Liwonde National Park

Along the Shire River's course, Malawi's most accomplished wildlife spotting and safari area can be found. It's a vast reserve of flood plains and wetland swamps, swaying grass fields and baobab groves, and it's a picture of East Africa's beautiful backcountry.

Despite being only 220 square miles (580 square kilometers), Liwonde National Park is one of Malawi's most popular game parks, with its beautiful riverine setting and teeming wildlife providing thrilling safaris. It is approximately 100 miles (160 kilometers) north of Blantyre and only slightly more than half that distance from the hotels on the Mangochi Lakeshore. The River Shire runs along its western border, allowing for boat safaris in addition to the usual ones on foot or in 4x4s.

The wildlife includes a large number of elephants, and the river attracts a large number of hippos and crocodiles. Lion, cheetah, and wild dog have recently been reintroduced into Liwonde with the assistance of African Parks, which took over management of the Park in 2015 and is continuing to transform Liwonde into a first-rate safari destination. Kudu, sable, and bushbuck are examples of antelope. Leopards, hyaenas, and black rhinos are also seen on occasion. The birdlife is extremely diverse. The river attracts fish eagles, and weaver birds nest in the sparse woodland. Pel's fishing owl is frequently seen along the river's edge at dusk.

• Entrance fees:
  • Malawi Citizens:
    Adults: US$4
    Children: US$2
  • Malawian Residents:
    Adults: US$15
    Children: US$7.5
  • International Visitors
    Adults: US$30
    Children: US$15
  • Children under 6 are free
• Offers: Fees per vehicle: US$4/day
• Opening time: 6am - 6pm
• Best time to visit: April to October
• Location: Southern Region of Malawi