Experience

Thawale Lodge offers an unparalleled safari experience in Majete Wildlife Reserve, one of Africa's greatest conservation success stories. The lodge's completely unfenced design creates an authentic bush experience where guests are immersed in their natural surroundings. The word 'thawale' refers to a natural pan that fills with water after the rainy season, and the lodge's location around an active waterhole provides exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. Two giant rivers—the gentle Mkulumadzi River and the mighty Shire River—converge in Majete on their journey from Lake Malawi to the Zambezi River, creating a diverse ecosystem teeming with predators and prey.

Accommodation & Rooms

The lodge accommodates guests in eight ensuite canvas tented suites featuring stone walls, with one designated as a honeymoon suite, providing an intimate safari experience. Additionally, two concrete and stone family chalets, each with two ensuite bedrooms, cater to larger groups and families. The family chalets can accommodate up to two adults and three children. All accommodations are thoughtfully designed to blend comfort with the authentic bush experience, allowing guests to feel connected to their surroundings while enjoying essential amenities. The canvas tents and chalets are strategically positioned to maximize views of the waterhole and surrounding wildlife areas.

Dining

All meals are included in the lodge rates, with dining taking place in the thatched central restaurant area that overlooks the active waterhole. This unique setting transforms every meal into a wildlife viewing opportunity, with guests potentially observing elephants and other animals while enjoying their breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The lodge provides full catering services, ensuring guests are well-nourished throughout their stay.

Activities

Thawale Lodge includes two game drive activities per night in the standard rates. Additional activities available include sundowner game drives, boat rides along the rivers, sundowner boat rides, guided walks along the Mkulumadzi River, guided walks to Majete Mountain (half-day excursions), community visits, and visits to the historical Thornton Grave. Game drives accommodate a maximum of nine guests, while guided walks accommodate a maximum of six guests. Activities are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and should be pre-booked to ensure availability. Some activities may have seasonal restrictions.

Location & Getting There

Thawale Lodge is located in Majete Wildlife Reserve, Chikwawa, Malawi, positioned in a prime location for easy access to the reserve's diverse wildlife and landscapes. The lodge is situated where the Mkulumadzi and Shire Rivers converge, creating a strategic vantage point for experiencing the reserve's ecosystem. Guests can arrange transfers between various points, and the lodge can facilitate aircraft landings with advance notice. The reserve is accessible from major towns and cities in Malawi, making it a destination for both domestic and international travelers seeking an authentic African safari experience.

Safari Assistant

Find Your Perfect Safari

Safari Assistant

Find Your Perfect Safari