Liwonde National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike. From the iconic Big Five to the colorful array of birdlife, the park’s diverse ecosystem is teeming with life. Amidst this natural wonder, the carefully curated camps and lodges provide a perfect blend of comfort, conservation, and immersion in the African wilderness.
Whether you seek luxurious accommodation with panoramic river views or a rustic camping experience under ancient baobab trees, Liwonde’s top camps and lodges cater to various tastes and preferences. Each establishment promises personalized game drives, walking safaris, and boat cruises led by experienced guides who impart their knowledge and passion for the park’s unique flora and fauna.
Our comprehensive guide will take you on a journey through the best camps and lodges in Liwonde National Park, showcasing their commitment to sustainable tourism, community involvement, and wildlife conservation. Here are the best camps and lodges in Liwonde National Park in no particular order.
Mvuu Lodge
Mvuu Lodge is a luxurious and iconic safari lodge located in Liwonde National Park, Malawi. The name “Mvuu” means “hippo” in the local Chichewa language, and true to its name, the lodge is situated on the banks of the Shire River, where a plethora of wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles, thrive.
Mvuu Lodge offers a variety of comfortable and spacious accommodations, providing guests with an unforgettable wilderness experience. The lodge’s ten spacious tents are set on elevated platforms with thatched roofs, offering stunning views of the Shire River and the surrounding landscape. Each tent is tastefully decorated and equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a luxurious and relaxing stay in the heart of the African bush.
The central area of Mvuu Lodge is a welcoming and convivial space where guests can relax, socialize, and enjoy breathtaking views. The main lodge features a lounge, a bar, and a dining area, all overlooking the river. The lodge’s swimming pool provides a refreshing oasis, perfect for cooling off during the warm afternoons.
Mvuu Lodge offers a range of exciting activities that allow guests to explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of Liwonde National Park. Guided game drives offer the chance to encounter the park’s incredible array of wildlife, including elephants, antelopes, and an abundance of bird species.
Boat safaris on the Shire River provide unique opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds up close. Walking safaris led by experienced guides offer an intimate and educational exploration of the park’s ecosystems and smaller creatures.
Kuthengo Camp
Kuthengo Camp is a remote and exclusive safari lodge located in the heart of Liwonde National Park, Malawi. The camp is owned and operated by Robin Pope Safaris, a well-respected safari company known for its commitment to conservation and responsible tourism.
Kuthengo Camp offers an intimate and luxurious safari experience with just four elegantly furnished safari tents. Each tent is thoughtfully designed and strategically positioned to provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The tents feature comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms with hot showers, and private verandas, ensuring a cozy and relaxed stay amid the wilderness.
The main area of Kuthengo Camp consists of a spacious lounge, a well-stocked bar, and a dining area that overlooks a stunning lagoon. This communal space allows guests to socialize, swap safari stories, and enjoy the sounds of the African bush. An inviting swimming pool provides a refreshing spot to cool off during the warm afternoons.
Kuthengo Camp offers an array of activities that allow guests to explore the abundant wildlife of Liwonde National Park. Expert guides lead game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, providing excellent opportunities to spot elephants, lions, leopards, and other fascinating creatures that call the park home. Walking safaris offer an intimate and immersive experience, allowing guests to observe the smaller flora and fauna up close while learning about the park’s ecosystems.
A unique highlight of Kuthengo Camp is the boat safaris along the Shire River. These boat excursions provide unparalleled opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife that thrives in and around the river. The boat safaris also offer a different perspective of Liwonde National Park, showcasing its rich aquatic biodiversity and picturesque riverine landscapes.
Bushmans Baobabs
Bushmans Baobabs Camp is a unique and rustic safari camp located in Liwonde National Park, Malawi. This camp offers an authentic and immersive wilderness experience, allowing guests to connect with nature and the African bush in its purest form.
