Majete Wildlife Reserve

Pros & Cons

• Great wildlife viewing with all the Big Five present
• Beautiful landscape and river scenery
• Night drives, boat trips and walking safaris are available
• Elephant tracking on foot
• Stunning five-star lodge
• Only 140km² is developed for tourism and open to the public
• 4x4 vehicle needed for some of the roads, and essential in the Wet Season
• Some animals are still shy and difficult to find

Wildlife

Most of the wildlife in Majete has been reintroduced, including large numbers of elephant, buffalo, zebra, sable antelope, Lichtenstein's hartebeest, nyala and waterbuck. Several lions and black rhinos have also been brought in, as well as giraffe, although not indigenous to Malawi. The reserve boasts the largest variety of antelope species in the country including thicket-loving greater kudu. The 600-odd buffalo move around in huge herds, and the Shire river teems with hippos.

• More about Majete WR’s wildlife

Scenery

Terrain in the reserve is mostly brachystegia (miombo) woodland with rocky outcrops. One of these outcrops, the ‘view spot’, is a great place to get a sense of space and the wilderness overlooking the endless wooded hills. Kapichira Falls, reached by a short self-guided footpath, is worth a stop as well.

Weather & Climate

The climate in Majete is hot and tropical. Temperatures are relatively uniform throughout the year, though there is a distinct rise in humidity and temperature in October, just before the Wet season starts. December to February are the wettest months, and daily thunderstorms can be expected. The first half of the Dry season, June and July, is cooler, so bring warm clothing for early mornings.

• More about the weather and climate

Best Time To Visit

The best months for wildlife viewing are July to October in the Dry season, when animals are drawn to the river and waterholes. It can however be very hot in October, which might be difficult to bear. The scenery is lush and green in the Wet season months from November to April, but animals tend to be harder to find and the roads become difficult to navigate.

• More about the best time to visit

Want To Visit Majete WR?

Majete Safaris

• Majete Safaris & Tours
• Tour Operators for Majete