Malawi, known as the ‘Warm Heart of Africa,’ offers a more relaxed and intimate wildlife experience compared to its larger safari neighbours. While not traditionally considered a big-game safari destination, Malawi is undergoing a conservation renaissance, with rewilding projects and growing populations of iconic African wildlife, including the Big Five. From the savannahs of Liwonde and the plateaus of Nyika to the underwater wonders of Lake Malawi, Malawi offers a unique backdrop for a diverse range of species.
Malawi’s wildlife is concentrated in its national parks and game reserves, with the jewel in the crown being Liwonde National Park. Here, elephants are plentiful, often seen along the Shire River. Hippos and crocodiles are also a highlight, basking on the riverbanks or wallowing in the water. Nyika National Park, set on a high-altitude plateau, offers a unique safari experience with rolling grasslands and species like roan antelope and zebras. The park’s cooler climate is a stark contrast to the lowland reserves.
The Big Five
Malawi now proudly offers the Big Five thanks to reintroduction programs. Lions and black rhinos, reintroduced to Majete Wildlife Reserve, have flourished, making this one of the best places in the country to see all five iconic species. Once depleted by poaching, the reserve has been transformed into a thriving wildlife haven thanks to rewilding efforts. Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve is also part of these conservation efforts, with growing populations of elephants and other species.
Unique species
Malawi is home to several unique and lesser-seen species. Nyika National Park is known for its large population of roan antelope, one of the park’s signature species. The park is also a stronghold for eland, the largest antelope species. Birdlife is abundant, with special sightings such as the wattled crane, denham’s bustard, and boehm’s bee-eater. The rare Malawi blue swallow can be found in the highlands, making it a sought-after species for birdwatchers.
Birds and aquatic life
There are more than 650 recorded species of birds in Malawi. The wetlands and riverbanks of Liwonde and Majete attract fish eagles, herons and kingfishers. In Nyika, montane species like the red-winged francolin and bar-tailed trogon can be spotted. Meanwhile, Lake Malawi, Africa’s third-largest lake, is a biodiversity hotspot for freshwater fish. Known as the ‘Lake of Stars,’ it is home to more species of fish than any other lake in the world, including hundreds of colourful cichlids. Snorkelling or diving in Lake Malawi offers an unparalleled chance to see these vibrant fish up close..
Endangered wildlife
Malawi plays a vital role in conserving endangered species. Black rhinos, reintroduced to Majete and Liwonde, are carefully protected through anti-poaching initiatives. African wild dogs, one of the continent’s rarest predators, have been reintroduced to Liwonde, where they are beginning to thrive. The elephant translocation program, which moved hundreds of elephants from overpopulated areas to Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, is another landmark conservation effort..
Something different
Malawi’s wildlife experience stands out for its intimate and less commercialised approach. In Liwonde, boat safaris on the Shire River provide a unique perspective on elephants, hippos and crocodiles. Walking safaris in Majete and Nkhotakota offer a closer connection to the bush and its smaller, fascinating creatures. Lake Malawi is a wildlife destination in itself, with snorkelling, kayaking, and diving opportunities that immerse you in its underwater ecosystem. The lake’s clear waters and sandy beaches also attract African fish eagles, which can often be seen swooping down to catch fish..
If these wildlife species of Malawi impress you and you’re dreaming of a holiday in Malawi we’d love to help. Please do reach out via telephone or email.
Get in touch
