8 Days: Lusaka, Mfuwe, South Luangwa National Park, Lilongwe, Lake Malawi

Tour Overview:

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.

Day 1 – LUSAKA / MFUWE / SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

On arrival at Lusaka International Airport, Zambia, you will be met by our representative and assisted with immigration and customs clearing, then check in for your flight to Mfuwe, South Luangwa. The flight is on average one hour. Upon arrival at Mfuwe Airport, you will be met and transferred to Luangwa River Camp, traveling through colorful villages. Depending on your arrival time you may settle in for some lunch, then off on an afternoon activity. There is an option to turn back after sun-downers or continue to see what nocturnals you can spot, returning to camp in the evening. Overnight Luangwa River Camp. (LD)

The ten bedded camp is situated opposite the Luangwa Wafwa (a game rich area of the park) in the Upper Lupande Game Management Area. It offers all the creature comforts of a lodge yet with all the intimacy, tailored activities and flexible mealtimes you come to expect from a bush camp. The camp is unique with its décor of locally crafted and handmade details. The main area is elevated between 1-3 metres on wooden decks affording great views to the park and river. The swimming pool is sunk into the deck, linked by a waterfall. Seating areas are all elevated and open plan with a bar area as well as a dining and reading area.

Day 2 – SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

You can spend the day as you wish – an option is there to take a walking activity or game drive; or even both. For those with a knack for shopping: they can take a trip to Tribal Textiles for locally printed fabrics which are sewn into various items – perfect for souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. Perhaps a trip to Kawaza Village to experience an authentic Zambian village; interact with the locals and even sample a local meal. Nothing is set in stone; you can discuss your specific interests with your guide. Overnight Luangwa River Camp. (BLD)

Day 3 – SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK – LUANGWA RIVER CAMP / NSEFU CAMP

After an early breakfast, a transfer game drive through the park takes you to a crossing point on the Luangwa River. Enjoy lunch at the camp, followed by an afternoon game drive. Overnight Nsefu Camp. (BLD)

The Nsefu Sector was recognized as a phenomenal area and it still is. Robin Pope Safaris owns the only two camps in this sector of the Park. There are six round rondavels with luxurious en suite facilities and each room has a clear view of the sweeping bend of the Luangwa River through large windows and from the wooden verandas. From the dining room lunch can be enjoyed whilst watching large herds of elephants making their daily river crossing just upstream from camp. The bar and sitting area sit snugly between a large termite mound and lagoon, unobtrusive and cosy but making the most of the extensive wildlife that comes down to the lagoon to drink – lion and leopard can also be heard lapping away at the refreshing water in the evenings

Day 4 – SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

A full day to drive or walk through the ebony groves. Or you may decide this is an ideal day, depending on the heat and time of year, to explore the Nsefu Sector of the National Park possibly with an all day picnic drive to the salt pans that will cover different habitats and is an exceptional day’s safari. Overnight Nsefu Camp. (BLD)
Note: Nsefu is only open May 21 to Nov 21, outside of this period this itinerary will include 4 nights Luangwa River Camp.

Day 5 – SOUTH LUANGWA / MFUWE / LILONGWE / LAKE MALAWI

After breakfast you will transfer to Mfuwe Airport for your scheduled flight to Lilongwe. The flight time to Lilongwe is approximately 50 minutes. On arrival at Lilongwe’s Kamuzu Airport, you will be met for your scenic overland transfer to Lake Malawi. (BLD)

Pumulani is situated on the Westside of the Nankumba Peninsula in the South end of Lake Malawi – romantically called “The Lake of Stars”. The ten villas are scattered around the hillside and are individual in shape and style but all have a spacious bedroom, bathroom and extensive sitting area. The front sliding doors open onto the deck – elevated above the ground giving optimal views. The central dining and bar area is high above the lake with the most spectacular views and leads onto an expansive deck. The infinity swimming pool is on a lower terraced deck. The lake shore bar offers light snacks as well as refreshments. Meals will be served in the dining area, on the beach or by arrangement on your private deck. The stunning setting of the lodge and the unique comfort of the rooms means that many guests choose to make relaxation their main activity, but there are enough activities available to keep guests busy.

Day 6 – LAKE MALAWI

Enjoy the first full day of relaxation at Pumulani. Our remote beach setting is ideal for those who simply want to soak up the sun and swim in the clear blue waters of the lake. Those who prefer to take a dive in the swimming pool, we have an infinity swimming pool near the central dining area with grand views over the lake. For those seeking activity we offer many water sports activities like snorkeling, fishing, sailing, kayaking, water-skiing, wake boarding and fun tube rides (all motorized activities are excluded). At the end of the day climb aboard our dhow and let our experienced local crewmen take you sailing into the sunset. Overnight Pumulani. (BLD)

Day 7 – LAKE MALAWI

Lake Malawi is the world’s most ecologically diverse lake. Its crystal clear waters are home to more than a thousand species of fish, including hundreds of species of colorful cichlids. We offer special diving courses at the best diving spots near one of the islands. For those who are interested in the real Malawian village life we offer guided walks through one of the local villages. Malawians are renowned for being amongst the friendliest people in Africa and during your stay you will have the opportunity to meet them. You can also simply relax in the beautiful and tranquil scenery or can enjoy the many other activities. Overnight Pumulani. (BLD)

Day 8 – LAKE MALAWI / LILONGWE

Depending on your onward connection, you may have a lazy morning or early breakfast before heading off to Lilongwe for your departing flight. (B)

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