Self-Drive Malawi & Zambia: Safari Circuit - 20 Days

(Camping)

“Malawi is the most fantastic country to self-drive through, such friendly people, so much to see and I just loved stopping at the side of the road to buy fresh fruit and vegetables from the local villagers.”

This 20-day self-drive camping safari circuit through Malawi and Zambia is perfect for travellers who’ve already tackled a classic Southern Africa road trip and ready for another adventure. Often overlooked, Malawi is one of Africa’s most underrated self-drive destinations, offering warm hospitality, scenic diversity and uncrowded national parks. This journey takes you deep into the country’s highlights, from wildlife-rich Liwonde National Park and remote Majete Wildlife Reserve, to the cooler highlands of Zomba Plateau and the laid-back shores of Lake Malawi – one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes. You’ll also venture into Dzalanyama Forest Reserve, a hidden gem for nature lovers seeking solitude and off-the-beaten-track exploration.

Crossing into Zambia, the adventure culminates in an unforgettable finale at South Luangwa National Park, widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest wildlife destinations. Famous for its abundant wildlife and dramatic riverine landscapes, South Luangwa delivers exceptional wildlife viewing and a fitting end to an epic overland journey.

Combining remote wilderness, iconic safari experiences and the freedom of self-drive travel, this camping safari is ideal for experienced road-trippers wanting to explore Malawi and Zambia.

Liwonde National Park - Majete National Park - Zomba Plateau - Lake Malawi - Dzalanyama Forest Reserve - South Luangwa National Park

- 4x4 hire – 4x4 dual cab with 1 rooftop tent includes camping equipment (Toyota Hilux or similar). Pick up Lusaka International Airport, drop off Lusaka International Airport. For details of the vehicle types available please see - Self Drive Vehicle Options.
- 4x4 hire vehicle cover - unlimited kilometres, collision damage waiver (USD$3,000 excess), second driver, taxes and tourism levies, introduction to vehicle, travel pack and GPS unit.
- Accommodation as indicated below.
- Meal as indicated below.
- Safari activities as indicated below.
- National Parks fees for Liwonde & Majete only.
- Relevant Travel Africa Information sheets.

With Travel Africa you are safe in the knowledge that you are working with people who are experts in self-drive travel. We have driven the types of vehicles you are looking to hire and driven them in the places, and on the road conditions, that you will experience. We have enjoyed all kinds of self-drive trips in southern Africa for over 25 years – from quick flits along the Garden Route to 8 month adventure trips with fully equipped 4x4s and roof top tents throughout southern Africa.

We give you peace of mind by working closely with you to custom-make and book your itinerary – ensuring you have the most appropriate type of vehicle and accommodation for your trip. We also provide you with detailed trip dossiers, which include routes, directions, tips and hints on driving in southern Africa, ensuring you have all the information you need to enjoy every minute of your trip and feel comfortable and secure with your holiday plan!

Our in-depth knowledge of destinations, conditions, vehicles and equipment, based on extensive personal experience, gives you the peace of mind you need for your self-drive safari.

Interactive itinerary

Detailed itinerary

Travel distance: Approximately 250kms, main roads but slow driving through lots of villages (approx. 5 hour drive).

Head south east for three nights camping at the stunning Chinguni Campsite overlooking the Shire River in Liwonde National Park. Camping in Liwonde places you at the heart of one of Malawi’s great conservation success stories. Since African Parks took over management, Liwonde has been dramatically revitalised through anti-poaching efforts and major wildlife reintroductions. Today the park is home to healthy populations of elephant, lion, cheetah, leopard, black rhino, buffalo, hippo and crocodile, with excellent birdlife along the Shire River. Well-managed campsites and low visitor numbers make Liwonde a rewarding and uncrowded safari destination.

Stay at:
Chinguni Campsite or similar

Travel distance: Approximately 200kms, main roads but slow driving through villages and some major towns (approx. 4.5 hour drive)

Enjoy the scenic journey through rural Malawi as you head south toward one of the country’s most impressive conservation areas. Spending three nights camping in Majete Wildlife Reserve allows time to fully appreciate this beautifully restored national park. Also managed by African Parks, Majete is a standout for its successful wildlife reintroductions of elephant, lion, wild dog, cheetah, leopard, black rhino, buffalo, sable and giraffe, while the faster and narrower Shire River here attracts hippo, crocodile and excellent birdlife.

Stay at:
Majete Game Capture Campsite or similar

Travel distance: Approximately 150kms, main roads but slow driving through villages (approx. 3 hour drive).

Enjoy another scenic drive as you head back to Zomba, moving from rural lowlands into greener highlands. You have 2 nights in Zomba to enjoy the cooler weather and picturesque Zomba Plateau with its forest walks, incredible views and waterfalls.

Stay at:
Blend Lodge & Kitchen Campsite or similar

Travel Distance: Approximately 200kms, main roads but slow driving through villages and some major towns (approx. 4.5 hour drive).

Head north from Zomba after breakfast and make your way up to the Lake Malawi shoreline. Spend the next 2 full days enjoying the gorgeous Cape Maclear. At additional cost enjoy a sundowner cruise on a catamaran. There is snorkelling, diving and kayaking nearby as well as a variety of hiking routes. Or spend the day lounging by the pool and enjoying the incredible sunsets.

Stay at:
Chembe Eagles Nest Campsite or similar

Travel distance: Approximately 275kms, 4WD dirt roads, main roads and a border crossing (approx. 6 hours drive).

Head out of Dzalanyama and cross the border in Zambia before heading to Mfuwe, adjacent to South Luangwa National Park. South Luangwa is known one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, and not without reason. The concentration of animals around the Luangwa River, and its oxbow lagoons or wafwas, is among the most intense in Africa.

The Luangwa River is the most intact major river system in Africa and is the life-blood of South Luangwa. The changing seasons add to the Park’s richness, ranging from dry, bare bushveld in the winter, to a lush, green wonderland in the summer months. There are 60 different animal species and over 400 different bird species in South Luangwa National Park. Famous for its concentrations of leopards, consider at least one night drive during your stay.

Don't forget to visit the stunning Tribal Textile Factory - a superb example of community-based economic enterprises. These handmade textiles are exported throughout the world - be tempted by the factory's wonderful shop (see our blog about this great place).

Stay at:
Wildlife Camp or similar

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