Attractions Nearby Malawi, Day Trips and Excursions

(Malawi, MW, South-East Africa)

Malawi borders on Zambia, Tanzania and Mozambique, all home to a host of national parks and awesome natural wonders. Visitors who have the budget and transport to travel further afield to these neighbouring attractions won't be disappointed.

Some of the best wildlife parks and related attractions in the whole of Africa reside in Zambia, to the west of Malawi, with highlights including the Lower Zambezi National Park and Lake Kariba. Lusaka is the capital of Zambia and this truly cosmopolitan city has a number of quality attractions located close by, such as the privately owned Chaminuka Lodge reserve and Parray's Game Ranch.

Tanzania

Malawi borders onto southern Tanzania, a relatively remote place with very little in the way of urban comforts. Home to Ruaha National Park, one of the biggest in Tanzania, as well as Selous and Uwanda game reserves, visitors looking to enjoy game spotting in really wild places won't be disappointed. Mbeya is the largest town in this region of Tanzania and, as such, acts as a good base. In 1974 Dodoma replaced Dar es Salaam as the capital and now serves as the political centre of Tanzania, being home to some important modern parliament buildings, which have been designed to be earthquake-proof.

Zambia

When it comes to national parks and reserves, Zambia is certainly well endowed. Nearby attractions include the South Luangwa National Park. Southern Luangwa hails as one of the world's top parks because of its extraordinary game density. Also worth a visit are the crystal clear waters of Lake Tanganyika, the second-largest lake in the world. Nearby are the exceptionally beautiful Kalambo Falls, the second-highest waterfall in Africa - indeed higher than the better-known Victoria Falls.

Mozambique

Northern Mozambique couldn't be a greater contrast to the more developed area to the south. Here, there are even more opportunities to escape the tourist bustle, despite the region's growing popularity. Head east and you can enjoy the beautiful Quirimbas Archipelago, made up of over 20 coral islands dotted along Mozambique's northern coast. Further south along that coast is Mozambique Island, complete with historic fort, narrow streets and alleys, and an ancient palace-cum-museum. Head west to discover the spectacular scenery of Gorongosa National Park, crossing the Zambezi River with its population of hippos and crocodiles. In the capital city of Maputo, the top attractions come in the form of sandy beaches, such as both Catembe and Ponta d'Ouro.