Malawi and Zambia 2025

March 29 – April 9, 2025

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Africa, exploring two incredible countries! This 12-day journey includes multiple safaris in two national parks, meaningful community engagement, and a visit to the world’s largest waterfall.

You’ll experience breathtaking landscapes, immerse yourself in the rich cultures and histories of Malawi and Zambia, and enjoy exciting water activities. Along the way, savor authentic Malawi and Zambia cuisine and create connections that will last a lifetime.

Eligibility Requirements:

✔ Female, 21+ years old
✔ Valid passport

Explore the Itinerary

Arrive in Blantyre, Malawi

Saturday, March 29, 2025

Arrive at Blantyre’s Chileka International Airport. You will be greeted here by our local guide and transported to Zomba; the former capital of British Central Africa and Nyasaland. The town has a distinctive atmosphere with leafy avenues and fading colonial buildings along the wooded mountain slopes.

Located atop the plateau, our first night in Malawi will be spent at the Ku Chawe Inn. The Inn offers us a chance to relax and soak in the wonders of this unique African destination. Surrounded by a gorgeous landscape and terraced gardens, your room will have panoramic views from Lake Chilwa and the Shire Highlands to Mount Mulanje and beyond. While gazing at the distant horizon from top of the plateau, Queen Elizabeth said, “It offers the best view in the whole of the British Empire.”

After settling in and enjoying lunch, you can choose to relax by the pool or venture out with the mountain guide for a 1 hour hike to nearby waterfall.

Travel Time: 2.5 hours

Meals Included: Dinner

Community experience and transfer to Liwonde National Park

Sunday, March 30, 2025

After breakfast, we’ll check out and visit YODEP, a youth-led community organization dedicated to tackling famine, literacy, climate change, women’s empowerment, and cultural preservation. The project leaders will welcome us, provide an overview of their work, and guide us on a community tour, offering a chance to connect with locals.

From there, we’ll journey to Liwonde National Park, arriving at Mvuu Camp by late afternoon. The scenic drive winds through mountains, towns, and villages, offering a glimpse of Malawi’s countryside.

Upon arrival, unwind by the pool, relax on your cottage porch, or enjoy the riverside lounge as hippos and songbirds create a peaceful soundtrack. In the early evening, we’ll embark on our first game drive, pausing at the riverbank for sundowners before continuing into a night safari to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Mvuu’s regular sightings include black rhino, sable, cheetah, buffalo, lion, impala, kudu, waterbuck, and elephants.

Travel Time: 2.5 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Liwonde National Park

Liwonde National Park

Monday, March 31, 2025

We will wake up to birds chirping and go on an early morning walking safari in the park. After 2 hours, we will return to the camp for breakfast.

After breakfast, we will take a boat safari, enjoying one of the best ways to view wildlife on the Shire River. We will return to the camp after 2 hours and enjoy free time before dinner under the night sky. Optional activities include:

– Lounging by the swimming pool

– Non-stop birding

– Trip to Njobvu Cultural Village Lodge and Nanthomba School

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Transfer to Lake Malawi

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

After a refreshing morning activity and a hearty breakfast at Mvuu Camp, we will embark on a scenic road journey to Cape Maclear, where we’ll spend the next two nights. Along the way, we’ll pass through picturesque landscapes and vibrant local villages, offering a glimpse into Malawi’s rich culture and daily life.

Upon arrival, we’ll check in at Fat Monkeys Lodge, a charming beachfront retreat where the breathtaking beauty of Lake Malawi unfolds before us. With its crystal-clear waters and golden sandy beaches, this freshwater paradise invites you to unwind and explore. Whether you choose to swim, snorkel, or simply relax by the shore, Lake Malawi offers the perfect setting for both adventure and tranquility.

Optional Activities:

Kayaking – $50

Snorkeling – $50

As the day winds down, you’ll have the option to embark on a sunset cruise aboard a catamaran. Watching the sun dip below the horizon over the vast waters of Lake Malawi is a truly unforgettable experience.

Travel Time: 4 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast

Second day in Cape Maclear

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Wake up to another beautiful morning along the picturesque shores of Lake Malawi. After breakfast, we’ll meet our community guide for a half-day village tour, where we’ll explore:

- A traditional fishing village

- Local tea rooms and shops

- Community projects

- Schools (if open)

Following lunch and the village tour, a guide will lead us on a scenic hike through the Cape Maclear Mountains. The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the bay and its three islands.

Total hiking time: 3.5 hours

Meals included: Breakfast and dinner

Transfer to Lilongwe

Thursday, April 3, 2025

After breakfast, we’ll depart for Lilongwe in preparation for our journey to South Luangwa the following day.

To break up the drive, we’ll stop at one of Central Malawi’s hidden gems—Mua Mission. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Mua Mission features an impressive museum and exquisite woodcarvings, making it the perfect place to purchase authentic Malawian souvenirs. The Chamare Museum showcases the traditions of three major tribal groups: the Chewa, Ngoni, and Yao.

In Lilongwe, we’ll stay within a 650-hectare forest reserve and dairy farm, offering a tranquil retreat. The lodge features a lush garden, an outdoor pool, and an onsite restaurant serving fine cuisine, including homegrown vegetables and fresh dairy products. Guests can unwind with a drink at the well-stocked bar or explore the surrounding area with activities such as birdwatching, forest walks, and visits to the Kumbali Cultural Village and the Permaculture Center at the Kusamala Institute of Agriculture and Ecology.

Travel time: 5 hours

Meals included: Breakfast and dinner

Travel to Zambia

Friday, April 4, 2025

After breakfast, we’ll journey to South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, where we’ll spend the night at Thornicroft Lodge.

