Zambia and Malawi Safari
14 days / 13 nights
Zambia & Malawi
From the Wilds of Zambia to the Shores of Lake Malawi
Experience the best safari in Zambia on a journey that combines dramatic landscapes, exceptional wildlife, and refined camps. Then, finish with a restorative Malawi safari escape on the shores of Lake Malawi.
Begin near Victoria Falls at Tongabezi Lodge, where river adventures and cultural experiences set the tone. Next, fly into Kafue National Park and explore the remote Busanga Plains from Chisa Busanga Camp. Continue to Lower Zambezi National Park for private guiding, land safaris, boating, canoeing, and extraordinary wildlife encounters. Finally, cross into Malawi and unwind on Likoma Island at Kaya Mawa.
Throughout the journey, distinctive lodges create a seamless blend of adventure and comfort. Moreover, each destination offers a different perspective on southern Africa’s landscapes and wildlife.
Journey at-a-glance:
- Day 1 - 4: Livingstone
- Day 4 - 7: Kafue National Park
- Day 7 - 11: Lower Zambezi National Park
- Day 11 - 14: Lake Malawi
- Day 14: Depart Malawi
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Your journey begins in Livingstone, where a private driver welcomes you on arrival. Then, transfer to Tongabezi Lodge beside the Zambezi River.
Set just upstream from Victoria Falls, Tongabezi provides a peaceful base for exploring this iconic region. The lodge combines striking African design with personal service and sweeping river views.
Over the next two days, choose from a wide range of experiences. For example, visit Livingstone Island or enjoy sunrise and sunset cruises aboard a silent eDhow.
Alternatively, explore Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park on a game drive or try tiger fishing on the Zambezi. You can also visit local markets, tour the Livingstone Museum, or join a guided visit to Victoria Falls.
In addition, guests may visit the nearby Tongabezi Trust School. The school provides free education to more than 300 children from the surrounding community.
Next, fly by charter to Chisa Busanga Camp in Kafue National Park. Arrive in time for lunch before heading out on an evening game drive.
Chisa’s elevated suites draw inspiration from the weaver bird nests found throughout the region. With only a handful of rooms, the atmosphere feels intimate and private.
Spend two days exploring the Busanga Plains by game drive, walking safari, or eco-bike. Additionally, Chisa offers silent safari experiences using an eCruiser and e-mountain bikes.
The seasonal floodplains support remarkable concentrations of wildlife. Watch for red lechwe, elephants, and the area’s distinctive mud-darkened lions.
Meanwhile, birdlife is equally rewarding. Wattled cranes and rosy-throated longclaws are among the notable species found here.
Because Chisa sits near a reliable dry-season water source, wildlife viewing can be especially rewarding. As a result, this remote corner of Kafue stands out among contenders for the best safari in Zambia.
Then, travel by air and boat to Sausage Tree Camp in Lower Zambezi National Park. The camp sits deep inside the park along the Zambezi River.
Over the next three days, explore with a private guide on land and water. Morning and evening game drives reveal elephants, buffalo, waterbuck, zebra, impala, and kudu.
In addition, predators may include leopards, lions, wild dogs, hyenas, servals, and African wild cats. More than 400 bird species add another layer to each outing.
Boating safaris offer a completely different view of the ecosystem. Meanwhile, canoeing through the Chifungula Channel provides a quieter way to experience the river.
Guests can also try world-class tiger fishing. Later, enjoy lunch on a sandbank or beside the water with your feet in the Zambezi.
Back at camp, each suite offers a private plunge pool. You can also relax in the lap pool or enjoy a complimentary in-room massage.
For many travelers, this combination of private guiding, river access, and abundant wildlife defines the best safari in Zambia.
Next, fly via Lusaka and Lilongwe to Likoma Island in Lake Malawi. Then, transfer to Kaya Mawa for the final three nights of your journey.
Set on white sand beaches, Kaya Mawa combines barefoot luxury with a relaxed island atmosphere. Each room looks across the freshwater lake, creating an ideal setting for a slower pace.
Spend your days snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or biking around the island. Alternatively, simply relax on your private lakeside deck.
You can also visit the Katundu community workshop. Its programs support schools, young mothers, reforestation, and island cleanup initiatives.
Meanwhile, spa treatments over the lake provide a peaceful counterpoint to the wildlife experiences in Zambia. Early swims and organic meals complete this tranquil Malawi safari finale.
Finally, board a shared charter flight to Lilongwe for your onward international departure.
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Plan Your Zambia and Malawi Safari
Ker & Downey creates tailor-made journeys that combine exceptional safari experiences with carefully selected luxury lodges. Therefore, every transfer, camp, activity, and guiding experience can be personalized. This itinerary pairs the best safari in Zambia with a relaxing Malawi safari on Lake Malawi. Moreover, it balances wildlife, river adventures, conservation, and time to unwind.
Contact a Ker & Downey World Travel designer to customize your own Zambia and Malawi safari. For even more travel inspiration, follow Ker & Downey World Travel on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
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