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Thawale Lodge
Thawale Lodge

Thawale Lodge is located within the Majete Wildlife Reserves, an hour drive from Blantyre and Malawi’s only Big Five’s experience. The lodge is an ideal accommodation for travellers looking for an thrilling African safari experience.

A classic tented camp at the gateway to Majete Wildlife Reserves. Thawale Lodge is set on the edge of a pristine waterhole that regularly attracts variety of wildlife. The lodge is completely unfenced to give guests a unique experience in the natural surrounds. Thawale is a peaceful haven to experience Majete Wildlife Reserves.

Thawale lies at the gateway to Majete Wildlife Reserve, a completely unfenced camp that provides guests with a unique experience in natural surroundings; a stay here is a safari in its own right. The word ‘thawale’ means a natural pan that fills with water after the rainy season.

Accommodation

The lodge has eight tented chalets as well as two purpose-built air-conditioned chalets for families – each with two en-suite bedrooms, a lounge, and own private veranda. The verandas overlook a waterhole frequented by a variety of wildlife including elephant families. Each tent is spaced out to provide an individual safari experience, ensuring ample privacy.

The guest areas consist of a central dining area, open-air bar and restaurant lapa, as well as a birding platform.

Thawale Lodge
Thawale Lodge
Thawale Lodge

Family Chalets

The family chalets offer a unique and comfortable accommodation options for families looking to experience the beauty of the African Wilderness. These chalets are designed to provide a home away from home atmosphere, with spacious living areas. The serene surroundings of Thawale Lodge make it the perfect place for families to relax and unwind, while also offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as game drives and nature walks.

Thawale Lodge
Thawale Lodge
Thawale Lodge

The family chalets consist of two en-suite bedrooms (1 double and 1 twin), large lounge, max 2 adults, 3 children.

The Common Areas

The guest areas consist of a central dining area, open-air bar and restaurant lapa, as well as a birding platform.

Dining

Guests at Thawale Lodge will have a unique bush dining experience. Relax in the communal lapa (traditional lounge area) as the professional kitchen staff prepares mouthwatering treats.

Guests at this Majete Reserve lodge can savor delicious meals at the Mwembezi Restaurant. The restaurant is renowned for its speciality, the flavorsome Mwembezi steak.

Thawale Lodge

Facts About Thawale Lodge

>> 8 tents of which 6 have air-conditioning

>> 2 family chalets consisting of two en-suite bedrooms (1 double and 1 twin), large lounge, max 2 adults, 3 children

>> 24-hour power in tents and main area

>> En-suite bathrooms with hot/cold tapped water, flush toilets & showers

>>1 honeymoon tent with open air ensuite including a bath with a view

>> Safes in each tent


Experiences

A unique experience is swimming or snorkelling in the natural “bio-pool”, where guests can cool off during the hot summer months, while surrounded by freshwater life – including some of the many species of cichlids – a group of fish many of which are endemic to the fresh, brackish waters of Malawi.

A variety of activities are available, including game drives, bush walks, bird walks, boat trips, hiking and night drives.

Wildlife viewing is excellent, whether on game drive or just relaxing at Thawale Lodge watching the waterhole, with its constant procession of animals, including lion, cheetah, wild dog, leopard, eland, buffalo and an elephant herd that regularly frequents the area. In the summer months, birding is excellent. Visitors can explore the far reaches of the reserve – the areas of Pwadzi and Pende – on specialized game drives.

Bird Watching

Majete offers a great bird watching experience. The reserve is home to over 300 bird species and is home to four species of vulture and there is a big concentration of the bateleur eagle to mention just a few.

Enjoy a dedicated birding drive in an open-air game viewing vehicle with a specialist bird guide to see some of the 300 species in the reserve.

Thawale Lodge
Thawale Lodge

Boat Safaris

Get a unique perspective of Majete from the Shire River.

This afternoon activity stops for sundowners on the riverbank and gives you a chance to sport some riverine life – even elephants coming to drink. Subject to seasonal availability.

Cultural Experiences

Experience the warm heart of Africa by engaging with the local communities in the villages surrounding the reserve, learning more about their traditional lifestyle, from sampling the traditional foods to enjoying local dancing.

Thawale lodge offers cultural visits to nearby local communities, allowing visitors to learn about rich heritage and traditions of Malawi,

Thawale Lodge
Thawale Lodge

Game Drives

Led by experienced and knowledgeable safari guides, enjoy the morning and afternoon game drive that extends to sundowner and evening drive, allows you to experience the wonders and the magic of Majete.

Enjoy the drives as you observe a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos in their natural habitat.

Walking Safaris

Guided walks provide a more intimate experience, allowing guests to learn about the flora and fauna up close. While on a walking safari, your guides will be extremely vigilant about established safety procedures.

The chance of encountering dangerous animals (which will be given a wide berth) is far less than during a game drive.

Thawale Lodge

When To Visit

Mvuu Camp in Liwonde National Park is open all year round. While the lodge is open throughout the year, the best time to visit for game viewing is generally during the dry season, which runs from May to November. April is a good time to visit if you're looking for a less crowded experience and lower prices, as the bush is still green and lush.

Gift Kaliwa - Travel Consultant

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