Top Malawi Safari Spots

Majete Wildlife Reserve

Majete Wildlife Reserve is an extraordinary tale of conservation triumph. From mismanagement and exploitation, Majete has transformed into a beacon of hope, showcasing the incredible potential that emerges when conservation efforts are guided by the community’s wisdom and dedication.

Majete Wildlife Reserve was once a barren landscape, with only a handful of antelope left and no visitors for three long years. In 2003, a significant transformation occurred when African Parks entered into an agreement with the Malawian government, taking charge of the park’s strategic management while working alongside local communities. This was African Park’s flagship project, and the reserve has evolved into a vibrant wildlife haven.

In 2003, rhinos made their grand return to Majete, paving the way for elephants in 2006, lions in 2012, giraffes in 2018, cheetahs in 2019, and wild dogs in 2021. The reintroduction of various species has led to a remarkable surge in wildlife populations. Majete has achieved remarkable success, having moved 200 elephants to Nkhotakota as part of the 500 Elephants translocation initiative. Since assuming control of the Majete Wildlife Reserve, every flagship species has thrived without the threat of poaching.

Today, Majete Wildlife Reserve stands as Malawi’s top destination for thrilling safaris, boasting strong populations of Africa’s most sought-after species. Majete is home to impressive herds of elephants, buffalo, zebras, sable antelope, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, nyala, waterbuck, and giraffes. The reserve boasts an impressive array of antelope species, featuring the thicket-loving greater kudu among its inhabitants. Vast buffalo herds traverse the landscape, while the Shire River teems with hippos.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the stunning landscape and river views, with thrilling options for night drives, boat trips, and walking safaris. Tracking elephants on foot creates an engaging experience. Majete, a shining example of conservation triumph, boasts miombo woodland, rugged outcrops, and an expansive feeling of untamed nature. Majete offers a range of accommodations, from a community-owned tented camp to a luxurious 5-star lodge, making it a destination that appeals to every kind of traveler.

Liwonde National Park

Explore one of Africa’s premier spots for river-based wildlife viewing, located a thrilling 160 km north of Blantyre. Since 2015, Liwonde National Park, managed by African Parks in collaboration with Malawi’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife, has experienced an extraordinary transformation from a depleted ecosystem into a vibrant wildlife sanctuary.

Since 2015, Liwonde has successfully eliminated over 40,000 wire snares, and the park now features robust conservation law enforcement and cutting-edge wildlife protection technology. Exciting reintroductions feature cheetahs in 2017, lions in 2018, wild dogs in 2021, and a remarkable translocation of 17 black rhinos from South Africa in 2019. Liwonde has not only been revitalized but has also broadened its conservation reach by 60% with the addition of the Mangochi Forest Reserve. Liwonde is a hidden treasure, with its flourishing wildlife and rising visitor numbers showcasing its revitalized role as a sanctuary for both animals and local communities.

Liwonde recently moved 263 elephants to Kasungu National Park and has achieved success in managing poaching of both elephants and rhinos. The Spicy Farmers project empowers local farmers to cultivate and gather chillies, creating an innovative solution to reduce human-elephant conflict with a ‘chilli-elephant barrier.’ Moreover, Liwonde’s ranger training centre stands out as an essential hub for rangers in Malawi and throughout the continent.

Liwonde is home to impressive populations of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, alongside lions, cheetahs, kudus, sable antelopes, bushbucks, and leopards, with the occasional sighting of black rhinos and hyenas. The birdlife is incredibly varied, featuring fish eagles attracted to the river and weaver birds skillfully building nests in the scattered woodlands. Pel’s fishing owl is a mesmerizing presence by the riverbank as twilight descends.

Stay at Liwonde National Park offers the Mvuu Lodge and Kuthengo Camp, both of which deliver exquisite safari experiences alongside the Shire River. Reachable by road, river ferry, or a pre-arranged boat from Liwonde town, the lodges also feature an airstrip for charter flights. Mvuu Camp, a sister property, features chalets and a campsite, while Chimwala Bush Camp, established in 2020, offers roomy en-suite safari tents for self-catering in the park’s southern region.

