The underrated African country with super cheap safaris begging for more tourists
There are many African countries that offer amazing safari experiences but this underrated place might have the best value.
An underrated African country may have some of the cheapest safaris on the continent. Safaris are a once-in-a-lifetime trip for many Brits who dream of seeing African wildlife up close in real life. However, they can be expensive and people normally need quite a bit of time to save for them. But some are cheaper than others. Popular countries for safaris include South Africa, Namibia and Kenya.
But this one, home to some amazing wildlife, may have the best-value safaris. Malawi is a small country by African standards, dwarfed by neighbouring Mozambique, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Zambia. But it might be the best option for those dreaming of an African safari on a budget. According to safari experts Cedarberg Africa, Malawi is among the top five budget-friendly countries in Africa for this kind of trip.
A mid-range safari in Malawi costs between $400-$575 (£313-£450) per person, these experts say. That comes out a lot cheaper than popular destinations like Kenya and Botswana.
African Budget Safaris also lists Malawi as one of the cheaper options for travellers, thanks to its affordable lodges. There are a number of popular spots you can visit dueing a safari trip in Malawi including Liwonde National Park.
This spot has accommodation that suits all budgets, including more luxurious options for those who want to splurge a bit more. Some of the highlights here include elephants and rhinos, creatures that are awe-inspiring when you get to see them up close.
There is also Majete Wildlife Reserve, Nyika National Park, Zomba Plateau and Kuti Wildlife Reserve. For those who have been on a safari trip in Malawi, the experience has proven to be unforgettable.
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One Reddit user described it as having "beautiful scenery around the lake". They also clled it "super cheap compared to other popular destinations down there (South Africa, Botswana)."
Another said: "I spent about 6 weeks in Malawi (solo) but over a decade ago. I loved it. One of my favorite countries. People were really laid back and friendly."
According to Go2Africa, the most popular country for safari holidays is South Africa. In 2023, it welcomed 24.53 percent of safari holidaymakers. That was followed by Tanzania with 18.04 percent and Kenya with 17.78 percent.
Meanwhile, Malawi only received 0.52 percent of safari visitors in Africa in 2023, making it one of the least-visited countries for this.
To get to Malawi frm the UK, you can't fly directly. Hopwever, you can fly to connecting airports such as Addis Ababa with Ethiopian Airlines or Nairobi with Kenya Airways.
British passport holders do not need a visa to enter Malawi if they are visiting for 30 days or less. Although you must be able to prove you have had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.
The British Foreign Office also warns that there is risk of mugging and bag-snatching in Malawi, mainly taking place in Urban areas.
