MALAWI SAFARI & IMPACT TRIP

Join Us In Malawi For A

9 Day All-Inclusive Luxury Expedition!

 

Join We Are Travel Girls for a nine day adventure discovering Malawi – voted one of the top 50 places to visit in 2020 by Travel + Leisure! Enjoy a three-day safari adventure, including a unique riverboat safari, immerse yourself in the local culture and take part in inspiring mentoring work for a local school, disconnect and relax with a two-day digital detox on idyllic Mumbo Island – a private island that was named Sunday Times’ Top 100 Places to Stay in 2017. This expedition is aimed at ladies wanting to travel with a purpose, take part in inspiring community initiatives, and discover a little-known slice of Africa.

 

~ AS SEEN IN FORBES AND CNN TRAVEL ~

Malawi Safari and Charity Trip Travel Girls Getaway
Malawi Safari and Charity Trip Travel Girls Getaway
Malawi Safari & Impact Trip
Mumbo Island, Malawi

Expedition Overview

About The Expedition

 

We Are Travel Girls designed this bespoke women’s only getaway in collaboration with Kate Webb of the Responsible Safari Company, a family-run, specialized expedition company focused on educational, sustainable, and philanthropic travel, with over 20 years of experience running trips in Malawi.

 

On this incredible adventure, we will have an active itinerary experiencing game drives and unique riverboat safaris. We will spend a few days in Lake Malawi National Park (an UNESCO World Heritage site), on tranquil Mumbo Island – swimming, kayaking, hiking, and relaxing. Guests will have the option to participate in our fundraising initiative as part of our impact efforts. During the trip will spend a few days in the local community and schools to learn about Malawian life, mentor students, and see how the money we raised is being used.

Trip Basics

 

Dates: April 25th – May 3rd, 2026

Trip Length: 9 Days, 8 Nights 

Trip Style: Luxury

Category: Charitable & Active

Group Size: 14 total (12 guests, 2 hosts)

Accommodation Type: Rustic Luxury

Meals: All Meals

Hosts: Vanessa Rivers + Natalie Collins

Partner Company: Responsible Safari Co.

Early Bird Price: $5,200  (plans avail.)

Price: $5,400 – Starting June 1st

Who Is This Expedition For?

Our Malawi getaway is for adventurous female travelers of all ages looking to give back while exploring off the beaten path!

Our Malawi Safari & Impact Trip combines experiencing a lesser-known, beautiful country, exploring off the beaten path, going on exciting river and land safaris, along with time spent in local communities, in particular mentoring young women.

If you are looking for a more meaningful trip, an opportunity to gain insight into key global challenges facing rural communities in Africa and to give something back on your travels, then this trip is for you!

Malawi Safari and Charity Trip Travel Girls Getaway
Malawi Safari and Charity Trip Travel Girls Getaway

Who Is The Responsible Safari Co?

With 20 years experience in Malawi, founded by fellow female traveler Kate Webb, Responsible Safari Co. is the perfect partner for this incredible getaway

The Responsible Safari Company (RSC) is a Social Enterprise Tour Operator based in Blantyre, Malawi specializing in Sustainable, Educational, Philanthropic & Experiential Group Travel.

 

The Responsible Safari Company is committed to creating sustainable growth through social enterprise, reducing the dependence on the aid industry and driving tourism-generated income to rural Malawi communities.

The Location

Malawi is Africa at its purest, offering unique and extraordinary travel experiences

From its undulating mountains to the shores of stunning Lake Malawi, the fact that Malawi has traditionally been overlooked as a mainstream destination means that you will find hidden gems at every turn.

 

Malawi supports a diversity of landscapes, wildlife, ecosystems and cultures. Malawi is also affectionately known as ‘The Warm Heart of Africa’ because the people are so warm and welcoming. Come see for yourself why everyone that visits falls in love with the unique and magical country of Malawi.

Malawi Safari and Charity Trip Travel Girls Getaway
Malawi Safari and Charity Trip Travel Girls Getaway

Community Impact Work

Three days will be spent meeting with local women and children in the villages surrounding Lake Malawi 

You will spend three days in a village in Malawi working with the local community and learning about their culture and the challenges that face them.

 

We will spend time with the students at Rainbow Hope School, a secondary school in Mangochi Village near the shores of Lake Malawi. We will visit Amaya Nursery to spend time with and read to the children. We will participate in school workshops, sports and an impactful Rainbow Hope School fundraising campaign prior to the trip.