At Bushmans Baobabs Camp, guests stay in dome-shaped tents that blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. The tents are simple yet comfortable, providing all the essential amenities needed for a comfortable stay in the wilderness. The camp’s eco-conscious design ensures minimal environmental impact, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature while respecting the delicate ecosystem of Liwonde National Park.
Bushmans Baobabs Camp is strategically positioned in a secluded area under the shade of ancient baobab trees, offering an idyllic setting away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The camp’s remote location allows guests to experience a sense of solitude and serenity, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking an intimate connection with the African wilderness.
One of the unique aspects of Bushmans Baobabs Camp is the opportunity to embark on night drives. Night drives offer a chance to encounter nocturnal animals and observe the park’s wildlife in a completely different light. Additionally, with limited light pollution in the area, stargazing at the camp is a breathtaking experience, with the African night sky revealing a myriad of stars and constellations.
The heart of Bushmans Baobabs Camp is the communal campfire area, where guests gather in the evenings to share stories, enjoy delicious meals, and listen to the sounds of the African bush under the starlit sky. The campfire creates a warm and convivial atmosphere, fostering a sense of camaraderie among guests and immersing them in the romance of a traditional safari adventure.
Kapani Lodge
Kapani Lodge is a luxurious safari lodge located in Liwonde National Park, Malawi. The lodge is owned and operated by Robin Pope Safaris, a reputable safari company known for its commitment to conservation and responsible tourism.
Kapani Lodge offers spacious and stylish accommodations in its ten elegant chalets. Each chalet is beautifully designed and features a private deck with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The chalets are equipped with modern amenities and en-suite bathrooms, providing guests with a comfortable and luxurious stay in the heart of the African wilderness.
Kapani Lodge is strategically positioned along the banks of the Shire River, offering a picturesque setting that attracts a wide variety of wildlife. The lodge’s location allows guests to witness the incredible wildlife activity around the river, including elephants, hippos, and an array of bird species that inhabit the riverbanks.
The main area of Kapani Lodge consists of a spacious lounge, a well-stocked bar, and a dining area that overlooks the river. This communal space provides a relaxed and convivial atmosphere for guests to socialize, share safari stories, and enjoy delicious meals. An inviting swimming pool offers a refreshing spot to cool off and enjoy the panoramic views of the river and the surrounding landscapes.
Kapani Lodge offers a range of exciting activities that allow guests to explore the diverse wildlife of Liwonde National Park. Expert guides lead game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, providing excellent opportunities to spot a variety of animals, including the Big Five. Walking safaris offer a more intimate and educational exploration of the park’s ecosystems and smaller creatures, providing a deeper connection to the natural environment.
One of the highlights of Kapani Lodge is its boat safaris along the Shire River. These boat excursions provide unique opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, and a multitude of birdlife that thrives in and around the river.
Liwonde Safari House
Liwonde Safari House offers a private and secluded setting, making it an ideal choice for families or small groups of travelers. The house typically features comfortable bedrooms, a lounge area, dining facilities, and a private deck where guests can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
Liwonde Safari House offers a private and secluded setting, making it an ideal choice for families or small groups of travelers. The house typically features comfortable bedrooms, a lounge area, dining facilities, and a private deck where guests can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
As the house is located within Liwonde National Park, guests staying at Liwonde Safari House have excellent opportunities for wildlife encounters. Expert guides lead private game drives and walking safaris, tailored to the preferences and interests of the group. Guests can explore the diverse landscapes of the park and observe its rich wildlife, including elephants, antelopes, hippos, and a variety of bird species.
One of the main attractions of Liwonde Safari House is the personalized experience it offers. With exclusive use of the house, guests can have a more flexible safari schedule, allowing for tailored activities and game drives based on individual interests. The private safari experience allows for a deeper connection to the natural surroundings and a more intimate encounter with the wildlife.
Being a private house, Liwonde Safari House provides guests with a high level of privacy and seclusion. The exclusive setting ensures that guests can relax and unwind in the tranquil ambiance of the African bush, away from the crowds.
