Utaka Cichlid Safari: Summary
Utaka Cichlid Safari in a nutshell
Malawi is not the first place that springs to mind when thinking of an African safari, but for those after a great-value adventure where you’ll get to know some of the most welcoming people in the world, support some inspiring conservation work and explore some real wilderness, this is a pretty special opportunity. The trip takes in Majete Wildlife Reserve, then continues in Liwonde National Park before finishing within Lake Malawi National Park, staying in top-notch lodges run by Robin Pope Safaris, with high standards of accommodation, food and service. With all transfers by road, rather than by air, this trip is a great introduction to the "warm heart of Africa", giving you a feel for the country as you pass through rural areas and towns, perhaps stopping to visit an interesting market or to grab a cold beer at a local shop.
Begin with a safari in the Majete Wildlife Reserve, 700km² of forested hills flanking the fast-flowing Shire River in the south of the country. By the late 1990s, much of the wildlife here had been poached, but thanks to efforts supported by NGO African Parks, including the ambitious reintroduction of black rhino and lion, Majete has become a thriving model of sustainable development. Malawi’s only "big five" park, it retains a truly wild atmosphere, yet still receives only a few thousand visitors a year. You'll stay at the stylish Mkulumadzi Lodge, which offers a great mix of activities including game drives, walking safaris, boat trips on the river, visits to a nearby village, time in the photographic hide and even a night out on the star deck. Wildlife viewing is getting better by the year, the birding is fantastic - and by spending time here you’ll be supporting the ongoing restoration of the park.
From Majete, you'll drive via Blantyre to the Liwonde National Park, where your home for three nights is the small, secluded Kuthengo Camp, set beneath huge trees on the banks of the Shire River.
The final stop is at Pumulani, a lovely beach lodge overlooking Lake Malawi. Relax on the beach or by the pool, or explore the blue waters while kayaking, snorkelling, diving, sailing and water-skiing. On land, head out on birdwatching walks or cycle to a neighbouring village for an insight into local traditions. Then in the evening, watch the sunset from a dhow as stars appear overhead: an unforgettable way to round off your trip.
At a glance
| Starts: | Blantyre International Airport | |
|---|---|---|
| 3 nights | Mkulumadzi - Majete Wildlife Reserve, Malawi | Full Board & Activities |
| 3 nights | Kuthengo Camp - Liwonde National Park, Malawi | Full Board & Activities |
| 4 nights | Pumulani - Shore of Lake Malawi, Malawi | Full Board & Activities |
| Ends: | Lilongwe International Airport |
Mkulumadzi
Majete Wildlife Reserve, Malawi
Kuthengo Camp
Liwonde National Park, Malawi
Pumulani
Shore of Lake Malawi, Malawi
Highlights
Our thoughts on five of the top experiences of this Utaka Cichlid Safari.
- Discovering the wilderness of Majete and Liwonde
- Playing your part in a conservation success story
- Snorkelling in Lake Malawi's crystal-clear waters
- Watching the sunset from a traditional dhow
- Gaining an insight into Malawi’s welcoming people
Activities
Some activities which can be included in the Utaka Cichlid Safari: talk to us about those which interest you.
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Night drive
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Key species to see on the Utaka Cichlid Safari
Based on our travellers' observations, we’ve estimated the likelihood of seeing these species during the Utaka Cichlid Safari. Click on the animals and our wildlife surveys page for more info.
100% chance
100% chance
100% chance
100% chance
100% chance
84% chance
82% chance
60% chance
53% chance
45% chance
20% chance
18% chance
18% chance
0% chance
0% chance
0% chance
Let us help you customise your trip
All of our holidays on this site are just ideas; none are fixed. All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you. Talk to an Expert and let us help you to work out your perfect trip.
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Prepare for your trip
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When you return
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