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

    Safari in Liwonde National Park

    Liwonde is Malawi's premier safari destination, renowned for its high density of elephants, healthy populations of hippos and crocodiles in the Shire River, and successful reintroductions of lions and cheetahs. It offers excellent boat safaris, walking safaris, and traditional game drives amidst diverse landscapes of riverine forests, Mopane woodlands, and grasslands.

    Best timeMay to October (dry season) for wildlife. October for best birding.
    Species
    71
    Big Five
    4/5
    Lodges
    19
    Area
    548 km²
    Recommended stay
    2-3 days
    Est.
    1973

    Liwonde National Park Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    The African Big 5

    4 of 5 found in Liwonde National Park

    Lion
    Elephant
    Buffalo
    Leopard
    Rhino

    Recent sightings at Liwonde National Park

    Sign in to report

    71 species recorded in Liwonde National Park11 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Liwonde National Park

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Liwonde National Park

    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

    Liwonde National Park truly shines with its exceptional riverine safaris, offering intimate encounters with hippos and crocodiles, alongside a remarkable density of elephants and diverse birdlife. We love how the Shire River forms the park's lifeblood, creating a unique ecosystem that feels both wild and incredibly accessible. It is a place where every sunrise over the water promises a new, unforgettable discovery.

    Gate Times

    Liwonde National Park typically opens its gates from 06:00 to 18:00 daily. We always recommend confirming these times with your lodge or tour operator, as seasonal adjustments can occur, especially during the wet season when some areas might be less accessible. Entry permits are usually arranged by your accommodation, but it is wise to carry a copy of your booking confirmation.

    Tipping

    Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for excellent service. For your safari guide, we recommend around $10-15 per person per day. Camp staff, including trackers, housekeepers, and waitstaff, can be tipped collectively in a central staff box, with $5-10 per person per day being a good guideline. Rangers accompanying walking safaris or boat trips might receive $5 per person per activity. Always tip in local currency or USD, and do so discreetly.

    Dress Code

    For game drives and walking safaris, we advise wearing neutral, earthy tones like khaki, olive green, or brown to blend with the environment and avoid startling wildlife. Light, breathable long-sleeved shirts and trousers are essential for sun protection and insect bite prevention, even in warmer months. Layers are key, as mornings can be cool, warming up significantly by midday. In camp, comfortable casual wear is perfectly acceptable, but we still lean towards natural fabrics.

    Photography

    Liwonde offers incredible photographic opportunities, particularly for water-based wildlife and birdlife. Drones are strictly prohibited within the park to prevent disturbance to wildlife and other visitors. We encourage respectful photography: avoid flash photography at night, especially near sensitive animals, and never ask your guide to position the vehicle in a way that harasses wildlife. A good zoom lens is invaluable here, and remember to capture the stunning riverine landscapes too.

    Etiquette

    Maintaining a respectful silence on game drives allows everyone to fully appreciate the sounds of the bush and enhances wildlife viewing. Always remain inside your vehicle unless your guide explicitly instructs otherwise, and never attempt to approach or feed any animals. In camp, keep noise levels down, especially in the early mornings and evenings, and be mindful of other guests' privacy. We believe a quiet approach truly enhances the safari experience.

    What to Bring

    Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection
    High-factor sunscreen
    Insect repellent with DEET
    Binoculars (essential for birding and distant sightings)
    Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
    Lightweight, quick-drying long-sleeved shirts and trousers
    Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
    Small backpack for day trips
    Personal first-aid kit, including anti-malarials
    Headlamp or small flashlight
    Reusable water bottle
    Power bank for charging devices

    Temperature

    24.68°C

    76°F · Range: 21.66–28.76°C

    Rainfall

    322.5 mm

    Heavy rains · 25.4 rainy days

    Humidity

    83.1%

    Sunshine

    9.3 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    3.79 m/s

    13.6 km/h

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

    Liwonde National Park Reviews