Tongole Wilderness Lodge
Tongole Wilderness Lodge is nestled on the banks of the Bua River, surrounded by miombo woodlands and picturesque landscapes. The lodge’s remote location in the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve ensures an exclusive and tranquil setting, allowing guests to connect with nature and wildlife in its undisturbed state.
The lodge features spacious and beautifully designed tented chalets, each overlooking the river and offering breathtaking views. The chalets are elegantly furnished with all the modern amenities, including en-suite bathrooms, private decks, and outdoor showers. Tongole Wilderness Lodge prides itself on blending luxury with eco-consciousness, ensuring minimal environmental impact while providing guests with a comfortable and unforgettable stay.
The main lodge area at Tongole features a lounge, bar, and dining area, all offering panoramic views of the river and the surrounding wilderness. The lodge’s infinity pool provides a refreshing spot to cool off while taking in the serene ambiance. The communal areas are designed to create a warm and convivial atmosphere where guests can relax, socialize, and swap safari stories.
Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, leopards, and various antelope species. At Tongole Wilderness Lodge, guests can embark on guided game drives and walking safaris led by experienced guides, providing excellent opportunities to encounter these fascinating animals and learn about the reserve’s ecosystems.
Chinguni Hills Lodge
Chinguni Hills Lodge is an intimate and charming safari lodge located in Liwonde National Park. Chinguni Hills Lodge offers comfortable and well-appointed chalets or safari tents, designed to provide guests with a cozy and relaxed stay in the heart of the African bush. The camp’s accommodations are typically designed with an eco-friendly approach, ensuring minimal environmental impact while offering essential amenities for a comfortable stay.
The lodge is situated on a picturesque hilltop, providing breathtaking views of the Shire River and the surrounding floodplains. The elevated location allows guests to enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets, creating a memorable and serene experience in the wilderness.
Chinguni Hills Lodge offers guided game drives and walking safaris led by experienced guides who have extensive knowledge of the park’s wildlife and ecosystems. Guests have the opportunity to encounter a diverse array of animals, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species that inhabit the park.
As the lodge is located away from urban centers and light pollution, Chinguni Hills Lodge offers excellent stargazing opportunities. On clear nights, the African sky comes alive with countless stars, providing a magical and awe-inspiring experience for guests.
Like many responsible safari operators, Chinguni Hills Lodge is committed to community involvement and sustainability. The lodge supports local communities through various initiatives, ensuring that tourism benefits the people living nearby.
Liwonde Safari Camp
Liwonde Safari Camp is a private tented camp that offers an intimate and exclusive safari experience within the park. Here’s more information about the camp:
Liwonde Safari Camp typically offers spacious and comfortable safari-style tents, providing guests with a close connection to nature without compromising on essential amenities. The camp’s accommodations are designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment, creating a genuine bush experience.
The camp’s location is usually situated strategically within the Liwonde National Park, ensuring guests are surrounded by wildlife and the beautiful landscapes of the park. Being inside the park allows for an immersive safari experience and the chance to witness wildlife right from the camp.
Liwonde Safari Camp offers a variety of guided safari activities, such as game drives and walking safaris. Expert guides lead guests through the park, providing valuable insights into the diverse flora and fauna that call Liwonde home. The park is known for its population of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and various bird species.
As a private camp, Liwonde Safari Camp typically caters to a limited number of guests, creating a more personalized and intimate experience. Guests have the opportunity to tailor their safari activities and schedules according to their interests and preferences.
Like many responsible safari operators, Liwonde Safari Camp is committed to conservation and community involvement. The camp actively supports conservation efforts in Liwonde National Park and collaborates with local communities to ensure that tourism positively impacts the livelihoods of the people living in the area.
Liwonde Safari Camp offers an intimate and exclusive safari experience in Liwonde National Park. With its private and secluded setting, personalized activities, and diverse wildlife encounters, the camp promises an unforgettable and immersive safari adventure in one of Malawi’s most cherished national parks.