12 Days of Zambia & Malawi Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day Zambia & Malawi Adventure, exploring stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and cultural treasures. Experience thrilling safaris, breathtaking lakes, and immersive local encounters for the ultimate African journey through the heart of Southern Africa, combining the best of Zambia and Malawi. This adventure offers a perfect blend of wildlife safaris, cultural encounters, and breathtaking landscapes. From Zambia’s iconic South Luangwa National Park, famous for its wildlife and walking safaris, to the tranquil beauty of Lake Malawi, known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, this tour allows you to experience both the raw wilderness of Africa and the rich cultural traditions of two unique countries. Discover Zambia’s vibrant cultural heritage, explore local communities, and engage with wildlife in some of the most renowned national parks. Then, head to Malawi, where the serene lake and the surrounding mountains offer a perfect escape, combined with the chance to experience the local way of life. Whether you’re cruising on Lake Malawi, spotting the Big Five in Zambia, or visiting local villages, this adventure is the ultimate blend of nature, culture, and wildlife.
Safari Highlights:
- Game Drives in South Luangwa National Park
- Walking Safaris in South Luangwa
- Boat Safaris on Lake Malawi
- Cultural Immersion in Local Villages
- Scenic Views of Lake Malawi
- Wildlife Viewing in Lower Zambezi National Park
- Cultural & Historical Exploration in Lusaka and Livingstone
- Fishing on Lake Malawi
- Visit to Wildlife Conservation Projects
- Relaxing Beach Time on Lake Malawi
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lusaka, Zambia
Arrive at Lusaka International Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed by your guide. After a brief introduction to your itinerary, you will be transferred to your hotel in Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. After check-in, enjoy some free time to relax and refresh. In the evening, you will have a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Zambian cuisine such as nsima, nyama, and isha.
Accommodation options:
Protea Hotel by Marriott Lusaka (Midrange)
Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Hotel (Luxury)
Meals. Bed & Breakfast
Destination: Lusaka
Day 2: Lusaka Cultural Exploration
After breakfast, begin your exploration of Lusaka with a visit to the National Museum. Here, you will learn about Zambia’s rich cultural history, diverse tribes, and the country’s path to independence. Next, head to the Freedom Statue and Heroes Acre, which commemorate Zambia’s struggle for independence. In the afternoon, visit the Lusaka Craft Market to explore the unique crafts made by local artisans, including beadwork, wood carvings, and traditional textiles. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance of traditional music and dance. Return to your hotel for a relaxing night.
Accommodation options:
Protea Hotel by Marriott Lusaka (Midrange)
Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Hotel (Luxury)
Meals. Bed & Breakfast
Destination: Lusaka
Day 3: Travel to Livingstone and Visit Victoria Falls
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Lusaka Airport for your flight to Livingstone, home of the world-famous Victoria Falls. On arrival, you will be transferred to your lodge. After check-in and a leisurely lunch, head to Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Take a guided walking tour along the falls, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views and learn about the cultural significance of the falls to the local tribes. Afterward, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, where you can relax while watching the sun set over the water. Return to your lodge for dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Okavango Lodge (Moderate)
Maramba River Lodge (Midrange)
The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa (Luxury)
Meals. Bed & Breakfast
Destination: Victoria Falls
Day 4: Cultural Experience in Livingstone
After breakfast, visit a local village where you will have the opportunity to engage with the people and learn about their traditional lifestyles, customs, and beliefs. Participate in a craft-making session, where you’ll be shown how to create traditional Zambian beadwork or pottery. Enjoy a delicious lunch made by the community, and then, in the afternoon, visit Mukuni Village, home to the Tonga people. Here, you’ll have the chance to interact with elders, listen to local stories, and experience the vibrant culture of the area. Return to your lodge for an evening of relaxation and a traditional dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Okavango Lodge (Moderate)
Maramba River Lodge (Midrange)
The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa (Luxury)
Meals. Bed & Breakfast
Destination: Victoria Falls
Day 5: Transfer to South Luangwa National Park
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Livingstone Airport for your flight to South Luangwa National Park, one of Zambia’s premier wildlife destinations. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your lodge, where you’ll check in and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, embark on your first game drive in South Luangwa National Park. Known for its incredible wildlife, you will have the chance to see elephants, giraffes, lions, and a variety of antelope species. After a rewarding day of wildlife viewing, return to your lodge for dinner and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Accommodation options:
- Msandile River Lodge (Moderate)
- Flatdogs Camp (Midrange)
- Mfuwe Lodge (Luxury)
Meals: Full Board
Destination: South Luangwa National Park
Day 6: Safari Adventures in South Luangwa
Begin the day with an early morning game drive in the park, taking advantage of the cooler hours to spot predators such as lions, leopards, and wild dogs. After the drive, return to the lodge for breakfast and enjoy some free time to relax. In the afternoon, embark on a walking safari, a unique experience that allows you to explore the park on foot, accompanied by an experienced guide who will teach you about the ecosystem, animal tracks, and the smaller details of the wilderness. Afterward, return to the lodge for dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Msandile River Lodge (Moderate)
