Zambia & Malawi: Bush and Beach Safari

From Lusaka to Malawi

Tour Overview

Journey through the heart of Africa, seamlessly combining exhilarating wildlife encounters with serene lakeside relaxation.

Your adventure begins in Zambia's South Luangwa National Park at Nkwali Camp, an intimate property with six open-fronted chalets offering panoramic views of the Luangwa River, where elephants and hippos are frequent visitors. The central lounge, built around a massive ebony tree, provides the perfect place to unwind and watch the wilderness unfold.

From there, continue to Malawi's Majete Wildlife Reserve, home to the Big Five. At Mkulumadzi Camp, you’ll stay in luxurious chalets with private decks overlooking the confluence of the Shire and Mkulumadzi Rivers. Explore the reserve on twice-daily game drives, walking safaris, and boat excursions, with opportunities for rhino tracking and cultural tours. The camp’s remote setting ensures an exclusive and intimate safari experience.

End your journey at Pumulani Lodge on the golden shores of Lake Malawi. Perched above Cape Maclear, the lodge offers breathtaking views of the “Lake of Stars.” Relax in spacious villas, take part in non-motorized water sports, explore local villages, or unwind on a sunset dhow cruise.

This thoughtfully designed itinerary strikes the perfect balance between thrilling safari adventures and tranquil lakeside relaxation, promising an enriching and unforgettable African experience.

Viva's Best Bits...

With just five bush suites, Luangwa River Camp promises exclusive luxury—featuring sunken bathtubs, open-air showers, and river-facing decks teeming with wildlife.

Make the most of your stay in Lake Malawi and enjoy water activities in the crystal clear water. Experience kayaking, snorkelling, paddleboarding, sailing and more!

Discover the wilderness on a guided walking safari, spotting smaller wildlife & local plants. Keep your camera ready for close encounters, & your binoculars for distant sights.

Tour Itinerary

Customisable ? This tour can be customised to suit your tastes and timing. Enquire here for more information.
Day 1
Lusaka South Luangwa National Park

On arrival at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka you will be met by our representative who will assist you through immigration and onto your scheduled flight to Mfuwe.

At Mfuwe Airport, a guide from Nkwali Camp will meet you and transfer you to the camp, your home for the next four nights.

Nkwali Camp is located on the banks of the Luangwa River, just outside the South Luangwa National Park, and offers an intimate safari experience with excellent access to game viewing. With only six spacious chalets, the camp provides an authentic and relaxed atmosphere. The open-front design allows for uninterrupted views across the river, where elephants, hippos, and other wildlife are frequently seen.

Facilities at Nkwali include a swimming pool, a well-stocked bar, and a central dining area overlooking the river. Activities at the camp include morning and afternoon game drives, night drives, and walking safaris led by highly experienced guides.

Day 2-4
South Luangwa National Park

Spend three full days enjoying the spectacular wildlife of South Luangwa.

• Game Drives: Morning and afternoon game drives provide opportunities to see elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, buffalo, and an incredible variety of birdlife.
• Night Drives: Afternoon drives extend into the evening with spotlights, offering the chance to see nocturnal species such as civet, genet, porcupine, and predators on the move.
• Walking Safaris: South Luangwa is famous as the birthplace of the walking safari. Explore on foot with a qualified guide and scout, focusing on tracks, plants, and smaller wildlife while keeping a respectful distance from the larger animals.

Between activities, relax at camp, watch wildlife from your veranda, or cool off in the pool with views over the Luangwa River.

Day 5
South Luangwa Majete Wildlife Reserve

Today you will transfer back to Mfuwe Airport for your scheduled flight to Lilongwe, followed by a seat-in-charter flight to Majete Wildlife Reserve.

On arrival, a guide from Mkulumadzi Camp will transfer you to the lodge where you will stay for three nights.

Mkulumadzi Camp is set at the confluence of two rivers, offering a remote and tranquil setting in the heart of Majete. Each spacious chalet has a private deck with sweeping river views. The main lodge includes a lounge, dining area, and pool, all designed to blend into the surrounding wilderness.

Day 6-7
Majete Wildlife Reserve

Enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and boat excursions in Majete. This reserve is one of Africa’s great conservation success stories, now home to the Big Five along with abundant antelope, hippos, crocodiles, and rich birdlife.

Expert guides will lead activities twice daily, sharing their knowledge of the park’s wildlife and ecosystems. Back at camp, unwind on your deck and watch for elephants or simply soak in the peaceful river setting.

Day 8
Majete Wildlife Reserve Lake Malawi (Cape Maclear)

After breakfast, depart Mkulumadzi Camp and transfer by road to Lake Malawi, where you will spend three nights at Pumulani Lodge in a Bush View Villa.

Perched above the sandy beaches of Cape Maclear, Pumulani offers breathtaking views of the “Lake of Stars.” Villas are spacious and private, designed for both comfort and seclusion.

Day 9-10
Lake Malawi

Spend two full days enjoying the activities and scenery of Lake Malawi.

• Non-Motorised Water Sports: Kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding are included.
• Village Walks & Nature Trails: Explore nearby communities and learn about local traditions.
• Sunset Cruises: Sail on Pumulani’s dhow at sunset, a highlight of any stay.
• Relaxation: Simply unwind on the beach, snorkel in the clear waters, or lounge by the infinity pool with panoramic views.

For stays of four nights, a complimentary snorkeling excursion is included, giving you the chance to discover the lake’s remarkable cichlid fish.

Day 11
Lake Malawi Lilongwe Airport

After breakfast, transfer by road from Pumulani Lodge to Lilongwe Airport (approx. 4 hours) for your international flight home.

What’s Included

Accommodation
  • Included Copy 20 4 nights in Nkwali Camp 
  • Included Copy 20 3 nights in Mkulumadzi Camp
  • Included Copy 20 3 nights in Pumulani Lodge - Bush View Villa 
Food
  • Included Copy 20 Meals and standard bar drinks where specified
Fees & Services
  • Included Copy 20 Internal flights Lusaka/Lusaka and all safari costs
  • Included Copy 20 Game drives and walking Safaris
  • Included Copy 7 Tips, International flights, Insurance, Visas, Taxes, Premium drinks and other personal expenses

Activities

  • Included Discover native plants and small wildlife on a guided walking safari.
  • Included Wildlife Encounters: Spot the Big Five including antelope, hippos, crocodiles, & rich birdlife.
  • Included Enjoy kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding on the stunning Lake Malawi.
  • Included Learn about and discover the remarkable cichlid fish on a snorkeling excursion.
  • Included Experience South Luangwa’s wildlife on an exciting game drive.
  • Included Meet the community and taste authentic traditional local flavors.
Click here for dates & prices
Duration

11 days

Price from

$7,387 USD

Per person, sharing

Base on twin share

Departs Daily - Mid March to December