Lengwe National Park
Wildlife & Animals
Malawi Parks
Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many guidebooks to African destinations, including the Bradt guide to Malawi.
Lengwe National Park doesn’t have a large variety of wildlife. Animals here are quite relaxed though, and this is a good place to enjoy the wildlife often overlooked in Big Five destinations. The only Big Five animal you are likely to see here is buffalo. There is quite a variety of antelope, including nyala, impala, duiker, bushbuck and the stately greater kudu.
Wildlife Highlights
The original reserve was first set aside to protect the beautiful nyala antelope, which can now also be seen at nearby Majete Wildlife Reserve. Another more difficult-to-spot antelope worth looking out for is the tiny suni. Spotted hyenas are seldom seen but their whooping and laughing can often be heard at night. In forested areas, look out for the localized samango monkey.
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
The Dry season (May to October) is the best time for viewing wildlife in Lengwe, with ideal conditions from July to September. Wildlife is easier to spot because the vegetation isn’t as thick and impenetrable, and animals gather around the waterholes.
