13 Days Malawi Family Safari Holiday

Your Malawi family safari adventure begins as you touch down in Blantyre, the commercial city of Malawi. From there, a short transfer takes you to your first destination: Chimwenya Game Park. Located about 40 km from Blantyre, this private owned reserve is an ideal introduction to Africa’s wilderness, perfect for the family to acclimatizing to the continent’s rhythms.

Accommodation: Chimwenya offers family-friendly lodges that blend comfort with the rustic charm of the African bush. Expect to wake up to the sound of birds and fall asleep to a symphony of nocturnal wildlife.

Activities: Spend your days here on guided walks and game drives, where you’ll encounter a variety of antelope species, zebra, and giraffe. For the kids, there’s the excitement of horseback riding and fishing in the serene dams within the park.

After a leisurely start and a hearty breakfast on day four, you’ll make your way to the renowned Majete Wildlife Reserve, a testament to successful conservation efforts in Malawi. Majete has experienced a remarkable transformation and is now home to the ‘Big Five’ – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.

Accommodation: Your family will be staying in eco-friendly chalets that offer both luxury and an immersive experience in nature. The lodges are designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing your comfort and game-viewing opportunities.

Activities: In Majete, the adventure intensifies with game drives led by knowledgeable guides who will share stories about the reserve’s recovery and the creatures that inhabit it. You might also enjoy a thrilling boat safari on the Shire River, spotting crocodiles and hippos along the water’s edge. The reserve is also a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with over 300 species recorded.

On day seven, your family will journey to Liwonde National Park, one of Malawi’s premier wildlife destinations. The park is situated along the Shire River and is famed for its large elephant population and the critically endangered black rhino.

Accommodation: Lodges in Liwonde are designed to provide an authentic bush experience without sacrificing comfort. Imagine sleeping under a thatched roof with the sounds of the wild as your lullaby.

Activities: With expert rangers, explore Liwonde by 4×4 safari vehicles, by boat, or even on foot – a thrilling way to experience the African bush. You’ll witness elephants bathing in the river, antelopes grazing in the floodplains, and perhaps even spot a pride of lions. For a change of pace, cultural visits to local villages can be arranged, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the Malawian people.

Concluding your Malawi family safari, you’ll head to the picturesque Cape Maclear on the shores of Lake Malawi. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant cichlid fish.

Accommodation: Relax in a lakefront lodge where the beach is just steps away from your room. Here, you can unwind and reflect on the adventures of the past days while enjoying the comforts and amenities of your accommodation.

Activities: Lake Malawi is a veritable aquatic playground, ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and sailing. Discover the diverse array of fish that call the lake home, many of which are found nowhere else on earth. A visit to the nearby islands provides perfect spots for picnicking and further exploration. For those who wish to delve into the local culture, village tours and community projects offer engaging experiences.

As your 13-day Malawi family safari comes to an end, you’ll be transferred back to Lilongwe for your journey home. With hearts full of unforgettable memories and a deeper connection to nature, your family will be already dreaming of the next African adventure.