Luxury Zambia and Lake Malawi Safari

Livingstone is a picturesque Edwardian town and gateway to the spectacular natural wonders of Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River.

Livingstone may no longer be the official capital of Zambia but it remains an essential addition to any Zambia family safari. Streets are lined with British colonial architecture and the town’s setting, a few kilometres away from the falls, makes it quieter and less touristy than Victoria Falls Town in Zimbabwe.

Whether staying in a riverside lodge with direct access to the falls or a hotel in town, families can enjoy a range of activities. From thrilling dips in Devil’s Pool, teetering over the edge of the waterfall, to a more leisurely sunset cruise along the Zambezi, a family safari to Livingstone has something for everyone.

The Lower Zambezi National Park, nestled along the northwestern bank of the Zambezi River, is a hidden gem of Zambia safari holidays.

Once the private retreat of Zambia’s president, this 4,092-square-kilometre park became public in 1983 and remains one of Africa’s most unspoiled wilderness areas. With some sections designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the park is famed for its dense wildlife populations, where elephants, lions, and leopards roam in strong numbers.

The Zambezi River has sculpted this landscape over centuries, enriching the area with mineral-rich volcanic soils which feed lush forests and attract an abundance of game. Families on a Zambia family safari can experience thrilling boat safaris, guided walking tours, or canoeing trips that bring you up close to hippos, Nile crocodiles, and some of the park’s nearly 400 species of bird.

South Luangwa National Park was first founded as a protected game reserve in 1904 yet has remained untouched by the mass tourism of more well known parks.

Often referred to as Africa’s last great wilderness, the South Luangwa National Park lies in a fertile valley that supports an abundance of big game and is a must-see destination on a Zambia family safari looking to escape the crowds.

South Luangwa National Park is the pride of Zambian safari. Home to four of the Big Five, the park is principally known for its predator populations, including lion, leopard and the critically endangered African wild dog.

Lake Malawi, one of the largest, deepest, and longest freshwater lakes in the world, spans an impressive 590 kilometers in length and 85 kilometers in width. Occupying over a third of Malawi’s total area, it is celebrated for its crystal-clear blue waters, pristine sandy beaches, and remarkable biodiversity.

Home to over 1,000 fish species – the highest of any freshwater lake globally – Lake Malawi is a haven for aquatic life. Its unique status as a meromictic lake, where water layers do not mix, creates varied oxygen levels and temperatures, fostering this extraordinary ecological richness.

Dubbed the ‘Lake of Stars’ by famed explorer David Livingstone, the lake continues to enchant visitors, who can witness the flickering lights of fishing boats reflected across its vast expanse at night. Its palm-fringed shores and serene waters make it an ideal retreat, especially after an adventurous safari in nearby Zambia, Tanzania, or Mozambique.

A long-established luxury lodge nestled on a riverside position only 12 kilometres upstream from Victoria Falls.

Named by Conde Nast as one of the top 20 Hotels in the World, Tongabezi Lodge is a must-see destination for families visiting the Livingstone area of Zambia. The eleven river cottages are dotted along a hidden bank of the Zambezi River and each boast high ceilings and private pine decks overlooking the river. Families can select from a range of spacious private houses, each with its own game drive vehicle, boat and chef.

Tongabezi Lodge offers a diverse range of activities, ensuring that no member of the family will be left idle during your stay. Take a cruise to witness the must-see Victoria Falls, cycle to the nearby Simonga Village and Mukuni Markets for a taste of Zambian culture or simply indulge in a private dining experience on a sampan boat.

The more adventurous visitors have the option of a white-water rafting trip down the Zambezi Canyon. Not to mention that if you are visiting during the months of July and August, when the Victoria Falls are at their lowest flow, daredevils can take a dip in Devil’s Pool teetering on the top of the Falls’ heights.

Sausage Tree Camp is a luxury bush camp situated in a relatively untouched corner of the Lower Zambezi National Park. Overlooking an expanse of narrow channels and low set reed islands teeming with game, with the magnificent Zambezi escarpment as the backdrop.

At Sausage Tree Camp, families can revel in the luxury of custom-designed tents featuring private plunge pools, expansive teak decks, and stunning views of the Zambezi River. The highlight of the stay is the dedicated ‘Muchinda’ or butler assigned to each suite. This attentive service ensures that every need is met, from arranging special meals to organizing activities tailored to family interests.