- Flatdogs Camp (Midrange)
- Mfuwe Lodge (Luxury)
Meals: Full Board
Destination: South Luangwa National Park
Day 7: Transfer to Lower Zambezi National Park
After breakfast, transfer to Lower Zambezi National Park, a peaceful park on the banks of the Zambezi River. This park is known for its picturesque scenery and excellent wildlife viewing. After checking in to your lodge and enjoying lunch, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a boat safari along the Zambezi River. The river is home to hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. In the late afternoon, embark on a sunset cruise, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the river at dusk. Return to your lodge for dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Kiambi Safari Lodge (Moderate)
- Chongwe River Camp (Midrange)
- Chiawa Camp (Luxury)
Meals: Full Board
Destination: Lower Zambezi National Park
Day 8: Safari Activities in Lower Zambezi National Park
After breakfast, head out on an early game drive through Lower Zambezi National Park. The park is known for its large elephant herds and diverse wildlife, including lions, leopards, and buffalo. The area also offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. In the afternoon, enjoy a canoe safari along the river, where you can paddle through the peaceful channels of the Zambezi, encountering wildlife from a unique perspective. Return to your lodge in the late afternoon to relax and enjoy dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Kiambi Safari Lodge (Moderate)
- Chongwe River Camp (Midrange)
- Chiawa Camp (Luxury)
Meals: Full Board
Destination: Lower Zambezi National Park
Day 9: Transfer to Malawi – Lake Malawi
After breakfast, transfer to Lusaka for your flight to Malawi. Upon arrival at Lilongwe International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to Lake Malawi. This beautiful freshwater lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and abundant fish species. After checking into your lakeside lodge, spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or taking a boat ride on the lake. Enjoy a peaceful evening with a traditional Malawian dinner while watching the sunset over the lake.
Accommodation options:
- Chintheche Inn (Moderate)
Mumbo Island Lodge (Midrange)
Pumulani Lodge (Luxury)
Meals. Bed & Breakfast
Destination: Lake Malawi
Day 10: Explore Lake Malawi
Today, you’ll have a full day to explore Lake Malawi. Start the day with a boat cruise across the lake to visit a nearby fishing village, where you’ll learn about the local fishing practices and the cultural significance of the lake to the communities. You can also go snorkeling to explore the colorful fish and underwater landscapes. After lunch, you will have free time to relax or take part in activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or hiking along the lakeshore. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner with fresh fish caught from the lake.
Accommodation options:
- Chintheche Inn (Moderate)
Mumbo Island Lodge (Midrange)
Pumulani Lodge (Luxury)
Meals. Bed & Breakfast
Destination: Lake Malawi
Day 11: Visit Liwonde National Park
After breakfast, depart for Liwonde National Park, one of Malawi’s best safari destinations, located along the Shire River. Upon arrival, you will check into your lodge and have lunch before heading out for a boat safari on the river, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, including the endangered fish eagle. The afternoon will also feature a game drive in the park, where you may encounter elephants, zebras, and buffalo. Return to your lodge for dinner and a relaxing evening.
Accommodation options:
- Kuti Wildlife Reserve (Moderate)
Mufumbiro Safari Lodge (Midrange)
Chinzombo Camp (Luxury)
Meals. Bed & Breakfast
Destination: Liwonde National Park
Day 12: Departure from Lilongwe
After breakfast, you will have some free time to relax or take a final walk along the shores of Lake Malawi. Later, you will be transferred to Lilongwe International Airport for your return flight home, marking the end of your memorable Zambia & Malawi Adventure.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
End of 12 Days of Zambia & Malawi Adventure
Inclusions:
- Accommodation: 11 nights of accommodation at a variety of lodges, ranging from mid-range to luxury, including all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Transfers: All internal transfers within Zambia and Malawi, including airport pick-ups and drop-offs, as well as transfers between national parks and lodges.
- Flights: Domestic flights within Zambia (Lusaka to Livingstone and South Luangwa) and from Zambia to Malawi (Lilongwe or Lake Malawi).
- Game Safaris: Morning and afternoon game drives in South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, and Liwonde National Park, with a professional guide.
- Walking Safaris: Guided walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park for a more intimate wildlife experience.
- Boat Safaris and Cruises: Boat safaris in Lower Zambezi National Park, Lake Malawi, and the Shire River, including sunset cruises.
- Cultural Visits: Visits to local villages in both Zambia and Malawi, where you can engage with the local communities, learn about their traditions, and enjoy cultural performances.
- Entrance Fees: Park entrance fees for South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Liwonde, and other included national parks and reserves.
- Local English-Speaking Guides: Professional, knowledgeable guides throughout your journey for game drives, cultural experiences, and nature walks.
- Meals: Full-board (all meals)
- Drinks (Mineral water)
Exclusions:
- International Flights: International flights to and from Zambia and Malawi
- Visa Fees: Any visa fees required for entry into Zambia or Malawi
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance
- Gratuities: Tips for local guides, lodge staff
- Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic drinks
- Personal Expenses: Expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, phone calls
- Optional Activities: Some optional activities may incur an extra charge.
- Medical Costs: Any medical expenses or emergency evacuation
- Additional Services: Any extra services not mentioned in the itinerary, such as spa treatments, private guides, or exclusive services, will incur additional costs.