Central African Wilderness Safaris offer a variety of mid range to luxury wildlife safaris in Malawi. Our safaris extend from Liwonde National Park in the south, via a number of islands or lakeside camps, ending in the spectacular Nyika Plateau in the north. Central African Wilderness Safaris (widely known as CAWS Malawi), came to Malawi in 1987 and offer unforgettable experiences in this “warm heart of Africa".
Central African Wilderness Safaris (CAWS) has been in Malawi since 1987 and its founders, Chris and Pam Badger, have been in travel in a number of different fields since 1980. Between 1987 and 1992 they conducted over 60 safaris throughout Malawi and gained the knowledge and passion for the country which remains the foundation of the business today. Originally the company was owned by the well-known and highly respected Wilderness Safaris Group, and in 2014 the Badgers became the sole owners.
Our roots are in diverse mobile safaris throughout Malawi and into Zambia, but in 1993 we branched out with the awarding of the first government tender for a private company to manage facilities within a National Park with the development of Mvuu Lodge and Camp in Liwonde National Park.
Soon after this, we acquired the lease on Chintheche Inn on the wild northern shores of Lake Malawi and in 2009 took over the facilities at ChelindaLodge and Camp in the unique Nyika National Park. In addition, the company owns Heuglin’s Lodge, a well-known guesthouse in Lilongwe and has a strong partnership with Mumbo Island Camp in Lake Malawi National Park.
We believe that the key to creating the best itineraries for our guests starts with a genuine passion on our part to offer not just a safari but a truly life affirming experience. We offer only a few set departure tours as we believe that each guest is unique and it is our role to find out their interests and craft the most appropriate itinerary for them. We have the knowledge and the infrastructure to back up the passion with a fleet of well-maintained vehicles and offices in Lilongwe as well as Blantyre. Our journey specialists have unparalleled knowledge of the region and are able to put together an itinerary from start to finish, from beginners to the country to those with specialist interests such as birding, cultural and historical tours, hiking and mountain biking.
CAWS strive to ensure that wildlife tourism has a positive impact on local communities and the surrounding environment. This is achieved through active involvement with local conservation and community programs.