Zambia and Malawi Bush & Beach Safari
Experience the untamed beauty of Zambia with a safari in two National Parks, then relax on the secluded shores of Lake Malawi
Days: 12 | From: $14,550/per person
- Includes accommodation at luxurious safari lodges
- Safari with expert naturalist guides in a custom game viewing vehicle
Get up close and personal with an abundance of iconic wildlife in Zambia as you safari through South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi National Parks. Experience game viewing in an exciting variety of ways from game drives to bush walks, and river cruises to canoeing. Conclude your adventure on the virtually untouched shores of Lake Malawi- Africa's best kept beach secret.
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We tailor itineraries to your dates and interests, adjusting hotels, excursions and length as desired.
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At a glance
- Lusaka
Arrival: Arrive in Zambia's bustling capital and connect to your scheduled charter flight to the bush - Lower Zambezi National Park
3 nights: Observe huge herds of elephant as they drink and frolic at river's edge, track lion and leopard with your expert ranger and observe the intricacies of nature as you safari in this secluded park - South Luangwa National Park
4 nights: Experience abundant wildlife and pristine vegetation in this unique park set in the stunning Luangwa River Valley - Lake Malawi
4 nights: Relax on the hidden shores of Likoma Island at a boutique lodge where you revel in the many beach activities, stare out at the turquoise waters, or indulge at the spa
All itineraries are fully customizable. We will send you a personalized variation that reflects your interests and travel dates at no extra cost. Call to discuss your travel plans with one of our Specialists who know this region firsthand.
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Sample itinerary
Welcome to Africa!
Welcome to Zambia! Known as the ‘Warm Heart’ of Africa, Zambia is still under the radar on many safari agendas. Boasting some of the most remote, wild parks, an abundance of wildlife with no crowds and a diversity of experiences and lodging it is soon to be the top of everyone’s list. Known as the home of the walking safari Zambia is one of the only destinations where travelers can get out on foot for an up close and personal perspective on wildlife and really immerse themselves in the wilderness, with guides that are trained for anything.
Most international flights seamlessly connect to scheduled bush flights, meaning after you are escorted through the airport you are immediately off on safari to maximize your time in nature.
As you land at the airstrip you are met by your knowledgeable guide and begin your first game drive, en route to your luxury safari lodge.
Accommodations: Chongwe River Camp, 3 nights
Set on the edge of a mighty river in the shadow of a mountain escarpment, you'll feel right at home under a shady grove of tress at Chongwe River Camp. Wake up from a peaceful nap to the sound of an elephant rubbing against the side of your tent as it lumbers past.
Dotted along the riverbank, Time + Tide Chongwe River Camp is set at the confluence of the Chongwe and Zambezi Rivers which wind through the forested valley, creating a haven for wildlife like lions, leopards and wild dog.
Lower Zambezi National Park
Wake up to an unobstructed view of the river from your luxury tented suite at this intimate safari camp and begin your first full day on safari.
You won’t have to look too far on your first game drive to spot the prolific wildlife of this lush river valley. Accompanied by your expert guide you explore the varied terrain of the park getting your first taste of true safari
Safari in Lower Zambezi
Rise with the sun and enjoy a game drive as the bush comes alive for the day. The magical morning hours are often when wildlife is most active, either after a night of hunting, or waking for the day ahead.
This afternoon you can choose to gain a different perspective with a walking safari led by an expert ranger and tracker, take to the rivers on a boat cruise or canoeing safari, or to try your hand at tiger fishing.
Fly to South Luangwa National Park
Today it is time to continue your Zambian Adventure as you travel by bush plane to South Luangwa National Park. Touching down at the air strip you are met by your friendly guide for this portion of the trip, and you are off to your first luxury camp to settle in.
Crowned one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, South Luangwa National Park is home to a remarkable concentration of animals, centered mostly around the life- sustaining Luangwa River.
The Park hosts a wide variety of wildlife, birds and vegetation and it is where the now famous ‘walking safari’ originated so many years ago. Exploring on foot remains one of the finest ways to experience Africa’s pristine wilderness first-hand.
South Luangwa experiences dramatic seasons, adding to its rich safari experience. Ranging from dry bushveld in the winter when water becomes scarce, to an impossibly green wonderland in the summer months. There are 60 different animal species and over 400 of Zambia’s 732 bird species present in South Luangwa. The only notable exception to this abundance of game is rhino, who were sadly poached to extinction in this region many years ago.
Accommodations: Nsolo Bush Camp, 2 nights
Nsolo Bush Camp is situated on a bend in the Luwi sand river that runs through the heart of the South Luangwa National Park. Nsolo is the local name for the honey-guide and the camp was named after this extraordinary little bird. The wildlife frequents a waterhole in the dry river-bed in front of the camp and often your most exciting game viewing is from the comfort of your own deck or from the central lounge area that houses the bar and small camp library.
