Liwonde National Park Overview

The 58,000 hectare Liwonde National Park is situated in the south of Malawi and is the country’s premier wildlife reserve. Liwonde incorporates the huge scenic Shire River as well as quiet backwaters and lagoons, marshes, open savannah country, woodland and hills in the interior of the park. As a result of the wide variety of habitats, there is a great diversity of plant, animal and birdlife present. The birdlife is outstanding, possibly the best birding location in central and southern Africa, especially along the Shire River where African fish eagle, palmnut vulture, African skimmer and Pel’s fishing owl are fairly common. Bohm’s bee-eater, Likan’s lovebird, bat hawk, Livingstone’s flycathcher, whitebacked night heron and brownbreasted barbet are among the “specials”. The Shire River also provides a wetland where elephant drink and play, and snoozing hippos and basking crocodiles are often viewed.

Elephant and sable antelope occur in large numbers as do hippo, crocodile, impala and waterbuck. Lion, leopard, serval and the rare oribi may occasionally be seen, and black rhino have recently been re-introduced from South Africa’s Kruger National Park. Camping out in remote areas of the Liwonde National Park is a highlight. Another unique adventure is a bicycle trip from the boundary of Liwonde to the local villages, giving one a superb cultural experience.