Best of Southern Malawi & South Luangwa

Overview

Begin your adventure in Blantyre, exploring scenic tea estates and lush gardens. Head to Majete Wildlife Reserve, Malawi’s only Big Five park, where conservation efforts have restored thriving wildlife. Travel onward to the Zomba Plateau, a stunning landscape of forests and sweeping grasslands. Then, venture to Liwonde National Park along the Shire River, known for cheetahs, rhinos, and diverse birdlife.

Itinerary

DAY 1: ARRIVE BLANTYRE – MAJETE RESERVE

On arrival at Chileka International Airport, you will be met and taken by road to Majete Wildlife Reserve. 3 nights at MKULUMADZI in a Bush Chalet (B, L, D)

DAYS 2 – 3: MAJETE WILDLIFE RESERVE

Majete Wildlife Reserve is the only Big 5 reserve in Malawi. You will have two days to explore this rehabilitated reserve, where anti-poaching efforts have revitalised the once devastated eco-system. At Mkulumadzi you will be able to enjoy the wildlife from their private chalet balcony and watch the evening flow of animals come to the waterhole as you are having a sundowner. (B, L, D)

DAY 4: MAJETE RESERVE – ZOMBA PLATEAU    

Today you will transferred by road to the Zomba Plateau, a sweeping landscape of lush forests overlooking vast grasslands. Upon arrival you will check-into KEFI HOTEL CAFÉ for your overnight accommodation. If time permits, you will be able to explore the waterfalls or enjoy a less strenuous and scenic hike through the forests. (B, L, D)

DAYS 5 – 7: ZOMBA PLATEAU – LIWONDE NP

This morning you will be transferred to MVUU CAMP, in Liwonde National Park, for your 3 night stay. The camp is situated on the banks of the Shire River, and is in an ideal location for exploring the park. Liwonde National Park is known for its cheetah, black rhino and bird populations. (B, L, D)

DAYS 8 –9: LIWONDE NATIONAL PARK – LAKE MALAWI

Today you will travel to Lake Malawi. You will be transported to the Makokola Lake Retreat strategically located along the stunning beaches of Southern Lake Malawi with beautiful views of the bird Island and Mozambican mountain ranges to the southeast. Two nights at the MAKOKOLA LAKE RETREAT to enjoy their activities (B, L, D).

DAY 10: LAKE MALAWI – LILONGWE

Today you will be transferred to Lilongwe, where you will check-in to LATITUDE 13 for your overnight stay. This stylish hotel showcases modern art crafted from recycled materials like driftwood and glass. (B)

DAYS 11 – 13: LILONGWE – SOUTH LUANGWA NP

Today you will cross into Zambia and enter South Luangwa National Park. Check-in to KAFUNTA RIVER LODGE, situated on the edge of Luangwa River, for your 3 night stay. (B, L, D)

DAYS 14 –16: SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

Today you will be transferred to THREE RIVERS CAMP for your 2 night stay, positioned at the confluence of the Luangwa, Kapamba, and Lusangazi Rivers. Here you will have the opportunity to explore more of the park. (B, L, D)

DAY 17: DEPART

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Mfuwe Airport, where you will board a flight to Lusaka for your onward flight. (B)

Includes

  • 15 nights accommodation on a twin share basis
  • Meals as indicated (B, L, D)
  • Transfers as per itinerary
  • Activities as per itinerary
  • All park fees in South Luangwa, Liwonde and Majete Wildlife Reserve
  • Flights as per itinerary (MFU – LUN)

NOTE:

  • *Rates are valid from 25th May – 31 October 2025
  • Based on a minimum of 2 passengers travelling together.

Subject to change without notice.

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Makokola Lake Retreat

The Makokola Retreat, nestled along the southern shores of Lake Malawi in Mangochi, offers a serene and luxurious lakeside experience. Set within lush gardens, the retreat features 67 rooms and suites, including the exclusive Lake Suite area for adults over 12, complete with a private infinity pool and bar. Guests can indulge in various activities such as water sports, golfing, and cultural village visits, or simply relax by the lake’s tranquil shores. 

Latitude 13 Hotel

Latitude 13 Hotel, located in central Lilongwe, offers a stylish blend of comfort and luxury. With spacious suites, an 18-meter heated pool, and a modern gym, it’s an ideal retreat for both business and leisure. The hotel’s on-site restaurant and bar serve a variety of international dishes in a cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to unwind.

