Land-locked Zambia shares its borders with eight other African countries, yet it remains a remote place with untamed wilderness areas, tranquil scenery and friendly, easy-going people. Its great national parks brim with masses of wildlife and its remoteness has preserved the strong culture of its people who still observe ancient traditional ceremonies. The tourist brochures bill Malawi as ‘the warm heart of Africa’ and for once the hype is true. Malawi’s ever-changing landscape takes you from the top of lofty mountains, down steep escarpments, though woodland, farmland and empty grassland, to the shores of a magnificent lake. It is to these enchanting destinations, that Somerset Tours & Travel invite you to join them on an exciting fully-escorted 11 day adventure safari.
Our tour departs South Africa on 12 September 2025 and flies on Airlink to Lusaka where we will spend one night before flying to Mfuwe, which borders on the South Luangwa National Park. Here we will spend two nights at Wild Dogs Lodge, a perfect base for exploring the Park.
Renowned as one of Africa’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries, South Luangwa is home to an abundance of game, which frequents the Luangwa River and its oxbow lagoons.The Luangwa River is the most intact river system in Africa and is the lifeblood of the park’s 9,050 square kilometres. South Luangwa is also the birthplace of the walking safari – one of the best ways to get up-close-and-personal with the park’s pristine wilderness, which boasts 60 animal species and over 400 bird species. While out on the plains, visitors can view large herds of elephant, some up to 70 strong, and encounter the mighty buffalo.
The tour then proceeds overland to Lilongwe in Malawi. The journey is fascinating; we’ll be passing local villages and wonderful countryside dotted with baobab trees.
Lilongwe is a one night stopover and from there we are headed to Nankoma Island, a private, unspoiled paradise which forms part of the Marelli Archipelago, under the protection of Lake Malawi National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). It is a haven for flora and fauna, supporting diverse ecosystems. Our two night stay at The Blue Zebra Lodge is the perfect place for birdwatching, nature trails and wildlife, snorkelling, water based activities, kayaking, boat cruises and just relaxing.
Heading further south, our next stop on the itinerary is Liwonde National Park where we will spend two nights. Here we will find some of the best river-based elephant, crocodile, hippo and general wildlife viewing in Africa. Liwonde is also a bird watcher’s delight.
Our last stop on the itinerary is Thyolo and the Satemwa Tea and Coffee Estate where we will base ourselves for two nights in Huntingdon House, situated on the Estate. The Estate offers a scenic and immersive experience in Malawi’s Shire Highlands and includes culture, history, colonial heritage and nature while also supporting sustainable tourism. There is also the opportunity of exploring local markets or villages offering insights into the life of the Lhomwe people.
Liz Cotton will be leading the group from South Africa and professional English-speaking naturalist & birding and wildlife guide extraordinaire, Marc Cronje, and a local naturalist driver/guide will be escorting the group throughout Zambia and Malawi. This will be a unique and unforgettable experience for every member of the group.
Space on this tour is limited to 9 guests. If you have any queries, or would like to secure your reservation or register your interest in this tour, please do not hesitate to contact Liz on telephone +27 (0)21 786-2598 or cell +27 (0)83 357 4855 or email info@somersettours.co.za. We look forward to booking your place on this unique tour to Zambia and “The Warm Heart of Africa”.