Nestled on the banks of the Luangwa River in the wildlife-rich Mfuwe sector, Thornicroft Lodge is the perfect base for exploring the Valley of the Leopards. Each room overlooks the river, offering excellent hippo and crocodile viewing throughout the day, as well as a chance to witness elephants crossing in and out of the park at sunrise and sunset.

This world-renowned safari destination is home to over 60 mammal species and more than 400 bird species. Guests at Thornicroft Lodge can enjoy a professional safari experience and educational tours led by expert guides, ensuring an unforgettable wildlife adventure.

Border crossing fees are included.

Travel time: 6 hours

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Full day in South Luangwa National Park

Saturday, April 5, 2025

Wake up to a peaceful morning and enjoy breakfast while watching wildlife graze and gather at the water’s edge.

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a full-day safari, searching for big cats, Puku, Thornicroft’s giraffe, Crawshay’s zebra, and Coke’s hartebeest. As the sun begins to set, we’ll unwind with a sundowner overlooking the Luangwa River or its vast plains, soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

As night falls, we’ll continue our safari, hoping to encounter nocturnal wildlife, including the elusive leopard.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Travel to Victoria Falls

Sunday, April 6, 2025

Today, we’ll board a flight to Livingstone, where our adventure continues. In the evening, we’ll settle on the northern banks of the Zambezi River, just six miles from the breathtaking Victoria Falls.

You'll have free time to enjoy a variety of optional activities, including:

- Relaxing by the pool

- Indulging in spa treatments

- Fishing

- Canoeing and other water sports

- Horseback riding

Meals included: Breakfast

Victoria Falls

Monday, April 7, 2025

After breakfast, we’ll visit one of Africa’s most iconic natural wonders—Victoria Falls. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders,” this awe-inspiring cascade is the largest waterfall in the world and a designated Natural Wonder of the World. Witness the Zambezi River plunging over the edge, sending 500 million liters of water per minute crashing into the gorge below, creating a towering mist and stunning rainbow-lit spray.

In the evening, we’ll unwind with a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, enjoying a delicious dinner as we take in the breathtaking views.

Optional add-on activities:

- Ziplining from the Victoria Falls Bridge

- Visit to Livingstone Island

- Historical Bridge Tour

- Full Moon Tour (if timing allows)

Free day to explore Livingstone

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Another beautiful day to explore Livingstone and its many adventures. Today, you’ll have the freedom to choose from a range of exciting activities, including:

- Browsing local crafts at Mukuni Park Curio Market

- Horseback riding through Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

- Whitewater rafting through the Batoka Gorge

- Taking a steam train ride over the Victoria Falls Bridge

For those looking to add another country to their journey, an optional day trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana is available, offering incredible wildlife viewing opportunities.

Meals included: Breakfast

What's included

Accommodations

12 nights accommodations in Malawi and Zambia

Transfers

All road and boat transfers in Malawi

Domestic Flights

Domestic flights in Zambia (MFU- LIV- LUS)

Activities

All game activities and Park fees in Liwonde National Park, South Luangwa National Park, and Livingstone
Community Visits in Zomba and Cape Maclear
Sunset Cruises in Cape Maclear and Livingstone

Some Fees

Border crossing fee (Malawi to Zambia)

Meals

As indicated on the itinerary

What's not included

International Flights

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is optional but highly recommended

Alcoholic Beverages

Other Meals

Meals and snacks outside of items listed on the itinerary

Tips for local guides

Gratuity for local guides and drivers will be up to the individual

Optional Activities

Details and pricing of additional optional activities will be added as they become available

Vaccinations and Medication

Please check with your local health department or CDC to determine what vaccinations or medications may be required for your trip.

Payment options

Pay in full price: $4,700

Payment Plan Price: $4900 (The payment plan requires a non-refundable deposit of $500. Payments can be made monthly or bi-monthly, with the last payment being due on February 15th.

Booking Checklist

We’re so excited for you to embark on this unforgettable journey to Malawi and Zambia! Before securing your spot, please take a moment to carefully read, review, and sign our travel contract. This document outlines all essential terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Once that’s completed, you can select your payment method, book your trip, and explore our helpful resources to prepare for your adventure!

Please note that the contract must be signed before booking your trip.

Step 1:

Click the link below to review and sign our travel contract on the Terms & Conditions page.

Step 2:

Once you've signed the contract, click the link below to visit our booking page, select your payment method, and officially reserve your spot!

Step 3:

Finally, check out our resources page for a packing checklist and helpful travel tips to ensure you're fully prepared for your trip to Croatia!

We can’t wait to explore with you!

Sign here

Book here

Prepare here

Most asked questions about this trip!

Follow the steps in our booking checklist to sign our contract, pay, and book your trip!

Trip price is based on double occupancy rooms. Roommates will be assigned closer to the trip date. You will have a chance to “virtually” meet the other travelers on our Malawi/Zambia Facebook group page and through a meet and greet zoom call before the trip. If you prefer to upgrade to a private room, you will need to make this request as soon as possible. Private rooms are subject to additional cost of $655 and are on a first come first served basis.

The basic requirement is that you are a woman 21 years old or older. There is not a max age, but travelers need to be able to be physically active and able to ride in the car for a few hours at a time. There will be a couple of days that we have long drives, as we are trying to see as much of two countries as we can on this trip. You will also be in a vehicle during the game drives and a boat on the sunset cruise and the boat safari. Some of the more physical activities will include hiking, walking, and swimming.

This trip is for you if:

You have ever dreamed of going on an African safari
You love chasing waterfalls
You love to visit places that are “off the beaten path”
You are open-minded and adventurous
You are willing to step outside of your comfort zone to have an experience of a lifetime
You want to meet new travel besties
You are interested in learning about other cultures and ways of life