Liwonde National Park

Liwonde National Park is one of Malawi's premier wildlife destinations, situated along the Shire River in the southern region of the country. This compact but incredibly biodiverse park spans approximately 548 square kilometers and serves as a crucial wildlife corridor between Lake Malawi and the Zambezi River system. The park has undergone remarkable transformation in recent years through successful conservation efforts, making it a shining example of wildlife recovery in Africa. The park is renowned for its thriving elephant population, which has grown significantly due to anti-poaching initiatives and translocation programs. Visitors can expect to encounter large herds of elephants, hippos wallowing in the Shire River, crocodiles basking on riverbanks, and an impressive array of antelope species including sable, waterbuck, and impala. The park also has over 400 bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatchers, while the recently reintroduced black rhinos and cheetahs have added to its conservation success story.

Dining options within Liwonde National Park are primarily at safari lodges and camps, which typically offer full-board packages featuring international cuisine with local Malawian influences. Meals often include fresh fish from Lake Malawi, locally grown vegetables, and traditional dishes like nsima (maize staple). Most lodges cater to dietary restrictions with advance notice and provide packed lunches for full-day safari activities. In nearby Liwonde town, local restaurants serve traditional Malawian cuisine, grilled meats, and basic international dishes. Visitors should note that alcohol availability may be limited, so bringing supplies from major cities is recommended for extended stays.

The optimal time to visit Liwonde National Park is during the dry season from May to October, when wildlife congregates around water sources and roads are easily accessible. Game viewing is particularly excellent from July to October as vegetation thins out and animals are more visible. The wet season from November to April brings lush landscapes and excellent bird watching with migratory species, but some roads may become challenging and wildlife more dispersed. Temperatures are most comfortable from May to August, while September and October can be very hot but offer the best wildlife concentrations before the rains begin.