Lake Malawi National Park

Located at Cape Maclear on the southern edge of Lake Malawi, the Lake Malawi National Park stands as the first freshwater national park in the world and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning the land around the cape, bay, and the islands of the lake just 100 meters offshore, the park showcases a lively underwater realm. A vibrant array of freshwater fish, known as mbuna, flourish in these pristine waters, showcasing a breathtaking spectacle. Boats can be rented, giving visitors the chance to hand-feed the fish. Beyond the lake, the park showcases a vibrant array of baboons, antelope, hyrax, and an exciting variety of birdlife, featuring majestic fish eagles and cormorants. Cape Maclear, once the historic home of the Livingstone Mission, now brims with lakeside resorts and accommodations that provide thrilling activities such as snorkelling, diving, kayaking, and nature walks in a picturesque island environment.

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

Nkhotakota, Malawi’s oldest and largest protected area, spans from the Great Rift Valley in the west to just near Lake Malawi in the east. In 2015, following years of conservation hurdles, the African Parks Foundation took the reins, launching a bold initiative to revitalize biodiversity. Once facing challenges with wildlife numbers, the park has transformed into a vibrant habitat, now teeming with thriving populations of iconic safari animals such as buffalo, eland, sable, and greater kudu. Predators such as lions, leopards, and spotted hyenas roam the land, though they are found in fewer numbers. African Parks’ translocation efforts brought a variety of antelope species and enhanced the elephant population by introducing 520 elephants from Liwonde and Majete, playing a key role in the reserve’s restoration. Nkhotakota’s rugged terrain boasts a diverse array of habitats, featuring expansive stretches of miombo woodland, open grasslands, and secluded pockets of rainforest. The park boasts breathtaking rivers, with charming lodges nestled along the Bua River. Engaging in activities at Nkhotakota offers thrilling experiences such as game drives, scenic walks, canoeing, and fishing adventures.

Nyika National Park

Situated on a lofty plateau, Nyika National Park presents an extraordinary opportunity for exploration through walking, mountain biking, and wildlife observation, all set against the stunning scenery of its distinctive rolling grasslands and valleys. Though it may not be a classic Big 5 hotspot, the plateau is alive with a variety of wildlife, featuring Crawshay’s zebra, eland, roan antelope, common duiker, warthog, and predators such as jackals, hyenas, and leopards. It also boasts smaller wonders like endemic butterflies, chameleons, frogs, and toads. This expansive stretch of elevated grassland evokes the spirit of the Scottish Highlands. Nyika Plateau is famous for its abundance of wildflowers, featuring around 200 orchid species, including 11 that are unique to the area. Accommodations feature lodges and delightful cottages that suit a range of tastes and budgets. Nyika Plateau stands out as a remarkable destination, unlike any other in Malawi.

Must-Visit Places in Malawi

Viphya Plateau and Luwawa Forest Reserve

Extending north-northeast alongside the western shore of Lake Malawi, the Viphya Mountains span about 210 km, from Mount Champhila in the south to Mount Uzumara in the north. Mount Chimaliro is situated approximately 40 km north of Mzuzu in the northern section of the range. The Viphya Plateau boasts a captivating blend of grasslands, plantations, and native forests, with the Luwawa Forest standing out as a remarkable feature. Famous for its breathtaking landscapes, this secluded destination presents an abundance of thrilling activities, such as mountain biking, horse riding, trekking, rock climbing, abseiling, canoeing, fishing, and a variety of hiking trails. Visitors will come across bush pigs, antelope, monkeys, duikers, leopards, and a rich variety of bird life including the Scaly Francolin, Olive Woodpecker, and Red-faced Crimson-wing.

Livingstonia Mission is a place brimming with excitement and exploration.

Nestled in the northern region of Malawi, Livingstonia Mission stands as a remarkable historical and cultural landmark waiting to be explored. Established in 1894 by the Free Church of Scotland, this mission marked the beginning of the first enduring European settlement in the region. Livingstonia Mission was instrumental in promoting Christianity and education in Malawi, serving as a vibrant economic center, trading post, and hospital. Today, Livingstonia Mission’s captivating history attracts adventurous souls from all corners of the globe. The Livingstonia Mission experience encompasses historic buildings, cultural performances, traditional meals, and visits to the church and library, creating a journey full of excitement and discovery. Exploring the mission and nearby villages through guided tours is highly encouraged, along with participating in volunteer programs that benefit the local community.

