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Reina's First leopard Encounter at Majete Game Reserve, Malawi

We didn’t expect this trip to be so memorable.

After our fun adventure at Gulugufe Experience, we drove about 20 minutes to Zua Safari Lodge for an overnight stay. The lodge is just a few minutes from Majete Game Reserve, and right from the moment we arrived, it felt calm and close to nature.

“Zua,” meaning sun, is a fully solar-powered lodge with river-view chalets, dormitories, and camping. We booked a tent with breakfast included at MWK 60,000 per person, with a 50% discount for Reina.

The tent was spacious, with a comfortable double bed—but completely off-grid. No lights, no electricity, and no toilet inside. It was something I really wanted Reina to experience… sleeping close to nature. Still, I couldn’t help but wonder if she would be comfortable.

Outside, there was a shared kitchen with sockets to charge phones, and the bathrooms were just a short walk away.

Reina went for a swim in the pool and later tried the outdoor shower. The water was warm but the pressure was low, and she felt cold—but she handled it so bravely.

Dinner at the restaurant was really good, and afterward we spent time by the campfire. The night was quiet and peaceful, with a sky full of bright stars above us. We listened to the crackling wood, the insects, and the river flowing nearby. It felt like the perfect escape from the noise of everyday life.

But in the middle of the night, Reina woke up and cried. I think she was just overwhelmed and tired from the day. Thankfully, she settled down and fell back asleep, and we both rested peacefully until morning.

The next day started slowly. I had a hearty English breakfast while Reina enjoyed pancakes and fruits. She and Amin went for a morning swim, and my friend watched her so I could try something new—a Swedish massage by the riverside. It was my first time in Malawi, and it was incredibly relaxing with the sound of the river and soft wind chimes in the background.

Before we knew it, it was time to head to Majete Game Reserve for our 1pm game drive. As a resident, I paid MWK 26,000 for entry, while Reina entered for free. The drive itself cost MWK 56,000 per person.

The 1pm drive is usually less popular because wildlife sightings can be fewer compared to early morning or evening. So we didn’t expect too much…

But we were completely wrong.

It turned out to be one of the best game drives I’ve ever had.

For the first time, Reina saw a leopard—up close. It was hunting and seemed slightly irritated by our presence. It was such a powerful moment, and one I know we will never forget.



Later, we saw another leopard (possibly the same one) crossing the road. Within just two hours, we also spotted waterbucks, nyalas, kudus, impalas, baboons, crocodiles, and hippos. And just before heading back, we were lucky enough to see a herd of elephants with their young.

That’s the beauty of a game drive—you never really know what you’ll see, and nature always surprises you.

After the drive, we headed back to Blantyre.

This short weekend—from Gulugufe Experience to Majete—gave me the reset I needed as a working mom. Being in nature helped me slow down, breathe, and appreciate the simple moments.

I would happily go back again.


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Location: Majete Game Reserve, Malawi

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