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Kasungu Overview

Kasungu National Park, known locally as “Kasungu National Park,” is Malawi’s second-largest protected area, encompassing approximately 2,316 square kilometers in the country’s central region. Established in 1970, the park is situated west of Kasungu town, near the Zambian border, and is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including miombo woodlands, rolling hills, and expansive grasslands.

The park’s terrain is predominantly composed of miombo woodlands interspersed with open savannas and dambos—seasonally flooded grasslands that provide vital water sources during the dry season. While Kasungu lacks significant mountain ranges or waterfalls, its undulating hills and the presence of Lifupa Dam offer scenic vistas and opportunities for wildlife observation. The dam, in particular, attracts various animal species, especially during the dry months, making it a focal point for visitors seeking to experience the park’s fauna.

Historically, Kasungu National Park was teeming with wildlife, including large populations of elephants, buffalo, and antelope. However, extensive poaching in the late 20th century led to a significant decline in animal numbers. In recent years, concerted conservation efforts have been implemented to restore the park’s biodiversity. A notable initiative was the translocation of 263 elephants from Liwonde National Park and Majete Wildlife Reserve to Kasungu in July 2022. This ambitious project, managed by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) in partnership with Malawi’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), aimed to bolster the elephant population and enhance genetic diversity within the park.

In addition to elephants, Kasungu is home to various mammal species, including hippos, zebras, and several antelope species. The park also boasts a rich avian diversity, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Species such as the African fish eagle, martial eagle, and various kingfishers can be observed, particularly around water bodies like Lifupa Dam.

Conservation efforts extend beyond wildlife translocation. IFAW, in collaboration with DNPW, has been working since 2015 to address challenges such as wildlife crime, infrastructure development, and capacity building within the park. Community involvement is central to these initiatives, recognizing that sustainable conservation is intertwined with the well-being of local populations. The Kasungu Wildlife Conservation for Community Development Association (KAWICCODA) exemplifies this approach, engaging communities in co-management agreements and promoting sustainable livelihoods that align with conservation goals.

Visitors to Kasungu National Park can engage in various activities, including game drives, bird watching, and guided walks. The park’s proximity to Lilongwe, approximately 175 kilometers away, makes it accessible for tourists seeking an authentic wilderness experience. Accommodations such as the Lifupa Conservation Lodge provide comfortable lodging with opportunities to observe wildlife congregating around the dam.

In summary, Kasungu National Park represents a significant conservation landscape in Malawi, reflecting both the challenges and successes inherent in wildlife preservation. Ongoing efforts to restore animal populations, combat poaching, and involve local communities are pivotal in ensuring that Kasungu remains a vibrant sanctuary for its diverse flora and fauna.

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Park Map
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Kasungu National Park Highlights

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Kasungu National Park, located in central Malawi, is a vast expanse of wilderness, home to a diverse array of species that thrive in its woodland savannas, grasslands, and wetlands.

African Elephant
These majestic herbivores roam the park’s open plains and dense woodlands, playing a vital role in shaping the ecosystem.

Cape Buffalo
Traveling in large herds, these formidable grazers contribute to maintaining the park’s grassland health through their feeding habits.

Leopard
Stealthy and elusive, the leopard is a master of camouflage, often seen in the park’s wooded areas.

Spotted Hyena
With their haunting calls, these scavengers and hunters are vital to the park’s ecological balance.

Greater Kudu
This elegant antelope, known for its spiral horns, prefers the cover of the park’s dense vegetation.

Roan Antelope
One of Africa’s largest antelope species, roan antelopes are often spotted grazing in the park’s savannas.

Warthog
Easily recognized by their tusks and sturdy build, warthogs forage for roots and tubers in the park’s grasslands.

Serval Cat
This agile and elusive predator is often found near wetlands, using its long legs to hunt rodents and birds.

Porcupine
A nocturnal herbivore, the porcupine is known for its spiny quills, which offer protection from predators.

Nile Crocodile
Lurking in the park’s rivers and waterholes, these apex predators maintain the balance of aquatic ecosystems.

Birds

Kasungu National Park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with its varied habitats attracting a rich diversity of avian species.

African Fish Eagle
With its iconic call and impressive wingspan, this bird of prey is often seen near the park’s water bodies.

Southern Ground Hornbill
A large terrestrial bird, it roams the park’s savannas in small groups, searching for insects and small prey.

Lilac-breasted Roller
Known for its vibrant plumage and acrobatic flight, this bird is a favorite among photographers.

Helmeted Guineafowl
Commonly found in flocks, these ground-dwelling birds forage for seeds and insects in the open plains.

Crested Barbet
A colorful and vocal bird, it thrives in the park’s wooded areas, often seen perched on branches.

Marabou Stork
A scavenger with a distinctive bald head, this bird is frequently spotted near waterholes and carcasses.

Black-crowned Night Heron
This nocturnal bird stalks the park’s wetlands, hunting for fish and amphibians under the cover of darkness.

White-faced Whistling Duck
With its melodic call and social nature, these ducks often gather in large flocks near the park’s water sources.

Green Wood Hoopoe
Easily recognizable by its metallic green plumage and curved bill, it forages in the park’s wooded areas.

Red-billed Hornbill
A lively bird often seen in pairs or small groups, its bright red bill stands out against the savanna backdrop.

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Engaging Kasungu National Park

Embark on an unforgettable game drive through Kasungu National Park’s expansive landscapes. These drives, led by knowledgeable guides, take visitors deep into the park’s wilderness to observe its iconic wildlife, from herds of elephants and buffalo to elusive leopards and spotted hyenas.

Morning and evening drives provide the best opportunities to spot animals during their most active hours. The experience is enriched with insights into animal behavior and the park’s conservation efforts, making it a perfect blend of adventure and education.

With its rich avian diversity, the park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Guided birdwatching tours lead visitors to key habitats, including wetlands, savannas, and woodlands, to observe species like the African Fish Eagle and Lilac-breasted Roller.

Equipped with binoculars and accompanied by expert ornithologists, participants gain a deeper appreciation for the park’s role in global bird conservation. These tours also highlight the interconnectedness of ecosystems, emphasizing the need to protect these vital habitats.

Visitors to Kasungu National Park have the unique opportunity to engage with the local communities that border the park. These interactions include traditional dance performances, visits to cultural heritage sites, and learning about local crafts and cuisine.

Such experiences not only provide insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage but also highlight the collaborative efforts between the park and its neighboring communities to promote sustainable tourism and wildlife conservation.

This activity offers a meaningful connection between people and nature, enhancing the overall experience of the park.