17 safari lodges
    Southern Malawi & Shire Valley, Malawi
    Quiet
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in Chigumula Forest Reserve

    Chigumula Forest Reserve is a protected area in Malawi.

    Best timeMay to October (dry season) for wildlife. October for best birding.
    Species
    52
    Big Five
    2/5
    Lodges
    17
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Chigumula Forest Reserve Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    The African Big 5

    2 of 5 found in Chigumula Forest Reserve

    Lion
    Elephant
    Buffalo
    Leopard
    Rhino

    Recent sightings at Chigumula Forest Reserve

    Sign in to report

    52 species recorded in Chigumula Forest Reserve5 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Chigumula Forest Reserve

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Chigumula Forest Reserve

    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

    We love Chigumula for its intimate feel and the genuine warmth of its people. The birding here, especially in October, is simply sensational, with a vibrant array of species to discover. It's the kind of place where you feel truly immersed in the Malawian bush.

    Gate Times

    Chigumula Forest Reserve gates typically open at sunrise and close at sunset. While specific times can vary, expect them to be open from around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It's wise to confirm exact times with your lodge or the park authorities upon arrival, as there can be seasonal adjustments. No advance booking is usually required for entry, but park fees are payable at the gate.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and appreciated in Malawi. For guides and trackers, we recommend around $10-15 USD per person per day. For camp staff, a general tip of $5-10 USD per person per day, pooled and distributed, is a good guideline. Rangers on foot patrols also appreciate a small gratuity, perhaps $5 USD. Always tip in USD or local currency, and it's best to hand it over discreetly at the end of your stay.

    Dress Code

    We advise neutral, earthy tones 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, even in the dry season. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, along with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. In camp, casual and comfortable clothing is perfectly acceptable.

    Photography

    Photography is generally permitted throughout the reserve. However, always ask your guide before photographing people, especially staff members. There are no specific restrictions on photographing wildlife, but maintain a respectful distance. Drone usage is typically prohibited without special permits, so check with park management beforehand. The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light for capturing stunning landscapes and wildlife.

    Etiquette

    Maintain a low noise level on game drives and walks to avoid disturbing wildlife. Always stay within your vehicle or designated areas unless accompanied by a guide. Never feed or approach wild animals. In camp, be mindful of noise and respect other guests' privacy. We find that a quiet, observant approach yields the best wildlife sightings.

    What to Bring

    Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts
    Durable trousers
    Comfortable walking boots
    Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
    Insect repellent with DEET
    Wide-brimmed hat
    Binoculars (essential!)
    Camera with zoom lens
    Personal first-aid kit
    Reusable water bottle
    Headlamp or torch
    Lightweight fleece or jacket

    Temperature

    20.65°C

    69°F · Range: 18.09–24.12°C

    Rainfall

    349.5 mm

    Heavy rains · 26.8 rainy days

    Humidity

    87.9%

    Sunshine

    8.8 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    3.87 m/s

    13.9 km/h

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

    Chigumula Forest Reserve Reviews