Malawi, Zambia · Safari

9-Day Zambia and Malawi Safari with South Luangwa and Lake Malawi

9 Days Round trip from Luangwa Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore South Luangwa National Park on game drives and walking safaris
02 Spot lions, elephants, leopards, giraffes, and diverse birdlife in their natural habitat
03 Experience the vibrant waters of Lake Malawi through swimming, snorkeling, diving, and boating
04 Discover local culture with visits to nearby villages and markets
05 Enjoy scenic sunsets over the lake in Cape Maclear and Monkey Bay

Embark on a 9-day Zambia and Malawi safari that combines the wildlife-rich landscapes of South Luangwa National Park with the stunning shores of Lake Malawi. Discover South Luangwa through thrilling game drives and walking safaris, with chances to encounter lions, elephants, leopards, giraffes, and diverse birdlife. Continue to Cape Maclear and Monkey Bay for swimming, snorkeling, diving, canoeing, kayaking, and scenic boat cruises on the lake. Along the way, enjoy lakeside lodges, cultural visits to nearby villages and markets, and breathtaking sunsets over the water.

Discover South Luangwa through thrilling game drives and walking safaris, with chances to encounter lions, elephants, leopards, giraffes, and diverse birdlife.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Lilongwe, Lusaka, South Luangwa National Park, Lake Malawi

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in South Luangwa and First Game Drive

Arrive at Mfuwe Airport.
Transfer to your lodge or camp.
Embark on an afternoon game drive to begin spotting wildlife.

Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the camp.

Day 02

South Luangwa Walking Safari and Sunset Game Drive

Begin early in the morning with a walking safari or game drive to observe lions, elephants, leopards, and giraffes.
Spend the afternoon relaxing at the lodge or pool, with optional birdwatching.
Take a sunset game drive in the evening.

Overnight at the lodge or camp in South Luangwa.

Day 03

Full-Day Safari and Campfire Dinner

Participate in a full day of game drives and a walking safari, including a bush lunch.
Optional: Visit a local village or conservation project.
Experience a campfire dinner under the stars.

Overnight in South Luangwa.

Day 04

Journey to Malawi and Cape Maclear

Morning: Optional short game drive or bush breakfast.
Transfer from South Luangwa to Malawi via Lusaka, followed by the onward journey to Cape Maclear.
Arrive at a lakeside lodge in the afternoon.
Relax by the lake, enjoy dinner, and watch the sunset.

Overnight at Cape Maclear.

Day 05

Lake Malawi Activities in Cape Maclear

Participate in swimming, snorkeling, or diving in Lake Malawi.
Take a boat cruise to spot colorful cichlid fish.
Enjoy canoeing or kayaking along the lake.
Optional: Visit a local village for a cultural experience.
Dine lakeside in the evening.

Overnight at Cape Maclear.

Day 06

Travel to Monkey Bay and Lakeshore Leisure

Morning: Leisure time in Cape Maclear with an optional boat ride or swim.
Midday: Transfer to Monkey Bay (approximately 1-2 hours).
Afternoon: Explore Monkey Bay, visit local markets, and relax on the lakeshore.
Enjoy sunset over the lake and dinner at the lodge.

Overnight in Monkey Bay.

Day 07

Monkey Bay Boat Excursions and Lake Activities

Spend a full day on boat excursions on Lake Malawi.
Participate in swimming, snorkeling, or fishing.
Optional: Visit nearby villages for cultural experiences.
Enjoy a lakeside dinner and sunset in the evening.

Overnight in Monkey Bay.

Day 08

Transfer to Lilongwe and Farewell Dinner

Morning: Enjoy the last lake activity or an early breakfast.
Transfer to Lilongwe (approximately 5-6 hours).
Enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening.

Overnight near Lilongwe.

Day 09

Departure from Lilongwe

Transfer to Lilongwe Airport.
Fly out to your onward destination.

Where this trip takes you

South Luangwa National Park game drives, Lake Malawi snorkeling, Cape Maclear lakeshore

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Luangwa 4 cities · 9 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

South Luangwa: 3 nights in a safari lodge or tented camp, including beds, linen, and basic amenities
Cape Maclear: 2 nights at a lakeside lodge with comfortable rooms or bandas
Monkey Bay: 2 nights at a lodge or guesthouse on the lakeshore
All breakfasts included
Lunch and dinner included in South Luangwa and Malawi lodges
Drinks: Tea, coffee, and soft drinks included
Morning and evening game drives in South Luangwa National Park
Walking safaris with professional guides
Birdwatching and wildlife photography opportunities
Bush lunches and campfire dinners under the stars
Swimming, snorkeling, and diving in Lake Malawi
Canoeing, kayaking, or fishing excursions
Boat cruises to explore the lake and see cichlid fish
Visits to local villages for cultural immersion
Relaxation on sandy beaches and scenic spots for photography
Airport transfers: Mfuwe Airport to South Luangwa lodge, Lilongwe Airport to onward travel
Road transfers: South Luangwa to Cape Maclear to Monkey Bay to Lilongwe
All transportation included in comfortable vehicles
Professional safari guides in South Luangwa
Local guides for Malawi lake and village activities
24/7 support during the trip

What's Not Included

International flights to and from Zambia and Malawi
Park entry fees: South Luangwa National Park, Lake Malawi National Park, and any other activity permits
Visa fees for Zambia and Malawi (if applicable)
Travel insurance (recommended but not included)
Premium drinks, alcohol, or special beverages not included in the standard package
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, or optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Tips or gratuities for guides, drivers, or lodge staff
Optional excursions outside the listed itinerary activities

What to bring

Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors like khaki green and beige
Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for evenings and walking safaris
Warm layers for early morning and late evening game drives
Swimsuits and cover-ups for Lake Malawi
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
Sandals or water shoes for the lake
Sunhat or cap
Light rain jacket, especially if traveling during the rainy season
Sunglasses and sunscreen with high SPF
Insect repellent for mosquitoes near the lake and in bush areas
Binoculars for wildlife spotting
Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
Small backpack for day trips
Reusable water bottle
Travel documents, including passport, visas, insurance, and flight tickets
Personal medications and a first aid kit
Snorkeling gear (can also be rented locally)
Travel pillow and earplugs for long drives
Power bank or portable charger
Fresh fruits, snacks, or local delicacies from markets
Souvenirs, crafts, or artwork from villages
Bottled water if preferred, though lodges provide safe drinking water
Additional sunscreen or insect repellent if needed

Know before you go

Do not expect park fees to be included; pay entry fees for South Luangwa National Park, Lake Malawi National Park, or any other activity permits.
Do not expect alcohol or premium drinks to be included unless specified at the lodges.
Do not participate in unapproved activities; only join listed safari and lake activities unless arranged in advance.
Do not use single-use plastics in protected areas or parks to help protect wildlife and the environment.
Do not make loud noises or disturb wildlife during safaris; always follow your guide's instructions.
Do not leave camp or lodge boundaries alone for safety reasons.
Do not leave valuables unattended; keep passports, money, and electronics secure.
Carry travel insurance and copies of your travel documents.
Make sure you have all the necessary visas and vaccinations required for Zambia and Malawi.
Pack suitable clothing and gear for safari and lakeside activities.
Bring cash for local purchases, tips, and souvenirs.
Lilongwe accommodation near the airport is optional, depending on your flight schedule.
Premium drinks are optional.
Cultural visits to nearby villages or conservation projects are optional.