Liwonde National Park

Liwonde National Park is one of Malawi’s most iconic wildlife destinations, stretching along the banks of the Shire River and offering dramatic views into the Rift Valley through to the Zomba Plateau. Home to thriving populations of elephant, lion, black rhino, cheetah, wild dog, and hippo, it offers exceptional game viewing across diverse habitats — from lush riverbanks and cathedral mopane woodlands to open floodplains. With professionally guided safaris on foot, by vehicle, or by boat, this intimate wilderness experience makes Liwonde a park that rivals the very best in Africa.

A male lion rests in Liwonde National Park, a symbol of Malawi’s thriving wildlife.
Two young elephants engage in playful sparring on Liwonde National Park’s floodplains. Option 2 – slightly evocative:
An African wild dog rests in the grassy plains of Liwonde National Park.

Lake Malawi National Park

Lake Malawi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, protects the shimmering waters of Africa’s only unintroduced lake. Its crystal-clear depths are alive with colorful endemic cichlid fish, perfect for snorkeling and diving. The shoreline is lined with pristine sandy beaches and dramatic rocky outcrops, while abundant waterbirds and other smaller wildlife add life to the lakeside. A place where adventure, tranquility, and natural beauty meet to create an unforgettable experience.

A visitor sits on an island in Lake Malawi National Park, enjoying the tranquil waters of Africa’s only unintroduced lake.
Guests enjoy a sundowner cruise on Lake Malawi, with golden light reflecting across the lake’s pristine waters.
Mumbo Island rises from the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi, a highlight of the national park.

Nyika National Park

Nyika National Park, Malawi’s largest and most elevated park, is a breathtaking Afromontane wilderness of rolling grasslands, misty hills, and rugged plateaus. Its high-altitude environment is home to large populations of roan and eland antelope, Crawshay’s zebras, and the highest concentration of leopard in Malawi. The park’s rich biodiversity makes it a key destination on bird migration routes, with endemic plants and birds adding to its unique appeal. From scenic walks and guided drives to panoramic vistas across the northern highlands, Nyika offers a truly distinct safari experience for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking something different in Malawi.

Endemic plants dot the foreground of Nyika’s rolling hills, capturing the highland wilderness and biodiversity of Malawi’s northern plateau.
Among the rolling grasses of Nyika Massif, a roan antelope surveys its highland home in Malawi.
The Nyika Plateau bathed in the golden light of sunset, with clouds rolling over the highlands.

The Northern Lakeshore

The Northern Lakeshore of Malawi stretches along calm, turquoise waters dotted with small islands and fringed by gentle hills. Here, traditional fishing villages and quiet beaches offer a window into local life, while abundant birdlife and scenic landscapes provide inspiration for nature lovers and photographers. This region blends serene lakeside relaxation with opportunities for kayaking, boating, and immersive cultural experiences, making it a captivating complement to Malawi’s national parks.

A moonlit table set for two on the Northern Lakeshore, offering a serene lakeside dining experience.
Local fishermen head out onto Lake Malawi at sunset, continuing a timeless lakeshore tradition.
A guest enjoys a late-afternoon swim in the clear waters of Malawi’s Northern Lakeshore as the sun sets.

The South of Malawi

Southern Malawi Highlights include:

  • Zomba Plateau – Forested highlands, waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and walking trails overlooking the old colonial capital

  • Majete Wildlife Reserve – A major conservation success story, home to the Big Five and exceptional guided safari experiences

  • Thyolo Tea Estates – Rolling tea plantations, colonial heritage, and immersive cultural encounters

  • Mount Mulanje – Malawi’s highest peak, offering dramatic granite cliffs, hiking trails, and endemic flora

Southern Malawi is a region of rolling hills, fertile valleys, and vibrant culture, where tea estates, historic towns, and scenic landscapes come together. From the lush slopes of the Mulanje Massif to the patchwork of tea plantations around Thyolo, this area offers a deeper connection to Malawi’s people and heritage. Rich birdlife, walking trails, and cultural encounters make Southern Malawi an ideal complement to the country’s wildlife and lakeside experiences.

Off the Beaten Path

Off-the-Beaten-Track Highlights include:

  • Dedza – Highland scenery, local markets, renowned pottery traditions, and ancient rock art sites offering a deep cultural experience

  • Livingstonia – Historic mission settlement perched high above Lake Malawi, with dramatic views and walking trails

  • Mua Mission – A cultural and artistic center celebrating Malawi’s diverse traditions, history, and craftsmanship

  • Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve – Remote wilderness of wetlands and miombo woodland, rich in birdlife and big game

  • Kasungu National Park – Vast open landscapes and classic savanna, ideal for travelers seeking uncrowded safari experiences

  • South Luangwa National Park (Zambia) – Easily combined with Malawi, offering world-renowned walking safaris and exceptional wildlife viewing

Beyond Malawi’s well-known highlights lie remote landscapes and lesser-visited corners that reward the curious traveler. From quiet villages and hidden lakeshores to little-explored reserves and scenic backroads, these experiences offer a deeper connection to the country’s culture, people, and natural beauty. Ideal for guests seeking authenticity and discovery, Malawi’s off-the-beaten-track journeys reveal the soul of the Warm Heart of Africa.