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!

Malawi Safari Self Drive Tour

The Journey

12-Day Malawi Safari Adventure

This malawi self drive safari begins at Lilongwe Airport, where the team hands over your vehicle, maps, permits and a full pre-departure briefing. The first drive heads east to Ntchisi Forest Lodge — roughly 88 km through rural highlands. For an africa self drive safari, this opener sets the tone: red-earth tracks, forest canopy and almost no traffic. The route evolves into a lake malawi safari as you follow the northern shore toward Chintheche. All accommodation, full-board meals and park fees are included at every stage.

From $ 3,875 / Person

12 Days from 6 Intermediate

Select your date

Additional options

Malawi

This malawi safari routes through the north of the country over 12 days — from highland forests and wildlife reserves to the alpine Nyika Plateau and the shores of Lake Malawi.

Days 1–6

Days 1–3: Lilongwe – Ntchisi Forest

Your malawi safari begins at Lilongwe International Airport. The team greets you, hands over your vehicle and provides maps, permits and a full pre-departure briefing for this malawi self drive safari. The first drive heads east to Ntchisi Forest Lodge — roughly 88.5 km, about 2 hours from the airport. The lodge sits at the foot of one of the last original rainforests in Malawi, in a remote area near Lilongwe. Explore mountain views, join guided forest walks and experience the warm hospitality of rural Malawi. Meals: full board.

Days 3–5: Ntchisi – Nkhotakota Reserve

After breakfast, drive about 135 km (roughly 4 hours) to the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve — one of Malawi's oldest and largest reserves. Your base is Bua River Lodge, set on the banks of the Bua River in central Malawi. The lodge offers comfortable tented accommodation with private bathrooms at reasonable rates. Kayak on the river, join a game drive, watch the diverse birdlife or enjoy sunset over the water. Meals: full board.

Days 5–8: Nkhotakota – Nyika National Park

Drive approximately 415 km north — about 7 hours — to reach Nyika National Park and check in at Chelinda Camp. The camp sits in the alpine highlands of the nyika plateau malawi at over 2,000 metres, offering a grassland landscape unlike anywhere else in southern Africa. Spend three nights here with time for open plateau game drives, guided walks and night safaris to spot roan antelope, zebra and leopard. Pack warm layers — evenings at altitude get cold. Meals: full board.

Questions about the tour itinerary?

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

Days 8–11: Nyika – Chintheche Shore

From Nyika, drive about 285 km (roughly 4 hours) down to the northern shore of Lake Malawi for a genuine lake malawi tour. Chintheche Inn sits on the waterfront with a white sandy beach and crystal-clear water. Views from the shore stretch out toward distant islands including Likoma Island — one of Lake Malawi's most visited island destinations. Three nights here offer an ideal lake malawi vacation reset with swimming, relaxation and local village walks. Meals: full board.

Days 11–13: Senga Bay – Nankoma Island

Drive 270 km to Senga Bay near Salima — about 4 hours — then board a 30-minute boat transfer to Nankoma Island and Blue Zebra Lodge. The chalets sit in an unspoiled lakeside setting surrounded by nature. Complimentary lake malawi snorkeling equipment lets you explore the cichlid-rich waters along the shore. The stay also includes kayaking around the island, volleyball and full use of the infinity pool. A top choice among malawi vacation packages, this island finale caps the route in style. Meals: full board.

Nankoma – Lilongwe Departure

Your malawi trip concludes with a boat transfer back to Senga Bay, then a drive to Lilongwe International Airport. A fitting end to a route that covered forests, wildlife reserves, highland plateaus and the lake shore. For those who want to visit malawi again or extend into Zambia or Tanzania, the team is happy to arrange onward combinations. Safe travels.

Want a detailed description of all tour days?

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

Malawi Safari: 12-Day Self-Drive Tour

12-Day Malawi Safari Adventure

Key Highlights of the Trip