Liwonde National Park lies on the east bank of the Shire River in southern Malawi. With scenic views and a hippo-filled river running through it, the park is a true reflection of beautiful African bush land. The environment of the park is untouched and less travelled than most parks in Africa, thus enhancing its beauty and tranquillity. There are several lodges in the area that allow visitors to take full advantage of the surroundings. Wildlife on view here includes elephant, lion, leopard, warthog, greater kudu, Vervet monkey, baboon, impala, waterbuck, bushbuck, mongoose, crocodile and monitor lizard. The black rhino has been introduced to Liwonde and the population has now grown to 10 as the result of a conservation project in partnership with the government. These animals usually steer clear of the beaten track, so it can be a challenge to spot them. The park is ideal for birdwatchers, with nearly 300 species of birds. And there are opportunities for beautiful photography, with orchids and lilies in full bloom just after the rains.
With a variety of quiet lagoons and open savannah, birdlife is exceptionally varied and offers some of the best birding in Africa. The river attracts fish eagles and weaver birds build their nests in the thin woodland, and Pel’s fishing owl is often seen at dusk along the river’s edge. Other ‘specials’ here include Bohm’s bee-eater, brown-breasted barbet and Livingstone’s flycatcher.
Wildlife on view here includes elephant, lion, leopard, warthog, greater kudu, Vervet monkey, baboon, impala, waterbuck, bushbuck, mongoose, crocodile and monitor lizard.
Liwonde is one of Malawi’s main attractions and will feature on most itineraries.
Lilongwe International Airport (LLW) will most likely be your entry point into the country. The airport is situated about 26km/16mi from the capital, Lilongwe. Some international flights terminate at Chileka International Airport (BLZ), which is 16km/10mi from Blantyre and is better situated for Liwonde.
Liwonde NP is located in the south of the country, 360km/224mi from Lilongwe and 190km/118mi from Blantyre. The drive from Lilongwe takes about five hours, and from Blantyre about three hours
-Liwonde park motel
-Mvuu camp
-Mvuu wilderness Lodge.
-Kutchire Lodge.
-Bushmann’s Baobab.
-Worthog Wallow Lodge.
The ideal time to visit the park is during the dry season from April to October. During this time, the bush is dry and open, making game easier to spot. When the rains begin, the conditions are generally hot and wet.