Liwonde National Park is situated in the southern part of Malawi, 120 km North of Blantyre. Habitats include a mix of lagoons, marshes, open savannah and floodplain, mopane woodland and hills and of course the Shire River. This wide variety of habitat supports an incredible diversity of plant, animal and bird life. Game viewing boat trips are a highlight and offer excellent opportunities for seeing large herds of elephant, hippos and crocodiles. 

Seasons: Birding is best from Nov-April. The best time to view game is in the dry season from May-Oct. 

Wildlife: Wildlife includes quite large numbers of elephants and the river attracts countless hippos and crocodiles. Antelope include kudu, sable and bushbuck. There are lions and leopards and, more recently, the black rhino has been re-introduced. Birdlife is exceptionally varied. The river attracts fish eagles and weaver birds build their nests in the thin woodland. Pel's fishing owl is often seen at dusk along the river's edge. 

Precautions: Malaria area - minimize mosquito bites by wearing light, long sleeved clothing and using effective insect repellents (containing Diethyltoluamide DEET) on exposed skin. Sleep under treated mosquito netting or ensure that the doors and windows of your accommodation are screened against mosquitoes. Having a fan or air-conditioner on at night will further suppress mosquito activity. Currently, the three effective anti-malaria tablets are Mefloquine (Lariam or Mefliam), Doxycycline and Malarone (Malanil). It is still possible to contract malaria while on malaria prophylaxis. Note that Lariam may present serious side-effects - please test before you depart.