Exploring Malawi

This trip was created to allow guests explore the beauty of Malawi, while experiencing the warmth of the local culture 

• Rustic luxury Safari Lodge on the banks of the Shire River
• See elephants, hippos, and crocodiles up close on three riverboat safaris
• Watch rhinos, lions, leopards, antelope, warthogs, monkeys, and more on three 4 x 4 game drives in Liwonde National Park
• Sundowner drinks on the Shire River
• Special Malawian meals and entertainment
• Time spent in local villages and schools on the shores of Lake Malawi
• Two days on Mumbo Private Island in Lake Malawi National Park
• See below for a detailed trip itinerary

Malawi Safari and Charity Trip Travel Girls Getaway
Mumbo Island, Lake Malawi

Accomodation

For this expedition we have chosen a range of unique rustic luxury accommodations!

During the trip we will be staying in three different rustic luxury accommodations, including Mkulumadzi Lodge on the banks of the Shire River, which has incredible views and is ideally located for game viewing straight from your room!

 

Makakola Retreat is located on a beautiful stretch of sandy beach on the southern shores of Lake Malawi and is ideally situated, close to the village of Mangochi, where we will be participating in local community impact efforts. Finally, Mumbo Island – named Sunday Times’ Top 100 Places to Stay in 2017 – will be our own breathtaking private island escape, surrounded by the crystal blue waters of Lake Malawi National Park – an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Your Expedition Hosts

Together with an experienced local Responsible Safari guide, your trip hosts will be We Are Travel Girls Founder Vanessa Rivers and CCS Realty Owner Natalie Collins

Vanessa Rivers
Natalie Collins-Smith

Vanessa Rivers

Co-Founder We Are Travel Girls & Travel Girls Getaways

 

Vanessa Rivers is an an award-winning travel writer, photographer, bestselling author, surfer, proud mom and Co-Founder & CEO of Travel Girls Getaways and We Are Travel Girls (as seen in Forbes, NY Times, Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire, CNN, FOX, Oprah and more). Vanessa has been to Malawi twice hosting our getaways and has fallen in love with the country and the people. She especially loves the opportunity this expedition provides to travel with purpose and give back to the local communities.

 

Natalie Collins-Smith

Owner & Broker CCS Realty

 

CCS Realty is a female owned and operated premier luxury real estate brokerage in Santa Barbara, dedicated to helping buyers and sellers navigate the market with confidence. Beyond her love of real estate, Natalie Collins enjoys competing in Pickle Ball tournaments, hiking, surfing, sunsets (preferably with a cocktail in hand), and exploring new destinations around the world. 

Malawi Safari and Charity Trip Travel Girls Getaway
Malawi Safari and Charity Trip Travel Girls Getaway
Lake Malawi
Malawi Safari and Charity Trip Travel Girls Getaway
Malawi Safari and Charity Trip Travel Girls Getaway
Malawi Safari and Charity Trip Travel Girls Getaway
Mumbo Island, Malawi
Malawi Safari and Charity Trip Travel Girls Getaway

Trip Itinerary

On this expedition we will be experiencing the best of Malawi, connecting with the beautiful African culture and wildlife, as well as giving back to the local communities we visit.

Day 1 – Arrive In Blantyre: Arrive into Chileka International Airport (BLZ). Meet your Responsible Safari Company Guide and transfer 1 hr to Mkulumadzi Lodge in Liwonde National Park. Arrive in time to enjoy your first African sunset with sundowner drinks on the Shire River. (Dinner)

 

Day 2 – Liwonde National Park:  Days on safari start early and as dawn breaks over the park you will head out for a river boat safari and have a chance to watch herds of elephants come to the river to drink. Return for breakfast followed by an early afternoon game drive. Enjoy lunch, and an afternoon siesta or relaxation time, an evening game drive, followed by dinner at the lodge. (All Meals)

 

Day 3 – Liwonde National Park:  Enjoy an early morning river boat safari, breakfast, an afternoon game drive, lunch, relaxation time, evening sundowners on the river, and a group dinner in the lodge restaurant. (All Meals)

 

Day 4 – The Shire River: Wake to the sounds of the bush and head back out onto The Shire River for a final boat safari before packing up and transferring by road to Makokola Retreat on Lake Malawi. Arrive for lunch and an afternoon spent relaxing on the shores of Lake Malawi followed by a group dinner at Makokola Retreat. (All Meals)

 

Day 5 – Cultural Immersion: Rise early and walk into Mangochi Village. Local women will invite us into their homes to experience village life and the challenges they face. We will also visit Amaya Nursery School where you will have a chance to play with and read to the children. Return to the hotel for supper on the beach and traditional dancing. (All Meals)

