Malawi Safari Guide

Cheetahs are among the incredible wildlife that can be seen in Malawi’s national parks, including Liwonde. Their elegance and speed make them a highlight for guests seeking intimate and immersive safari experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions About Planning Your Footprint Safari

A Malawi safari is unlike any other — intimate, unspoiled, and deeply personal. Below, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about planning your journey through the Warm Heart of Africa and what to expect when traveling with Footprint Safaris.

“A traveler with open eyes sees the path before it forms” - African proverb

Malawi & Planning Your Safari

  • Malawi is a small, landlocked country in south-central Africa, formerly known as Nyasaland before independence in 1964. It borders Zambia to the west, Tanzania to the north, and Mozambique to the east and south.

    At its heart lies Lake Malawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most biologically diverse freshwater lakes in the world. Often described as Africa’s only truly endemic lake, it contains more species of freshwater fish than any other lake on earth.

    Known as the “Warm Heart of Africa,” Malawi is shaped by soaring highlands, the Great Rift Valley, and the vast, shimmering expanse of Lake Malawi. White sandy beaches meet dramatic landscapes and thriving wildlife reserves such as Liwonde National Park and Nyika National Park.

    Above all, Malawi is defined by the warmth of its people — a welcome that lingers long after the journey ends.

  • Malawi offers a safari experience like no other and is a true, undiscovered wildlife gem. Its wildlife reserves are intimate, allowing you to connect closely with nature. From the majestic black rhinos of Liwonde National Park, to roan and eland herds roaming the Nyika Massif, to snorkeling among the colorful cichlids of Lake Malawi, every encounter feels personal and unforgettable.

    The country’s landscapes are as diverse as its wildlife — sweeping savannahs, lush river valleys, and the shimmering waters of Lake Malawi, fringed by pristine beaches. It is a place where adventure, tranquility, and natural beauty coexist in perfect harmony.

    A Malawi safari is more than just wildlife; it is a journey into the heart of the “Warm Heart of Africa,” where genuine hospitality, rich culture, and unspoiled landscapes create memories that last a lifetime. With Footprint Safaris, every safari is carefully crafted to ensure comfort, authenticity, and discovery at every turn.

  • Malawi offers a safari experience like no other. Nestled in Southern Africa, it combines the best of eastern and southern African landscapes, creating a stunning mosaic of highlands, plateaus, floodplains, and sweeping vistas of the Great Rift Valley.

    It also boasts the sparkling expanse of Lake Malawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which adds a unique dimension to the safari experience — whether swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving among its colorful cichlids, or simply relaxing on its soft white sandy beaches.

    Malawi’s national parks and wildlife reserves are remarkably diverse, each with distinct fauna and flora, rivalling other African parks in both productivity and variety. From Liwonde’s elephants, lions, cheetahs, and hippos along the Shire River to Nyika’s roan and eland herds across misty plateaus, every park feels completely unique.

    Beyond landscapes and wildlife, what truly sets Malawi apart is its people. Known as the Warm Heart of Africa, the friendliness, generosity, and authenticity of the Malawian people allow you to fully engage in the culture and feel genuinely welcome throughout your journey.

    Finally, Malawi safaris are intimate by nature — free from the crowds of larger destinations, each wildlife encounter, every golden sunset, and every adventure becomes a truly personal and unforgettable memory.

  • The best time for a Malawi safari depends on the experience you seek, but generally, the dry season from April to November offers the most rewarding wildlife encounters. During these months, animals gather around water sources, vegetation is sparse, and game drives are easier — perfect for spotting lions, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and rare antelope species.

    The wet season, December to March, transforms Malawi into a lush, green paradise. Rivers and waterfalls swell, birds are abundant, and the scenery is breathtaking — ideal for birdwatchers, photography, and experiencing the country’s vibrant landscapes at their peak.

    Lake Malawi remains pleasant for swimming and recreation throughout the year, offering a refreshing complement to safari adventures.

    Malawi’s unique blend of savannah, highlands, and Lake Malawi means there’s always something extraordinary to see, no matter the season. Footprint Safaris can help you choose the perfect time to match your wildlife interests, travel style, and desired level of adventure.

  • The length of a Malawi safari depends entirely on your interests, the parks you want to visit, and the experiences you wish to include. At Footprint Safaris, itineraries are fully tailored, so there’s no one-size-fits-all.

