LIWONDE NATIONAL PARK IN MALAWI

Liwonde National Park is one of the most beautiful and exciting parks in Malawi. Located in the southern region of the country, this park is home to a wide range of animals, birds, and stunning natural landscapes. With the Shire River flowing through it and lush vegetation covering much of the land, Liwonde is an ideal place for wildlife lovers, birdwatchers, and travellers seeking adventure or peace.

Location and Geography: Liwonde National Park is situated in the southern part of Malawi, near the town of Liwonde, in the Machinga District. It covers an area of about 548 square kilometres. The park is about 150 kilometres (around 3-4 hours’ drive) from Blantyre, Malawi’s commercial capital, and 300 kilometres from Lilongwe, the capital city. The most important geographical feature of the park is the Shire River, which flows along the park’s western boundary. This river is a lifeline for both animals and humans and offers opportunities for boat safaris. The terrain in Liwonde includes open grasslands, mopane woodlands, marshes, and thick riverine forests. This diversity of habitats supports a wide range of wildlife and bird species.

History of the Park: Liwonde National Park was officially established in 1973 to protect the rich biodiversity of the area. For many years, the park faced serious challenges, including poaching, deforestation, and poor infrastructure. Wildlife numbers decreased, and the park lost much of its former glory. However, in 2015, the Malawi Department of National Parks and Wildlife partnered with African Parks, a non-profit conservation organization. Since then, African Parks has managed Liwonde and made major improvements.

 

ATTRACTIONS IN LIWONDE NATIONAL PARK

  1. The Shire River

The Shire River is the heart of Liwonde National Park. Flowing along the park’s western boundary, this wide, slow-moving river attracts large numbers of animals and birds, especially during the dry season. It is one of the best places in Malawi to see hippos and crocodiles in large numbers. Elephants are often seen bathing or drinking at the riverbanks, while various species of antelope and waterbirds gather around. The river also provides a perfect setting for boat safaris, giving visitors a peaceful and unique perspective of wildlife viewing. Sunsets over the Shire River are particularly beautiful and are a highlight of any trip to the park.

  1. Boat Safaris

One of the most popular activities and attractions in Liwonde is the boat safari. Unlike traditional game drives, boat safaris offer a relaxed and immersive experience as you glide quietly through the water along the Shire River. These safaris provide excellent opportunities to see hippos up close, watch elephants on the riverbanks, and observe crocodiles sunbathing. Birdlife is especially rich along the river, with kingfishers, herons, fish eagles, and many other species often spotted. The boat trips are guided by experienced rangers who can explain animal behaviour and identify birds. This is a must-do experience in Liwonde.

  1. Game Drives

Liwonde National Park offers guided morning and afternoon game drives through its varied landscapes, including mopane woodlands, open savannah, and riverine forest. These game drives are a great way to spot large mammals such as elephants, buffalo, waterbuck, sable antelope, and warthogs. With the successful reintroduction of predators like lions and cheetahs, lucky visitors may even spot big cats. Night drives may also be available in some lodges, offering a chance to see nocturnal animals like civets, genets, bush babies, and even leopards. Game drives are conducted in open 4×4 vehicles with trained guides, ensuring safety and excellent wildlife spotting.

  1. Walking Safaris

For those who want a more intimate and thrilling experience with nature, walking safaris in Liwonde are a fantastic option. Led by armed rangers and expert guides, these walks take you through the bush on foot, allowing you to learn about the ecosystem in detail. You’ll get to see animal tracks, learn about plants, insects, and smaller creatures often missed on drives. While large animals may be encountered from a safe distance, the focus is more on the smaller, often-overlooked details of the environment. Walking safaris provide a deeper appreciation of the African wilderness and are perfect for nature enthusiasts.

  1. Birdwatching

Liwonde is one of the top birdwatching destinations in Southern Africa, boasting over 400 recorded bird species. The variety of habitats in the park wetlands, riverbanks, woodlands, and grasslands makes it a haven for birdlife. Notable birds include the Pel’s fishing owl, African skimmer, African fish eagle, white-backed night heron, and various species of kingfishers, hornbills, bee-eaters, and storks. Migratory birds also visit the park between November and April. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced birder, the rich avian diversity of Liwonde ensures rewarding birdwatching throughout the year, especially along the Shire River and surrounding lagoons.

  1. Reintroduced Wildlife

One of the major attractions of Liwonde National Park is its conservation success story. Over the past decade, several key species have been reintroduced to restore the park’s natural ecosystem. These include cheetahs (reintroduced in 2017), lions (in 2018), and black rhinos, which are carefully protected and monitored. These efforts make Liwonde a great place to see iconic African wildlife and support conservation tourism. The presence of these animals has helped re-balance the food chain and has made the park more appealing for wildlife enthusiasts.

  1. Elephant Sightings

Liwonde is one of the best places in Malawi to see African elephants in the wild. The park is home to a large population of elephants, many of which can be seen near the Shire River. Visitors often witness herds bathing, drinking, or crossing the river. The elephants in Liwonde are usually relaxed around vehicles and boats, making for excellent photo opportunities. Conservation programs, including the relocation of some elephants to reduce pressure on the park, have helped maintain healthy elephant populations while preserving the ecosystem.

  1. Scenic Landscapes

The natural beauty of Liwonde is another major draw. The park features a mix of landscapes, including vast mopane woodlands, lush riverine forests, palm-covered marshes, open grasslands, and striking views of the Shire River. The combination of greenery, water, and wildlife makes it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. Whether you are on a drive, walk, or boat safari, the scenery is always captivating and adds a peaceful, untouched charm to the experience.

