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Private Holiday
16 Days Lilongwe to Victoria Falls
Departs: Daily
Lilongwe (1) | Liwonde (3) | Lake Malawi (2) | Lilongwe (1) | Victoria Falls (2) | Hwange (6)
Embark on an unforgettable journey through two of Southern Africa’s most captivating destinations, combining Malawi’s warm hospitality and diverse landscapes with Zimbabwe’s world-renowned wildlife and natural wonders. From the tranquil capital of Lilongwe to the wildlife-rich floodplains of Liwonde National Park, before unwinding on the pristine shores of Mumbo Island in Lake Malawi. Crossing into Zimbabwe, you'll experience the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls and enjoy a series of distinctive safari stays in Hwange National Park, from remote wilderness camps to unique treehouse lodges. Featuring a blend of game drives, walking safaris, boat excursions, island relaxation, and seamless transfers, this itinerary offers an immersive exploration of Malawi and Zimbabwe’s remarkable ecosystems, cultures, and iconic landscapes.
Highlights:
- 24/7 local operator support in Malawi and Zimbabwe
- 3 Scenic light aircraft flights
- Spectacular Victoria Falls
- Remote safari camps in Hwange National Park
- Tropical Lake Malawi
- Malawi’s conservation success story at Liwonde National Park
- 4WD game drives, boat based and walking safaris
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information
Day 1: Lilongwe
Welcome to Malawi, known as the “Warm heart of Africa”, this little-known country offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife and cultural experience with much fewer visitors than established destinations. On arrival you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to your accommodation in the leafy residential heart of the city; a relaxed, home-style environment set within lush gardens The Residence is comfortable place to recover from your flight before the adventure begins.
Overnight: Crafted Africa Residence
Day 2: Lilongwe - Liwonde (BLD)
After breakfast your journey continues south with a scenic road transfer into Liwonde National Park, where the landscape shifts to riverine forests, open floodplains, and the wildlife-rich Shire River. This is Malawi’s premier safari destination, known for its returning elephant populations, reintroduced rhinoceros and thriving ecosystems. Liwonde National Park, covering 548km2, is considered the most prolific wildlife area in Malawi. The Shire River – the country’s largest river and Lake Malawi’s only outlet – forms the Park’s western boundary and harbours a dense population of hippo, crocodiles and large numbers of elephant. Antelope such as impala, waterbuck, reedbuck and bushbuck are plentiful along the banks. In the east, relatively dry mopane woodlands are interspersed with candelabra trees, an area favoured by buffalo, yellow baboon and Lichtenstein’s hartebeest.
Mvuu Camp is positioned along a broad stretch of the Shire River, offering constant wildlife activity directly from the lodge. The guest chalets combine comfort with a strong connection to the natural surroundings, while the central areas overlook the riverbanks where hippos, crocodiles, and elephants gather. The experience at Mvuu blends game drives, boat safaris, and walking excursions, creating a varied and immersive safari.
Overnight: Mvuu Camp
Day 3 & Day 4: Liwonde (BLD)
Spend two unforgettable days immersed in the diverse landscapes and rich wildlife of Liwonde National Park. Nestled on the banks of the Shire River, Mvuu Camp provides the perfect base from which to explore this remarkable wilderness, renowned for its thriving populations of elephant, hippo, crocodile, antelope and a growing number of predators.
Each day offers a choice of expertly guided safari experiences designed to showcase the park from different perspectives. Rise early for a walking safari and experience the sights, sounds and scents of the bush as it awakens, experience leisurely boat safaris along the Shire River where wildlife gathers at the water’s edge, or venture deeper into the park on game drives in search of Liwonde’s abundant wildlife and prolific birdlife. For those interested in local culture, community visits provide an insightful glimpse into life beyond the park boundaries.
From sunrise to sunset, every moment at Mvuu Camp is an opportunity to connect with nature, experience authentic safari adventures and absorb the unforgettable atmosphere of one of Southern Africa’s most rewarding wildlife destinations.
Overnight: Mvuu Camp
Each day offers a choice of expertly guided safari experiences designed to showcase the park from different perspectives. Rise early for a walking safari and experience the sights, sounds and scents of the bush as it awakens, experience leisurely boat safaris along the Shire River where wildlife gathers at the water’s edge, or venture deeper into the park on game drives in search of Liwonde’s abundant wildlife and prolific birdlife. For those interested in local culture, community visits provide an insightful glimpse into life beyond the park boundaries.
From sunrise to sunset, every moment at Mvuu Camp is an opportunity to connect with nature, experience authentic safari adventures and absorb the unforgettable atmosphere of one of Southern Africa’s most rewarding wildlife destinations.
