Liwonde National Park

Liwonde Overview

Liwonde National Park, known locally as “Liwonde National Park,” is one of Malawi’s premier wildlife reserves, located in the Southern Region near the Mozambique border. Established in 1973, the park covers approximately 548 square kilometers of diverse ecosystems, including woodlands, dry savannahs, and riverine habitats along a 30-kilometer stretch of the Shire River.

The park’s landscape is characterized by the meandering Shire River, which serves as a lifeline for the abundant wildlife, especially during the dry season. While Liwonde does not feature significant mountains or waterfalls, its scenic beauty is enhanced by the Chinguni and Kadangusi hills, which provide gentle elevations and picturesque vistas.

Liwonde National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and antelope species such as sable and waterbuck. Predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards have been reintroduced, contributing to the restoration of the park’s ecological balance. The park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with over 400 bird species recorded, including the African fish eagle and Pel’s fishing owl.

In recent years, Liwonde has been the focus of significant conservation efforts. In 2015, African Parks, in partnership with Malawi’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife, assumed management of the park. This collaboration led to the removal of over 40,000 wire snares and the reintroduction of key species, including cheetahs in 2017, lions in 2018, and wild dogs in 2021.

In 2022, a major translocation project moved 263 elephants and 431 other animals from Liwonde to Kasungu National Park to reduce pressure on Liwonde’s habitats and establish viable populations elsewhere.

Community involvement has been central to Liwonde’s conservation success. Engaging local communities through education and sustainable livelihood programs has fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility towards the park’s preservation. This approach has been instrumental in reducing human-wildlife conflict and promoting coexistence.

Visitors to Liwonde National Park can enjoy a range of activities, including game drives, boat safaris on the Shire River, and guided walking tours. The park’s accessibility and well-developed infrastructure make it a popular destination for tourists seeking an authentic African safari experience.

In summary, Liwonde National Park exemplifies successful conservation through collaborative management and community engagement. Its diverse wildlife, scenic landscapes, and ongoing restoration efforts make it a cornerstone of Malawi’s natural heritage.