Malawi Southern Circuit
Tour Overview
Journey to Malawi’s Southern Circuit, where every turn brings you face-to-face with breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and vibrant culture.
The adventure begins in Thyolo, renowned for its scenic tea and coffee estates dating back to the early 1900s. The area offers stunning views, excellent birding and hiking, and guided estate tours with coffee and tea tastings, making it a delightful spot to explore.
Next, journey to Majete Wildlife Reserve, located in southern Malawi near Blantyre. This reserve spans 70,000 hectares within the Great Rift Valley and features diverse landscapes including miombo woodlands, granite hills, and lush riverine forests. Once devastated by poaching, Majete has become a conservation success and Malawi’s only Big 5 Game Park, now home to thriving populations of wildlife. The Shire River, which runs through the reserve, provides a vital water source and enhances the area's appeal for both animals and visitors.
Continuing along the Shire River, you will visit Liwonde National Park. Home to a wide range of wildlife—including hippos, kudu, elephants, crocodiles, and even black rhinos—the park has become one of Malawi's premier wildlife-viewing destinations. The birding opportunities are excellent, with the Pel’s fishing owl being a favorite among birdwatchers. The area is also incredibly photogenic, featuring lush Borassus palms, Impala lilies, and an abundance of wildflowers that bloom after the rains.
Your final stop on Malawi’s Southern Circuit is Lake Malawi, also known as the “Lake of Stars.” Renowned for its clear waters, sandy beaches, and exceptional biodiversity, it hosts more fish species than any other lake in the world. Its peaceful shores and nearby villages offer a unique blend of cultural charm and natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling, sunset dhow cruises, and a relaxing end to your adventures in Malawi.
Viva's Best Bits...
Stay in boutique lodges where you can be gently awakened by ‘Africa’s voice’ in this wild and natural paradise.
Village visits are arranged where you can learn and interact with the locals, taste authentic food and learn about local life.
Relax on the beach, swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters filled with colorful fish, or enjoy a sunset cruise on Lake Malawi, the "Lake of Stars."