Overnight: Mvuu Camp
Day 5: Liwonde - Lake Malawi (BLD)
Leave the bush behind after breakfast and travel toward the shores of Lake Malawi before continuing by boat to Mumbo Island, an untouched tropical retreat set within a protected marine reserve. The transition from safari to island life is immediate and striking, with clear waters and granite outcrops defining the landscape.
Mumbo Island Camp offers a barefoot, eco-luxury experience where simplicity meets exclusivity. Reed chalets are carefully positioned for privacy, each overlooking the lake with uninterrupted views. Days are entirely flexible, shaped around kayaking, snorkelling, swimming, or simply relaxing in the quiet rhythm of island life. The setting delivers a rare sense of seclusion and authenticity.
Overnight: Mumbo Island Camp
Day 6: Lake Malawi (BLD)
Today is yours to experience Mumbo Island entirely at your own pace. Spend the day snorkelling in secluded bays, kayaking around the island to discover hidden coves and caves, or exploring the network of well-maintained trails that traverse the island. Alternatively, simply relax on a beach lounge, unwind in the privacy of your hammock on your tent deck, or enjoy a cup of tea in the comfortable lounge. All activities are optional, giving you the freedom to spend your time exactly as you wish.
Overnight: Mumbo Island Camp
Day 7: Lake Malawi - Lilongwe (B)
Travel back to Lilongwe today where you’ll spend a final night in Malawi before flying to Victoria Falls in the morning.
Overnight: Crafted Africa Residence
Day 8: Lilongwe - Victoria Falls (B)
Your journey expands regionally as you fly from Lilongwe to Victoria Falls via Harare. On arrival, a short transfer brings you to a quiet residential setting just moments from one of the world’s most powerful natural spectacles.
Pioneers Victoria Falls blends classic style with modern comfort, offering spacious suites set within landscaped gardens. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, providing an ideal base to explore the Falls and surrounding activities. Experiences range from guided tours of Victoria Falls to river cruises, cultural visits, and a wide selection of adventure options.
Overnight: Pioneers Lodge
Day 9: Victoria Falls (B)
A day at leisure to relax and enjoy the lodge and surrounds. Victoria Falls offers a mix of adventure and culture, from guided Falls tours and village visits to game drives and Chobe safaris. Thrill-seekers can bungee jump, zip-line, raft, or fly over the Falls by microlight. Scenic Zambezi cruises, elephant art safaris, fishing trips, and horseback rides offer slower-paced options. Other highlights include canopy tours, the Siduli Hide, and the historic Victoria Falls Bridge tram ride.
Overnight: Pioneers Lodge
Day 10: Victoria Falls - Hwange National Park (BLD)
A light aircraft flight carries you into the remote southwestern reaches of Hwange National Park, an area rarely visited and deeply immersive. The landscape here feels raw and untouched, offering a true sense of isolation and wilderness. Jozibanini Camp is a small, intimate tented camp that embraces a back-to-basics safari ethos without compromising on experience. Set near a busy waterhole, in a private concession, the camp offers close wildlife encounters and a strong focus on walking safaris and slow exploration. Evenings are spent around the fire under vast night skies, creating a deeply authentic safari atmosphere.
Overnight: Jozibanini Camp
Day 11: Hwange National Park (BLD)
You will experience a change of pace at Jozibanini – time for quiet observation and easy walks. The full range of game viewing activities is available morning and afternoon game drives with snacks in traditional open safari vehicles are available, as are all day game drives with a packed lunch and snacks in traditional open safari vehicles. Plus, mountain biking, which is unique here – but Jozi lends itself to tracking big game on foot, or interesting nature trails and leisurely afternoons in the Look-Up hide watching the passing parade of wildlife.
Overnight: Jozibanini Camp
Day 12: Hwange National Park (BLD)
From the remote South, a short scenic flight takes you into the Ngamo Plains region of Hwange, where landscapes open into expansive grasslands and productive wildlife corridors. The transition introduces a more varied safari environment with excellent year-round game viewing.
Bomani Tented Lodge offers a well-balanced safari experience, combining comfort with strong conservation and community engagement. Elevated decks overlook active waterholes, while flexible daily activities include game drives, night safaris, and visits to local conservation projects. The experience is dynamic, social, and deeply connected to the surrounding environment. Your days unfold as you wish, each experience is tailored to your interests by expert, fun, and friendly guides.
Overnight: Bomani Tented Lodge
Day 13: Hwange National Park (BLD)
At Bomani, expect great year-round game viewing, a plethora of safari activities, and a meaningful commitment to local communities and wildlife. Daily schedules are flexible. Activities both inside and out of the park are plentiful and include game drives, night drives, a look-up viewing blind, community experiences, and visits to Imvelo's Ngamo Wildlife Sanctuary to experience white rhino, either in the game viewer or walking.
