Why Malawi and Zambia are the Perfect Combo

Lucy recently returned from an unforgettable trip with Crafted Africa, where she experienced Malawi and Zambia, the Crafted Africa way. Travelling across Malawi by road with her expert guide, Mathius, she gained a deeper understanding of the country and its people through his eyes — and it’s safe to say she’s now a little bit in love with Malawi.

In Zambia, Lucy was equally impressed by the seamless transfers arranged under Crafted Africa’s expert care, along with thoughtful touches such as private lounge access in Lusaka before heading off to one of the wildest and most remote corners of the country: Kafue National Park.

With so much diversity experienced in both countries, Lucy is now firmly in the camp of combining Malawi and Zambia and here’s why:

Wow – what an adventure I’ve just had. I was lucky enough to join two separate trips in celebration of Crafted Africa’s 15th birthday. From bumping along on a tea truck as the sun set over the Satemwa Tea Estate in Malawi, to floating down the Zambezi by boat in the iconic Lower Zambezi and gliding past vast herds of elephant, feeling as though I’d stepped into one of the last truly wild places on Earth — both countries absolutely delivered. And together, they create an incredible itinerary.

Malawi is famously known as the “Warm Heart of Africa” — and it truly lived up to its name. I felt incredibly welcome, not only thanks to my wonderful Crafted Africa guide but also from every person I met along the way. From the craftsmen in local markets, proudly sharing stories of their country and offering tips on places to visit, to the joyful women celebrating Mother’s Day who asked us to take their photo “for their day” — everyone was warm, open and genuinely kind.

For me, Malawi is the perfect place to kick off the trip. The hospitality is second to none, and people are simply delighted to share their beautiful country with you.

There’s no getting around the long journey from the UK to the African continent, but as we all know, it’s always worth it. During my stay in Malawi, I discovered two destinations that offered complete peace and tranquillity—true restoration after the long trip.

Huntingdon House, set on the Satemwa Tea Estate, is a relaxed colonial home surrounded by sweeping tea plantations and forests alive with birdlife. There’s plenty of space to roam freely, savour an afternoon tea on the lawn, or curl up with a book on the veranda.

Kefi, located in Zomba, was equally restorative. With lush views, delicious Greek food and comfortable accommodation. Loved by locals and travellers alike, there’s a wonderful buzz about the place.

Both stays left me refuelled, refreshed, and ready for the safari adventure ahead.

Liwonde National Park was a complete marvel — far more impressive than I’d imagined. From the moment we crossed the Shire River and arrived at Mvuu, I was captivated. My lodge overlooked a tranquil tributary of the river, where the grunts of resident hippos became my evening soundtrack.

Our game drives took us across sweeping plains dotted with palm trees, with plentiful plains game, a serene river backdrop and rolling hills framing the horizon. The lion and cheetah sightings were unforgettable, and I’m already planning a return trip — to see black rhino here would just be the icing on the cake!

Malawi proved to be the perfect springboard into the wilds of Zambia – made even better by travelling under the expert guidance of Crafted Africa. From seamless transfers to unwinding in a private lounge before our flight from Lusaka to Kafue National Park, the entire journey felt effortless. And then came the main event: venturing into one of Zambia’s most remote and remarkable corners.

Within just a couple of hours of arriving at Shumba, in the Busanga Plains of Kafue NP, we were greeted by an elephant at the swimming pool and informed that a lioness and her cubs had been making themselves at home under the room next to ours. As if it wasn’t wild enough, barely an hour into our evening game drive we were rewarded with sightings of a lion pride and two leopards surveying the plains from a tree—a particular highlight for me as it was my first ever leopard sighting.

This place is truly WILD.

Musekese Conservation, founded by Phil Jeffery and Tyrone McKeith, is a Zambian non-profit dedicated to protecting the Greater Kafue Ecosystem through anti-poaching patrols, wildlife research, and close collaboration with local communities. Their work blends law enforcement, science, and community partnerships to curb illegal activity and help the region’s wildlife and habitats recover. I visited their two properties in Kafue—Musekese Camp and Ntemwa-Busanga Camp—both of which beautifully showcase their conservation mission. It was especially rewarding to spend time with the project’s engagement officer at Musekese and learn more about their ongoing outreach initiatives.

I left feeling genuinely inspired by their work—and yes, I even bought the T-shirt.

There’s nothing like driving among  the Winterthorn trees as the sun dips, casting a hazy glow over the landscape, while baby baboons cling to their mothers’ backs as they scurry up the branches, or gliding past impressive herds of elephants drinking, all viewed from the river on your boat. Every turn presents a perfect photography opportunity. I stayed at Chiawa, which only added to the magic—our sundowners were interrupted by three male lions, prompting a swift pack-up as they sauntered past our vehicle in pursuit of a hunt. After the adrenaline of the game drive, we were treated to a surprise bush dinner under the stars. At that moment, I wasn’t sure a better day on safari could exist—pure magic.

It’s easy to see why none of these experiences could be missed, and why Malawi and Zambia make the perfect combination of lush rejuvenation and untamed wilderness. From the warm hospitality and serene landscapes of Malawi to the wild, remote corners of Zambia, every moment felt extraordinary. I still have Lake Malawi and South Luangwa National Park on my list—both of which I know will be incredible additions, offering the perfect balance of beachside relaxation and unforgettable safari adventures.

We like to give each camp 3 words that we think sum up the character or stand out feature of each camp. We hope you enjoy our three words for each and if we can offer you a deeper understanding about our experiences, please call and we can set up a presentation with you.