18 safari lodges
    Southern Lake Malawi & Rift Valley, Malawi
    Quiet
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in Otter Island

    Otter Island is a protected area in Malawi.

    Best timeMay to October (dry season) for wildlife. October for best birding.
    Species
    25
    Big Five
    0/5
    Lodges
    18
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Otter Island Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    Recent sightings at Otter Island

    Sign in to report

    25 species recorded in Otter Island1 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Otter Island

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Otter Island

    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...

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    January is hot and humid, characterized by heavy afternoon thunderstorms. The air is thick with moisture, and temperatures are consistently high.

    The landscape is incredibly lush, making game viewing challenging but rewarding for birders, with many migratory species present. It's also calving season for many herbivores.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Similar to January, February remains hot and wet, with frequent, often intense, downpours. Humidity levels are very high.

    Birding continues to be superb, with a high concentration of migratory species. Newborn animals are abundant, which in turn attracts predators.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Majete Wildlife Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season

    Rains start to lessen towards the end of March, but it's still warm and humid. Occasional showers are still expected.

    Vegetation is at its thickest, offering a different kind of safari experience. Migratory birds begin their departure towards the end of the month.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

    April

    low

    Shoulder Season

    Rains significantly decrease, and temperatures start to cool slightly, especially towards the end of the month. Humidity drops noticeably.

    The bush is still thick but beginning to thin out, making game viewing easier than in previous months. It's a last chance to spot some migratory birds.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    May marks the start of the dry season, bringing cooler, dry, and very pleasant temperatures. Nights can be quite chilly.

    Vegetation thins out rapidly, making game viewing much easier. Animals begin to concentrate around permanent water sources.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    June is typically the coolest month, very dry with clear skies. Days are warm and sunny, but evenings and mornings are cool.

    Game viewing is excellent as animals are increasingly concentrated around water. Predator activity is high as they stalk thirsty prey.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    Dry and cool, especially in the mornings and evenings, with warm, sunny days. Rainfall is virtually non-existent.

    This is prime game viewing time. Water levels are at their lowest, forcing animals to congregate, ensuring reliable sightings.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Nyika National Park

    August

    high

    Dry Season

    August is dry, with warm days and cool nights. There is very little to no rain, and skies are consistently clear.

    Game viewing remains excellent, with animals very visible against the thinning bush. Predator sightings are frequent and thrilling.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    September

    high

    Hot Dry Season

    Temperatures begin to rise significantly in September, making it very hot and dry. The air can be dusty.

    Game viewing remains excellent, but the intense heat can make midday safaris challenging. Animals are still highly concentrated around waterholes.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    October

    moderate

    Hot Dry Season

    October is typically the hottest month, very dry and dusty. Humidity starts to build towards the end of the month, signaling the coming rains.

    Game viewing is superb but demanding due to the heat, as animals are desperate for water. Migratory birds start to return.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    November

    moderate

    Short Rains

    November is hot and humid. The first 'short rains' bring relief from the intense dry season heat, but can be unpredictable.

    The landscape dramatically transforms with the first rains, turning green. Migratory birds are abundant, and calving season begins for many species.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    December

    moderate

    Green Season

    December is hot, humid, with increasing rainfall and thunderstorms. Expect lush conditions and frequent downpours.

    Lush vegetation makes game viewing challenging, but it's excellent for birding and photography of the vibrant green landscapes. Newborn animals are common.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    January is hot and humid, characterized by heavy afternoon thunderstorms. The air is thick with moisture, and temperatures are consistently high.

    The landscape is incredibly lush, making game viewing challenging but rewarding for birders, with many migratory species present. It's also calving season for many herbivores.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Similar to January, February remains hot and wet, with frequent, often intense, downpours. Humidity levels are very high.

    Birding continues to be superb, with a high concentration of migratory species. Newborn animals are abundant, which in turn attracts predators.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Majete Wildlife Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season

    Rains start to lessen towards the end of March, but it's still warm and humid. Occasional showers are still expected.