Overnight: Bomani Tented Lodge
Day 14: Hwange National Park (BLD)
From the remote south, a light aircraft flight takes you into the Ngamo Plains region of Hwange, where landscapes open into expansive grasslands and busy wildlife corridors. The transition introduces a more varied safari environment with excellent year-round game viewing. Your final safari chapter unfolds at Tum Tum Treehouse Lodge, located within a private concession where ancient camelthorn trees and active waterholes define the setting. This area offers both strong wildlife density and a sense of exclusivity.
Overnight: Tum Tum Treehouse Lodge
Day 15: Hwange National Park (BLD)
Tum Tum Treehouse Lodge presents a distinctive stay, with elevated treehouses designed to immerse guests within the woodland canopy. Each unit offers private viewing decks overlooking waterholes, creating continuous wildlife interaction. The experience combines guided safaris, walking excursions, and conservation-focused activities, all delivered within an intimate and design-led environment.
Guests can enjoy a range of immersive wildlife experiences, including guided morning, afternoon, and night game drives, as well as walking safaris through camelthorn forests. Additional highlights include visits to the nearby Mlevu Rhino Sanctuary, encounters with the Cobras Community Wildlife Protection Unit, wildlife viewing from the Mandiseka “Look Up” photographic blind, and community visits to local villages. Together, these activities provide close-up wildlife encounters, conservation insight, and meaningful cultural engagement in one of Hwange’s most exclusive areas.
Overnight: Tum Tum Treehouse Lodge
Day 16: Hwange National Park - Victoria Falls (B)
Your final morning in Hwange offers a last connection to the bush before departure. A transfer returns you to Linkwasha airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Victoria Falls, where you connect with your onward international journey.
As your journey draws to a close, you depart having experienced the full spectrum of southern Africa, from Malawi’s gentle landscapes and lake shores to Zimbabwe’s vast and untamed wilderness, each destination contributing to a richly layered and memorable safari.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- 24/7 service and full local backup from our representatives in Malawi and Zimbabwe
- 15 nights’ accommodation
- Breakfast in Lilongwe and Victoria Falls
- Full board at all safari camps and Mumbo Island – excluding drinks at Mvuu & Mumbo
- Game activities at all camps and non-motorised water sports at Mumbo Island
- Private transfers between airports and accommodation with a licensed tourism driver
- Economy class flights Lilongwe – Harare – Victoria Falls
- Light aircraft transfers Victoria Falls – Libuti, Manga – Bomani
- National Park and Conversation fees
- Malawi and Zimbabwe Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International airfares not listed in the itinerary
- Optional tours and excursions
- Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Personal Expenses
- Travel Insurance – note personal travel insurance is compulsory
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
Accommodation based on the following (or similar):
Lilongwe
Crafted Africa Residence
Crafted Africa Residence is a tranquil, garden-filled retreat located in Lilongwe’s sought-after Area 12, offering a peaceful atmosphere within easy reach of business hubs, shops, and dining. The residence features spacious self-catering accommodations set among lush greenery and vibrant birdlife. Facilities include a swimming pool, a gym, reliable wifi, and access to the nearby Wines & Wings shop, creating a relaxed, home-style environment in the heart of the city.
Images Credit: Crafted Africa Residence
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Liwonde
Mvuu Camp
Mvuu Camp overlooks a broad stretch of the Shire River (pronounced Shiree) in Liwonde National Park. The river is a magnet for wildlife and draws an abundance of fauna to its banks. An impressive, thatched dining and lounge area is situated between two enormous baobabs, and dinners are sometimes held under the stars in a specially constructed boma. Accommodation comprises 14 spacious stone and canvas chalets and specially designed family tents.
Images Credit: Central African Wilderness Safaris - Mvuu Camp
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Lake Malawi
Mumbo Island Camp
Mumbo Island Camp, accommodating fourteen guests, features tastefully furnished chalets with shaded decks, hammocks, hot bucket showers and ‘eco-loos’, complemented by a dining area with bar and a water sport gazebo. Chalets are set as far apart from one another as possible to guarantee privacy. Each chalet has its own ensuite bathroom, deck with hammock and a spectacular view over the turquoise waters of Mumbo. The whole camp is built of timber, thatch and canvas, and is perched on high rocks overlooking the water, blending with the lush foliage to create a ‘Robinson Crusoe’ atmosphere of rustic charm. The island is located within an exclusive concession area, guaranteeing privacy in tropical island paradise.