For families travelling together, Kigelia House is the perfect choice. This exclusive suite has a private aspect, featuring two spacious en-suite bedrooms and an open-plan living area connecting to an expansive private deck with a plunge pool.

Named after legendary Zambian safari guide Jacob Shawa, Shawa Luangwa Camp is an intimate, eco-friendly bushcamp overlooking the Luangwa River.

Chief Nsefu of the Luangwa Valley awarded Jacob the honour of his own plot of land in recognition of his exceptional guiding achievements. With prime river access to the stunning South Luangwa National Park and superb year-round game viewing, it’s clear why Jacob chose this scenic spot overlooking the river.

With just five tents, handbuilt by a local team, the camp offers tranquil family safaris. Raised on wooden stilts above the riverbank, the tents boast 270-degree views across the park and minimal environmental impact. The Luxury Family Tent features two ensuite bedrooms, connected via an elevated wooden deck, providing the ideal spot for chilled afternoons.

As with all Green Safari properties, eco-friendly family safaris are central to the experience. Shawa Camp offers the only Silent Safaris in the South Luangwa, using solar-powered electric Land Cruisers. Families can enjoy closer lion and leopard sightings while traversing the park in near silence with a minimal carbon footprint.

Kaya Mawa is a completely unique boutique lodge, located on the pristine beaches of Likoma Island in the heart of Lake Malawi.

As the country’s first resort run solely on renewable-energy and with six community-managed tree nurseries, Kaya Mawa offers a sustainable safari whilst still delivering the luxury amenities expected of the world’s best hotels.

All of the rooms are built into the rocky island landscape and overlook the never-ending lake. Each of the white-washed chalets are completely unique in design and packed with character, while the exclusive Ndomo Private House is set on its own private stretch of beach and has four bedrooms, its own lounge and kitchen as well as a private plunge pool.

The open-sided main lodge is built on the main beach to maximise lakeviews and features several colourful seating areas and a well-stocked bar. Along a wooden walkway out into the lake stands the thatched spa, allowing guests to enjoy massages surrounded by crystal clear water.

Beyond some time relaxing on the beach, days can be packed with an incredible range of family-friendly activities. From stand-up paddle-boarding, kayaking and sailing on the lake, families can also visit the local cathedral – one of the largest in Africa – or browse in the market to meet the incredibly friendly locals. Alternatively, thrill seeking teens will love a quad bike tour or mountain biking around the island.

With its romantic location, unique stone-washed chalets and plentiful activities, Kaya Mawa is the perfect base for a luxury family safari to Lake Malawi. 

Boat safaris on the Zambezi River near Livingstone offer families a unique way to explore Zambia’s incredible wildlife.

Drift along the river, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and elephants coming to the water’s edge, while colorful birdlife fills the skies. Experienced guides share their knowledge as you cruise past stunning landscapes, with views of the majestic Victoria Falls in the distance.

Whether it’s a leisurely sunset cruise or an exhilarating safari by boat, the Zambezi River offers unforgettable, close-up encounters with nature.

Boat safaris on the Zambezi River offer a serene yet captivating way to explore this iconic waterway.

The Zambezi River is the epicentre of Zambian boat and canoeing safaris. The park’s wildlife is almost totally concentrated in the river valley, thanks to the Northern escarpment acting as a natural barrier to animals and there being few other permanent water sources in the park.

The river’s gentle flow is ideal for guided canoeing tours, offering sightings of huge pods of hippo, Nile crocodiles and even elephant and buffalo swimming between the Zambezi’s rocky islands.

Walking safaris at Shawa Luangwa offer families an intimate way to explore the South Luangwa’s wilderness.

Led by experienced guides, these safaris reveal the subtle signs of recent wildlife activity—like elephant tracks or a leopard’s scratch marks—giving you a deeper understanding of the bush.

As you walk through this diverse habitat, home to 60 mammal species and over 400 birds, you’ll feel a true connection to nature. An armed scout accompanies each walk, ensuring both safety and adventure.

Snorkeling and diving at Kaya Mawa offer an unparalleled experience in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi, known as the ‘Lake of Stars.’

Explore a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful cichlids, a fish species found nowhere else on Earth. Snorkelers can enjoy shallow reefs close to shore, while divers can venture deeper to uncover dramatic rock formations and hidden caverns. The calm, warm waters ensure ideal conditions year-round, making it perfect for families and beginners.

With expert guides and equipment readily available, discovering Lake Malawi’s unique aquatic life promises to be a highlight of your stay at Kaya Mawa.