Liwonde National Park

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Liwonde National Park

Although only 220 sq. miles (580 sq. km), Liwonde is perhaps the most popular of all of Malawi’s game parks, with its beautiful riverine setting and teeming wildlife offering thrilling safaris.

Wildlife includes quite large numbers of elephants and the river attracts countless hippos and crocodiles. Lion, cheetah, and wild dog have been recently reintroduced into Liwonde with the aid of African Parks who took over management of the Park in 2015 and who continue to turn Liwonde into a first-class safari location. Antelope include kudu, sable, and bushbuck. Leopards, hyenas and black rhinos are also occasionally spotted. Birdlife is exceptionally varied. The river attracts fish eagles and weaver birds to build their nests in the thin woodland. Pel’s fishing owl is often seen at dusk along the river’s edge.

As well as the safaris and its beautiful scenery, Liwonde offers a wonderful cultural experience through visits to one of the local villages just outside the park boundary.

Size of Liwonde national park

Liwonde National Park, located in southern Malawi is 548m² in size and consists of woodland, floodplains, grasslands, and a lagoon.

Location of Liwonde national park

Liwonde National Park is in southern Malawi, southeast of the capital, Lilongwe. It runs alongside the Shire River and part of Lake Malombe.

How to get to Liwonde national park

Liwonde NP is located in the south of the country, 360km/224mi from Lilongwe and 190km/118mi from Blantyre. The drive from Lilongwe takes about five hours, and from Blantyre, about three hours by road but charter flights can be arranged from Lilongwe to Liwonde national park.

Things to do in Liwonde national park

• Boat safaris
• Game drives
• Walking safaris
• Helicopter rides
• Birding safaris
• Cultural encounters

Best time to visit Liwonde national park

The ideal time to visit the park is during the dry season from April to October. During this time, the bush is dry and open, making the game easier to spot.

Where to stay in Liwonde national park

Being Malawi’s most visited safari park our experts have picked the 3 most recommended places to stay while on safari in Liwonde national park.

Mvuu Lodge

Mvuu Lodge is Liwonde’s premier lodge, the first in the park. It is in a key location for wildlife viewing. Based on the river there are regular hippos.

Mvuu Camp

Mvuu Camp, based on the banks of the Shire River is an affordable haven for Malawi wildlife. From the plentiful crocs and hippos on the banks of the river.

Kuthengo Camp

Kuthengo is situated on a large open plain in the Liwonde National Park, tucked away in the trees are 4 safari tents each with its own spectacular view.