Explore the Untamed Beauty of Liwonde National Park
Liwonde National Park is an important wildlife reserve located in Malawi, Africa. Established in 1973, the park covers an area of 548 square kilometers and is home to a diverse array of animal and plant species. The Shire River flows through the park, providing important habitats for elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
The Liwonde National Park is known for its successful conservation efforts, particularly regarding its elephant population. In recent years, the park has also become an important site for the translocation of elephants from other, overpopulated areas in Africa. Additionally, the park is actively involved in anti-poaching measures to protect its wildlife and ensure their continued survival.
Visitors to Liwonde National Park can participate in activities such as game drives, bird watching, and boat safaris along the river. The park also offers amenities for visitors, including lodges and campsites. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife, Liwonde National Park is a must-visit destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
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2 Days Weekend in Liwonde
3 days Safari in Liwonde from Lilongwe or Blantyre is a short but rewarding safari as it gives travelers with limited time to explore the African wilderness on boat safari, game drive and on foot
3 Days Liwonde Safari Tour
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Liwonde with our 3-day safari adventure. Witness the incredible wildlife and natural landscapes that make this park a must-visit destination.
5-Day Safari Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 5-day safari adventure in Liwonde and Lake Malawi, where you’ll have the opportunity to witness the diverse and beautiful flora and fauna of the region and Malawi.
Why Visit Liwonde National Park?
- Abundant Wildlife: With over 400 bird species and an abundance of iconic African animals, Liwonde National Park provides ample opportunities for wildlife sightings.
- Scenic River Safaris: Embark on a tranquil boat safari along the Shire River and witness the stunning wildlife that congregates along its banks.
- Luxurious Accommodations: From tented camps to lodges overlooking the river, Liwonde national park offers a range of comfortable and picturesque accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs.
- Conservation Success: Liwonde national park has been at the forefront of successful conservation efforts, making it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travelers.
Plan Your Trip To Liwonde National Park
Park Entrance Fees
In order to visit and explore Liwonde National Park, visitors are required to pay the following park fee.
Park Daily Fees:
Malawi Citizens
Adults: US$4
Children: US$2
Malawian Residents & Sadc countries
Adults: US$15
Children: US$7.5
International Visitors
Adults: US$30
Children: US$15
Fees per vehicle per day: US$4
*Children 6 and under free
Note: Liwonde National Park is open from 06h00 to 18h00.
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Location
Liwonde national park is the country premier park located in the southern region of Malawi, just south of Lake Malawi near the Mozambique border. Covering an area of 548 square kilometers Liwonde national park is situated in the Machinga District, with some parts extend in Mangochi District and along the western border of the Balaka District. The park diverse habitats comprises of the woodland and dry savannah with a 30 km stretch of the Shire River passing through it, along with a portion of the coast of Lake Malombe, located 20 km south of Lake Malawi. In 1977, a section was added to the northern edge of the park, connecting it with the Mangochi Forest Reserve.
From the city of Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi, Liwonde National Park is located about 180 kilometers to the southeast. The drive from Lilongwe to the park takes around three hours, making it an easily accessible destination for tourists and wildlife enthusiasts. Additionally, for those traveling from Blantyre, the country’s commercial and industrial center, the Liwonde national park is around 70 kilometers to the northeast, making it a convenient and relatively short drive.
The African parks in collaboration with the local community and the committees from the 31 villages surrounding the parks are managing both the Liwonde national park and the adjoining Mangochi Forest Reserve. The local community are presented by the Upper Shire Association.
History of Liwonde National Park
The Liwonde national park was established in 1973 but before that some land of the park were used for agriculture by the inhabitants of the area, largely subsistence crops such maize, tobacco, and rice. Fishing was also another main activity. After the establishment of the park these people were forced to relocated outside the park boundary which resulted to the high populated villages at the park peripherals.
In August 2015 the African parks took over Liwonde national park and they built the park’s fence in order to keep the animals within the park boundaries so as to reduce poaching and human-wildlife conflict. This fence is monitored 24/7 to ensure animals stay in and poachers stay out. Fencing the park cost US$1.6 million and took approximately 18 months to complete.
In the same year again the USACOL contributed K8.3 million from the United Nations Development Programme for the Liwonde national park conservation project. The project aim at encouraging the local communities to participate in the conservation and management of natural resources.
Activities in Liwonde National Park
Liwonde National Park, located in Malawi, offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Because of its diverse landscape, the park attracts numerous visitors each year who come to explore the beautiful scenery and wildlife. One of the most popular activities in the park is going on a safari. Visitors can embark on a guided game drive, either in the morning or late afternoon, to see a wide range of animals, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and various species of birds. In addition to that the park allows night drives which offers a chance to see nocturnal creatures and witness the bush’s transformation under the cover of darkness.
