Explore the majestic landscapes, diverse wildlife and beautiful culture of Malawi by taking on this once in a lifetime experience!

Malawi, often described as ‘The Warm Heart of Africa’, due to the friendliness of its people, has a huge variety of landscapes. These range from the rugged highlands, such as the hiker’s and climber’s paradise of the Mulanje Massif to lowland plains and unspoilt wildlife reserves. Malawi’s biggest draw is undoubtedly Lake Malawi, Africa’s third largest lake, lined with hundreds of miles of tropical golden sand beaches and boasting hundreds of species of colourful tropical fish.

The Frontier-Malawi Safari Adventure is an unforgettable experience exploring the travel highlights this amazing country has to offer! You will undoubtedly be captivated by the majestic wildlife and gripping Malawian landscapes as you make new friends that you meet along the way. At every turn, Malawi will surely have something wonderful to offer.

WHAT DOES THE PROJECT DO?

The Frontier-Malawi Safari Adventure encapsulates the travel highlights of Malawi in an action packed 14 day itinerary. The rural cultures of Ntchisi, the clear waters of Lake Malawi, the wildlife of Liwonde National Park and the views from Zomba Plateau. This itinerary heads 'off the beaten track' offering guests an opportunity to really discover 'The Warm Heart of Africa'. You will travel through untamed landscapes exploring untouched environments, meeting locals, tasting exotic cuisines and encountering endemic wildlife.

WHAT WILL I BE DOING?

Day 1-3: Central Malawi, Ntchisi Forest Lodge

Your first few days will be spent visiting the surrounding communities, helping at the local school or exploring the rainforest. Ntchisi District is steeped in local culture, and you may have the opportunity to cook traditional Malawian food, learn more about local witchcraft and learn more about village life. Evenings are spent around the lodge fire listening to the night sounds of this very special slice of rural Malawi.

Day 4-7: Lake Malawi, Norman Carr Cottage

After breakfast and farewells head down to the lakeshore and transfer to Norman Carr Cottage. The drive takes you along the southern lakeshore, passing local fishing villages and the historic Mua Mission where you will stop for lunch. Norman Carr Cottage is a small owner run lodge on the shores of the Southern Lakeshore. Local fishermen mend their nets on the beach and life slows to a gentle pace ideal for rest and relaxation. Days at Norman Carr are entirely flexible and guests have the option of going out on lodge boat ‘Alfie’ to snorkel in the clear waters of Lake Malawi or remaining at the lodge relaxing on the swimming chairs or walking in the local village. After lunch and a relaxing afternoon take a sunset cruise and early evening swim- watch the sun go down over the Lake of Stars!

Day 8-9: Liwonde National Park, Mvuu Camp

After a morning departure from Norman Carr Cottage stop off at a local boatyard, learn more about lake side village life and get to know an inspirational local youth organization before continuing south to the mighty Shire River and Liwonde National Park. Arrive for a late lunch at Mvuu Camp. Upon arrival at Mvuu Camp lunch will be served in the restaurant overlooking the river and after a siesta head out on a 4 x 4 safari game drive. Liwonde National Park is teeming with antelope and many large herd of buffalo and elephant. After a sundowner on the bank of the river head back to the lodge for dinner and star gazing! Rise early for a walking safari (optional- season dependent) or game drive returning to the lodge for breakfast before heading out of a morning boat trip. Meandering up the Shire River guests will see large pods of hippo and there is a chance of watching elephants and antelope coming to the river to drink. After lunch relax by the pool before heading out on an evening drive and final dinner at the camp.

Day 10-12: Zomba Plateau, Zomba Forest Lodge

After breakfast head back out of Liwonde and continue south to Zomba Plateau and the intimate Zomba Forest Lodge. The next two days will be spent exploring the plateau on hiking trails, horse riding, or by mountain bike. The plateau offers fantastic views down to Lake Chilwa, diverse flora and fauna and is a birdwatchers paradise! Spend the afternoon with a small community near Zomba Town, meet members of the local youth group, learn how to prepare local Malawian food and take part in some traditional dancing! This unique ecotourism visit offers incredible opportunities to see a different side of Malawi!