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FROM US$3,400-US$4,500

Red Zebra Cichlid Safari

Explore two of Malawi's highlights, with a safari in rugged, remote Majete Wildlife Reserve before some beach time: relaxing, snorkelling and sailing in Lake Malawi National Park.

Red Zebra Cichlid Safari: Summary

Red Zebra Cichlid Safari in a nutshell

Malawi doesn’t often come top of traveller lists, 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 trip is a great introduction to the "warm heart of Africa".

Begin with a safari in 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 ambitious reintroduction of black rhino and lion, Majete is now Malawi’s only "big five" park – and is a thriving model of sustainable development. Retaining a truly wild atmosphere, it still receives only a few thousand visitors a year, and by spending time here you’ll be supporting the ongoing restoration of the park.

Within the reserve, Mkulumadzi Lodge, run by the venerable Robin Pope Safaris, is a stylish set up which hosts 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 here is getting better by the year and the birding is fantastic.

From Majete, following the Shire River to Lake Malawi by road, you'll pass through rural areas and towns, giving you a view of the "real" Malawi . There’s always the chance for the occasional stop – for an interesting market or even just a cold beer at a local shop.

Your second lodge is the luxury Pumulani, also run by Robin Pope Safaris, and overlooking the blue waters of Lake Malawi. Relax on the beach or in your villa, with ample opportunity for kayaking, snorkelling, diving, sailing and water-skiing. On land, head out on birdwatching walks or cycle to the neighbouring village for an insight into local traditions. Watching the sun set over the lake’s waters as the stars appear overhead from a dhow is an unforgettable way to round off your week.

At a glance

Starts: Blantyre International Airport
3 nights Mkulumadzi - Majete Wildlife Reserve, Malawi Full Board
4 nights Pumulani - Shore of Lake Malawi, Malawi Full Board
Ends: Lilongwe International Airport

Mkulumadzi Lodge

Days 1-4

Overlooking tumbling rapids at the confluence of the Shire and Mkulumadzi (sometimes written 'Mukulumadzi' or even 'Mkurumadzi') rivers, is the smart and solidly built Mkulumadzi Lodge. Opened in 2011, it is owned by Robin Pope Safaris and incorporates some innovative 'eco' ideas. The lodge is located in a 70km² private concession, within the newly revitalised Majete Wildlife Reserve.

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Pumulani

Days 4-8

Pumulani is a luxury beach lodge located high on a hill on the west side of Nankumba Peninsula, towards the southern end of Lake Malawi. It is within the Lake Malawi National Park so is a great spot for walking, snorkeling or simply relaxing.

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Mkulumadzi Lodge

Mkulumadzi

Majete Wildlife Reserve, Malawi

Pumulani

Pumulani

Shore of Lake Malawi, Malawi

About image

Highlights

Our thoughts on five of the top experiences of this Red Zebra Cichlid Safari.

  • Majete’s off-the-beaten-track wilderness
  • Play a part in an incredible conservation success story
  • Snorkel with clouds of cichlids in Lake Malawi
  • Watch the sun set and stars come out over the lake
  • Gain an insight into Malawi’s welcoming culture

Activities

Some activities which can be included in the Red Zebra 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

About image
PUMULANI in LAKESHORE

Key species to see on the Red Zebra Cichlid Safari

Based on our travellers' observations, we’ve estimated the likelihood of seeing these species during the Red Zebra Cichlid Safari. Click on the animals and our wildlife surveys page for more info.


Eland

100% chance

Elephant

100% chance

Hippo

100% chance

Sable antelope

82% chance

Zebra

69% chance

Buffalo

57% chance

Cheetah

45% chance

Giraffe

45% chance

Roan antelope

27% chance

Black Rhino

20% chance

Lion

18% chance

Leopard

18% chance

Spotted Hyena

18% chance

Aardvark

0% chance

Pangolin

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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