BLOG: Self-Driving Adventures in the Warm Heart of Africa

As a destination, Malawi is the perfect choice for self drive adventures. With a stunning backdrop round every corner,  Malawi has become a hit when self-drive tourists plan their African holidays. We’re delighted to share this blog by Sarah Kingdom as she takes a look at why self drive holidays in Malawi are so rewarding.

Self-Driving in Malawi: The Ultimate Exploration

Now, let’s really get into the art of self-driving in Malawi. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or a first-time explorer, Malawi offers the perfect self-driving experience. With Lake Malawi taking up a third of Malawi’s land-mass, it basically means that very few areas in Malawi are truly remote. This means that, whilst driving across the country can be an exciting challenge, it’s also very easy for those less experienced drivers.

You can choose from a fully equipped camping 4×4 vehicle for off-the-beaten-path adventures, or opt for a comfortable saloon car to cruise between lodges. Malawi self-holidays can be tailored to your preferences, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

A Road Less Travelled: Scenic Drives Across Malawi

Driving in Malawi offers a blend of excitement and immersion in local life. As you journey through the country, you’ll pass through bustling villages and see vibrant markets and roadside cooking, you’ll pass cattle grazing, maize grinding and farmers at work. You’ll see first-hand the everyday activities of Malawians. The journey is never dull, though be prepared to navigate your way round dogs, goats, the occasional pothole and a minibus or two – it’s all part of the adventure.

You may need to engage 4 wheel drive in the rainy season through the game reserves, or is heading up to Nyika Plateau, but most locations are easy enough to get to, even in a saloon vehicle, during the summer months.

Discover the Beauty of Malawi: Navigate with Confidence

Whether you choose north, south, east or west, Malawi has something extraordinary to offer. With a range of accommodation and camping options to suit your budget, you can set out on your self-driving adventure with just a spirit to explore and Google Maps or a GPS, or set out with a planned, and detailed itinerary in hand. Malawi is yours to explore.

Malawi’s road network is user-friendly, especially along the main routes connecting major cities. Many roads are tarred, and ongoing infrastructure improvements are making travelling smoother. While the older northern routes may have potholes and narrow sections, the experience is unforgettable. Self-driving is an ideal way to really explore this beautiful country.

Land & Lake Safaris: Planning, Logistics and Itineraries

Land & Lake Safaris a small family-owned and operated tour company, was first established in 1986 and they’ve been running excursions here ever since. They offer a wide range of options, experiences and itineraries to your timeframe, budget and interests – individual travellers, groups, families or couples looking to adventure in this special destination. From lodge-based self-drives to fully kitted 4×4 safari expedition vehicles for those looking to camp, they have a range of vehicles on offer. All vehicle hire includes comprehensive vehicle handover, unlimited mileage, insurance coverage, and a free-of-charge rescue and replacement service, and a 24hr call line for guidance on your journey – your choices of travel are unlimited!

Land & Lake offer set-date departures that run throughout the year to some of the best locations across Malawi or alternatively, they can advise and create tailor-made itineraries to suit all preferences. They can also book hotels and lodges, provide transfer services, and arrange domestic flight reservations for Malawi.

Self-driving across Malawi is not only easy, it’s rewarding. So, grab the wheel and embark on a road trip through Malawi’s picturesque landscapes, bustling towns, and the sparkling shores of Lake Malawi, or test your 4×4 driving abilities with rocky dirt tracks and steep winding mountain passes that have some of the best views in Africa. It’s a journey that promises unforgettable experiences, cultural encounters, and breathtaking vistas – take your time because this is an experience you’ll never forget! Happy exploring!

Find out about Land & Lake Safaris here.