*Includes: All InclusiveSafari in South Luangwa National Park
Enjoy a full day on safari in this area of the park. Game drives are held aboard a custom, open Landcruiser, the best vintage point for snapping the perfect picture.
Spend an afternoon at leisure at your luxury camp, watching wildlife as it frequents the waterhole or resting in the heat of the day with a chorus of bush sounds to lull you.
A second game drive, or an adventure out on foot followed by dinner under the stars concludes another perfect day in the bush.
A change of scenery in South Luangwa
Today you will transfer to another luxury tented camp, in a different area of the park for the most comprehensive and in depth experience in this vast ecosystem. Not only does this allow for a diversity of landscape and topography but it also opens up a whole new world of wildlife corridors, and territories.
Which pride of lions will be on patrol on your new destination? What will the dynamics of the resident herds of elephants bring to your safari experience.
Accommodations: Kakuli Bush Camp, 2 nights
Kakuli is a remote, seasonal bush camp in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park. The camp is situated on a raised ridge at the confluence of the Luwi and Luangwa Rivers and has spectacular views over the surrounding area. This rustic camp is a true safari experience of old.
*Includes: All InclusiveA final day on safari
This morning you awake to the sights and sounds of the bush as your suite is situated perfectly above the river. Head to foot and snout level for the opposite perspective in the wildlife hide and capture some unique, up close photos as animals come to drink at the permanent lagoon.
Enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding landscape over elevated traditional Zambian dishes at dinner and venture out to explore life after dark on a spotlighted night drive.
Often the best time to see predators in action and elusive nocturnal creatures is during the first few hours of darkness. Night drive safaris have been known to provide some of the most exciting game viewing in Zambia.
Fly to Likoma Island in Lake Malawi
This morning you bid farewell to your guide as you are transferred back to the air strip where you will catch your flight to Malawi. After clearing customs you land at the secluded paradise of Likoma Island.
Africa’s third largest lake boasts white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise water, the largest number of fish species in any lake on the continent and with a couple of bespoke exceptions is almost completely undeveloped.
This exclusive beach destination is the ideal place for snorkeling or diving. Thousands of brightly colorful endemic fish will make you feel like you have stepped into your own personal aquarium. Due to the lake’s high alkalinity, there are very few plants and little organic material, which means exceptional visibility for a trip under water.
Accommodations: Kaya Mawa, 4 nights
Hidden away on Likoma Island in Lake Malawi, at Kaya Mawa you will be transported into a world of simple pleasures. Embraced by the warmth and hospitality of the enchanting Malawian staff you will enjoy timeless luxury and only the best of modern conveniences. "Kaya Mawa" translates as "Maybe Tomorrow"... the Likoma Island version of mañana... without the urgency.
If all the relaxation is too much, your days can be filled with everything from stand-up-paddle boarding, kayaking, kitesurfing, waterskiing, sailing and quad-biking; plus a full PADI dive school. And as the sun goes down on another perfect day enjoy a massage at the spa, nestled in the rocks on the lake, and have the last of your cares soothed away as you wonder to yourself "Shouldn't I be leaving?...maybe tomorrow"
Explore Lake Malawi
Island life allows you endless activity options to be planned or you may simply choose to take these days as they come.
Stay on land and enjoy the lodge, lounge on the beach, watch the diamonds on the water from your private deck, watch the sunset with a drink in your hand, or indulge in a spa treatment or leisurely picnic lunch.
Get active on the water while snorkeling or diving, view the lake from atop a stand-up paddleboard, or cruise hidden coves in a kayak. Sailing, quad biking, kite surfing, and wakeboarding are all on offer too.
Farewell Africa
After an early beach breakfast your journey winds down as you catch your flight off the island to Lilongwe Airport where you will board your connecting flight home or onward to your next destination.
Popular Ways to Customize This Itinerary
Choose from a selection of carefully curated lodges and luxury safari camps to ensure this trip fits your travel style.
Add a trip and visit the mighty Victoria Falls, also located in Zambia
Include some downtime for rest and relaxation! Some free time to unwind or have a massage will allow you to feel refreshed and ready for the remainder of your trip. Many of our properties include excellent spas or wellness centers. We can help arrange these services or include properties that offer health & wellness amenities.
Engage with locals in a meaningful, authentic and culturally respectful way with a visit to a community project or village
Add a day at the start of this trip to experience the vibrant art and culture of the capital Lusaka.
Combine this trip with the another region in Southern Africa for the ultimate in-depth safari experience
Contact us to learn about more options for designing and customizing your trip.
Why Travel with Vaya?
We're TRUE specialists
We’ve not only traveled there, we’ve lived there. Our smart and engaging specialists are all current or former expatriates with years of experience in the region.
Uplifting service
From the first phone call to after you get back, we're here for you every step of the way. We listen, create, customize and advocate for you, and design experiences that go beyond the expected.
Thoughtful travel
Our discerning sensibility and good taste go beyond just choices in hotels and top guides; we have a walk the walk commitment to the environment and are genuine leaders in conservation efforts.