Liwonde National Park

Liwonde National Park is a protected area in southern Malawi centred on a stretch of the Shire River and its adjoining woodlands and floodplain. The park is valued for riverine wildlife, including hippo, crocodile, elephant and a wide variety of waterbirds.

Boat-based safaris on the Shire River are a primary visitor activity, providing opportunities to view large mammals at close range and to see species such as African fish eagle and a range of waterbirds. Game drives and guided walks in adjacent savanna and riparian zones are also offered.

The area has been managed for conservation and tourism since the 20th century, with changes in protection status and management aimed at controlling poaching and supporting wildlife populations. Community engagement and anti-poaching measures in recent decades have supported recovery of several species.

The park lies in Malawi’s Southern Region along the Shire River; the nearest local town is Liwonde, and the reserve sits north of the commercial hub of Blantyre, within a lowland river and savanna landscape.

• River safaris: The park centres on the Shire River corridor and is well known for boat safaris that allow close views of hippo, crocodile and large congregations of waterbirds.
• Wildlife highlights: Concentrations of elephant and other large mammals are commonly seen in seasonally flooded riverine habitats and adjoining woodland and grassland.

• Plan Liwonde for the dry months (May-October) when animals concentrate near the Shire River and sightings are easiest; that season also makes game drives and boat safaris more dependable.
• Combine morning vehicle safaris with late‑afternoon or sunset boat trips on the Shire River - the river safaris are the park's highlight for hippos, crocodiles and riverine birdlife and give a different viewing angle from drives.
• Choose accommodation situated on the river edge if you want ready access to boat safaris and early departures; lodges along the Shire provide short transfer times to the most active wildlife corridors.