BIG 5 & BEACH

This itinerary offers a week of relaxation in truly tranquil places. It combines a few days on safari in Majete, Malawi’s only Big 5 reserve, where any game drive is an exciting venture, with a few days on the beautiful shores of Lake Malawi.

Day 1 | Arrive at Blantyre – Majete Game Reserve
Upon arrival at Blantyre International Airport, proceed to Mkulumadzi. The car transfer takes about 2.5 hours through rural areas, colorful villages and large fields to Mkulumadzi Lodge. Mkulumadzi is located within the Majete Game Reserve, 70 km southwest of Blantyre, in southern Malawi. The lodge is situated north of the Majete Wildlife Reserve at the confluence of the Mkulumadzi and Shire Rivers on 7000 hectares of private concession.

Day 2 – 3 | Majete Game Reserve
The luxurious Mkulumadzi Lodge is an excellent base for 4×4 wildlife drives, boat safaris, bush walks, hikes up Majete Mountain, black rhino tracking, cultural tours, river tours on the Shire for bird watching and wildlife viewing from a camouflaged hide. Guests are free to choose how active they want to be, although at least one activity per day is highly recommended to fully enjoy Majete.

Day 4 | Lake Malawi – Nankumba Peninsula
The transfer towards Pumulani starts after breakfast. In a closed vehicle, the journey takes you through charming landscapes, wildlife sanctuaries and numerous villages. During this varied journey, the five hours by car fly by and you get an intensive impression of the country and its people. Arrive at the Nankumba Peninsula on Lake Malawi. This is considered the most beautiful stretch of shore on the lake and borders on Lake Malawi National Park. This park was established to protect the local cichlid, and was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1984. For activity-seekers, there are many water sports options including snorkeling, fishing, sailing, kayaking, water skiing, wake boarding and fun tubes. At the end of the day, board a traditional dhow and let the experienced crew take you on a romantic sunset cruise.

Day 5 – 7 | Lake Malawi – Nankumba Peninsula
Lake Malawi is considered the most diverse aquarium in the world. Its crystal clear waters are home to more than a thousand species of fish, including hundreds of species of the colorful tilapia. We offer special diving courses at the best dive sites near an idyllic island. If you are interested in the real village life of the Malawians, we will accompany you on a walk or a bike tour to one of the nearby villages. The Malawians are among the friendliest people in Africa and you will have the opportunity to meet them during your stay. You can also just relax and enjoy the beautiful and peaceful surroundings, or take part in one of the many other activities.

Day 8 | home trip
Today it’s time to say goodbye to Pumulani. You will be taken back to Lilongwe in time for your onward journey.