Chintheche
Located 40 km south of Nkhata Bay, a collection of charming lodges with secluded beaches can be found along the northern shores of Lake Malawi near Chintheche, with Makuzi Beach being the most renowned. Famed for its stunning beaches and inviting lodges, Chintheche draws in visitors from far and wide. The surrounding areas are brimming with exciting activities like snorkelling, kayaking, fishing, bird watching, and hiking to Makuzi Hill for breathtaking lake views, along with horse riding and rejuvenating yoga retreats. Spice tours and cooking weekends enhance the variety of experiences for those looking for excitement beyond just leisure, tanning, and swimming along the shores of Lake Malawi.

Zomba Plateau
Malawi’s Zomba Plateau features vast cedar, pine, and cypress forests, complemented by a rich variety of mixed vegetation. Encircled by rugged cliffs, the heart of the plateau reveals intertwining streams, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil lakes. The tar road from Zomba Town leads to stunning viewpoints that were once hailed in colonial times as “the best views in the British Empire.”. Once at the summit, hiking becomes the primary pursuit, leading through streams, waterfalls, and lush forests, all while offering breathtaking vistas. Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding or try their hand at fly fishing for trout. Wildlife features thrilling encounters with rare leopards, magnificent giant butterflies, playful baboons, and an array of bird species such as long-crested eagles and augur buzzards. The Zomba Plateau offers a variety of places to stay that cater to all kinds of budgets.

Cape Maclear
On the southern shore of Lake Malawi, Cape Maclear, also known as Chembe village, is the most vibrant resort on the lake, attracting a wide variety of holidaymakers, from families and tour groups to backpackers and romantic couples. The golden sand beach and relaxed atmosphere create an idyllic retreat, brimming with exciting activities. Visitors can dive into scuba diving, glide through kayaking, explore underwater while snorkelling, set sail, trek through hiking, skim the water with water-skiing, catch waves while wakeboarding, harness the wind with windsurfing, bask in the sun, paddleboard, and discover charming villages. Cape Maclear is a vibrant destination featuring Lake Malawi National Park, the world’s first freshwater national park, where visitors can embark on island tours and enjoy breathtaking sunset cruises. Cape Maclear presents an exciting array of places to stay, ranging from eco-lodges to camping spots and luxurious lodges.

Mua Mission
Mua Mission, the vibrant home of the KuNgoni Centre of Culture & Art, was established in 1976 by the adventurous Canadian missionary Fr. Claude Boucher Chisale. Committed to the exploration, documentation, and safeguarding of Malawian culture, the center has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, providing glimpses into Malawi’s history and heritage through the Chamare Museum, Carving Centre, and Research Centre/Library. The museum presents an exciting exploration of the Chewa, Ngoni, and Yao cultures, revealing their rites of passage, intercultural interactions, and fascinating encounters with Islam and Christianity. An extraordinary display of Gule Wamkulu masks, texts, and images awaits, along with the opportunity to organize captivating dances. The mission doubles as a vibrant hub for talented wood carvers, equipping them with the tools to thrive through their artistry. For those seeking genuine mementos, unique carvings can be found for sale in a specialized shop.

Likoma Island
Situated in the northeast corner of Lake Malawi, within the waters of Mozambique, Likoma Island is a charming 17km² getaway. Despite its size, Likoma Island presents thrilling experiences, featuring vibrant dives teeming with cichlids at more than 20 sites. Embark on thrilling boat trips to discover the wonders of nearby Chizumulu Island and Mozambique. Wandering on foot, cycling through rugged terrain, or riding a quad-bike unveils delightful villages and the ancient Baobab at the New Market Place. St Peters, the third-largest cathedral in Central Africa, rivals the grandeur of Winchester Cathedral with its stunning stained glass and intricately carved soapstone choir stalls. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and pristine sandy beaches, Likoma Island offers a captivating island escape brimming with natural beauty and cultural richness.

Dzalanyama Forest
Dzalanyama Forest Reserve features rugged, wooded hills and escarpments teeming with vibrant birdlife, alongside baboons, duikers, hyenas, leopards, and a few sable antelope. The Dzalanyama Forest is renowned for its vibrant birdlife, featuring more than 300 bird species such as the African Citril, Hilderbrandt’s Francolin, and the White-tailed Blue-flycatcher. Among the diverse avian inhabitants are the Bar-tailed Trogon, Miombo Pied Barbet, Woodland Pipit, Central Bearded Scrub-Robin, Stripe-breasted Canary, and Eastern Double-collared Sunbird. The Dzalanyama Reserve stretches along the watershed between Malawi and Mozambique, offering a perfect setting for bird watching, hiking, and immersing oneself in the beauty of the natural world.