Malawi and Zambia Budget Lodge Safari

This safari takes you to the white sand beaches of Lake Malawi and to several National Parks in Malawi and on to Zambia's premier Reserve - The South Luangwa National Park.

After an overnight stay in Lilongwe we spend time bird watching along Lake Kazuni, going on game drives or taking an early morning walk through the bush.

We then head to Mzuzu and continue down the beautiful rift valley to Chintheche, through the rubber plantations arriving in time for a sunset cocktail overlooking the Makuzi Beach. Makuzi is a friendly destination and you have the opportunity to meet the locals, visit small markets or simply relax on the white sandy beaches along the unspoilt section of Lake Malawi.

We continue south along the lakeshore to Liwonde National Park home to herds of elephants, crocodiles, hippos, impala and baboons - it is advisable to take a sunset cruise view the game along the riverbanks and enjoy the beautiful African sunset over the water.

Our next destination is Zomba where you can visit craft markets and go on a early morning hike of the plateau - boasting superb  views.

We journey inland for the second wildlife leg of the safari takes us to Zambia's premier Reserve - The South Luangwa National Park which is well-known for an a broad diversity of animals,allowing for some excellent game viewing.

We embark on morning and evening game drives as well as leaving you ample time to relax in the camp soaking up the wilderness or visit one of the local craft stores.

The tour ends back in Lilongwe.

Day 1:  Lilongwe – Malawi

Arrive in Lilongwe at the start of the Malawi and Zambia Budget Lodge Safari and we collect you from the airport and transfer you to a lodge in town. Overnight Bed and Breakfast Basis.

Day 2: Vwaza Marsh – Malawi

Depart Lilongwe after breakfast and head Northwards along the M1 via Kasungu, Viphya Plateau, Mzuzu to Vwaza Marsh. On arrival check into rustic chalets and the afternoon is spent on a short walk along lake Kazuni's shoreline. Excellent bird life and hippo sightings are guaranteed. Overnight in camp on an all inclusive meals Basis.

Day 3: Nyika National Park – Malawi

After a light snack we go on a 3 hr game walk, returning for a superb early lunch. Following this we pack up and continue to Nyika National Park, Malawi's largest national park. From the entrance of Nyika, we drive for 3 hrs through the reserve to our Camp. Game sightings are frequent along this route especially as you reach the higher plateau. Overnight in camp in chalets overlooking the dam. All camp meals provided.

Day 4: Nyika National Park – Malawi

Morning game drive and walk is offered returning to the chalets for lunch. In the afternoon a drive or game walk is on offer. Return to the Chalet for dinner. Overnight Chelinda Camp chalets. All meals provided.

Day 5: Makuzi Beach – Malawi

A leisurely breakfast, then depart back to Mzuzu and continue down into the rift valley to Chintheche. Drive through the rubber plantations and arrival time at Makuzi Beach is early afternoon. The rest of the day is spent exploring this beautiful part of the coast - walking, meeting villages or simply relaxing on the pure white sands. Overnight Makuzi Beach Lodge on a Bed and Breakfast basis.

Day 6: Makuzi Beach – Malawi

A day at leisure on the beach and surrounding area. Optional boat trip to a nearby Island [$10]. Of interest nearby is Old Bandawe which was the temporary home of the Livingstonia mission as the early missionaries were searching for a suitable site. Overnight Makuzi Beach Lodge on a Bed and Breakfast basis.

Day 7: Liwonde National Park – Malawi

Continue along the lakeshore southwards and drive to Liwonde National Park. Once entering the park we have a 1hr game drive to the camp. Overnight in camp on a Full Board Basis.

Day 8: Ku Chawe – Malawi

Day 9: Ku Chawe – Malawi

Early morning walk up to the peak (about 3hrs) from where the vehicle collects you and we continue with a tour of the plateau visiting various viewpoints and areas of interest. Return to the hotel for lunch. The afternoon is spent at leisure or on another walk. Overnight Ku Chawe Inn on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis.

Day 10: Lilongwe – Malawi

Spend the morning at leisure before departing for Lilongwe. Our route takes us to Dedza Pottery shop, after visiting here, we continue to Lilongwe arriving in the late afternoon. Overnight at lodge on bed and breakfast basis.

Day 11: Luangwa Valley – Zambia

On day 11 we enjoy breakfast then transfer to the scheduled standard Luangwa Valley safari, which departs Lilongwe at 09H00. Continue to Mchinji [one and half hour drive]. Here we complete immigration formalities and continue to Mwami - crossing the Zambian border. From the border it is a short drive to Chipata - Zambia's capital of the Eastern Province. Proceed on a dirt road to Luangwa Valley - Mfuwe sector. A picnic lunch is enjoyed en route and we arrive at the lodge [upgrade possible] in the mid afternoon. On arrival we check into our chalets followed by tea and coffee. A gentle walk along the Luangwa River is available for those that wish. Full Board Basis.

Day 12 & 13: Luangwa Valley – Zambia

Tea, coffee and a light snack follow an early morning wake up call. Our aim is to be on our first game drive by 6.15 am. All game drives are undertaken in specially modified safari vehicles, to optimise your pleasure and game viewing experience. Drinks and snacks are taken along for your enjoyment whilst in the park. Depending on game sightings, we return to the lodge at 11 for a scrumptious "brunch". An afternoon rest then we again head out for our afternoon / night drive at around 1600 - returning to the lodge at 2000. Full Board Basis.

Day 14: Lilongwe – Zambia

After a more leisurely start to the morning and a full breakfast, we pack up and depart back to Lilongwe. Departure time is 09h00. A picnic lunch is eaten en route and we arrive in the city at about 15h00. Your last evening is spent at the Sanctuary Lodge on a bed and Breakfast basis.

Day 15: Lilongwe – Zambia

After breakfast on day 15 the Malawi and Zambia Budget Lodge Safari comes to an end and we transfer you to the airport for your onward flight.

Please Note:

This tour requires a minimum of 6 people to guarantee scheduled departures and 4 people for private departures. See full pricing for details.

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