Day 6 – Community Mentoring: Start your day with breakfast on the shores of Lake Malawi then head to Rainbow Hope Secondary School to spend time with the students – school tour, workshops, mentoring students. Enjoy lunch at Makokola Retreat, followed by sports with the students, relaxation time and a special group dinner. (All Meals)

 

Day 7 – Mumbo Island:  Final breakfast at Makokola Retreat before transferring (1hr) to Cape Maclear and catching a boat (45 mins) to Mumbo Island. Enjoy a unique private island experience, surrounded by crystal blue waters of Lake Malawi. Special group welcome dinner. (All Meals)

 

Day 8 – Mumbo Island: Spend the day swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving (not included in cost), and relaxing in your hammock. Enjoy a group hike around the island, a sundowner boat ride, and our final group meal. (All Meals)

 

Day 9 – Departure: Early boat transfer back to the mainland & car transfer to Lilongwe International Airport (LLW) for your international flight. (Breakfast)

 

Optional Add-Ons:
Mumbo Island Extra Days
Blue Zebra 2 Day Add-On

 

Additional Information:
Learn More About The Itinerary
Read: 15 Reasons To Visit Malawi

What’s Included

Inclusions

8 Nights Accommodation

All Meals

All Transport & Transfers

RSC Local Guide

Fundraising Project Set Up & Support

3 Days Safari - 3 Game Drives & 3 River Safaris

All Activities including Kayaking on Mumbo Island

Set Of High Res Edited Trip Photos

Community Activities (as mentioned)

Exclusions

International Flights

Scuba Diving on Mumbo Island

Personal Travel Insurance

Personal Purchases, Souvenirs, Tips

Visas

Bar Drinks

Early Bird Price

USD $5,200

Payment Plans Available
(Inclusive of 20% deposit)

$5,400 – Starting June 1st

  • Everything Was Planned To Perfection!

    This trip to Malawi was everything I imagined and so much more! Everything was planned to perfection! My favorite part of traveling is the chance to connect with new people and this trip provided that in a much grander way than I’ve ever experienced. From connecting with the amazing women on the trip to connecting with those in the communities of Malawi this is a trip I will never forget!!

    Whitney N, Malawi Safari & Charity Trip

  • This Trip Was A Once In A Lifetime Experience!

    This trip was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, run perfectly by Travel Girls Getaway! It’s always scary going to a new country and continent, let alone going with a group of girls you haven’t met. This group and this trip was incredible from start to finish. Becky and Vanessa took the time to get to know each traveler and we felt like a group of close friends, not strangers who booked the same trip. The itinerary was perfect for my first time in Africa; we got to experience all aspects of Malawi. The community impact project was a truly meaningful and inspiration aspect of the trip, and I loved taking a break from touring to immerse ourselves in the culture and community.

    Serena W, Malawi Safari & Charity Trip

Frequently Asked Questions

WHO IS THE RESPONSIBLE SAFARI COMPANY?

The Responsible Safari Company (RSC) is a Social Enterprise Tour Operator based in Blantyre, Malawi specializing in Sustainable, Educational, Philanthropic & Experiential Group Travel. RSC has over 20  years experience running tours in Malawi and is committed to creating sustainable growth through social enterprise, reducing the dependence on the aid industry and driving tourism-generated income to rural Malawi communities.

WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE?

Once your application is received and your booking confirmed a non-refundable deposit of 20% of the trip cost is due immediately to secure your place on the trip. The balance of the payment is due 3 months before the trip start date.

WHAT METHOD OF PAYMENT IS AVAILABLE?

Once your application is approved you will receive an email with a link to our payment page. You will then have the option to pay in full at a discounted rate or choose a payment plan which you can pay via bank card or credit card.

CAN I USE ANY DISCOUNT VOUCHERS?

In some cases we offer discount codes for our getaways. If you received a Travel Girls Getaways discount code you will be able to use it to receive a discount on this getaway.

DO YOU CATER FOR DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?

Once your place is booked you can notify us of dietary requirements which we will seek to accommodate throughout the trip.

WHAT IS THE ACTIVITY LEVEL?

The trip will be active exploring Malawi. We will be doing easy hiking and going on safaris during the trip. You can also participate in other optional activities such as kayaking, diving (not included in price) and snorkeling. While this is an active trip, it not a physically strenuous trip, and all activities are optional.

CAN I COME SOLO?

Absolutely! The expedition is an opportunity to connect with a group of women from all over the world and make new and lasting friendships. The majority of our guests come solo on our trips.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?

