12 Days / 11 Nights

Countries: Tanzania & Malawi

Style: Safari • Lakes • Landscapes • Slow Travel

Best for: Travelers seeking quieter regions, nature lovers, repeat Africa visitors

Comfort level: Midrange (upgradeable)

Trip Overview

This cross-border journey explores Southern Tanzania’s remote wildlife areas before transitioning into the relaxed lakeside atmosphere of Malawi, one of Africa’s most underrated destinations.

The itinerary begins with a classic yet less-crowded safari experience in Tanzania’s south, where wide-open landscapes and low visitor numbers create a strong sense of wilderness. From there, the journey continues through scenic highlands toward Lake Malawi, where clear waters, friendly villages, and laid-back beach stays provide a gentle and restorative finale.

With only one safari park, extended stays, and a strong balance between nature and downtime, this itinerary is ideal for travelers looking to slow the pace while still experiencing two very distinct African regions.

Highlights

• Game drives in Mikumi National Park
  
  
• Scenic drives through Tanzania’s Southern Highlands
  
  
• Relaxed lakeside stay at Lake Malawi
  
  
• Snorkeling and freshwater beach experiences
  
  
• Cultural interaction with local fishing communities
  
  

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Dar es Salaam (Tanzania)

Arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport. Meet & greet and transfer to your hotel.

Overnight: Dar es Salaam | Hotel

Meals: Dinner

Day 2 – Dar es Salaam → Mikumi National Park

Drive west toward Mikumi National Park, passing through rural landscapes and open savannah. Afternoon game drive.

Overnight: Mikumi area | Safari lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 – Mikumi National Park

Morning and afternoon game drives exploring Mikumi’s floodplains, home to elephants, lions, giraffes, and large plains game.

Overnight: Mikumi area | Safari lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 – Mikumi → Iringa / Southern Highlands

Drive into the cooler Southern Highlands toward Iringa. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy the change in scenery.

Overnight: Iringa area | Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 – Iringa → Mbeya Highlands

Continue south through tea plantations and mountain landscapes toward Mbeya.

Overnight: Mbeya area | Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 – Mbeya → Lake Malawi (Malawi)

Cross the border into Malawi and continue to the shores of Lake Malawi. Afternoon at leisure by the lake.

Overnight: Lake Malawi | Beach lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 – Lake Malawi

Day at leisure for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or village walks along the lakeshore.

Overnight: Lake Malawi | Beach lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 – Lake Malawi

Another full day at leisure to enjoy the lake, relax on the beach, or take optional boat excursions.

Overnight: Lake Malawi | Beach lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 – Lake Malawi

Optional activities include snorkeling with cichlid fish, cultural visits, or guided nature walks.

Overnight: Lake Malawi | Beach lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 – Lake Malawi → Lilongwe

Drive to Malawi’s capital city, passing rural villages and farmland.

Overnight: Lilongwe | Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 11 – Lilongwe (Leisure Day)

Day at leisure or optional short excursions around Lilongwe and nearby markets.

Overnight: Lilongwe | Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 12 – Lilongwe Departure

Transfer to Lilongwe International Airport for onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast

Pricing (USD per person)

Based on midrange lodges, private guide & vehicle

Prices are indicative and subject to seasonal lodge availability and road conditions.

Price Includes

• All accommodation (11 nights, midrange)
  
  
• All meals as specified
  
  
• Private vehicle with professional guide
  
  
• All park and conservation fees (Mikumi)
  
  
• All game drives as outlined
  
  
• Cross-border logistics and assistance
  
  
• Airport transfers
  
  

Price Excludes

• International flights
  
  
• Visa fees (Tanzania & Malawi)
  
  
• Travel insurance
  
  
• Drinks & personal expenses
  
  
• Optional activities
  
  
• Tips & gratuities