7:00 AM – Departure from Mbeya
A private driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Mbeya (or Songwe Airport if arriving early) for a scenic drive to Matema Beach on Lake Nyasa (4-5 hours, approximately 150 km) in a luxury van (1 vehicle per 6-7 people). The route passes through the Southern Highlands, with views of the Livingstone Mountains.

12:00 PM – Arrival & Check-In
Arrive at Matema Lake Shore Resort, a luxury beachfront lodge on the northern shores of Lake Nyasa. The resort offers elegant rooms with lake views, private balconies, and direct beach access, blending comfort with the natural surroundings of the lake.

12:30 PM – Gourmet Lunch
Enjoy a gourmet lunch at the resort, featuring fresh lake fish like tilapia with mango salsa, served with views of the lake and the forested Livingstone Mountains in the background.

2:00 PM – Beach Relaxation & Swimming
Spend the afternoon relaxing on Matema Beach, known for its sandy shores and bilharzia-free waters, making it safe for swimming. Swim in the clear, warm waters of Lake Nyasa, lounge under palm trees, or take a leisurely walk along the shore, spotting local fishermen in traditional canoes. The beach’s seclusion offers a peaceful escape compared to busier coastal areas.

6:00 PM – Sundowner Experience
Enjoy a private sundowner on the beach, sipping champagne as the sun sets over Lake Nyasa, with the golden light reflecting on the water—a luxurious start to your safari.

7:00 PM – Dinner & Overnight
Dine at the resort, savoring a 4-course meal with paired wines, featuring dishes like grilled fish with coconut rice, under the stars. Overnight in your luxury room, lulled by the sound of the lake

7:00 AM – Breakfast
Have a leisurely breakfast at the resort, enjoying fresh fruits, pastries, and Tanzanian coffee with lake views.

8:00 AM – Canoeing on Lake Nyasa (2 Hours)
Embark on a luxury canoeing experience on Lake Nyasa, gliding across the calm waters with a guide. Spot waterbirds like African fish eagles and kingfishers, and take in the scenic views of the Livingstone Mountains. The lake’s clear waters allow you to see colorful cichlid fish, part of the lake’s rich biodiversity, which includes over 700 species.

10:30 AM – Snorkeling in Lake Nyasa (1.5 Hours)
Snorkel in the lake’s clear waters near Matema Beach, exploring the underwater world of cichlids and other fish species, such as the redtail shark minnow. Lake Nyasa is biologically the most diverse lake in the world for fish, making this a unique activity. Snorkeling gear and a guide are provided for a safe and immersive experience.

12:30 PM – Gourmet Lunch
Return to Matema Lake Shore Resort for a gourmet lunch, featuring fresh fish barbecue with rice and veggies, served beachside.

2:30 PM – Village Visit & Cultural Experience (2 Hours)
Visit a nearby Nyakyusa village to engage with the local community. Learn about their fishing traditions on Lake Nyasa, watch them craft canoes, and taste a traditional snack of smoked fish with bananas. Purchase handmade crafts like woven baskets as souvenirs, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the Nyakyusa people who have lived by the lake for generations.

5:00 PM – Relaxation at the Resort
Return to the resort for relaxation—lounge by the lake, read on your private balcony, or enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset.

7:00 PM – Dinner & Overnight
Dine at the resort, enjoying a 5-course meal with paired wines, such as spiced prawns with couscous, under the starlit sky—a luxurious highlight of your stay. Overnight in your room.

7:00 AM – Breakfast
Have a final breakfast at the resort, savoring lake views and fresh Tanzanian coffee.

8:00 AM – Morning Hike in Livingstone Mountains (2 Hours)
Take a guided hike in the nearby Livingstone Mountains, which provide a stunning backdrop to Lake Nyasa. The trail offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding highlands, with opportunities to spot wildlife like vervet monkeys and birds such as the yellow-billed stork. Your guide will share insights into the region’s flora and geological history.

10:30 AM – Check-Out & Departure
Check out from Matema Lake Shore Resort and begin your return journey to Mbeya (4-5 hours), with a packed gourmet lunch en route.

3:30 PM – Arrival in Mbeya & End of Tour
Arrive back in Mbeya and transfer to your accommodation or Songwe Airport for your onward journey, concluding your luxury safari.