and US citizens do not require a visa. Other nationalities should check for up to date information.

Sample Malawi Luxury Safari Combinations


Combine the beautiful, peaceful and game rich South Luangwa National Park in Zambia with Lake Malawi.	Head to Zambia to marvel at the "smoke that thunders" - Victoria Falls, then go on safari in the South Luangwa National Park.	This 3 part family itinerary is the perfect combination for a relaxing and tranquil holiday, with lots to do for the whole family.	This is the ultimate itinerary for a trip to Malawi, taking in all the must-see places and including culture, safari and ‘beach’.

Our clients' favourite safari lodges in Malawi

"It's a peaceful haven for your guests and a home away from home!"	"We were never short of activities: there is waterskiing, sailing, diving, wakeboarding, kayaking, snorkelling, fishing and birdwatching!"	“Surrounded by islands, this is arguably the most beautiful spot on Lake Malawi."

Ask us to design a holiday that includes a stay at these or others of our favourite lodges.
Call 020 7622 5114 or complete an enquiry form.