9-Day Malawi Safari: Nyika Highlands & Lake Malawi Bliss

9-Day Malawi Highland Safari & Lakeside Bliss-Malawi Wilderness and Lake Malawi Waters Expedition

9 Days

Overview

Experience the ultimate contrast of Africa's warm heart on this comprehensive 9-day expedition with Berngo Safari Tours. This itinerary is a perfect blend of high-altitude wilderness adventure and serene lakeside luxury, capturing the best of Malawi's natural beauty.

Your journey begins high in the misty plateaus of Nyika National Park, a uniquely beautiful safari destination. Here, you'll go beyond the typical game drive, spotting rare antelopes and zebra while riding horses or biking across the stunning open grasslands.

The expedition then transitions to the sparkling shores of Lake Malawi at Nkhata Bay. Plunge into the world's most bio-diverse freshwater lake, snorkeling among over a thousand species of colorful cichlids, or simply unwind with a sunset cruise. Throughout the journey, you’ll stay in scenic, hand-picked eco-lodges that perfectly complement this unique blend of safari adventure and aquatic relaxation.

Best Time to Visit:
May – October: Dry season for best wildlife viewing and calm lake waters
November – April: Green and lush but with possible rain

Highlights

Package Name: Malawi Wilderness & Waters Expedition
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
Destinations Covered: Lilongwe → Nyika National Park → Nkhata Bay
Type of Experience: Safari + Nature + Water Adventure

Day 1 :

Welcome to Malawi

Arrival at Kamuzu International Airport (LLW)
VIP meet-and-greet by Heart Travel and Adventures team
Private transfer and check-in at Latitude 13, Lilongwe
Welcome dinner with a taste of Malawian cuisine
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 :

Highland Safari in Nyika National Park

Scenic transfer (6 hrs) to Chelinda Lodge, perched at 2,200m
Daily Activity Options (Choose 2 per day):
✔ Game drives – Spot zebra, roan antelope, hyena, and more
✔ Horseback safaris across open plateaus
✔ Mountain biking along scenic trails
✔ Bush walks with professional trackers
Evenings around the fireplace with stunning starlit skies
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 :

Transition to the Lake

Early breakfast and road transfer to Nkhata Bay (approx. 7 hrs with picnic stop)
Arrival at Ndau Lodge – check-in and unwind
Sunset cruise with drinks on Lake Malawi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 :

Water Adventures in Nkhata Bay

Dive into lake-based activities:
✔ Guided snorkeling safari (1,000+ cichlid species)
✔ Kayaking to hidden beaches and coves
✔ Traditional dhow sailing trip
Optional: Scuba certification course (+$280)
Leisure time to relax by the beach or enjoy a massage (at extra cost)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 :

Return to Lilongwe

Enjoy breakfast by the lake
Road transfer back to Lilongwe (approx. 5 hrs)
Cultural stopover at Mzimba Market
Check-in at Latitude 13 and enjoy a farewell dinner
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 :

Departure Day

Final breakfast at the lodge
Private transfer to Kamuzu International Airport for departure
Meals: Breakfast