    A typical safari lasts about 7 days, allowing you to explore one or two national parks, enjoy game drives, and spend time at Lake Malawi for relaxation or water activities. Longer itineraries are also possible for guests who wish to combine multiple parks, visit remote areas, or include cultural experiences, adventure activities, and photography-focused safaris.

    Because Malawi is compact yet diverse, even a 7-day itinerary feels immersive, with each day offering wildlife encounters, spectacular landscapes, and the chance to connect with the local culture. Whether you’re looking for a short, intimate safari getaway or a longer adventure, your itinerary is designed to ensure each moment is efficient, memorable, and completely yours.

  • Most visitors, including those from the United States, require a visa to enter Malawi. While online applications are sometimes advertised, they are not always reliable in practice. The simplest and most common option is to purchase your visa on arrival at the airport, preferably in cash (US dollars are preferred, as other payment options exist but can be unreliable). Footprint Safaris can provide guidance on current visa fees and help you prepare for a smooth arrival, and our guides will be at the airport to assist you.

    Vaccinations & Health:
    We recommend that all guests consult their travel clinic or healthcare provider before departure to discuss vaccinations and other health precautions. Malawi is not a yellow fever country, so vaccination is generally not required unless you have recently spent time in a yellow fever area prior to arrival (not during transit). Malaria is prevalent in many areas of Malawi, so malaria preventative medication is highly encouraged, along with mosquito protection measures.

    At Footprint Safaris, we provide detailed pre-departure guidance tailored to your itinerary and will be with you every step of the journey — even at the airport — ensuring you can enjoy your safari safely, confidently, and with complete peace of mind.

  • Packing for a Malawi safari is all about comfort, practicality, and traveling light, while leaving room for souvenirs and keepsakes. At Footprint Safaris, we provide personalized packing guidance based on your itinerary, the parks you’ll visit, and the activities you choose.

    Essentials include:

    • Soft duffel bags are strongly recommended — they fit best in safari vehicles and light aircraft. Hard suitcases are not suitable for small planes and can be difficult to stow on game drives.

    • Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing for game drives (avoid white, bright colors, or patterns that may startle wildlife).

    • Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for early morning and evening drives to protect against mosquitoes.

    • Comfortable walking shoes for nature walks and exploration.

    • Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.

    • Swimwear and casual clothing if you plan to relax or enjoy water activities at Lake Malawi or at the lodge swimming pool.

    • Binoculars and camera — highly recommended for capturing memories and observing wildlife in detail.

    • A small daypack for carrying essentials on excursions.

    • Lightweight rain jacket is recommended during the rainy season.

    Comfort & Weather Tips:

    • Our lodges and vehicles provide ponchos for cooler early morning or evening drives.

    • Lodge rooms are equipped with extra bedding if it gets chilly at night.

    Optional but useful:

    • Light fleece or jacket for cooler mornings and evenings, especially on the Nyika Plateau.

    • Insect repellent and personal medications.

    • Travel adapters and chargers: Malawi uses 230V standard voltage at 50Hz, with Type G British-style three-rectangular-pin plugs. Bring a Type G adapter and a voltage converter if your devices do not operate within 220–240V. Portable chargers are recommended; hairdryers and high-power devices are not recommended.

    Travel tip: Footprint Safaris provides laundry services at most lodges, so there’s no need to overpack. Bring only what you need, and leave space in your bag for souvenirs, local crafts, and mementos from your safari adventure.

    At Footprint Safaris, we ensure that every guest is comfortable, well-prepared, and ready to enjoy each day of their safari, without the stress of overpacking or missing anything important.

  • Yes — Malawi safaris can be highly rewarding for families and children. Our itineraries are fully tailored to your group, ensuring the pace, activities, and accommodations are appropriate and family-friendly.

    Child policies vary depending on the property, the presence of dangerous game in each location, and overall safety considerations. Certain parks and lodges may have minimum age requirements or specific activity restrictions, and we guide families carefully on what is most suitable for their children.

    For families traveling with younger guests, we typically recommend private vehicles. This allows complete flexibility with timing and ensures both your family and other guests enjoy the experience comfortably. Children are usually accommodated together in family rooms or suitable lodge configurations, and our guides adapt game drives and activities to match attention spans and interests.

    Wildlife viewing in Malawi is intimate and relaxed, making it an ideal destination for families to experience safari in a safe and meaningful way. Our guides are experienced in working with families and can balance adventure with comfort and education.

    Beyond safari, time at Lake Malawi and other destinations provides additional opportunities for relaxation and family-focused activities.

