Is there mobile reception and internet during the trip?

In cities and lodges mostly yes, in remote areas only limited or not at all....

What kind of clothes should I take with me?

Light, breathable clothing for warm days and warmer clothing for cool nights in the highlands!

Self-Drive Safari Tour North Malawi

The Journey

Mid-Range Safari Tour

Welcome to Lilongwe, Malawi - the warm heart of Africa! After your arrival at Lilongwe International Airport, you will be greeted by us. You will be given the cards, papers, as well as all the information you need for your safari trip. Your first destination for today, and home for the next two nights: The Ntchisi Forest Lodge in Ntchisi Forest The Ntchisi Forest Lodge is located at the foot of one of the last remaining original rainforests in Malawi, in a remote location near Lilongwe. Here you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and Lake Malawi, experience the warm hospitality of a rural part of Malawi where tourists are still a rarity, and explore the beautiful landscape on walks and hikes. Meals, full board Distance: About 88.5 KM, 2 hours from Lilongwe Airport to Ntchisi

From $ 3,932 / Person

12 Days from 6 Intermediate

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Key Highlights of the Trip

01 Ntchisi Forest Lodge: Pure nature!

Ntchisi Forest Lodge: Pure nature!

Enjoy the breathtaking view in the original rainforest of Malawi.

02 Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve: Experience Safari

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve: Experience Safari

Watch wildlife along the picturesque Bua Rivers.

03 Nyika National Park: Highland Adventure

Nyika National Park: Highland Adventure

Explore the impressive landscapes of the alpine Nyika Plateau.

04 Chintheche Inn: Pure beach life

Chintheche Inn: Pure beach life

Relax on the dreamy beaches of Lake Malawi with crystal-clear water.

05 Blue Zebra Lodge: Island Paradise

Blue Zebra Lodge: Island Paradise

Spend unforgettable days at the Blue Zebra Lodge on Nankoma Island. This lodge offers a perfect combination of nature and luxury. Relax by the infinity pool, explore the surroundings with a kayak, or play volleyball. Free snorkeling equipment allows you to experience the colorful fish of Lake Malawi up close. Here you will be pampered in a dreamy setting and can let your soul dangle.

Days 1–6

Travel day 1 - 3

Welcome to Lilongwe, Malawi - the warm heart of Africa! After your arrival at Lilongwe International Airport, you will be greeted by us. You will receive the maps, papers, and all the information you need for your safari trip. Your first destination today, and home for the next two nights: The Ntchisi Forest Lodge in Ntchisi Forest. The Ntchisi Forest Lodge is located at the foot of one of the last remaining original rainforests in Malawi, in a remote area near Lilongwe. Here you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and Lake Malawi, experience the warm hospitality of a rural part of Malawi where tourists are still a rarity, and explore the beautiful landscape on walks and hikes. Meal Plan: Full board. Distance: About 88.5 KM, 2 hours from Lilongwe Airport to Ntchisi.

Travel day 3 - 5

On the banks of the scenic Bua River in Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve in Central Malawi, the Bua River Lodge offers high-quality, comfortable tent accommodations with private bathrooms – and it's affordable. The lodge is already known for its friendly staff, excellent accommodations, exceptional service, and delicious regional cuisine! Take a walk to the river, rent a kayak, enjoy the stunning sunsets, or watch the diverse birdlife of the nature park. Meal Plan: Full board. Distance: About 135 KM, approx. 4 hours from Ntchisi.

Travel day 5 - 8

After breakfast, it’s time to head north towards Nyika National Park. You will drive directly to Chelinda Lodge, where you will stay for the next three nights. The lodge is located in the alpine highlands of Nyika Nature Park and offers a spectacular and unique backdrop. It is recommended to bring warm clothing as it gets a bit cooler in the evenings. Meal Plan: Full board. Distance: About 415 KM, approx. 7 hours drive from Nkhotakota.

Questions about the tour itinerary?

Our tour guide is happy to answer any questions about the day-by-day route, stops, and details.

Travel day 8 - 11

After breakfast, you will drive to arguably the most beautiful beach in the north of the country. Chintheche Inn is located on the northern shore of Lake Malawi, with a white sandy beach and crystal clear water, surrounded by fishing villages and parts of tropical forests. Ten comfortable, bright rooms with their own bathrooms overlook the beautiful coastline. Meal Plan: Full board. Distance: About 285 KM, approx. 4 hours drive from Nyika.

Travel day 11 - 13

The drive heads to Senga Bay – Salima, from where you will take a boat to Nankoma Island. The last three nights of this self-drive safari will be spent at the Blue Zebra Lodge. The chalets are situated in a beautifully unspoiled environment, where guests are surrounded by nature and pure luxury. You can relax at the infinity pool, kayak around the island, or play a game of volleyball – all of this is included in the lodge stay. Additionally, the lodge provides snorkeling equipment for free, so you can observe the unique, colorful fish along the coast of Lake Malawi. Meal Plan: Full board. Distance: 270 KM, approx. 4 hours drive from Liwondo and 30 minutes boat transfer to the island.

Travel day 13

All good things must come to an end, unfortunately including unforgettable safari trips. You will return to Lilongwe, from where you will begin your journey home, or embark on another adventure in Africa (we are happy to assist with further combinations).

Want a detailed description of all tour days?

Our expert will walk you through the full itinerary and answer all your questions.

Malawi: Self-Drive Safari

Mid-Range Safari Tour

Key Highlights of the Trip