14 day itinerary for Malawi

Itinerary

Malawi is a stunning country with a rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and friendly people. Here’s a delightful 14-day itinerary starting and ending at Blantyre Airport. Get ready for an adventure filled with nature, wildlife, and relaxation!

## Day 1: Arrival in Blantyre

• Morning: Arrive at Blantyre Airport. After clearing customs, head to your accommodation in Blantyre.
• Afternoon: Explore the city! Visit the Mandala House, the oldest building in Malawi, and the nearby market for some local crafts.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying out some Malawian dishes like nsima and chambo.

## Day 2: Blantyre to Zomba

• Morning: After breakfast, take a short drive to Zomba (about 30 minutes).
• Afternoon: Explore Zomba Plateau. You can hike or drive to the top for stunning views. Don’t forget to visit the beautiful Queen’s View.
• Evening: Have dinner at a local lodge and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

## Day 3: Zomba to Liwonde National Park

• Morning: Depart for Liwonde National Park (about 1.5 hours drive).
• Afternoon: Check into your lodge and take a guided afternoon boat safari on the Shire River. Keep an eye out for hippos and crocodiles!
• Evening: Enjoy a bush dinner under the stars, listening to the sounds of the African night.

## Day 4: Liwonde National Park

• Morning: Early morning game drive to spot elephants, antelopes, and various bird species.
• Afternoon: Relax at your lodge or take part in a walking safari.
• Evening: Another delightful dinner at your lodge, sharing stories with fellow travelers.

## Day 5: Liwonde to Lake Malawi (Cape Maclear)

• Morning: Depart for Cape Maclear (about 2 hours drive).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
• Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner, soaking in the sunset over the lake.

## Day 6: Lake Malawi (Cape Maclear)

• Morning: Take a boat trip to explore the nearby islands, such as Thumbi Island, for snorkeling and swimming.
• Afternoon: Visit the local village to learn about the culture and daily life of the people.
• Evening: Dinner at your lodge, perhaps with some local music or entertainment.

## Day 7: Lake Malawi to Nkhata Bay

• Morning: Depart for Nkhata Bay (about 3-4 hours drive).
• Afternoon: Arrive and check into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon exploring the bay or relaxing by the water.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying fresh fish from the lake.

## Day 8: Nkhata Bay

• Morning: Go for a kayaking adventure or take a boat trip to explore the surrounding areas.
• Afternoon: Visit the local market and interact with the friendly locals.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening by the beach, perhaps with a bonfire.

## Day 9: Nkhata Bay to Nyika National Park

• Morning: Depart for Nyika National Park (about 4-5 hours drive).
• Afternoon: Arrive and check into your lodge. Take a short hike to explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
• Evening: Dinner at your lodge, enjoying the tranquility of the park.

## Day 10: Nyika National Park

• Morning: Full day of exploring Nyika. Go on a guided game drive or hike to see the unique flora and fauna.
• Afternoon: Visit the waterfalls and enjoy a picnic lunch in nature.
• Evening: Return to your lodge for dinner and share your day’s adventures.

## Day 11: Nyika to Lilongwe

• Morning: Depart for Lilongwe (about 4-5 hours drive).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and explore the city. Visit the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre and the local markets.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, trying out more Malawian cuisine.

## Day 12: Lilongwe to Salima

• Morning: Depart for Salima (about 1.5 hours drive).
• Afternoon: Check into your lakeside accommodation and relax on the beach or take part in water sports.
• Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner by the lake.

## Day 13: Salima to Blantyre

• Morning: Depart for Blantyre (about 2.5 hours drive).
• Afternoon: Spend your last afternoon in Blantyre shopping for souvenirs or visiting any sites you may have missed.
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant, reflecting on your amazing journey through Malawi.

## Day 14: Departure from Blantyre

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a leisurely breakfast and a final stroll around Blantyre.
• Afternoon: Head to Blantyre Airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A wonderful 14-day itinerary that captures the essence of Malawi. Each day is filled with adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! 🌍✨