    With thoughtful planning and the right property selection, a Malawi safari can be an unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages.

Experience the tranquility of Malawi’s wilderness after dark. Liwonde National Park offers stunning night skies, framed by iconic palms and the peaceful landscapes that make an intimate safari unforgettable.

Wildlife & Safari Experiences

  • Malawi offers a rich, rewarding, and intimate wildlife experience, thanks to its diverse terrains and habitats, with thriving populations of elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, hyaenas and a wide variety of antelope species across its national parks.

    Significant conservation efforts in recent years have led to remarkable wildlife recoveries, including the reintroduction of black rhino and African wild dog, and even the rare pangolin is now occasionally sighted.

    Bird enthusiasts will find Malawi particularly rewarding, with over 650 recorded bird species nationwide. Meanwhile, Lake Malawi is home to more than 700 species of endemic, brightly colored cichlids, making it one of the most biodiverse freshwater ecosystems in the world.

    Each destination offers something distinct — ensuring that every safari experience in Malawi feels personal, uncrowded, and deeply immersive.

  • Footprint Safaris operates across Malawi’s most vibrant and diverse wildlife destinations, including:

    • Liwonde National Park – renowned for river-based wildlife viewing along the Shire River, exceptional elephant encounters, and lions and cheetahs hunting across the floodplains.

    • Nyika National Park – rolling highland plateaus, unique antelope species, large populations of leopard, and vast open landscapes unlike anywhere else in Southern Africa.

    • Majete Wildlife Reserve – a successful Big Five reserve and one of Africa’s leading conservation stories.

    • Lake Malawi National Park – combining wildlife experiences with snorkeling among colorful cichlids, water-based activities, and lakeside relaxation.

    We also operate in:

    • Kasungu National Park

    • Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

    • South Luangwa National Park (Zambia) – often combined with Malawi for extended safari itineraries.

    Beyond formal national parks and reserves, we design journeys to some of Malawi’s most scenic and culturally rich regions, including:

    • Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve

    • Zomba Plateau

    • Mulanje Mountain

    • Thyolo District (tea estates and forest reserves)

    • Chintheche (lakeshore retreats)

    • Likoma island– an exclusive island retreat offering white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and exceptional snorkeling and diving.

    Each destination offers a distinct landscape, ecosystem, and atmosphere — allowing us to design itineraries that showcase Malawi’s full diversity, from river valleys and floodplains to highland plateaus and lakeside serenity.

  • Footprint Safaris offers a full range of guided safari experiences, carefully matched to each destination and ecosystem. Depending on the area, guests can enjoy:

    Game Drives
    Game drives are available throughout Malawi’s national parks and wildlife reserves. Morning, afternoon, and full-day drives provide exceptional opportunities to encounter elephants, lions, leopard, antelope species, and abundant birdlife across diverse landscapes.

    Walking Safaris
    For a more intimate and immersive experience, walking safaris are offered in:

    • Liwonde National Park

    • Nyika National Park

    • South Luangwa National Park

    Walking safaris allow guests to experience the bush at ground level, focusing on tracks, smaller species, plant life, and the subtle details often missed from a vehicle.

    Boat Safaris
    Boat safaris offer a unique water-based perspective and are particularly rewarding in:

    • Liwonde National Park along the Shire River

    • Lake Malawi

    These excursions provide outstanding views of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife along the riverbanks and shoreline.

    Snorkeling, Swimming, Scuba Diving and other water activities
    On Lake Malawi and around Likoma Island, we offer snorkeling and scuba diving experiences among the lake’s famous endemic cichlid species, as well as kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water activities.

    Every safari is tailored to the landscape, season, and guest preferences — ensuring a rich, rewarding, and intimate experience whether by vehicle, on foot, or on the water.

  • Absolutely — in fact, we highly encourage and recommend it.

    One of Malawi’s greatest advantages is how easily a classic wildlife safari can be combined with time on the lake, mountains, or even neighboring Zambia — all within manageable travel distances.

    Our preferred flow is simple:

    Start with safari… end at the beach.

    We typically recommend beginning your journey in one of Malawi’s premier parks — such as Liwonde National Park or Majete Wildlife Reserve — where you can experience exciting wildlife encounters including lions, elephants, and much more.

    Then, unwind along the shores of Lake Malawi. Popular options include Cape Maclear within Lake Malawi National Park, the exclusive charm of Mumbo Island, or the laid-back beaches of Likoma Island.

