Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Lilongwe, Malawi

Lilongwe, Malawi, Lilongwe, Activity-Based Travel Pages, Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks

Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Lilongwe, Malawi

1. Liwonde National Park

Experience the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) in a diverse ecosystem with rivers and savannahs.
  • Unparalleled Wildlife Viewing: High population of wildlife species, including endangered African wild dogs.
  • Thrilling Boat Safaris: Explore the Shire River, home to hippos and crocodiles.
  • Community Engagement: Support local communities through eco-tourism initiatives.

2. Makanjira Wildlife Sanctuary

Safari in a peaceful wetland haven for birds and smaller mammals near Lilongwe City.
  • Urban Oasis: A tranquil escape from city life, perfect for nature photography.
  • Birdwatching Paradise: Home to over 400 bird species, including the rare Pel's fishing-owl.
  • Educational Tours: Learn about local conservation efforts and wildlife management.

3. Kuti Wildlife Reserve

Join guided game drives to discover a unique mixture of habitats, including forests and grasslands.
  • Diverse Habitats: Explore various ecosystems in one location, from woodlands to floodplains.
  • Rare Wildlife Encounters: Possibility of spotting African wild dogs, leopards, and rare antelope species.
  • Night Game Drives: Opportunity to observe nocturnal wildlife like genets, civets, and owls.

4. Kumarkawa Wildlife Sanctuary

Visit a pristine sanctuary teeming with birdlife and smaller mammals close to Lilongwe City.
  • Community-based Tourism: Support local initiatives by staying at community-owned lodges.
  • Birdwatching Opportunities: Over 300 bird species reside in the sanctuary, including the beautiful Lilian's lovebird.
  • Guided Nature Walks: Explore the sanctuary on foot and learn about local flora and fauna.

5. Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

Discover a vast wilderness of forests, grasslands, and rivers, home to elephants, hippos, and crocodiles.
  • Remote Wilderness: Escape the crowds and explore a pristine reserve.
  • Thrilling Boat Safaris: Explore the Rukuru River to observe hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife.
  • Elephant Encounters: High probability of spotting large herds of elephants.

6. Lengwe National Park

Roam the plains and forests in search of lions, leopards, and antelope in this scenic park.
  • Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hills and grasslands.
  • Rare Wildlife Encounters: Opportunity to spot the elusive African wild dog.
  • Guided Night Drives: Explore the park after dark to observe nocturnal wildlife.

7. Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve (Lake Angraa area)

Admire the unique landscape of Lake Angraa and its surrounding savannah, teeming with wildlife.
  • Lakeside Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Angraa and its surroundings.
  • Exclusive Wildlife Encounters: Small visitor numbers ensure a more intimate wildlife experience.
  • Guided Fishing Trips: Experience traditional fishing techniques and try your hand at catching tilapia.

8. Machinjiri Wildlife Reserve

Embark on a safari adventure in this secluded reserve, home to elephants, lions, and leopards.
  • Exclusive Safaris: Limited visitor numbers ensure a personalized wildlife experience.
  • Scenic River Crossings: Cross the pristine Mchinji River during your game drive.
  • Community-based Tourism: Support local initiatives by staying at community-owned lodges.

9. Mabura Forest Reserve

Explore a lush forest filled with diverse birdlife and smaller mammals near Lilongwe City.
  • Urban Oasis: A convenient escape from city life for nature lovers.
  • Birdwatching Paradise: Home to over 100 bird species, including the beautiful Narina Trogon.
  • Guided Walks: Explore the forest on foot with knowledgeable guides.

10. Thondwe Wildlife Reserve

Experience a diverse ecosystem teeming with wildlife in this secluded reserve.
  • Scenic Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of grasslands, forests, and wetlands.
  • Rare Wildlife Encounters: Opportunity to spot the elusive African wild dog and rare antelope species.
  • Eco-friendly Lodges: Stay at lodges committed to sustainability and minimizing environmental impact.

11. Mangochi Biodiversity Reserve

Discover a variety of habitats, from forests to wetlands, in this richly diverse reserve.
  • Diverse Habitats: Explore different ecosystems within one location.
  • Water-based Activities: Join boat safaris to observe wildlife along the shoreline.
  • Endangered Species Protection: Contribute to conservation efforts for endangered species like the African wild dog.

12. Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve

Roam the marshlands and forests in search of elephants, lions, and antelope in this scenic reserve.
  • Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hills and marshlands.
  • Rare Wildlife Encounters: Opportunity to spot the elusive African wild dog and sable antelope.
  • Guided Night Drives: Explore the reserve after dark to observe nocturnal wildlife.

13. Benga Wildlife Reserve

Embark on a safari adventure in this secluded reserve, home to elephants, lions, and antelope.
  • Exclusive Safaris: Limited visitor numbers ensure a personalized wildlife experience.
  • Scenic River Crossings: Cross the scenic Benga River during your game drive.
  • Community-based Tourism: Support local initiatives by staying at community-owned lodges.

14. Mtakataka Wildlife Reserve

Explore a vast wilderness of grasslands and forests in search of elephants, lions, and antelope.
  • Diverse Habitats: Explore different ecosystems within one location.
  • Rare Wildlife Encounters: Opportunity to spot the elusive African wild dog and rare antelope species.
  • Guided Night Drives: Explore the reserve after dark to observe nocturnal wildlife.

15. Dedza Potato Farm-Cum-Wildlife Reserve

Combine a visit to a working potato farm with opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
  • Unique Combination: Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience by visiting both a working farm and wildlife reserve.
  • Birdwatching Opportunities: Over 180 bird species reside in the reserve, including the beautiful Lilian's lovebird.
  • Guided Tours: Learn about local agriculture and wildlife while on guided tours.