15-Day Adventurous Trip to Malawi

  • Day 1: Blantyre
    18 minutes (16.2 km) from Chileka International Airport

    Starting your trip in the commercial city of Blantyre, visit the Chichiri Museum for a glimpse into Malawi's culture and history. Take an adrenaline-filled hike up Michiru Mountain, the tallest peak in the area, and end the day with a stunning view of the city.

  • Day 2: Lake Malawi
    2.5 hours (157 km) from Blantyre

    Travel to the magnificent Lake Malawi, one of the largest and most diverse freshwater lakes globally, and go snorkeling or diving to witness the colourful fish and stunning underwater landscape. Visit Chizumulu Island and try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding along the crystal-clear waves before retiring in Nkhata Bay.

  • Day 3: Nkhata Bay
    3 hours (189 km) from Lake Malawi

    Spend the day in Nkhata Bay indulging in boating and fishing adventures while taking in the serene scenery of surrounding mountains. Grab a drink at Mayoka Village for a superb relaxation experience with melodious live music and great food before retiring to your hotel room.

  • Day 4-5: Livingstonia
    3 hours (183 km) from Nkhata Bay

    Head to the historic highland town of Livingstonia for a two-day adventure of hiking down Nyika Plateau's rolling hills and valleys offering breathtaking views of the waterfalls and endless green forests. Visit the majestic Manchewe Falls and learn about conservation efforts for Malawi's wildlife at the Nyika National Park headquarters before proceeding to your hotel room to rest.

  • Day 6-7: Liwonde National Park
    5 hours (340 km) from Livingstonia

    For the next two days, visit the Liwonde National Park for a great camping experience with a vast range of wild animals in their natural habitats. Take a guided safari tour alongside the Shire River and don't forget to bring your binoculars to spot the lions, elephants, and hippos. Visit the Mwabvi Wildlife Reserve for pre-historic rock paintings and learn about the tribe's culture.

  • Day 8-9: Zomba Plateau
    2.5 hours (126 km) from Liwonde National Park

    Head to Zomba Plateau for two days of hiking through the natural reserves of Chawi, Chingwe's Hole, and William's Falls. Stop for a peaceful lunch at Ku Chawe and soak up the extraordinary scenic views of the valley below.

  • Day 10-11: Nyika National Park
    4 hours (270 km) from Zomba Plateau

    Day 10 and 11 are dedicated to exploring the extensive national park of Nyika. Gain remarkable insights of Malawi's diverse flora and fauna as you tour the stunning plateau on horseback with expert guides.

  • Day 12-13: Mulanje Massif
    4 hours (220 km) from Nyika National Park

    Spend two days climbing the impressive Mulanje Massif, the highest peak in Southern Malawi. Cross crystal-clear streams, hike through dense rainforests and discover the heart-stopping views of the Bertram's Tower and Chambe Peak.

  • Day 14: Nyala Lodge
    3.5 hours (197 km) from Mulanje Massif

    Visit the pristine Nyala Lodge for a relaxing day winding down after weeks of vigorous adventure trips. Take a leisure boat ride or go on a nature trail and enjoy delicious meals with the warmth of fireplaces all around.

  • Day 15: Departure
    30 minutes (20 km) from Chileka International Airport

    Depart back home, re-energized and rejuvenated from an exciting adventure trip in Malawi.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Chichiri Museum (1 hour, MWK 2000)
  • Michiru Mountain Hiking (6 hours, free)
  • Lake Malawi Snorkelling (3 hours, MWK 7000)
  • Chizumulu Island Kayaking (2 hours, MWK 3000)
  • Nkhata Bay Boat Ride (2 hours, MWK 4000)
  • Livingstonia Hiking (5 hours, free)
  • Manchewe Falls Tour (3 hours, MWK 3500)
  • Liwonde National Park Safari (5 hours, USD 40)
  • Mwabvi Reserve Visit (2 hours, MWK 3000)
  • Zomba Plateau Hiking (4 hours, free)
  • Nyika Park Horseback Riding (4 hours, USD 60)
  • Mulanje Massif Trekking (8 hours, free)
  • Nyala Lodge Nature Trail (1 hour, MWK 4000)
  • Total Estimated Costs (excluding flights): MWK 25400 / USD 100

Transportation

Transportation in Malawi can vary depending on the area you're visiting. Taxis are available in Blantyre, and shared minibusses are an affordable option but can be crowded. Private or rental cars are recommended, particularly for longer distances. The estimated cost of a rental car per day is MKW 20,000 - MKW 35,000 or USD 30 - USD 50. Some attractions like Lake Malawi and Nyika National Park are relatively far from each other but worth the long drive.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Nkhoma Mission, which offers insight into the history of Christianity in Malawi. If you have less time, consider skipping the Zomba Plateau or Livingstonia hiking trips. Alternatively, if you’re interested in traditional crafts or curious cultural artefacts, visit the National Museum of Malawi located in the capital city of Lilongwe.

Airports

Malawi's primary airport is the Chileka International Airport (BLZ). The airport hosts both international and domestic flights and is located approximately 16.2 kilometers from Blantyre city centre. There are several transport options available to reach the city centre, including taxis and buses.

0