    Vegetation is at its thickest, offering a different kind of safari experience. Migratory birds begin their departure towards the end of the month.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

    April

    low

    Shoulder Season

    Rains significantly decrease, and temperatures start to cool slightly, especially towards the end of the month. Humidity drops noticeably.

    The bush is still thick but beginning to thin out, making game viewing easier than in previous months. It's a last chance to spot some migratory birds.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    May marks the start of the dry season, bringing cooler, dry, and very pleasant temperatures. Nights can be quite chilly.

    Vegetation thins out rapidly, making game viewing much easier. Animals begin to concentrate around permanent water sources.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    June is typically the coolest month, very dry with clear skies. Days are warm and sunny, but evenings and mornings are cool.

    Game viewing is excellent as animals are increasingly concentrated around water. Predator activity is high as they stalk thirsty prey.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    Dry and cool, especially in the mornings and evenings, with warm, sunny days. Rainfall is virtually non-existent.

    This is prime game viewing time. Water levels are at their lowest, forcing animals to congregate, ensuring reliable sightings.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Nyika National Park

    August

    high

    Dry Season

    August is dry, with warm days and cool nights. There is very little to no rain, and skies are consistently clear.

    Game viewing remains excellent, with animals very visible against the thinning bush. Predator sightings are frequent and thrilling.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    September

    high

    Hot Dry Season

    Temperatures begin to rise significantly in September, making it very hot and dry. The air can be dusty.

    Game viewing remains excellent, but the intense heat can make midday safaris challenging. Animals are still highly concentrated around waterholes.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    October

    moderate

    Hot Dry Season

    October is typically the hottest month, very dry and dusty. Humidity starts to build towards the end of the month, signaling the coming rains.

    Game viewing is superb but demanding due to the heat, as animals are desperate for water. Migratory birds start to return.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    November

    moderate

    Short Rains

    November is hot and humid. The first 'short rains' bring relief from the intense dry season heat, but can be unpredictable.

    The landscape dramatically transforms with the first rains, turning green. Migratory birds are abundant, and calving season begins for many species.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    December

    moderate

    Green Season

    December is hot, humid, with increasing rainfall and thunderstorms. Expect lush conditions and frequent downpours.

    Lush vegetation makes game viewing challenging, but it's excellent for birding and photography of the vibrant green landscapes. Newborn animals are common.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    January is hot and humid, characterized by heavy afternoon thunderstorms. The air is thick with moisture, and temperatures are consistently high.

    The landscape is incredibly lush, making game viewing challenging but rewarding for birders, with many migratory species present. It's also calving season for many herbivores.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Similar to January, February remains hot and wet, with frequent, often intense, downpours. Humidity levels are very high.

    Birding continues to be superb, with a high concentration of migratory species. Newborn animals are abundant, which in turn attracts predators.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Majete Wildlife Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season

    Rains start to lessen towards the end of March, but it's still warm and humid. Occasional showers are still expected.

    Vegetation is at its thickest, offering a different kind of safari experience. Migratory birds begin their departure towards the end of the month.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

    April

    low

    Shoulder Season

    Rains significantly decrease, and temperatures start to cool slightly, especially towards the end of the month. Humidity drops noticeably.

    The bush is still thick but beginning to thin out, making game viewing easier than in previous months. It's a last chance to spot some migratory birds.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    May marks the start of the dry season, bringing cooler, dry, and very pleasant temperatures. Nights can be quite chilly.

    Vegetation thins out rapidly, making game viewing much easier. Animals begin to concentrate around permanent water sources.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    June is typically the coolest month, very dry with clear skies. Days are warm and sunny, but evenings and mornings are cool.

    Game viewing is excellent as animals are increasingly concentrated around water. Predator activity is high as they stalk thirsty prey.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    Dry and cool, especially in the mornings and evenings, with warm, sunny days. Rainfall is virtually non-existent.

