Malawi is a thin sliver of a country dominated by Lake Malawi, a massive, shimmering body of warm fresh water lined with miles of sandy beaches and offering activities ranging from kayaking, diving and snorkelling to sailing and fishing. If it’s a palm-fringed, hassle-free beach holiday you’re after, Malawi offers the whole package.

But Malawi is more than just its lake. Tall mountain peaks and peaceful, barely-visited wildlife reserves offer places of quiet and relaxation as well as opportunity to enjoy a big game safari, and you're always guaranteed a smile. We have numerous tours that include Malawi as part of a larger itinerary - a combination trip with Mozambique's Indian Ocean islands or the Kruger Park work particularly well - contact us for a tailor-made itinerary.

LAKE MALAWI
A NATURAL WONDER

This is a must do when you are in the warm heart of Africa. Arguably the country’s most captivating natural wonder, Lake Malawi is home to various beautiful fish species like the unique chambo, a tilapia breed that isn’t found anywhere else but in Lake Malawi. The lake also attracts a range of bird species such as the famous Thyolo Alethe, which are endemic to Malawi. Covering almost 30% of the country, this gorgeous everblue sight is heaven for nature lovers, and a pillar of pride and sustenance for the people near Lake Malawi. While there, make sure to experience various islands such as Mumbo, Likoma, and Bird Island.

MULANJE MOUNTAIN
A PARADISE FOR HIKERS AND WILDLIFE ENTHOUSIASTS

The Massif is popular for hiking and climbing, and has several mountain huts scattered across. There are a number of trails for hikers. The trail route depends on the length of your stay on the mountain and what you want to see and do.

Mulanje has many individual peaks reaching heights of over 2500m, including Sapitwa, Central Africa’s highest point (3,001m) and Chambe Peak, the West Face of which is the longest rock climb in Africa. Each of these peaks are accessible for hikers. We advise anyone trekking the mountain to do so with a certified guide.

The mountain isn’t just for hikers; the mountain itself is part of the protected Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve, within the reserve there are a number of plant and animal species – many of them endemic to the area. Making Mount Mulanje a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.

LILANGWE
MALAWI'S NATIONAL CAPITAL CITY

Malawi's capital city, Lilongwe, has sound infrastructure and transport systems including the Lilongwe (or Kamuza) International Airport. This city in Malawi is divided into two regions - New City and Old City. New City has hotels, embassies and offices while the Old City has more leisurely attractions like cafes, restaurants and markets.

When in Lilongwe, Malawi, trying out the local cuisine is a memorable experience. Nsima, a local dish made from ground corn, can be served with a side of meat or vegetables and can be enjoyed throughout the day. Lake Malawi is the source of delicious seafood including the popular chambo which is a bream-like fish. Tea is a Malawian specialty and can be enjoyed with

ZOMBA MASSIEF
A UNIQUE PLACE

Malawi’s Zomba Plateau is unique. A great slab of a mountain standing at 1,800 m (6,000ft), and with peaks topping 2,000 m, it has vast tracts of cedar, pine and cypress but elsewhere the vegetation is wild and mixed. On three sides, the plateau has scarp-like edges descending from its outer rim of peaks that surround a central depression. As well as the forests, the plateau top is criss-crossed by streams and there are tumbling waterfalls and still lakes. There are roads right round the top which give access to viewpoints that offer vistas of such splendour that they were described in colonial times as “the best views in the British Empire”. The roads around the plateau are dirt roads used mostly by logging trucks and so require a 4×4 to navigate, but the road up to the top from Zomba Town is a good tar road accessible to all. Once on top of the plateau, there is plenty of hiking, trekking and walking through the forests, alongside the streams and to connect the viewpoints around the edge.

LIWONDE NATIONAL PARK

Located at the southern tip of Lake Malombe in the south oF Malawi, Liwonde National Park is truly a national treasure worth experiencing. While Malawi is not as well known for the big game as other African countries, Liwonde is brimming with wildlife that literally sits at your doorstep making this national park the most popular in the country.

It is a must-see attraction for anyone wishing to make the most of their time in the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’.