MALAWI & ZIMBABWE
THE WARM HEART OF AFRICA AND THE MYSTERIOUS RUINS OF A LOST CIVILIZATION
May 10 - May 24, 2025
Led by STS Tour Manager, Ian DuVernay
MalawMalawi, also affectionately known as "the warm heart of Africa," may be small in size but is large in diversity. Lake Malawi, the third largest lake in Africa, offers remote islands, picturesque shorelines, and stunning sunrises and sunsets. The mountainous grasslands of Mulanje, Nyika, and Zomba plateaus afford spectacular photo options, and game-rich national parks and wildlife reserves provide exceptional wildlife viewing equal to those in East Africa. Malawi's greatest asset is her people – always ready for a laugh, a little chat, and an impromptu song and dance. Malawians' easy-going and warm nature makes this country one of the safest and most enjoyable places to travel in Africa.
Zimbabwe is well known for its amazing wildlife, but few know about its impressive ancient ruins or well-preserved cave art. This tour focuses on the historical and cultural side of Zimbabwe. Explore the Great Zimbabwe ruins, the largest and most significant stone archaeological complex in sub-Sahara Africa, thought to date back to the 11th century. It was built by the Karanga, ancestors of the Shona tribes, and for unknown reasons, the city was abandoned when the Portuguese arrived in 1552. Another fascinating highlight is the ancient cave paintings at Matobo Hills, home to some of the world's most extraordinary prehistoric bushman artwork. Some of the paintings feature wildlife such as giraffes, lions, and rhinos as well as humans, date back to 13,000 years.
Can be combined with Mozambique, Eswatini, & Lesotho tour (May 24 - June 01, 2026) OR possible 2-day extension to Victoria Falls (Upon request)
Tour Cost (Land Only):
8-9 travelers $11,495.00
10-12 travelers $10,995.00
Per person sharing in double occupancy
Single Supplement: $1,495.00
Limited to a maximum of 4 Single rooms
Price based on group size minimum of 8 participants and maximum of 12 participants
Trip Grade: II Lodging Level: ****
Tour Includes
Airport/Hotel/Airport transfers in a/c vehicles.
Accommodation in standard first-class hotels, lodges, and luxury tents as mentioned or similar.
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch and D: Dinner).
Lilongwe - Harare flight.
Transportation by 4-WD Land cruiser.
Bottled water while on tours and safaris, local and non-premium beverages at Makokola & Amalinda Lodges ONLY.
English-speaking guide or naturalist/assistant during all tours and safaris.
All entrance fees to mentioned sites, game drive activities, and national parks.
Escort of a tour manager (provided minimum number of travelers is reached).
Gratuites to guides, drivers, rangers, etc. (provided minimum number of travelers is reached).
Tour Does Not Include
International airfare USA - Lilongwe / Bulawayo - USA.
Visas: Zimbabwe (currently upon arrival for $30) and Malawi (No visa required) - subject to change.
Meals not mentioned or beverages with or without meals.
Any required pre arrival & pre departure PCR tests.
Items of a personal nature (camera fees, laundry, excess luggage, etc.).
Motorized water sports at Nankhoma Island.
Transfers if not arriving/departing on tour dates.
Dayroom/overnights necessitated by changes in airline schedules or misconnections.
Trip surcharge to operate below required minimum participants.
Travel protection insurance (Highly Recommended).
Trip Grade:
II Active – Some hikes, slightly more demanding walks; comfortable but busy schedule with some early starts, and some long rides over rough roads. Walking safaris may entail muddy areas and unpaved paths. The trip requires a reasonably good physical stamina in order to participate in all the activities. Some flexibility is also required if we have to alter or change the program for any unforeseen conditions.
LODGING Level:
**** Luxury: Regular style- usually large- hotels, typical western standard with ample venues, and full amenities (4 or 5 stars).
