Best known for its sea-like lake, Malawi is also a land of forest-covered hills where monkeys leap through the trees, open grassland dotted with grazing antelope, and tea estates rambling across the foothills of Mount Mulanje. Our safari specialists have visited each corner of the country and will put together a holiday to Malawi that matches your interests, whether you’re looking for a safari, a beach break, or both.
While not Africa’s most obvious safari destination, Malawi’s Liwonde National Park is growing in popularity. Here, you can embark on game drives, bush walks and boat trips along the Shire River, which is regularly visited by hippo, crocodiles, elephant and an array of birdlife. For a change of scene, head to the Thyolo region, staying on a tea estate and following walking trails through the plantations. Then, end your trip on Lake Malawi’s sandy shores or fly to the remote Likoma Island, home to Africa’s third-largest cathedral.
Creating tailor-made tours for over 25 years
Suggested Malawi tour
This sample tour will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Malawi, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your tour will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Suggested activities for Malawi
Whatever your interests, our specialists will build activities into your trip that connect to how you want to experience Malawi.
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Visit St. Peter's Cathedral ![The Cathedral on Likoma Island]()
Visit St. Peter's Cathedral
Likoma Island & Mozambique LakeshoreVisit St. Peter's Cathedral
We definitely recommend taking a stroll or a boat trip over to the "town" and visiting the huge St. Peter's Cathedral which was built in 1905 by missionaries.
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Zomba Plateau Trip ![View from the Zomba Plateau]()
Zomba Plateau Trip
Zomba Plateau Trip
Enjoy the drive to the huge granite outcrop where you will pass trout farms, dams and clear running streams passing through waterfalls on their way to the lowlands.
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Watch the Local Choir & Dance Group ![Lake Malawi]()
Watch the Local Choir & Dance Group
Likoma Island & Mozambique LakeshoreWatch the Local Choir & Dance Group
Kaya Mawa is frequently visited by a local choir and Malipenga and Chioda dancing teams. The Malipenga (male) and Chioda (female) dance team are an integral part of Malawi culture. Feathers in caps, socks pulled up to the knees, the haunting trumpeting of the calabash tells the story of colonial days gone by.
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More choice for your safari
- Inspiration across all our African destinations
- Trip suggestions based on your interests
- Advice on where to safari, when
- Meet our team of safari experts
Best time to visit
Our specialists advise on the best months to visit Malawi, including information about climate, events and festivals.
Travel advice
Practical tips for travelling to Malawi, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest government travel advice.
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Malawi in pictures
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![View from the Zomba Plateau]()
Take in the views from the Zomba Plateau -
![Livingstone's turaco]()
Try a spot of birding -
![Mount Mulanje]()
Go walking in the Thyolo Region -
![Elephant in Majete Wildlife Reserve]()
Spot big game on a safari drive -
![Market in Lilongwe, Malawi]()
Go shopping in Lilongwe -
![Campfire on the beach]()
Discover the untouched delights of Manda -
![Horse riding on Nyika Plateau]()
See the Nyika Plateau on horseback -
![Elephant in Majete Wildlife Reserve]()
Go game-viewing in Majete Wildlife Reserve
Our expert guides to travelling in Malawi
Written by our specialists from the viewpoint of their own travels, these guides will help you decide on the shape of your own trip to Malawi. Aiming to inspire and inform, we share our recommendations for how to appreciate Malawi at its best.
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A typical day on an African safari ![Game drive with Shenton Safaris]()
A typical day on an African safari
A typical day on an African safari
A typical day on safari essentially revolves around the need to see the wildlife at its most active. It usually follows a similar routine with slight variations between destinations and seasons.
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Wildlife holidays in Malawi ![Liwonde National Park, Malawi]()
Wildlife holidays in Malawi
Wildlife holidays in Malawi
A captivating country still off the radar for many tourists, Malawi offers you the opportunity to view Africa's big game away from the crowds. Traditional vehicle as well as walking safaris can be included in your itinerary by our country specialists.
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Honeymoons in Malawi ![Northern Shores of Lake Malawi]()
Honeymoons in Malawi
Honeymoons in Malawi
Whether you want fine beaches, luxury accommodation, activities galore or good safari opportunities on your honeymoon, Malawi offers all of this and more. Our country specialists have also hand-picked a number of exquisite properties for you to choose from.
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Lake Malawi holidays ![Kayak Africa's Mumbo Island, Lake Malawi]()
Lake Malawi holidays
Lake Malawi holidays
Known as the "Lake of Stars" and running nearly the length of the country, Malawi is dominated by Lake Malawi. It's ideal for families, honeymooners or those simply seeking a relaxing break after a safari, and our country specialists will ensure you experience the best of it during your stay.
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Other popular destinations
Still looking for ideas? If Malawi has captured your interest, we think you might also like these destinations.