    This natural progression allows you to:

    ·         Experience the thrill of safari first

    ·         Fully relax afterward (with no early wake-up calls)

    ·         Enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, or simply beach time

    End your journey refreshed and rejuvenated

    Beyond Safari & Lake

    Malawi offers exceptional add-on destinations:

    ·         The rolling highlands and unique wildlife of Nyika National Park

    ·         The dramatic scenery and trekking opportunities of Mount Mulanje

    ·         The rolling hills of Thyolo and the historic Satemwa Tea Estate tea plantations

    It is also very easy to combine Malawi with Zambia’s renowned South Luangwa National Park, creating a seamless multi-country safari experience.

    Malawi’s compact geography makes these combinations smooth and highly rewarding — allowing us to design itineraries that are rich, seamless, and deeply personal. Unlike larger safari destinations, travel here feels unhurried and uncrowded. Distances are manageable, logistics are simple, and every experience — from a lion sighting to a quiet sunset over Lake Malawi — feels intimate and genuinely your own.

  • Yes — we specialize in creating safaris tailored to your interests. Whether you’re seeking a romantic honeymoon, an adventure-filled journey, or an expert-led photography safari, every itinerary is carefully designed around your goals.

    We are particularly known for our honeymoon safaris, where privacy and intimacy are central. Special touches can include champagne on arrival, private dinners under the stars, thoughtful turndown surprises, and relaxing spa or African massage treatments for both partners — creating a truly unforgettable beginning to married life.

    For photography enthusiasts, we offer photo-led safari series guided by an expert wildlife photographer who is also a qualified bush guide with years of African hospitality, conservation, and tourism experience. These safaris focus on positioning, light, timing, and wildlife behavior — from early morning golden light and dramatic sunset scenes to night photography and even underwater images. The goal is simple: photographs worthy of framing on your wall at home.

    From sunrise game drives for striking wildlife images to secluded lodges for couples, every safari is intentionally crafted to be immersive, intimate, and memorable.

     

  • Footprint Safaris is not a volume operator. We do not run scheduled group departures or fixed itineraries. Every safari we design is private and fully customized.

    This ensures intimate wildlife experiences, flexible timing, and a journey built entirely around your priorities.

    All of our itineraries can be arranged as 100% private, meaning your group remains together throughout — without being mixed with other travelers at lodges, during transfers, or on activities.

    We are also happy to design dedicated itineraries for larger groups, whether family gatherings, friends traveling together, or special-interest groups. Each group safari is individually created to reflect the collective interests and expectations of that specific party — while still maintaining privacy, flexibility, and personal attention.

    At Footprint Safaris, your journey is always crafted around you — never slotted into a pre-set schedule.

  • Absolutely, fully custom safaris are our specialty. We design journeys that balance wildlife productivity, comfort, and pace, often combining Malawi’s premier parks with Lake Malawi or even neighboring destinations like Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park. No two itineraries are the same because no two travelers are the same, ensuring an immersive, unique, and memorable safari experience.

Liwonde National Park is home to Malawi’s majestic lions, offering guests unforgettable wildlife moments. Witnessing these iconic predators in their natural habitat is a highlight of any intimate safari experience.

The Footprint Safaris Difference

  • Footprint Safaris operates new, fully insured 4x4 safari vehicles purpose-built for the safari industry. Our closed vehicles are used for transfers and long-distance travel throughout Malawi, ensuring comfort and safety on both road and off-road journeys. They feature pop-up roofs for game viewing, large windows ideal for photography, comfortable seating, and ample luggage space — providing a smooth and secure travel experience between parks and destinations.

    For game drives within the parks, we work with fully open safari vehicles operated by our trusted lodge partners in destinations such as Liwonde National Park and Nyika National Park. These open vehicles allow for optimal wildlife viewing, unobstructed photography, and a truly immersive safari experience.

    All Footprint Safaris driver-guides are experienced professionals with excellent driving skills, first aid training, and nature guide accreditation. Under careful training and oversight, they ensure that throughout your itinerary you are not only driven safely, but also educated about Malawi’s wildlife, landscapes, culture, and the welcoming customs of the Warm Heart of Africa.

  • Our driver-guides are passionate professionals with deep local knowledge of Malawi’s wildlife, landscapes, and culture. They are trained in safety, wildlife behavior, and guest engagement — ensuring that your entire itinerary is informative, responsible, and enjoyable.

