Malawi

Thoughtful touches in accommodation combined with friendly engaging staff will make your stay memorable. This is a country to truly explore—many of its wonders remain quietly hidden. Malawi is one of the most densely populated places in Africa, and despite the poverty there is a palpable happiness and pride in this safe and politically stable nation. There is an obvious direct connection between the people, the land, and wildlife.

There are over 700 species of cichlids alone! The visibility in the clear waters makes SCUBA diving and snorkeling the most popular activities, but all varieties of watersports are possible on the lake. Secluded coves and beaches line the shores and lovely accommodations can be found on the islands in the lake or along the shore.

Conservation success stories— Liwonde National Park is Malawi’s longest established and most popular wildlife viewing area. The park is undergoing a renaissance with the reintroduction of, lion, rhino, and cheetah in the past few years. Those species are thriving along with elephant, waterbuck, sable, and impala due to the stepping up of community involvement and anti-poaching efforts. Majete Wildlife Reserve has been undergoing a similar transformation, with Big 5 species now populating the wilderness and resources growing. There is an opportunity to visit the nearby Njobvu village, where guests may mingle with locals to learn about village life, participate in daily activities, and enjoy traditional dances and drumming.

Tea estates – Dominated by views of Mount Mulanje, the region’s highest peak, the verdant tea estates and fertile soils grow most of Malawi’s produce. Tea has been an industry here since 1908 and a few estates produce enough to export worldwide. It is worthwhile to visit one of the last remaining family-run organic fair-trade tea estates to hear the living history of the Thyolo region. Scenic walks, hikes, cycling, ‘crop to cup’ tours, and charming accommodation are available on the estate.

Hidden gem—The glorious Nyika Plateau in the North lies at 8,000 feet (2,500 m) above sea level at the heart of the Northern highlands of Malawi. The undulating hills are often compared to whalebacks and contrast the granite ridges of the plateau found in the Northeast where they form the edge of the Rift Valley. The Nyika National Park is visually stunning and often sits above the clouds.  Leopard, hyena, jackal, roan, eland, and zebra are regularly spotted here. Bird watching is prolific with over 400 species recorded in the area. Nyika has wonderful opportunities for trekking and mountain biking as well as waterfalls, a Neolithic rock shelter, trout pools and even a ‘magic lake’ to investigate.

• We advise spending 3-4 days if you are just going to the Lake Malawi or 9-12 days for a full spectrum safari of Malawi. Malawi is easily combined with any destination in Southern Africa and a safari combines nicely with Zimbabwe, Zambia, or South Africa.
• We recommend Malawi to seasoned safari veterans, those seeking romance and birdwatchers. For the adventurous, it is quite family friendly. You will get excellent value out of your dollars in Malawi compared to other destinations.
• Visas are required for most visitors and are available upon arrival, but inoculations may be recommended. We suggest you see a travel medicine specialist for advice.
• Getting around Malawi is relatively easy with good roads and limited flight are available to the popular wildlife areas. Most touring is overland.
• English is an official language and you will find communication easy throughout your trip.
• Most guides are trained well and are local to the areas you will visit.
• Not known as a culinary destination, you can expect hearty and flavorful international choices on safari.

Keep in mind that the lake shore areas are warmer all year round, while temperatures in the highlands are cooler than average, particularly in winter.

May – early October: This is the long dry season and best viewing conditions with short grass. Wildlife congregate around water sources. You can expect chilly mornings, bright sunny days, and cool evenings until September when temperatures start to rise. This is peak travel season for visitors.

Mid-October – April: This is typically the rainy or ‘green’ season, when temperatures remain warm and humid. Wildlife is a bit more dispersed and sightings might not be plentiful. Expect showers in the morning with clearing in the afternoon before clouds roll in again for heavier rains in the evening. Road conditions in the bush can be muddy. This season is best for landscape photographers and bird watchers.

Several island lodges offer ‘Robinson Crusoe’ type eco-luxury and are dripping with romance for honeymooners or those celebrating a special occasion. Many of the properties we work with are suitable for families or small groups traveling together. Every property booked on a Rothschild Safari is vetted by staff and offer the highest standards in each category.