Mvuu Camp

Mvuu Camp, situated within Malawi’s Liwonde National Park, offers an immersive safari experience along the Shire River. The camp features comfortable accommodations, including chalets and tents, accommodating up to 48 guests. Various activities are on offer such as game drives, walking safaris, and boat excursions, providing opportunities to observe the park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and over 400 bird species.

Kefi Hotel & Cafe

 Kefi Hotel and Café, located at the foot of Zomba Plateau in Malawi, combines colonial charm with modern comfort. Set in a converted building, the hotel offers cozy rooms with scenic views of the lush surroundings. The café serves a variety of fresh pastries, specialty coffees, and teas, perfect for a relaxing break. With its tranquil atmosphere and easy access to nearby attractions, Kefi is the ideal retreat for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Mkulumadzi Lodge

Mkulumadzi Lodge, situated within the Majete Wildlife Reserve, offers an intimate safari experience in a untouched wilderness setting. Accessible via a footbridge over the Mkulumadzi River, the lodge features eight spacious chalets, each with private viewing decks overlooking the confluence of the Mkulumadzi and Shire rivers. Guests can enjoy activities such as game drives, walking safaris, and river cruises, where they will have the opportunity to sight the Big 5 and other animals. The main lodge features incredible river views, with amenities such as a swimming pool and experiences such as dining under the stars.

Three Rivers Camp

Three Rivers Camp is set at the confluence of the Luangwa, Kapamba and Lusangazi Rivers in South Luangwa, Zambia. The 5 stylish tents lay under shady sausage trees and are facing either the Luangwa River or the game-rich lagoon. The dining lounge is discreetly set on the banks of the river, with a welcoming bar and relaxing chairs. Observe the hippos and crocodiles basking on the beaches ahead and keep your camera at hand to capture the swift African Skimmer or colourful bee-eater. After dinner enjoy the fireplace or listen to lions roaring in the distance.

Kafunta River Lodge

Kafunta River Lodge is adjacent to the Luangwa River and the South Luangwa National Park, overlooking the game rich flood plain. The lodge consist of 8 chalets on raised wooden platforms with thatched roofs and 2 luxury suites. All chalets and suites are spacious, features private verandas with panoramic views. From the central lounge and dining area, guests can enjoy nature and the wildlife in comfort. Relax around the campfire, enjoy a candle lit meal or refreshing drink on the spacious wooden deck. Kafunta River Lodge also has its own pontoon which allows guests to cross the river to the more remote areas of the park.

Chobe Bush Lodge

Chobe Bush Lodge is a stylish and contemporary retreat located just minutes from the entrance to Botswana’s renowned Chobe National Park. The lodge offers a tranquil setting with 42 spacious rooms and four family units, each featuring a modern aesthetic that blends in with the natural surroundings. Guests can enjoy views of the bush or lodge grounds from private balconies or patios, and enjoy a range of amenities including a swimming pool, restaurant, and access to spa treatments at the nearby Chobe Safari Lodge. The property is situated in an ideal position for guests to embark on game drives, river cruises on the Chobe River, and day trips to Victoria Falls.

Tsienimparihy Lodge

Located in the town of Ambalavao, this intimate lodge features 20 well-appointed rooms. Guests can enjoy relaxing in thatched bungalows nestled amongst the rose gardens. Enjoy onsite amenities such as the restaurant, serving Malagasy and French cuisine, and bar. Nearby, are popular attractions such as Andringitra National Park and Anja Community Reserve.

Hotel des Thermes

Hotel des Thermes is a historic hotel located in the centre of Antsirabe, originally established in the late 19th century and known for its colonial‑era architecture. Offering 38 luxurious rooms, including suites and apartments, the hotel is situated close by to popular sites such as the train station, cathedral, market and hot springs. Perfect for families, or those who like to stay active on holiday, Hotel des Thermes offers a children’s playground, mini golf, tennis court and basketball court. Unwind with a spa treatment or by the pool, all whilst taking advantage of the babysitting service.