    Warren’s conservation background plays a central role in guide mentorship and standards, so guests benefit not only from exceptional wildlife sightings, but also from deeper ecological understanding — from animal behavior and tracking to habitat conservation and park restoration efforts.

    Beyond guides, our team includes Megan, who oversees marketing, reservations and first-aid standards; our trusted lodge partners (CAWS) and our on-the-ground coordinators and reservationists, all working together to ensure your journey runs seamlessly from arrival to departure.

  • Footprint Safaris is not a volume operator. We do not run scheduled group departures or fixed itineraries. Every journey is privately designed to meet your personal interests, priorities, and pace.

    Our difference lies in:

    • Genuine Personalization — Every safari is built around your wildlife priorities, activities, and interests. Want rhino? We’ll guide you to the right park. Birding enthusiast? Your itinerary will focus on hotspots for Malawi’s incredible avian diversity.

    • Intimate Travel — No crowded vehicles, no rushed schedules. Your safari is immersive, relaxed, and deeply personal.

    • Decades of Experience & Conservation Leadership — With decades of African safari and conservation experience, Warren and our team provide genuine first-hand knowledge and mentorship. Your journey is shaped by real field experience, wildlife insight, and ecological understanding.

    • US-Based Support & Secure Operations — Through our sister company in the United States, our US guests and agents can book and communicate safely and conveniently. Our operations and vehicles in Malawi are fully insured for the safari industry, with appropriate safari insurance included should anything unforeseen occur.

    • Comprehensive Itinerary Creation & Management — From initial planning to your return home, we manage every detail of your safari. This includes park bookings, lodge reservations, daily logistics, and personalized support throughout your journey.

    • Medical Safety — Driver-guides are trained in first aid, and our team includes medically qualified staff to ensure safe travel in every situation.

    • Conservation & Philanthropy — Every itinerary contributes to Future Footprints and Healthy Footprints, our Malawi conservation and philanthropy programs. A percentage of every itinerary is dedicated to these programs, ensuring your safari supports real conservation and community projects on the ground.

    • Seamless Logistics — From airport arrival to transfers between parks and lodges, every step is professionally coordinated for a stress-free experience.

    • Honest Advice & Local Insight — We provide candid recommendations to ensure you maximize wildlife encounters and authentic experiences.

    At Footprint Safaris, a safari is not packaged — it’s intentionally designed. Every journey is intimate, immersive, and tailored to you, combining expert knowledge, responsible travel, and unforgettable memories.

  • We begin with a conversation.

    We ask what matters most to you:
    Wildlife priorities, cultural experiences, time of year, photography, birding, family travel, honeymoon, adventure, or relaxation — every need and preference is considered.

    From there, we craft an itinerary that balances wildlife productivity, travel flow, comfort, and pace. Malawi’s compact geography allows us to create seamless bush-to-beach journeys — often combining premier parks with time along Lake Malawi, or even neighboring Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park.

    No two itineraries are the same — because no two travelers are the same.

  • As a Destination Management Company (DMC), Footprint Safaris offers comprehensive safari services, including:

    • Tailor-Made Safari Planning — Every itinerary is designed around your interests, priorities, and travel style.

    • Specialty Safaris — Photography-focused, honeymoon, adventure, or family safaris.

    • Third-Party Bookings — All park and lodge reservations are coordinated and packaged into a single, seamless itinerary.

    • Professional Guiding Services — Experienced driver-guides trained in wildlife, safety, and guest engagement.

    • Specialty Safari Vehicles — Fully equipped 4x4 vehicles for on-road and off-road travel.

    • Full Safari Insurance — Coverage for peace of mind during your journey.

    • Airport Meet-and-Greet Assistance — Personalized support from arrival to departure.

    • Transfers & Inter-Park Transportation — Complete driver-guided roundtrip transfers between parks and lodges.

    • Multi-Destination & Cross-Border Logistics — Easily combine Malawi with neighboring destinations, including Zambia.

    • On-the-Ground Support — Local coordinators and lodge partners ensure your trip runs smoothly.

    • US-Based Sister Company — Allows US guests and agents to book safely and conveniently, with secure US-to-US transactions while facilitating the safari in Malawi.

    We work closely with international travel advisors, particularly in the United States, providing reliable local expertise, full itinerary creation, and ground handling — all tailored to your individual wants and needs.

     

  • Yes — all transfers are professionally arranged and fully managed.

    On arrival, your Footprint Safaris guide and meet-and-greet team will connect with you, assist with visa guidance if needed, and once through security, provide a full briefing on your itinerary. This includes routing, timing, destinations, and what to expect each day before loading the vehicles and departing for your safari adventure.

