Safari in Malawi

Malawi's warm heart extends to its wildlife, with Majete and Liwonde national parks successfully restocked with Big Five species. Lake Malawi, a UNESCO...

Malawi Safari at a Glance

4 safari regions, 36 parks & reserves, 160 wildlife species recorded.

Travel Advisories for Malawi

UK FCDO: See travel advice before travelling.

Best Time to Visit Malawi

The best months to visit Malawi are September, October, April, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 22.5°C, rainfall 344.2mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 83.9%
  • February: Good, temperature 22.9°C, rainfall 243.6mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 82.7%
  • March: Good, temperature 22.5°C, rainfall 182.5mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 81%
  • April: Great, temperature 22°C, rainfall 48.8mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 74.7%
  • May: Great, temperature 20.2°C, rainfall 7.9mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 65.6%
  • June: Great, temperature 18.7°C, rainfall 11.6mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 65.9%
  • July: Great, temperature 18.4°C, rainfall 6.8mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 61.2%
  • August: Great, temperature 20.4°C, rainfall 6.7mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 57%
  • September: Great, temperature 23°C, rainfall 4mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 51.8%
  • October: Great, temperature 25.2°C, rainfall 17.1mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 51.6%
  • November: Great, temperature 26°C, rainfall 43.3mm, sunshine 12 hrs, humidity 56.9%
  • December: Great, temperature 24.9°C, rainfall 156.6mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 68.8%

Wildlife in Malawi

Home to 160 recorded species including 56 iconic birds, 36 waterbirds, 34 birds of prey, 8 tropical birds, 5 reptiles, 5 big five.

Notable Species in Malawi

Recommended Packing List for Malawi

Based on average temperature of 22.2°C, typical conditions, humidity 67%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 22°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Safety & Health - Malawi

Malawi offers an incredibly rich safari experience, from the Big Five in Majete to the vibrant aquatic life of Lake Malawi. While its warm heart truly shines, we always advocate for informed travel. With sensible precautions and a good dose of respect for local customs and wildlife, your journey through this beautiful country will be as safe as it is unforgettable.

Visa

For most nationalities, a visa is required to enter Malawi. We recommend applying online in advance through the official e-visa portal, though many can also obtain one on arrival at major entry points. Always check the latest requirements for your specific nationality before you travel; it saves a lot of hassle.

Malaria

Malawi is largely a high-risk malaria zone, including all our beloved safari parks like Majete and Liwonde, and the Lake Malawi region. We strongly advise taking anti-malarial prophylaxis as prescribed by your doctor. Beyond medication, we always use insect repellent with DEET, wear long sleeves and trousers at dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets provided by reputable lodges. The evenings can be magical, but vigilance is key.

Safari Calendar - Malawi

For classic game viewing in Malawi, we unequivocally recommend the dry season from May to October. This period offers superb visibility as vegetation thins and animals congregate around dwindling water sources, making parks like Majete and Liwonde exceptional for Big Five sightings. However, the green season, from November to April, presents a different kind of magic with lush landscapes, abundant migratory birds, and the heartwarming spectacle of newborn animals. We find that combining a land safari with the unique aquatic experiences on Lake Malawi offers a truly comprehensive Malawian adventure, regardless of the time of year.

January - Green Season

We recommend focusing on the vibrant birdlife and the dramatic, cloud-filled skies that make for stunning photography opportunities.

February - Green Season

We love the opportunity to witness new life and the intense predator-prey interactions that are common during this period.

March - Green Season

We find the landscapes incredibly beautiful and green, offering a unique, verdant perspective on Malawi's parks.

April - Shoulder Season

We recommend visiting towards the end of April as the weather improves and the parks are still wonderfully uncrowded, offering excellent value.

May - Dry Season

We love the crisp air and the beginning of excellent game viewing conditions, especially for spotting the Big Five in Majete.

June - Dry Season

We find June perfect for walking safaris and boat safaris, offering intimate wildlife encounters and stunning photographic opportunities.

July - Dry Season

We recommend booking well in advance for July, as the game viewing is consistently superb and the weather ideal for all activities.

August - Dry Season

We think August is one of the best months for classic safari experiences, with reliable wildlife sightings and sensational sunsets over the dry landscapes.

September - Hot Dry Season

We love the intense wildlife action around waterholes, though we advise early morning and late afternoon game drives to beat the heat.

October - Hot Dry Season

We recommend October for serious wildlife enthusiasts who don't mind the heat, as the sightings can be truly spectacular and rewarding.

November - Short Rains

We find November a fascinating month to witness the dramatic change in scenery and the arrival of countless bird species.

December - Green Season

We suggest combining a safari with some relaxation on Lake Malawi, enjoying the warm waters and fewer crowds before the peak holiday season.

Safari Regions

Malawi FAQs

How does a 'water safari' on Lake Malawi differ from traditional land-based safaris, and what unique wildlife can I expect?

A Lake Malawi water safari focuses on the incredible aquatic biodiversity, primarily hundreds of endemic cichlid fish species, best viewed through snorkeling or diving. You'll also enjoy birdwatching from boats, spotting fish eagles and other water birds, offering a serene contrast to the adrenaline of land-based game drives.

Given Malawi's successful reintroduction efforts, which national parks offer the best chances to see the Big Five, and what's the typical viewing experience?

Majete Wildlife Reserve and Liwonde National Park are prime locations for Big Five viewing, thanks to extensive conservation and reintroduction programs. While sightings are never guaranteed, these parks offer excellent chances to see elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards, and buffalo in well-managed, less crowded environments.

What is the optimal time of year to visit Malawi to experience both its wildlife safaris and Lake Malawi activities?

The dry season, from May to October, is generally considered the best time for both land and lake activities. Wildlife congregates around water sources, making them easier to spot, while the lake offers clear waters for snorkeling and pleasant temperatures for relaxation.

Is Malawi a more budget-friendly safari destination compared to its East African counterparts, and what are typical cost considerations?

Malawi is often considered a more affordable safari destination, offering excellent value without compromising on quality. Typical costs include park entry fees (around $10-30 USD per day), accommodation ranging from budget campsites to luxury lodges, and transport, which can be managed through self-drive or organized tours.

Beyond the Big Five and Lake Malawi, what other unique wildlife or cultural experiences can I expect on a Malawian safari?

Malawi offers exceptional birdwatching, with over 650 species, and opportunities for walking safaris to encounter smaller mammals and unique flora. You can also engage in authentic cultural experiences, visiting local villages and markets, which highlight the country's renowned 'Warm Heart of Africa' hospitality.

What should travelers know about safety and interacting with locals, given Malawi's reputation as the 'Warm Heart of Africa'?

Malawi is generally considered safe, with its people known for their friendliness and welcoming nature. While serious crime is rare, it's wise to take standard precautions like avoiding walking alone at night and securing valuables. Engaging respectfully with locals, perhaps learning a few Chichewa phrases, will greatly enhance your experience.

Recommended Books for Malawi

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
  • Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.

Other Safari Countries in Southern Africa