LAKE MALAWI NATIONAL PARK

Kasungu National Park is one of Malawi’s largest and oldest national parks. Located in the central region of the country near the border with Zambia, Kasungu covers about 2,100 square kilometers (810 square miles) of beautiful wilderness. This park may not be as well-known as Liwonde or Majete, but it offers a raw, untouched safari experience for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and adventurous travellers.

Kasungu National Park was officially established in 1970. Before that, it was a game reserve. It is Malawi’s second-largest national park after Nyika Plateau and lies about 175 kilometres (110 miles) northwest of Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi. The park borders Zambia and lies at the western edge of the Central African Plateau. Kasungu is made up of open woodlands, grassy plains, and rolling hills. It has a mix of miombo woodland (a type of dry forest), marshes, and dambos (wetlands that are seasonal). The natural landscape is peaceful and wild ideal for travellers looking for a safari away from the crowds.

A Park with a Rich History: Kasungu once had a large number of elephants, predators, and other big game. In the 1970s and early 1980s, it was considered one of Malawi’s top wildlife destinations. However, in later years, the park suffered from poaching and lack of investment. The elephant population declined sharply, and many predators disappeared. But in recent years, the government of Malawi, along with conservation organizations like the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), have started projects to restore Kasungu’s wildlife and protect the park’s resources.

 

ATTRACTIONS IN LAKE MALAWI NATIONAL PARK,

  1. Lake Malawi (The Great Lake Itself)

The most famous attraction is the vast and stunning Lake Malawi, the ninth largest lake in the world and the third largest in Africa. Its clear, calm waters stretch for hundreds of kilometres and are home to hundreds of unique fish species, especially colourful cichlids found nowhere else on earth. The lake’s sparkling surface and sandy beaches make it a beautiful natural landmark and a peaceful place to enjoy the scenery.

  1. Nkhotakota Bay

Nkhotakota Bay is a scenic and quiet part of the park, known for its natural beauty. The bay offers breathtaking views where the lake meets the hills, creating a perfect place for nature lovers to admire untouched landscapes. The lush forests around the bay add to the attraction, hosting a variety of birds and wildlife. It’s a great place for photographers and anyone who appreciates calm, natural environments.

  1. Monkey Bay Peninsula

This peninsula is a key part of the park’s shoreline, offering impressive views of Lake Malawi and surrounding hills. The rocky cliffs and clear waters create a dramatic landscape. From here, visitors can see the lake’s diverse ecosystem, including fish swimming near the rocks and birds flying overhead. The peninsula’s natural beauty makes it a memorable attraction within the park.

  1. Rippon Bay

Rippon Bay is a serene area along the park’s lake shore. It is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The calm bay provides an excellent setting for watching sunrise and sunset over the lake. The natural surroundings, including trees and rocky outcrops, give Rippon Bay a peaceful, untouched feeling, making it a wonderful spot for visitors to simply relax and enjoy nature.

  1. Chirwa Island

Chirwa Island is a small island inside Lake Malawi National Park. The island is covered with dense forest and is a haven for birds and other wildlife. It’s an important place for conservation and offers a unique view of the lake and its surroundings. From the island, you can see the wide expanse of Lake Malawi and enjoy the feeling of being in a wild, protected environment.

  1. Mphiri Hot Springs

Though less known, the Mphiri Hot Springs near the park add to the natural attractions of the area. These hot springs provide warm, mineral-rich water bubbling from the earth, creating a rare and interesting geological feature. The springs are surrounded by lush vegetation and provide a quiet spot to appreciate the natural forces shaping the park’s landscape.

 

 

SAFARI ACTIVITIES IN THE PARK

Here are some safari activities you can enjoy in Lake Malawi National Park

  1. Snorkelling and Diving

Lake Malawi National Park is famous for its clear, warm waters filled with colourful fish. Snorkelling and diving let you swim underwater and see hundreds of different fish species, especially the bright cichlids that live only in this lake. It’s like exploring a beautiful underwater world full of life and colour. Beginners and experienced divers can enjoy the calm water and many safe spots for diving.

  1. Boat Safaris

Boat safaris on Lake Malawi allow you to explore parts of the lake that are hard to reach by foot. You can relax on a boat while looking for birds, hippos, and sometimes crocodiles near the shore. The calm waters offer great views of the lake’s landscape, including islands, bays, and cliffs. Boat rides are peaceful and a great way to see the park from a different angle.