 

SAFARI ACTIVITIES IN THE PARK

  1. Game Drives

Game drives are one of the most popular safari activities in Liwonde. These are guided tours in open 4×4 vehicles where you explore different parts of the park to see animals. You can go on morning or afternoon game drives. A trained guide drives the vehicle and helps you spot animals like elephants, buffalo, antelope, and sometimes lions or cheetahs. Game drives are a great way to see wildlife safely and comfortably.

  1. Boat Safaris

Boat safaris take place on the Shire River, which flows along the edge of the park. You ride in a motorboat and slowly travel along the river to see animals and birds. This is a peaceful and exciting way to see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and lots of water birds. You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery and sunsets. Boat safaris are relaxing and perfect for taking great photos.

  1. Walking Safaris

Walking safaris are guided walks through the bush, led by experienced rangers. You walk in small groups and learn about plants, animals, and tracks. It’s a slower and quieter way to experience nature. You may see animals from a distance, but the focus is more on learning about the small things you miss on a drive. It’s a fun and safe activity for those who want a deeper connection with nature.

  1. Birdwatching

Birdwatching is a favourite activity in Liwonde because the park has more than 400 kinds of birds. You can watch birds during a drive, boat safari, or even from your lodge. Some birds are big and easy to spot, like fish eagles, storks, and kingfishers. Others are colourful and sing beautifully. Birdwatching can be enjoyed by beginners or serious bird lovers, and the best spots are near the river and wetlands.

  1. Night Game Drives

Night game drives are special drives that happen after dark. A spotlight is used to look for animals that come out at night, like bush babies, genets, civets, and maybe even a leopard. These drives show a different side of the park and are guided by trained staff who know how to spot animals in the dark. Night drives are exciting and a great way to see nocturnal wildlife.

  1. Cultural Village Visits

Some safari lodges offer visits to local villages near the park. These visits let you meet local people, see how they live, and learn about their traditions. You might see dancing, cooking, farming, or craft-making. Cultural visits help support the community and give you a better understanding of life in Malawi. They also add something different to your safari experience.

  1. Photography Safaris

Liwonde is a great place for photography. Whether you use a big camera or just a phone, you can capture amazing pictures of wildlife, birds, and landscapes. Some lodges and guides can help you plan the best times and places for photos. Sunset by the river, elephants in the water, and colourful birds are some of the most popular shots. If you love taking pictures, this park won’t disappoint.

  1. Canoeing (Limited and Seasonal)

In some areas and at certain times of the year, canoe safaris may be offered. These involve paddling a canoe on the quiet channels of the river or lagoons, with a guide leading the way. Canoeing is peaceful and lets you see birds and animals close up without making noise. This activity depends on water levels and may not always be available, but it’s a unique way to explore.

 

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE PARK

Dry Season (May to October): The best time to visit Liwonde National Park is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, the weather is sunny and mild, with little to no rain. Vegetation becomes thinner, making it easier to spot wildlife such as elephants, antelope, hippos, and crocodiles along the Shire River. Animals gather around water sources, increasing your chances of great sightings during game drives and boat safaris. The dry season is also free from mosquitoes, making it more comfortable for visitors. This is the ideal period for photography and walking safaris as well.

Wet Season (November to April): The wet season, from November to April, transforms the park into a lush green paradise. Although wildlife is harder to spot due to thicker vegetation and dispersed animals, birdwatching is at its best during this time, with many migratory species present. Rains can make some roads impassable, but the scenery is beautiful and the park is less crowded.

 

WHERE TO STAY IN THE PARK

  • Mvuu Lodge – A luxury riverside lodge offering top-class comfort and excellent wildlife experiences.
  • Mvuu Camp – A budget-friendly camp with comfortable chalets, family units, and camping near the river.
  • Kutchire Lodge – A rustic mid-range lodge just outside the park with safari tents and guided tours.
  • Liwonde Safari Camp – A budget lodge and campsite surrounded by baobab trees near the park entrance.
  • Chimwala Bush Camp – A quiet mid-range tented camp focused on eco-tourism and birdwatching.
  • Camping Inside the Park – Remote bush camping options for adventurous travelers (by special arrangement).
  • Liwonde Town Guesthouses – Basic budget lodges in town, suitable for short stays or day trips.

 

HOW TO ACCESS THE PARK

By Air: You can reach Liwonde National Park by flying into Chileka International Airport in Blantyre, which is the closest major airport about 3 to 4 hours’ drive from the park. Some travellers also arrive via Lilongwe International Airport, which is farther away (about 6 to 7 hours by road). From either airport, you can arrange a private transfer, hire a car, or take a domestic flight to Mangochi or Liwonde airstrips, if available. Charter flights can be arranged for small groups or high-end travellers who want a quicker and more scenic route directly to the park.

By Road: Liwonde National Park is easily accessible by road, especially from Blantyre, Zomba, and Mangochi. From Blantyre, it takes around 3.5 hours via paved roads, while from Zomba it’s about 2 hours. The main gate of the park is near the town of Liwonde, and the roads are mostly in good condition. Public minibuses and taxis can get you to Liwonde town, but you will need a 4×4 vehicle or lodge transfer to enter the park itself. Most lodges can help arrange pick-up and drop-off from nearby towns or cities.