6 Day Discovering the Wonders of Lake Malawi

6 Day Discovering the Wonders of Lake Malawi

Offered by: USD Safari Tours
4.9/5 (1600 Reviews)
Journey Snapshot
🗺 Malawi ⏱ 6 days 🚙 4x4 Pop-up Roof
Lilongwe Lake Malawi Zomba Plateau Blantyre
You'll embark on a breathtaking journey along the shores of Lake Malawi - Africa's hidden freshwater paradise. From sun-kissed beaches and serene kayaking adventures to vibrant local culture and rich aquatic life, this tour offers the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration. You'll discover charming lodges, enjoy fishing, snorkel among colorful cichlids, and unwind with stunning lake views. Ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone craving tranquility by the water.

Route

Start Lilongwe (Day 1)
Day 2 Lake Malawi
Day 3 Zomba Plateau
End Blantyre

Tour Features

Day 1:Dzalanyama Forest Lodge Day 2:More of Dzalanyama Forest Lodge Day 3:Cape Maclear Day 4:More of Lake Malawi Day 5:Zomba Plateau Day 6:Departure

Activities & Transportation

  • Route: Lilongwe, Lake Malawi, Zomba Plateau, Blantyre
  • Duration: 6 days
  • Getting around: 4x4 safari vehicle (pop-up roof)
  • Transfers: airport pick-up & drop-off can be included

Accommodation & Meals

Day
Accommodation
Meals
1
Dzalanyama Forest Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Dzalanyama FR
All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
2
Dzalanyama Forest Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Dzalanyama FR
All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
3
Capricorn by Quest-Cape Maclear Budget guest house located in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi)
All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
4
Capricorn by Quest-Cape Maclear Budget guest house located in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi)
All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
5
Kefi Hotel Mid-range hotel located less than 1hr drive from Zomba Plateau
All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
6
No accommodation
Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)

Day by Day

Day 1 Dzalanyama Forest Lodge
Morning 🏨Dzalanyama Forest Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Dzalanyama FR 🍽All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Upon arrival in Lilongwe, you will be met by your guide and transferred on a scenic drive of approximately 1½ hours to Dzalanyama Forest Lodge, nestled within the tranquil Dzalanyama Forest Reserve. Surrounded by rolling hills, indigenous miombo woodland, and clear mountain streams, the lodge is a peaceful retreat renowned for its exceptional birdlife, beautiful hiking trails, and unspoilt natural surroundings. Check in and settle into your comfortable chalet before enjoying a delicious lunch and time to relax while taking in the serene forest views. During your two-night stay, you can explore the reserve on guided walks, mountain bike trails, or birdwatching excursions, with the chance to spot some of Malawi's rare and endemic bird species. Evenings are spent enjoying freshly prepared dinners beside the fireplace or under the stars, accompanied by the peaceful sounds of the forest, making Dzalanyama the perfect escape to experience Malawi's natural beauty and tranquillity.
Day 2 More of Dzalanyama Forest Lodge
Morning 🏨Dzalanyama Forest Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Dzalanyama FR 🍽All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Wake to the sounds of the forest and enjoy an early morning guided birding walk through the miombo woodlands, one of Malawi's finest birdwatching destinations. Dzalanyama Forest Reserve is home to over 300 bird species, including several miombo woodland specials, making it a paradise for both keen birders and nature lovers. After breakfast, spend the remainder of the morning exploring the forest on guided nature walks or simply relax at the lodge while taking in the peaceful surroundings. Enjoy lunch at the lodge before another afternoon of birdwatching, hiking, or mountain biking along the forest trails. As the day draws to a close, return to the lodge for dinner and unwind beside the fire, listening to the tranquil sounds of the forest beneath a canopy of stars.
Day 3 Cape Maclear
Morning 🏨Capricorn by Quest-Cape Maclear Budget guest house located in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) 🍽All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
After breakfast, depart Dzalanyama Forest Lodge for a scenic drive to Cape Maclear on the southern shores of Lake Malawi. Upon arrival, check in to your lodge and enjoy lunch before taking time to relax by the lake. Later in the afternoon, join a guided village walk to experience the local culture, meet members of the fishing community, and learn about their traditional way of life. Return to the lodge in the evening for a delicious dinner and a relaxing overnight stay beside the tranquil waters of Lake Malawi.
Day 4 More of Lake Malawi
Morning 🏨Capricorn by Quest-Cape Maclear Budget guest house located in Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) 🍽All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Wake up to an early morning guided hike to Otter's Point, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi. Along the way, visit the historic missionary graves and the famous Dr. David Livingstone Tree, an important landmark linked to the explorer's travels in Malawi. Return to your cottage for a well-earned breakfast and enjoy the rest of the morning at leisure. After lunch, set out on an afternoon boat cruise across Lake Malawi. Discover the lake's remarkable underwater world with a guided snorkeling experience among its colourful endemic cichlid fish, found nowhere else on Earth. As the day draws to a close, relax on a scenic sunset cruise, taking in the spectacular colours reflected across the lake before returning to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 5 Zomba Plateau
Morning 🏨Kefi Hotel Mid-range hotel located less than 1hr drive from Zomba Plateau 🍽All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
After breakfast, depart Cape Maclear for a scenic drive to the historic city of Zomba, Malawi's former capital. Upon arrival, check in at Kefi Hotel and enjoy lunch before setting off to explore the magnificent Zomba Plateau. Rising above the town, the plateau offers breathtaking viewpoints, cool mountain air, lush forests, waterfalls, and abundant birdlife. Visit some of its most popular scenic spots, take a leisurely nature walk, and admire panoramic views stretching across southern Malawi. Return to Kefi Hotel in the evening for dinner and a relaxing overnight stay.
Day 6 Departure
Morning 🏨No accommodation 🍽Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
After breakfast, check out of Kefi Hotel and depart Zomba for the drive to Chileka International Airport in Blantyre. Enjoy the scenic journey through southern Malawi, reflecting on the memorable experiences of your adventure. Upon arrival at the airport, your guide will assist with your departure arrangements as you board your onward flight, bringing your unforgettable Malawi holiday to a close.

Rates

From: $1,927 pp (USD)
Final quote depends on date, travelers and lodge level.

No upcoming group dates found in database (group_climbs).

Inclusions

Included
  • Park fees(For non-residents)
  • All activities(Unless labeled as optional)
  • All accommodation(Unless listed as upgrade)
  • A professional driver/guide
  • All transportation(Unless labeled as optional)
  • All Taxes/VAT
  • Roundtrip airport transfer
  • Meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)
  • Drinking water(On all days)

Exclusions

Not included
  • International flights(From/to home)
  • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  • Tips(Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
  • Personal items(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

Note: Some items may vary depending on season and lodge level.

Getting There

Start: Lilongwe

End: Blantyre

We can arrange airport pick-up and drop-off. Ask in your quote request.

Offered By

USD Safari Tours
USD Safari Tours
4.9/5 • 1600 reviews