  1. Birdwatching

Lake Malawi National Park is home to many different bird species, including kingfishers, herons, fish eagles, and various water birds. Birdwatching is popular along the lake’s shorelines, forest edges, and islands. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see birds actively hunting or flying. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting rare and colourful species in their natural habitat.

  1. Fishing

Fishing is a traditional activity in the park and can be enjoyed by visitors too. You can try fishing from the shore or on a boat, catching some of the many fish species in the lake. While sport fishing is popular, the park encourages responsible fishing to protect the lake’s unique fish population. It’s a relaxing way to connect with local culture and nature.

  1. Hiking and Nature Walks

The park offers trails along the lake’s shore and nearby forests. Hiking and nature walks give you the chance to see the beautiful landscape, plants, and wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and small mammals. Walking near the water or through forests is peaceful and lets you discover the natural beauty of the area on foot.

  1. Camping by the Lake

Camping near the lake shore is a great way to experience the park closely. Many visitors bring tents or use campsites where they can sleep under the stars and listen to the sounds of nature at night. Camping gives a feeling of adventure and helps visitors feel connected to the wild environment of Lake Malawi National Park.

 

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE PARK

Here are some considerations for the best times to visit the park:

Dry Season (May to October): This period is generally considered the best time to visit Lake Malawi National Park. The weather is dry, and temperatures are mild, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. Wildlife viewing is also enhanced during the dry season, as animals tend to gather around water sources. Water clarity is at its best during this time, making it ideal for snorkelling and diving. May and October may see some rainfall, but it is usually less than during the wet season.

Wet Season (November to April): This season brings higher temperatures and occasional heavy rainfall. While the landscapes become lush and green, the wet season is not the optimal time for water-based activities like snorkelling and diving due to reduced visibility. However, birdlife tends to be more active during this period, and the surroundings are vibrant. November and December are transitional months with occasional rains, and January to March typically experiences more consistent rainfall.

 

WHERE TO STAY IN THE PARK

Lake Malawi National Park offers a range of accommodation options, particularly in the popular area of Cape Maclear, which is located on the southern end of the lake within the park. Cape Maclear is a hub for tourists visiting the national park, and it provides access to various activities, including water-based adventures and cultural experiences. Here are some accommodation options in and around Lake Malawi National Park:

  • Pumulani Lodge: A luxury eco-lodge on the southern shores of Lake Malawi offering beautiful lake views, private villas, and guided activities.
  • Mumbo Island Camp: A rustic, eco-friendly camp located on a small island inside the park, perfect for travelers seeking peace, snorkeling, and nature.
  • Domwe Island Adventure Camp: A simple and adventurous self-catering camp on Domwe Island, ideal for backpackers and eco-tourists who enjoy kayaking and hiking.
  • Cape Maclear EcoLodge: Located near the park entrance, this lodge provides comfortable, budget-friendly rooms and easy access to the lake.
  • Chembe Eagles Nest: A mid-range lodge with beachfront cottages in Cape Maclear, offering stunning lake views and good food.
  • Thumbi View Lodge: A relaxed, affordable lodge with both private and shared rooms near the lake, often chosen by solo travellers and backpackers.
  • Golden Lodge Cape Maclear: Located within walking distance to the lake, this small guesthouse is known for friendly service and budget rates.

 

HOW TO ACCESS THE PARK

Lake Malawi National Park is primarily accessible by road, and the main entry point is through the town of Monkey Bay, which is located on the southern end of Lake Malawi. Here are the general steps to access the park:

By Air: The nearest airport to Lake Malawi National Park is Chileka International Airport in Blantyre, which is about 200 kilometres away. Another option is Lilongwe International Airport, which is further but also well-connected. From either airport, you can arrange a domestic flight to Monkey Bay Airstrip, a small airstrip near the park. From Monkey Bay, it’s a short drive to Cape Maclear and the park entrance. Charter flights are also available for travellers who prefer quicker access.

By Road: Lake Malawi National Park is most commonly accessed by road, especially from Blantyre or Lilongwe. The drive from Blantyre takes about 4 to 5 hours, while the drive from Lilongwe takes around 5 to 6 hours. Most travellers go through Mangochi and then follow the road to Monkey Bay and finally to Cape Maclear, the main gateway to the park. The last stretch of road is rough and may need a 4×4 vehicle, especially during the rainy season.