    This is prime game viewing time. Water levels are at their lowest, forcing animals to congregate, ensuring reliable sightings.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Nyika National Park

    August

    high

    Dry Season

    August is dry, with warm days and cool nights. There is very little to no rain, and skies are consistently clear.

    Game viewing remains excellent, with animals very visible against the thinning bush. Predator sightings are frequent and thrilling.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    September

    high

    Hot Dry Season

    Temperatures begin to rise significantly in September, making it very hot and dry. The air can be dusty.

    Game viewing remains excellent, but the intense heat can make midday safaris challenging. Animals are still highly concentrated around waterholes.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    October

    moderate

    Hot Dry Season

    October is typically the hottest month, very dry and dusty. Humidity starts to build towards the end of the month, signaling the coming rains.

    Game viewing is superb but demanding due to the heat, as animals are desperate for water. Migratory birds start to return.

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

    Majete Wildlife Reserve
    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    November

    moderate

    Short Rains

    November is hot and humid. The first 'short rains' bring relief from the intense dry season heat, but can be unpredictable.

    The landscape dramatically transforms with the first rains, turning green. Migratory birds are abundant, and calving season begins for many species.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi

    December

    moderate

    Green Season

    December is hot, humid, with increasing rainfall and thunderstorms. Expect lush conditions and frequent downpours.

    Lush vegetation makes game viewing challenging, but it's excellent for birding and photography of the vibrant green landscapes. Newborn animals are common.

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

    Liwonde National Park
    Lake Malawi
    Planning & reference

    Otter Island offers an intimate escape, a place where the gentle lapping of waves and the calls of unseen birds create a constant, soothing soundtrack. We recommend taking a guided walk to truly appreciate the island's smaller wonders, from its diverse flora to its incredible birdlife.

    Gate Times

    Otter Island is accessible by boat transfer from the mainland, typically arranged by your lodge. There are no official gate times as such, but boat transfers usually operate during daylight hours. It's essential to pre-book your accommodation and transfers, as access is controlled. Ensure your lodge confirms the transfer schedule with you in advance.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and appreciated. For guides, we recommend around $10-20 per person per day, depending on the quality of service. For camp staff, a general tip of $5-10 per person per day, pooled and distributed, is a good guideline. Rangers on walking safaris might receive a smaller tip, perhaps $5 per person. Always tip in US dollars or Malawian Kwacha, and it's best to give it discreetly to the lodge manager or head guide to ensure fair distribution.

    Dress Code

    We advise neutral, earthy colours like khaki, olive green, and brown for game drives and walks to blend in with the environment. Avoid bright colours and black or dark blue, which can attract insects. Layers are key; mornings and evenings can be cool, especially on the water, so pack a fleece or light jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and a hat for sun protection is a must. In camp, casual and comfortable clothing is fine.

    Photography

    Photography is generally permitted, but always ask your guide before photographing people. Drones are typically not allowed without prior special permission from park authorities, which can be difficult to obtain. We love capturing the abundant birdlife and the stunning sunsets over the lake. Early morning and late afternoon light offer the most dramatic and beautiful shots.

    Etiquette

    Maintain a quiet demeanour on game drives and walks to avoid disturbing wildlife. Always follow your guide's instructions regarding staying in the vehicle or on the path. Never attempt to feed or touch wild animals. In camp, be mindful of noise levels, especially during siesta hours and at night. Respect the privacy of other guests.

    What to Bring

    High SPF sunscreen
    Insect repellent with DEET
    Personal first-aid kit
    Binoculars (essential for birding)
    Camera with zoom lens
    Reusable water bottle
    Lightweight rain jacket
    Comfortable walking shoes
    Hat with a brim
    Swimsuit (some lodges have pools)
    Malaria prophylaxis (consult your doctor)
    Small backpack for day trips

    Temperature

    25.25°C

    77°F · Range: 23.18–27.71°C

    Rainfall

    377.2 mm

    Heavy rains · 26.8 rainy days

    Humidity

    81.4%

    Sunshine

    9.2 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    4.06 m/s

    14.6 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Otter Island Reviews