Words – Sarah Kingdom / Pics – Supplied
Many years ago, when our children were small, my husband and I decided on a last-minute family trip to Malawi. Living in the middle of Zambia, spontaneity was easy — we simply got in the car and headed north.
Six hundred kilometres later, we reached Isoka, cleared immigration, and continued another 120km of some hair-raising dirt road driving to the Hewe border crossing into Malawi, which was little more than a hut with a log across a narrow track. It was Sunday, and the lone immigration officer was at church. A child was sent to fetch him and while we waited, a group of shy children curiously watched us. Eventually, the immigration officer arrived, somewhat surprised to see us and apologetic about his prior absence. After some rummaging, he found his long-unused stamp and, with a thud, stamped our passports, releasing us into Malawi.
What followed was a week of adventure — camping in the rain at Nyika National Park, swimming with cichlids in Lake Malawi, buying sugarcane in markets, and endless family fun. Fifteen years later, we still talk about that first trip. Though we’ve returned many times since, that journey remains part of our family mythology.
Planning a family holiday? Malawi might just be the answer.
Your kids are finally old enough for that adventurous African holiday—but where to go? Family trips create lifelong memories, so you want the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. With safaris, beaches, and warm hospitality, Malawi might be just what you’re looking for.
Known as the “Warm Heart of Africa,” Malawi is a safe and welcoming destination, easy to explore on a self-drive trip or with guided transfers. It’s also an emerging safari hotspot. Over the past 15 years, major wildlife reintroductions, including elephants, rhinos, lions, wild dogs, and cheetahs. Majete Wildlife Reserve is a thriving Big Five destination, while Liwonde National Park offers scenic walking safaris and boat trips on the Shire River. Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, a vast and untouched wilderness, promises adventure and tranquillity.
Its most famous attraction is Lake Malawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Often called the Lake of Stars, a name inspired by the fishermen’s lanterns bobbing on the lake’s waters at night, Lake Malawi stretches over 580km north to south, 75km east to west, and covering more than 20% of the country in water. Fringed with vast stretches of sandy beaches, its crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, canoeing, sailing, or simply relaxing. With over 500 fish species, including the colourful endemic cichlids, the lake perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. And the call of the African fish eagle is ever-present.
For land-based adventure, hike Mount Mulanje, Central Africa’s highest peak, or explore Zomba Plateau, for breathtaking views, cooler air, and mountain biking. But what truly makes Malawi special? Its people. Take time to meet the locals, experience their culture, and embrace the warmth of this unique family destination.
Here are a few ideas to keep your family occupied on holiday in Malawi:
Go on Safari at Majete Wildlife Reserve
A Malawi safari is an adventure the whole family can enjoy. Head to Majete Wildlife Reserve in southern Malawi for an unforgettable experience. Home to the Big Five, the park also boasts cheetahs, African wild dogs, sable, hyenas, aardvarks, pangolins, and over 300 bird species.
For something truly special, guests staying with African Parks can opt for a Nakamba Hide sleep-out — a rustic yet comfortable open-air platform beside a waterhole. Picture dinner by the campfire, stargazing from your bed, and drifting off to the distant roar of a lion. How much more memorable can family time get?
Climb Mount Mulanje
After your safari, swap game drives for altitude and set off for the summit of Mount Mulanje. The highest peak, Sapitwa (3,002m), offers a challenging but rewarding multi-day hike. Along the way, scramble over rocks, discover waterfalls and pools, and reach the summit for a spectacular sunrise over southern Malawi. You’ll stay in rustic mountain huts, with a personal cook preparing hot meals to keep you energized. At night listen to stories from your guide about the local myths and legends that surround Mulanje.
For a more relaxed trek, opt for shorter routes leading to equally stunning peaks. A three-day trek gets you to Sapitwa, but a four-day route allows for detours to scenic pools. Stay overnight before or after your trek at Likhubula Forest Lodge or nearby tea estate at Huntingdon House.
Take a Helicopter Flight Over Liwonde National Park
Next, head to Liwonde National Park, home to lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, black rhinos, elephants, buffalo, hippos, and more. The birdlife is equally spectacular, attracting birders eager to spot the Narina trogon, Böhm’s bee-eater, and the elusive African pitta.
For a unique perspective, take a helicopter flight with African Parks. Used for conservation efforts — anti-poaching patrols, wildlife monitoring, and relocations — the helicopter offers an incredible aerial view of the park. Spotting elephants and hippos from above is an experience your kids will be raving about for days!
Chill at Lake Malawi
After safari adventures, it’s time to relax by the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi. Not many destinations let you go from Big Five game drives to sandy beaches in a single day!
For a mix of water sports and beachside relaxation, head to Makokola Retreat, which is perfect for teens. The resort offers snorkelling, sailing, waterskiing, speedboating, kayaking, tubing, golf, beach volleyball, soccer, birdwatching, and cultural excursions, activities designed to keep the whole family busy!
For a more rustic and off-the-grid experience, take a boat to Mumbo Island, just off Cape Maclear. Enjoy a barefoot lifestyle and digital detox, with hiking, snorkelling, scuba diving, and kayaking. With no Wi-Fi or electricity, it’s a perfect spot to disconnect and soak in nature.
Explore Likoma Island
For a different take on Lake Malawi, visit the idyllic Likoma Island. Just 18km² and sitting close to the Mozambique’s shore, this hidden gem offers an authentic mix of history, culture, and water activities. Kaya Mawa offers an array of fun watersports to engage your kiddos, from sailing to paddleboards and kayaks to snorkelling. If you’re up for exploring, take a tour of the island and visit St Peter’s Cathedral, built in 1905 by Scottish missionaries who came to end the slave trade. The cathedral, with its stunning stained-glass windows and intricate stonework, is as large as Winchester Cathedral in the UK.
With its vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and spectacular scenery, Malawi is perfect for families with older kids looking for adventure. From safaris and mountain treks to water sports and island escapes, it’s a destination that will pull your kids away from their screens and create memories to last a lifetime.
Essentials
Planning your trip:
Lilongwe based, family owned and operated Land & Lakes was Malawi’s first established tour operating company. They know the country intimately and have been planning amazing trips for 39 years and can plan your itinerary right down to the tiniest of details. https://www.landlake.net/
QR code to https://www.landlake.net/
Getting there:
Several International airlines fly into Lilongwe
Where to Stay:
Makokola Retreat – https://makokola.com/
Mvuu Lodge (and bushcamp) – https://mvuulodge.com/