Palmarium Hotel Ankanin'nofy

This remote nature retreat is situated on the shores of Lake Ampitabe in Ankanin’nofy, secluded by a three-hour boat ride from the mainland along the Pangalanes Canal. Well worth the trip, the Palmarium Hotel is situated on 50 hectares, where around ten species of lemurs roam and guests can enjoy nature walks, boat excursions and beach trips. Nestled amongst the lush palms of the island, the 20 bungalows offer the perfect haven, with lake views and a private terrace. On‑site facilities include a restaurant serving Malagasy and international dishes and a bar where guests can relax after exploring the area.

Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel

Unwind in luxurious splendour in this historic hotel- an inspired collaboration between local artisans that exhibits refined modern elegance. This intimate hotel hosts 15 rooms, as well as the Cape Cadogan Residence, ideal for families or large groups wanting a base in this vibrant city. Enjoy easy access to the bustling city lifestyle, nearby beach and mountain sights. Return to the hotel after a day of exploring and enjoy amenities such as the Upper Union Restaurant, wellness spa and pool.

Hemingways Retreat Kigali

Located in Kigali’s vibrant Kiyovu neighbourhood, Hemingways Retreat Kigali offers the perfect blend of modern comforts with traditional Rwandan hospitality. Rwanda’s first eco-conscious hotel, it is the perfect base for exploring this fascinating area and embarking on gorilla treks. With an intimate 20 rooms, the hotel is entirely solar-powered, built from locally sourced wood and eco-friendly. Guests can enjoy thoughtfully curated amenities, including a spa, open-air gym, boutique shop, and a restaurant serving innovative fusion cuisine.

Hotel No. 5

Situated in the leafy suburb of Entebbe, Hotel No. 5 is a boutique hotel offering a range of modern rooms and suites. The property is nestled amongst lush gardens, creating the ideal retreat after a day of exploration. It also features an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, bar and spa.

Serengeti Acacia Bliss

Located in the Serengeti National Park near the Banagi River, Serengeti Acacia Bliss is the perfect base from which to explore this diverse and wildlife-rich region. Featuring 10 spacious and luxurious tented suites with views of the savannah, rooms include en-suite bathrooms, private verandas and modern amenities. In your spare time, enjoy fantastic food in the dining area, relaxing in the lounge, or unwinding around the campfire.

Lion’s Paw Camp

Situated on the eastern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania and with views of Lake Magadi, this camp offers 15 luxury tented suites. Just 10 minutes from the crater entrance, Lion’s Paw is the ideal base from which to venture out in search of the Big Five or seek out the historic Olduvai Gorge. Upon return, enjoy relaxing at the lounge, bar or dining area, all with magnificent crater views.

Entara Olkeri Camp

An intimate safari camp located in Tarangire, Entara Olkeri Camp features eight spacious tented suites with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas overlooking the bush. Guests have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the nature and culture of this captivating area, with activities such as game drives, walking safaris, night drives and Masai community visits.

Lemala Osonjoi Lodge

Perched on the edge of Ngorongoro Crater, Lemala Osonjoi Lodge is home to not only captivating views, but 20 luxurious, spacious suites. Offering access to the marvel that is Ngorongoro Crater, the position of this accommodation allows guests to be on the crater floor within ten to fifteen minutes. Upon return from safari, indulge in a spa treatment overlooking the tree canopy or relax in the indoor pool.

Elewana Tortilis Camp

Tortilis Camp is a luxury camp that offers superb views of Mt. Kilimanjaro. The camp has a relaxed feel and offers 17 spacious tents raised on wooden decks, a dressing area, as well as modern bathrooms with hot showers and flush toilets. The tents are sheltered by a makuti (thatched) roof overhanging a large verandah, ideal for an afternoon siesta. What sets Tortilis Camp apart is the outstanding food and friendly intimate service.

Waterfalls Lodge

Located in the heart of the Victoria Falls township, and within walking distance of the Falls, Waterfalls Lodge is set amongst lush, landscaped gardens. Featuring 60 en-suite rooms, the lodge offers a luxurious retreat at the end of a long day of exploring. Unwind at the spa, enjoy a meal at the restaurant or relax poolside when not exploring this captivating area.

