This self-drive route explores the best of Southern Malawi. You will drive to the big five destination of Majete Wildlife Reserve and stay at Robin Pope Safaris’ property Mkulumadzi. Having soaked up the best of the guides’ knowledge here you set off for two nights camping to explore this great park on your own. You then spend two nights at Satemwa Tea Estates before heading off to Liwonde via Zomba Plateau. End your trip with a battery recharging two nights on the exclusive and private Mumbo Island in Lake Malawi.
On arrival into Lilongwe you will be met and transferred to Latitude 13 where you will spend the first night of your trip.
This morning you set off to Majete where you will spend two nights at Mkulumadzi on the banks of the Shire River. Game drives and walking safaris are offered in the mornings and late afternoons, giving guests plenty of time to relax beside the pool.
Today you will leave Mkulumadzi for this locally run community campsite. Staying here is a great way to contribute to the local economy as well as viewing the great game the park has to offer. Explore the park at your own pace in your 4x4.
Continue your journey onwards to Satemwa Tea Estate in Thyolo. A picnic on Thyolo Mountain with it’s panoramic views are a must while evenings can be spent around a roaring fire before enjoying a silver service dinner incorporating fresh estate produce.
Set off for Zomba to stay at this intimate colonial style guesthouse on the slopes of the plateau with great views out over the green valleys. Poised to access many local hiking routes you could also take out mountain bikes or go birding.
Today you head to Liwonde and camp on the banks of the Shire River. An excellent diversity of animals can be seen in the area. Birds are prolific along the river with the African Fish Eagle and Pel's Fishing Owl frequently being sighted.
Take a boat out to Mumbo Island, a pristine and deserted tropical island floating on the expansive waters of Lake Malawi. The camp is perched on high rocks overlooking the water, blending with the lush foliage to create a ‘Robinson Crusoe’ atmosphere of rustic charm.
This morning you will be collected from your lodge and transferred to the airport in time for your flight home.
Over the years we have researched and refined the list of vehicle equipment that we provide. The equipment is identical in every vehicle but we always ensure you have the essentials for each country and its respective driving conditions.
All our itineraries are tailor made, but here are some of our favourite routes and camp combinations.
Simply, because we care. Our expert team - both in the UK and Africa - work collectively to make sure you have a fantastic holiday. Importantly, we don't outsource any part of our service so we can ensure the correct level of quality and service is delivered.
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Your entire holiday is designed around your requirements. We will create the perfect trip, at your own pace, to your budget.
All our team in Africa live in-country and have travelled extensively. Their knowledge and input is key to a successful self-drive safari.
We don’t mark up for our services, we only take commissions from the suppliers we use. Tailor-made does not have to mean expensive.
All our holidays are 100% financially protected.
