Upon arrival at the Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe, your guide will welcome you and after greetings, you will be transferred to Kumbali Country Lodge in Lilongwe.

Founded in 1906 as small village, Lilongwe has grown into a thriving city that reflects the rich history and diverse culture of Malawi. Its central location and status as the seat of government, make it a symbol of national identity and unity. The city’s vibrant markets and lively streets offer a glimpse into daily life in this lively capital, while its modern amenities and infrastructure showcase its progress and potential growth. Visitors to Lilongwe are sure to be captivated by its blend of tradition and modernity, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic African experience.

Set on a private 650-hectare forest reserve and daily farm in Lilongwe, Malawi. Stylish, relaxed and informal, it is the perfect stop over to travel destinations. Kumbali offers the best accommodation in Lilongwe, thatched suites offering a comfortable and spacious accommodation with private en-suite bathroom and veranda. Kumbali’s easy-going hosts ensure cheerful, attentive hospitality allowing guests freedom to enjoy the peace of the farm, birdlife and indigenous forest walks. Kumbali Country Lodge is set on a private 650-hectare forest reserve and daily farm in Lilongwe, Malawi. Stylish, relaxed and informal, it is the perfect stop over to travel destinations. Kumbali offers the best accommodation in Lilongwe, thatched suites offering a comfortable and spacious accommodation with private en-suite bathroom and veranda. Kumbali’s easy-going hosts ensure cheerful, attentive hospitality allowing guests freedom to enjoy the peace of the farm, birdlife and indigenous forest walks.

Today, it is time to head to the southern part of Malawi. After breakfast, your guide will pick from Kumbali Country Lodge and head to the mountain district of Mulanje. Arriving in mid-afternoon, you will head straight to Likhubula Gateway Lodge on the base of Mulanje Mountain.

Nestled on the foot of Mulanje Mountain, offering a stunning view of the mountain and a cozy atmosphere. The lodge’s comfortable rooms are thoughtfully designed to provide a restful retreat after a day of exploring. The friendly staff are always on hand to ensure your stay is as enjoyable as possible. Located in a picturesque setting, Gateway Lodge is the perfect base for exploring the natural beauty and hiking trails of Mulanje Mountain.

Today after breakfast, we ascend via a fairly shaded trail that follows the Likhubula valley to the top of Lichenya plateau arriving at overnight hut early afternoon. Lunch will be served enroute. Late afternoon we get a gentle stroll to nearby Linje Pool and view point and later return to the hut after sunset. Overnight at the CCAP Cottage. Hiking Time: 6+1 hrs.

On the second day on the mountain, we proceed to Chisepo hut on a winding trail that skirts the main ridge of peaks passing Lichenya Forest Hut before crossing the knife edge water shed which is the source of Likhubula and Thuchila rivers. Lunch will be served at the hut which is the base camp for the Sapitwa Peak hike. Late afternoon optional stroll to nearby pool returning to the hut before sunset. Overnight at Chisepo Forest Hut. Hiking time 6 hrs.

On the third day on the mountain, after an early light breakfast, ascend Sapitwa Peak. On a clear day, views extend up to Zomba Plateau and Lake Chirwa to the North and North West and as far as Milanje Mountain in Mozambique to the East. Return to the hut for Brunch, Afternoon proceed via undulating path to Thuchila hut. Enjoy sun set at Elephant head view point. Overnight at Thuchila Forest hut. Hiking time: 8 hrs.

Our fourth day on the mountain, we hike to Sombani basin passing through Chinzama Forest hut where lunch will be served. The trail from Chinzama to the overnight hut is mostly flat grassland with a few streams and optional detours to visit nearby pools. Overnight at Sombani Forest hut; Hiking time 5 - 6 hours.

The fifth day, ascend Namisire peak after early breakfast for a clear view of Mount Michesi to the North and underlying Phalombe Plains. Return to the for lunch. Afternoon is an easy 3 hours hike to Madzeka Forest Hut which offers a clear view of the source of the mighty Ruo River. Overnight at Madzeka Forest Hut: Hiking Time 3+3 Hours.

On the 6th day, descend through evergreen mountain rain forest and finally through Lujeri tea estate plantation to shade no-3 which is the Pickup point. Debriefing is done after lunch at the base. Hiking time 5 Hikers.

After lunch and debriefing, you will be picked and transferred to Game Haven Lodge in the Chimwenya Game Park. 

Found within the beautiful 500-acre Chimwenya Game Park, part of the Shire Highlands and one of Malawi’s last remaining indigenous forests. Just 25 kilometers from Blantyre, it makes the lodge a perfect for a countryside getaway within easy access of the city.

Enjoy in this tranquil setting, creating a fascinating paradise with exceptional viewing of wildlife, which includes; Giraffe, Zebra, and several antelopes, Eland, Sable, Nyala, Waterbuck and for birdwatchers, prolific birdlife. Some of Malawi’s popular birds is also be found along the Chimwenya stream within the park.

Enjoy your last morning in the beautiful tea regions of Malawi. Today the journey continues to Liownde National Park, one of Malawi’s premier wildlife destinations.

The 580 square kilometers wildlife reserve is home to over 400 species of bird, a dense population of hippos, crocodiles, large numbers of elephants and a variety of antelope species. There also regular sightings of lion, cheeter and serval as well as black rhino.

Mvuu Camp is set amongst large, shady trees along the banks of the surging Shire River. The camp offers a charming setting for those wishing to explore the country’s premier wildlife haven. Shire River is Malawi’s largest river; the river attracts hordes of mammals and birds. The impressive thatched dining and lounge area offers magnificent vistas over the river, framed by two large baobab trees. For those wishing to cool off in the midday heat, there is an inviting pool. The camp is completed by a traditional dining under the stars. The camp offers an impressive atmosphere, lively and dynamic.

Today the journey continues on to one of the most stunning destinations in Malawi – Mumbo Island on Lake Malawi 45 minutes’ boat ride from the mainland of Cape Maclear. Mumbo Island is a pristine and deserted tropical Island, and the undisputed jewel of the Lake Malawi National Park. The Island has never been populated and is still in its natural state with a thick covering of Miombo woodland and ancient fig and baobab trees.

The Island Lodge offers an exclusive escape on an otherwise-deserted island in Lake Malawi’s nature, guests can enjoy ample tranquillity and barefoot luxury during their stay. The waters around the island are clean and calm, and allow all guests - irrespective of fitness or experience to enjoy sea kayaking, snorkelling and SCUBA diving. The island’s only mammals Spotted-necked Otters and are remarkably playful.

Kayak Africa run Mumbo as an entirely off grid, green camp so that it remains as unspoilt and perfect as it has been forever. The lodge is built of reeds, timber, thatch and canvas. It is perched on high rocks overlooking the water and blends in the African bush to create a Robinson Crusoe atmosphere of rustic charm. The whole of Mumbo Island lies within an exclusive concession, thus guaranteeing privacy in paradise. Mumbo Island Camp ranks amongst the finest in Malawi.

Enjoy sustainable tourism on remote uninhabited islands in the Lake Malawi National Park!

All good things must come to an end! Today prepare to depart Mumbo Island on the Lake Malawi. You will be transferred to the mainland by boat. You will meet your guide waiting for you on the mainland, after checking out, you will start driving to Kamuzu International Airport for your flight back home.

As you depart through Lilongwe International Airport, we hope you will carry with you all the unforgettable memories of your Malawi adventure.

End of Tour