The Luangwa Valley, which marks the end of the Great Rift Valley, is one of the last unspoiled wilderness areas and possibly the finest wildlife sanctuary in Africa. It covers an area of over 9000 sq. km. through which the meandering Luangwa River runs. The ox bow lagoons, woodland and plains of the valley host huge concentrations of game, including elephant, buffalo, leopard, lion, giraffe, hippo and over 450 species of birds. Malawi is a landlocked country, running down the end of the Great Rift Valley. Dominated by Lake Malawi, the third largest lake in Africa, the surrounding country is exceptionally beautiful with dramatic scenery that includes rocky outcrops, high mountains, plateaus and views across what is considered to be Africa’s most beautiful lake. Malawi is known as the “Warm Heart of Africa” and as a people the Malawians live up to this name. They are extremely friendly and welcoming. There are many market scenes, road side stalls, cottage industries that a visitor can comfortably visit. With both the scenery and the culture Malawi is a great country to visit.