Once you have booked your spot we will send you a list of suggested things to bring with you to Malawi.

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT TO SEE ON SAFARI?

Liwonde National Park is known for its large population of elephants, hippos and buffalo. There are also rhinos, lions, cheetahs, wart hogs, monkeys, crocodiles, zebras, antelope, impala, waterbuck, birds and more!

WHAT IS THE BOOKING PROCESS

Step 1: Complete this application form to apply to join this trip. Once approved a confirmation email will be sent to you with payment options and a link to book an optional call with We Are Travel Girls Founder, Vanessa Rivers to learn more about the trip before booking.

Step 2: Once we’ve received your deposit, you’ll receive a confirmation email, a guest information form to fill out,  a welcome packet with information on what to expect and pack, how to purchase travel insurance (highly recommended), and suggested flights. You will also receive information about how to get involved with our community fundraising efforts, and you’ll be added to our Malawi Trip WhatsApp Chat Group. We will stay in touch with you leading up to the trip and you can always reach out with questions to getaways@wearetravelgirls.com.

Step 3: If you chose the payment plan option, your balance payment will be due 90-days before the trip start date.

ARE THERE SINGLE OCCUPANCY ROOMS?

All rooms are shared occupancy with one other female guest. However, there is an option to pay a single supplement fee to have your own room. After you have booked your place, let us know if you would prefer to have your own room and we will do our best to accommodate your request depending on availability.

HOW MUCH TIME WILL BE SPENT WITH THE COMMUNITY?

We will spend 2 days with in the local villages and school surrounding Lake Malawi.

CAN I STAY LONGER?

Yes! The Responsible Safari can arrange extra days in Malawi. Perhaps you would like to stay an extra day or two on Mumbo Island? Or there is an option for a two day Blue Zebra Island Lodge add on. After you book your place, let us know if you’d like to stay in Malawi longer and we can share detailed options and pricing with you.

DO I NEED TO PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Yes. You are responsible for obtaining your own travel insurance cover. We recommend and require that you purchase travel insurance before attending a Travel Girls Getaway. This is so that you are insured should unforeseen circumstances prevent you from attending the trip. One option is World Nomads. However, it is your responsibility to research travel insurance companies in your location and select an insurer that suits your needs and coverage requirements.

WHAT INSURANCES DOES RSC HAVE?
  • RSC holds comprehensive International Public Liability cover in both Africa & UK
  • International Passenger Liability on our 23 Seater Bus. Comprehensive Air
  • Evacuation cover through Global Rescue.
  • RSC is ABTA registered and fully bonded in the UK
WHAT SUPPORT WILL WE HAVE IN MALAWI
  • RSC is based in Malawi and offers 24 hr support. Their British in country manager lives in Blantyre and is in contact with every group upon arrival and throughout your time in Malawi.
  • A trained local RSC guide will be with the group every step of the way. The guides have basic first aid training- updated annually.
  • All RSC Vehicles have seat belts and are fully insured.
WHAT EXPERIENCE DOES RSC HAVE IN MALAWI?

RSC has been operating in Malawi for 20 years and has extensive experience operating tours throughout Malawi.

IS THERE A MINIMUM GROUP SIZE

Yes, there is a minimum group size. We require a minimum of 10 confirmed participants to run the trip. As per our terms & conditions if the running of the trip is not deemed financially viable we reserve the right to cancel the trip. Please see our Terms & Conditions to review our cancelation policy.

WHAT VISA DO I NEED FOR MALAWI?

Travel Girls Getaways and Responsible Safari Company (RSC) will assist you with your visa application in advance of the trip. Once your place is booked on the trip we will request a photocopy of your passport which we will send to RSC. RSC will fill out the paper work on your behalf prior to your arrival and you will then present your passport along with US $75 in US cash to the RSC representative upon arrival at the airport in Blantyre (BLZ), to obtain your Visa Stamp through the local Immigration Official. We do this process together as a group and it is relatively quick and easy!

If your question was not answered here, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or contact us.

Ready To Join Us On The Adventure Of A Lifetime?!

 

Complete this application to join our Malawi getaway!

 

Our getaways operate on an invitation basis. Once your application is approved, you will be contacted with next steps for booking your place. Please note that this application does not guarantee your spot on the trip. Once approved, you’ll receive an email with payment options and a link to book an optional call to learn more about the trip. Once you’ve paid your deposit, you’ll receive confirmation that your place is booked, a welcome packet, and information on how to get involved with our trip fundraising efforts.

 

Apply Today!

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