    All airport transfers are included in our itineraries. If you only require a standalone transfer, we can arrange that as well.

    Travel in Malawi should feel smooth, seamless, and stress-free — and we make sure it does.

  • Absolutely.

    While we do not operate scheduled group departures, we can design private itineraries for families, friends, corporate retreats, photography groups, or special-interest travel.

    Each group itinerary is fully customized, with careful attention to logistics, pacing, accommodation suitability, and shared interests — ensuring the experience remains intimate and cohesive, even when traveling as a group.

Liwonde National Park offers breathtaking sunsets, where iconic palms frame the horizon and the warm glow enhances the tranquility of Malawi’s wilderness. A perfect moment to appreciate the intimate beauty of an African safari.

Booking & Travel Information

  • Booking begins with a conversation. Once we understand your travel dates, interests, and preferences, we design a detailed proposed itinerary and quotation for your review.

    After refining the itinerary to your satisfaction, we issue a formal booking confirmation, including your finalized itinerary and invoice. For our US-based guests and travel advisors, bookings can be securely handled in the United States through our sister company, African Footprint, providing convenient and secure domestic transactions.

    Once your deposit is received, your safari is secured, accommodations are confirmed, and preparations begin.

    From that point forward, we manage every detail — providing updates, packing guidance, pre-departure information, and reminders — and remain available for any questions leading up to your journey.

    On arrival in Malawi, our team will welcome you at the arrivals terminal, look after you throughout your safari, and ensure you are safely returned to the departures terminal at the end of your adventure.

    Our service does not end when the safari concludes. We follow up after your journey, because at Footprint Safaris, we care for our guests before, during, and after their time in Africa.

  • Yes — unless otherwise specified, park fees, driver-guided transfers, and inter-park transportation are included in your quoted itinerary.

    At Footprint Safaris, we consolidate all elements into a single itinerary, so you don’t have to worry about overlooked details or complications. Most itineraries are fully inclusive, often covering accommodations, meals, and even local beverages.

    Your proposal will clearly outline what is included and what is excluded, and we review all details with you before booking to ensure there are no surprises.

    Clarity and trust are at the heart of how we operate, so you can relax and focus on enjoying your safari.

  • Yes - A deposit (non-refundable) is required to secure park permits, lodge reservations, vehicles, and guiding services.

    The deposit amount and payment schedule will be clearly outlined in your quotation. Your booking is confirmed once the deposit has been received.

  • We understand that a safari is a meaningful investment, and we aim to make the payment process as comfortable and flexible as possible.

    For most bookings, we are happy to arrange structured installment payments leading up to your departure date.

    Final payment is required prior to your arrival in Malawi, with all timelines clearly outlined during the booking process. These details are carefully explained on your invoice and itinerary, and we provide reminders to ensure everything is simple, transparent, and stress-free.

  • For US guests and travel advisors, payments can be made securely through our US-based sister company, allowing convenient domestic transactions or online methods — including Zelle.

    If you prefer to pay by credit card, a small processing fee of 3.5% applies, and the payment is facilitated securely through PayPal.

    We also accept international bank transfers for direct bookings. Full payment instructions are provided with your invoice.

    All transactions are professionally documented, and receipts are issued for complete transparency and peace of mind.

  • We understand that plans can change. Footprint Safaris’ cancellation policy is clearly outlined in your booking confirmation and aligns with lodge, park, and supplier requirements.

    Because accommodations and park permits are reserved in advance, cancellation fees may apply depending on the timing of notice. We are always transparent about these fees upfront.

    We strongly recommend comprehensive travel and medical insurance to protect your investment in case of unforeseen circumstances.

  • Yes. Every booking includes a formal invoice and payment receipt. Your invoice clearly outlines the itinerary, inclusions, exclusions, and payment schedule — and can also be used to secure travel insurance.

    We prioritize transparency, so you always know exactly what your safari covers and can plan your journey with confidence.

  • While not mandatory, we strongly recommend all guests carry comprehensive travel and medical insurance. Safaris are generally safe, but insurance provides peace of mind for medical emergencies, cancellations, or unforeseen events.

    We can advise on suitable policies and ensure you are aware of coverage for travel in Malawi, activities, and medical evacuation if needed.

Liwonde National Park is home to a variety of majestic predators, including lions. Seeing these powerful animals up close in their natural habitat is a highlight of an intimate Malawi safari.