Another popular activity in Liwonde National Park is taking a boat safari along the Shire River. This offers a unique opportunity to see wildlife from the water, including large herds of elephants, waterbucks, and antelopes as they come to drink from the river. In addition, visitors can also enjoy walking safaris, allowing them to experience the park on foot and learn more about the flora and fauna up close.
For visitors seeking an adventurous experience, the park offers a unique opportunity to do a guided wilderness trail. The trail takes visitors through the bush, where they can learn more about tracking animals, identifying bird calls, and gaining a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem. No matter what activities visitors choose to do in this park, they are sure to have an unforgettable and rewarding experience.
Accommodations in Liwonde National Park
Kuthengo Camp
Nestled on the banks of the Shire River in the heart of Liwonde National Park, Kuthengo Lodge is a sanctuary of luxury and nature. This intimate safari camp, which opened its doors in 2018, offers a unique experience in Malawi’s untouched wilderness.
Kutchire Lodge
Nestled in a serene setting, Kutchire Lodge offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure. Established with the vision to provide an immersive wildlife experience, the lodge has become a haven for nature enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Liwonde Safari Camp
Liwonde Safari Camp is a charming and rustic accommodation option situated within the park’s prime wildlife viewing areas. The camp offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the park while enjoying the comforts of a traditional safari setting.
Shire Camp
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Shire Camp. Uncover a wealth of information on camping, outdoor activities, and tips for a memorable adventure in the great outdoors.
Majashi Wildlife Camp
Experience the wonders of Mvuu Lodge and Camp, where adventure meets luxury. Explore the African wilderness and create unforgettable memories. Book your stay today!
Mvuu Lodge and Camp
For those who prefer a more luxurious experience in Liwonde National Park, there are safari lodges and luxury tented camps located within the park. These accommodations offer comfortable and well-equipped facilities, as well as the opportunity to have an up-close wildlife experience from the comfort of the lodge. Guests can enjoy meals, game drives, and other activities within the park while staying in these lodges.
Luxury lodges include
Mvuu Lodge
Kuthengo Camp
Mid-range Accommodations
For those who desire a balance between affordability and comfort, Liwonde national park has a choice of excellent mid-range lodges and camps to offer. These mid-range facility offers a selection of accommodations, from chalets to safari tents, each equipped with essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
Most lodges and camps in Liwonde national park are located near the river allows for easy access to boat safaris, where you can witness hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife. Game drives and village tours are also available, providing a comprehensive experience of both wildlife and local culture.
Liwonde Mid-range accommodations includes
Liwonde Safari Canp
Kutchire Lodge
Mvuu Camp
The Climate of Liwonde National Park
Liwonde National Park sits within a tropical climate zone, which means it experiences a warm, wet season and a cooler, dry season. These seasons dictate not only the park’s flora and fauna activity but also the best times for tourists to witness the park’s full splendor.
The Wet Season
The wet season in Liwonde national park typically spans from November to April. During this time, the park is transformed into a lush, verdant paradise. This is when the rains come, sometimes in dramatic, heavy downpours that can cause the Shire River to swell and flood the surrounding plains. The wet season is a critical period for the park’s ecosystem as it replenishes water sources and nurtures the growth of plants.
However, visiting Liwonde in the wet season comes with its challenges. The heavy rainfall can make some roads impassable, and the high humidity coupled with warmer temperatures can be uncomfortable for some travelers. Despite these obstacles, the wet season is also a time of life and rejuvenation, with many animals giving birth and the park bursting with new vegetation.
The Dry Season in Liwonde
The dry season in Liwonde national park runs from May to October, brings about a stark contrast to the landscape. The rains cease, and the park dries out, with temperatures becoming cooler, especially at night. The dry season is the peak time for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around dwindling water sources, making them easier to spot.
During this time, the risk of malaria is lower, and the comfortable temperatures create an ideal climate for safaris. The lower vegetation and thinning bush improve visibility, increasing the chances of witnessing the park’s iconic species, such as elephants, hippos, and the critically endangered black rhino.
Getting to Liwonde National Park
Getting to Liwonde National Park is an adventure in itself, setting the stage for the incredible experiences that await within its borders. Whether you’re coming from Malawi’s capital, Lilongwe, or the commercial hub of Blantyre, the road to Liwonde is a picturesque drive through the country’s varied landscapes.
The driving time from Lilongwe to Liwonde national park is approximately three hours, while from Blantyre, you can expect a two-hour journey. The roads are well-maintained, though as you approach the park, the tarmac gives way to dirt tracks that offer a more rustic driving experience.
For those preferring public transport, minibusses regularly depart from both cities to Liwonde town which is the nearest to the Park. From there, we can pick you and drive into the park for game viewing activities which involve game drives, boat ride along the Shire River and walking safari.