Camp Silwane

Tucked away in the Silwane Conservancy, in the captivating wilderness of Hwange National Park, is a remote tented camp that combines both luxurious comfort and adventure. Camp Silwane is home to seven tents with en-suite bathrooms, which offer incredible bushveld views and modern amenities. Indulgent meals are prepared on-site and guests are invited to unwind around the pool and relax in the lounge in between safaris.

Motobo Hills Lodge

Set within a private concession bordering Matobo Hills, Matobo Hills Lodge is an intimate retreat surrounded by dramatic granite kopjes and sweeping bushveld views. Comfortable and thoughtfully designed rooms blend rustic charm with modern touches, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Explore ancient rock art sites and track rhino in this UNESCO-listed landscape, then return to unwind by the pool or enjoy sundowners overlooking the hills for an authentic and tranquil safari escape.

Radisson Red V&A Waterfront

This vibrant, sophisticated hotel features bold, contemporary rooms and suites, ideal for travellers who want to be in the heart of Cape Town. Perfectly positioned by the V&A Waterfront with easy access to Table Mountain, Robben Island, and the city’s lively dining scene, Radisson RED blends comfort with creativity. Unwind by the rooftop pool as you take in sweeping harbour and mountain views, or enjoy laid-back dining and drinks in the hotel’s stylish social spaces.

Nairobi Serena Hotel

An elegant retreat in the heart of the city, Nairobi Serena Hotel blends refined style with warm Kenyan hospitality. Overlooking the tranquil greenery of Central Park, it offers beautifully appointed rooms, exceptional dining, and a serene pool and spa. With great service and a sophisticated atmosphere, it’s an ideal base for exploring Nairobi or relaxing between safari adventures.

Mashatu Tented Camp

Tucked away in a tranquil corner of the Mashatu Game Reserve, Mashatu Tented Camp delivers an intimate and authentic safari experience. The camp features comfortable, eco-friendly tents that blend seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness. Guests can enjoy guided game drives and walks, immersing themselves in the reserve’s rich wildlife and landscapes. With its relaxed atmosphere and close connection to nature, it’s perfect for travellers seeking an adventure.

Mashatu Lodge

Mashatu Lodge combines classic safari luxury with the warmth of genuine Botswana hospitality. Set within the renowned Mashatu Game Reserve, it offers elegant suites surrounded by pristine wilderness. Guests can enjoy game drives, cycling safaris, and photographic opportunities guided by expert rangers. The lodge’s inviting atmosphere, pool, and panoramic views make it a perfect retreat after a day of adventure.

Mohave Bush Camp

Mohave Bush Camp offers an intimate and authentic safari experience in the heart of Botswana’s wilderness. This exclusive camp blends rustic charm with modern comfort, featuring spacious tents and thoughtful touches that offers guests an immersive experience. Enjoy guided game drives and walks led by expert rangers, offering close encounters with wildlife. 

InterContinental OR Tambo Johannesburg

The InterContinental OR Tambo Johannesburg is a luxurious hotel conveniently located steps away from Johannesburg’s international airport terminal. It offers elegant rooms, world-class dining, and fantastic service. The hotel features a serene spa, fitness centre, and indoor pool. 

Peermont Mondior Hotel at Emperor's Palace

The Peermont Mondior Hotel at Emperors Palace is located 5 minutes from Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo Airport. There is a restaurant and a cocktail bar and is a short walk to all the restaurants, bars and casino in the Emperor’s Palace complex. As it is located within the secure complex, it is safe to walk to the restaurants and bars. There is a complimentary shuttle to and from the airport.

Phinda Mountain Lodge

Phinda Mountain Lodge combines contemporary luxury and breathtaking views of the Phinda Private Game Reserve. Perched on a hilltop, the lodge offers elegant suites with private decks overlooking the lush Zululand landscape. Guests can enjoy game drives, bush walks, and cultural encounters guided by expert rangers. With its elevated position, elegant design, and warm hospitality, it promises an unforgettable safari experience.

Mziki Safari Lodge

Mziki Safari Lodge offers a blend of comfort, adventure, and authentic South African charm. Located within a private game reserve near Johannesburg, it provides a tranquil escape surrounded by bushveld and abundant wildlife. Guests can enjoy game drives, boat cruises, and guided walks led by experienced rangers. With its warm hospitality, family-friendly atmosphere, and serene setting, Mziki is an ideal retreat for both relaxation and exploration.