Malawi

Malawi is widely known as the warm heart of Africa and for good reason; it is a peaceful, laid back and extremely friendly country.

Its main draw is Lake Malawi, with its crystal clear waters, hundreds of species of tropical fish and beautiful white beaches dotted with small fishing villages.  If you have time, travel over to the small hideaway islands of Likoma or Chizumulu on the historic Ilala Ferry.  Malawi would rival many more popular coastal destinations for a relaxing beach holiday.

The number of tourists that travel to Malawi is still relatively low compared to its more popular neighbours and this unspoilt charm is what appeals to many visitors.  There is also much more to Malawi away from the shores of the lake.  For a wildlife safari in Malawi you can combine the vast unspoilt wilderness of Nkhotakota Game Reserve, Liwonde National Park with large herds of elephant and hundreds of hippo, and the rolling hills of the Nyika Platea; each offering a very different experience.

For some great walking and trekking and dramatic scenery Mount Mulanje is spectacular and you can hike to the highest peak over 2 or 3 days, sleeping overnight at pretty little mountain cabins.  Guided walking trails are offered in most reserves and National Parks, including those listed above, and are often the best way to enjoy a Malawi safari.

Malawi may not traditionally be known as a safari holiday destination. However, recent reintroductions of wildlife species that used to be found in Malawi are beginning to change that and, with the opening of a number of exceptional new safari lodges, creating some exciting options.  Malawi has now become a country that offers a choice of reserves for an African safari adventure.  Leopards have recently been reintroduced to Majete Game Reserve and lions will follow in 2012.  Tales of exciting new sightings are becoming more frequent, such as fortunate guests viewing hippo and elephants swimming in the Bua River and glimpses of lion in the wilderness of Nkhotakota, and visitors to Nyika, now often spotting leopard, have also reported sightings of African hunting dogs.

Although it may still not rival some of the more established safari destinations, Malawi is clearly rewarding those intrepid enough to explore its scenic parks and reserves!  Malawi can also be easily combined with South Luangwa National Park, just across the border in Zambia, to complete your game viewing and perfect African holiday.

Malawi has something to offer everyone, so if a safari isn’t your idea of a holiday, then kick off your shoes and relax at one of the many island or lakeside beach resorts. Popular with independent travellers and backpackers, due to being a safe country with very welcoming people, Malawi now boasts luxury lodges on private beaches with golden sands and crystal clear waters, which match some of the best in Africa.  There is a host of water sports and activities to choose between, from snorkelling, water skiing and scuba diving to kayaking, sailing and sunset cruises.  Malawi has become the ideal destination in its own right for anyone seeking somewhere a little exotic for their holidays, whether for exploration and adventure or to relax and unwind.

Malawi Holiday Destinations

  • Lake Malawi

    Lake Malawi, known as ‘The Lake Of Stars’, is more like an inland sea than a lake and offers beaches, snorkelling, diving and inviting waters to rival most coastal destinations.

  • Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

    Nkhotakota is the largest reserve in Malawi, covering around 1800 sq km with dense forests and pockets of evergreens over escarpments and hills. Elephants, lions, leopards, antelopes and buffalo all roam this amazingly undiscovered area. With over 280 species of birds recently recorded, it is also a paradise for birders. Perfect for a Malawi safari!

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