1 / 2

Liwonde National Park

About Liwonde National Park

Located in southern Malawi, Liwonde National Park runs alongside the Shire River and Lake Malombe. The Park is home to an abundance of wildlife, offering visitors the opportunity to see elephants, hippos, leopards and endangered black rhinos in their natural environment, as well as crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks of the river.

When to visit

The best time to visit Liwonde National Park is during the dry season, from May to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak.

Spring · Sep, Oct, Nov

Spring in Liwonde National Park, spanning from September to November, brings a vibrant atmosphere as the park transitions from the dry season. The vegetation starts to revive with fresh greenery, and the temperatures are mild, making it a pleasant time for game drives and boat safaris. Wildlife is still concentrated around water sources, providing excellent opportunities for viewing elephants, hippos, and various antelope species. Birdwatchers can spot migratory birds arriving, adding to the park's diverse avian population.

Summer · Dec, Jan, Feb

During the summer months of December to February, Liwonde National Park experiences its rainy season. While the rains can make some areas muddy and challenging to navigate, they also bring life to the landscape. The park's scenery becomes lush and green, and the Shire River swells, enhancing the boat safari experience. Wildlife can be more dispersed due to the abundance of water, but the lush environment and the presence of newborn animals make it a fascinating time to visit. Be prepared for humid conditions and occasional downpours.

Autumn · Mar, Apr, May

Autumn in Liwonde, from March to May, marks the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the dry period. The park remains verdant, and the weather becomes more temperate with less rainfall. This period is ideal for spotting a wide variety of wildlife as the grass is still high but starts to recede, improving visibility. The cooler temperatures are comfortable for both morning and evening safaris. The park is less crowded during this time, offering a more intimate wildlife viewing experience.

Winter · Jun, Jul, Aug

Winter, from June to August, is the dry season in Liwonde National Park. The landscape turns golden-brown, and water sources become scarce, drawing animals to the Shire River and other remaining waterholes. This is the prime time for wildlife viewing, with large concentrations of elephants, buffalo, and predators like lions and leopards. The weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities. This period is also ideal for boat safaris, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species up close.