Images Credit: Mumbo Island Camp
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Victoria Falls
Pioneers Lodge
Pioneers Victoria Falls is a lodge located just 2.5 km from the iconic Victoria Falls, offering a blend of classic charm and modern comfort in a peaceful residential suburb. Surrounded by manicured gardens, the lodge features 50 spacious rooms with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, mosquito nets, tea/coffee facilities, and wifi. The property includes two swimming pools, a spa, indoor and outdoor dining, and an activity desk to assist with local excursions. With a strong commitment to service and sustainability, Pioneers is a family-friendly, resident-only retreat that combines elegant hospitality with easy access to one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders.
Images Credit: Pioneers Lodge Victoria Falls
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Hwange
Jozibanini Camp
Remote, wild, and exclusive, this small, private camp is a safe and comfortable home base for a unique and untamed wilderness experience. The luxury of simplicity is what Jozibanini is about - this intimate and self-contained camp has five tents on raised decks overlooking the lodge waterhole. Each tent features private open-air bathroom with running water, bucket shower with water comfortably heated by the fire, and the Jozi star bed experience option for sleeping under the stars—beds are fitted with wheels so they may be easily moved onto the tent deck allowing guests to sleep under the dark night sky!
Images Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges_Jozibanini Camp
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Hwange
Bomani Tented Camp
Bomani Tented Camp is nestled in a private concession on the splendid Ngamo Plains – legendary for unique scenery and impressive year-round game viewing with a great diversity of wildlife in substantial numbers. Enjoy an open-air thatched main lodge, tented accommodations, teak viewing decks, a prolific waterhole, a splash pool, and evenings around the fire.
Images Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges_Bomani Tented Camp
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Hwange
Tum Tum Treehouse Lodge
Tum Tum Treehouse Lodge is an intimate, safari lodge set within a remote private concession in south-eastern Hwange National Park, overlooking a series of wildlife-rich waterholes. The lodge features four elevated en-suite Treehouses built into ancient camelthorn trees, each with private decks and Eagle’s Nest viewing platforms, as well as a ground-level luxury family tent with two en-suite bedrooms for added flexibility and accessibility. A central lodge offers relaxed communal spaces, with thoughtfully designed interiors that blend comfort, sustainability, and a strong connection to the surrounding woodland landscape.
Images Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges_Tum Tum Treehouse Lodge
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National Park Regulations and Private Conservation Areas
Game drives in National Parks are restricted to closed-sided, pop-top 4WD vehicles during daytime. Walking safaris are not permitted. In many private reserves and conservation areas, open-sided vehicles are permitted as are walking safaris and night time drives.
Keeping Healthy in Malawi and Zimbabwe
Malaria: Anti-Malarial precautions are an absolute necessity when visiting Africa. It is important that you check with a qualified health professional for the most current information concerning your travel itinerary and personal health history. In addition, other personal protective measures, such as the use of insect repellents (containing the active ingredient ‘DEET’), covering arms and legs after dusk, avoid the use of scented products, help to reduce malaria risk.
Yellow Fever: If you are arriving in Malawi or Zimbabwe (or planning to re-enter) from an area that is infected with yellow fever, or arriving from a country where yellow fever is endemic (check the list of countries) you are required to have a yellow fever vaccination and it must be administered at least ten (10) days before your arrival (or re-entry) into Tanzania. If your travel itinerary requires you to have a yellow fever vaccination, you must ask your doctor to provide you with an "International Certificate of Vaccination" which should be carried with you while travelling to serve as proof that you have fulfilled the vaccination requirement.
Direct arrivals from non-endemic countries in Europe and North America are not required to show the certificate/yellow fever card, but when travelling between African countries by plane or vehicle you will be asked for it.
Luggage on internal flights
Luggage on internal flights is restricted to 15kg per person (including hand luggage) and it is a requirement that bags are soft-sided. This is due to compartments in light aircraft being small and of an irregular shape, making soft-side/flexible luggage essential.
Mobility information:
This itinerary is generally not suitable for people with limited mobility. If you are unsure, please contact us before booking.
Entry Requirements - Malawi and Zimbabwe
All visitors are required to carry a passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. There should be sufficient blank pages for entry stamps upon arrival.
Malawi’s immigration regulations were updated under the Immigration Amendment Regulations of
January 2026. As a result, visa requirements and fees have changed for a number of nationalities. Most travellers are now required to obtain a visa in advance, unless they fall under specific exemption categories
Most passport holders require a visa to enter Zimbabwe, and the cost for a single-entry visa valid for 30 days depends on nationality. Visas can be applied for online or obtained on arrival at airports and border posts in US dollar cash with notes in good condition.
Visa and entry requirements can change without prior notice, and it is the traveller's responsibility to secure necessary visas for all countries travelling to. Prior to travel, ensure you verify the latest entry requirements for each country on your itinerary by consulting with your local embassy/consulate, or your travel agent/broker.
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.
