Liwonde NP
River safaris and elephant encounters in the wild 🐘🛶
Liwonde National Park is widely considered Malawi's premier wildlife destination and is particularly well-suited for families. Located in the south along the Shire River, the park's geography is defined by riverine lagoons, fever tree forests, and open floodplains. The management by African Parks has transformed Liwonde into a secure and thriving ecosystem, seeing the reintroduction of cheetahs, lions, and black rhinos to complement the massive existing populations of elephants and hippos.
The standout activity here is the boat safari. Unlike bumpy game drives that can tire out younger children, a boat cruise on the Shire River is smooth, silent, and mesmerizing. Families can sit safely on board and drift past hundreds of hippos and crocodiles basking on the banks. Elephants frequently cross the river, trunks held high like periscopes—a magical sight that feels incredibly close yet remains safe. The birdlife is equally vibrant, with colorful kingfishers and fish eagles providing constant visual interest.
Land-based safaris are also rewarding. The park is relatively small compared to giant reserves elsewhere in Africa, meaning wildlife sightings are frequent and drives don't need to be exhaustingly long. Many lodges are fenced or have guards, allowing families to feel secure while still hearing the sounds of the bush at night. Accommodation ranges from adventurous camping to luxury riverfront chalets.
The climate in Liwonde is hot, especially from October to November, so families should pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and hydration. As a malaria area, appropriate prophylaxis and insect repellent are essential. The park is easily accessible by road from Zomba or Blantyre, avoiding the need for expensive charter flights. For families wanting a "Big Five" experience with a unique river twist, Liwonde delivers unforgettable memories.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Liwonde is a successful rewilding story but remains a small park without the wildlife density, scale, or global reputation of top-tier safari destinations (Kruger, Serengeti, Okavango). 'excellent' requires top global standing. Additionally, this region has zero attraction evidence in the database.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
The park is a premier destination for learning about conservation restoration and species reintroduction through guided expert talks and community engagement projects. Peak dry season facilitates access to diverse ecosystems and research sites, whereas heavy rains in the off-season limit exploratory travel.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
Exclusive, high-end riverside lodges provide a sophisticated and tranquil retreat for discerning travelers with world-class service standards. The cool, dry winter months offer low humidity and comfortable breezes, while the summer heat and humidity (Nov-Mar) are less conducive to outdoor relaxation.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
Unique boat safaris, canoeing on the Shire, and guided walking safaris offer active ways to explore the wilderness beyond traditional vehicles. The peak months provide the coolest temperatures for physical exertion, while the rainy season brings flooding risks and safety restrictions for river activities.
Attractions (12 total)
National Park / Nature Reserve
Liwonde National Park
Liwonde
Malawi's premier wildlife destination featuring diverse ecosystems from floodplains to woodlands, home to elephants, hippos, and rare black rhinos.
Visit website →Shire River
Liwonde
A scenic waterway providing unique boat safari opportunities to observe hippos and crocodiles against a backdrop of lush riverine vegetation.
Chinguni Hill
Liwonde
The highest point in the park, offering families a moderate hike with panoramic views across the floodplains and mopane woodlands.
Hiking & Cycling Routes
Liwonde Wilderness Trail
Liwonde
25km moderate 3-day guided walking safari with minimal elevation gain. This multi-day trek traverses the northern wilderness areas of the park, including mopane woodlands and riverine forests. It is a highly acclaimed route for birdwatching and tracking big game on foot. The trail must be led by armed professional rangers. Bike rentals for nearby village tours can be arranged at Mvuu Camp (cawsmw.com).
Visit website →Chinguni Hill Trail
Liwonde
6km moderate 3-hour return hike with approximately 150m elevation gain. This is the primary day hike in the park, ascending to the summit of Chinguni Hill for panoramic views across the Shire River floodplains and the Mozambican border. Due to the presence of elephants and rhinos, a park scout is required. Equipment and guides can be arranged at the park's southern gate or through the Liwonde National Park headquarters.
Visit website →Road Trips & Scenic Drives
Malawi Lakeshore Road (Southern Section)
Liwonde
A 125km paved scenic drive (2-3 hours) following the M3 and M5 highways from the Liwonde gateway north to Monkey Bay and Cape Maclear. Known for its iconic vistas of Lake Malawi, the route passes through ancient baobab forests, vibrant fishing villages, and palm-fringed coastlines. It is a well-maintained, high-quality road suitable for all vehicle types and serves as the main link between Liwonde's wildlife and the lake's beaches.
Visit website →Southern Malawi Safari Circuit
Blantyre
A 450km paved touring route (5-7 days) starting in Blantyre that connects the Zomba Plateau, Liwonde National Park, and the shores of Lake Malawi. This loop is the primary road trip for international visitors to southern Malawi, featuring Rift Valley escarpments, Shire River floodplains, and the Mangochi lakeshore. The entire route is paved and accessible by standard rental cars, though high-clearance vehicles are better for park access.
Visit website →Shire River Road
Circular
The primary 40km well-maintained dirt loop (3-4 hours) within Liwonde National Park that follows the eastern bank of the Shire River. This is the park's premier scenic drive, famous for its high density of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. The track passes through borassus palm groves and open floodplains. While driveable in a standard car during the dry season (May–October), a high-clearance vehicle is highly recommended.
Visit website →Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
Liwonde National Park Visitor Centre
Liwonde
An educational hub at the park entrance that showcases the history of Malawi's wildlife conservation and successful species reintroduction programs.
Visit website →Science Museum / Natural History Museum / Discovery Centre
Liwonde National Park Visitor Information Centre
Liwonde
An educational discovery center featuring interactive exhibits on the park's conservation history, species reintroduction programs, and the Shire River ecosystem.
Visit website →Farm Park / Petting Zoo / Rural Experience
Njobvu Cultural Village
Liwonde
A community-owned initiative offering visitors an authentic rural experience through village walks, traditional meals, and demonstrations of local customs and crafts.
Visit website →Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Liwonde Floodplains
Liwonde
Expansive grasslands along the river edge that provide a stunning landscape for spotting large herds of elephants and a vast array of bird species.
Visit website →