Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many guidebooks to African destinations, including the Bradt guide to Malawi.
Although Malawi is not a prime wildlife destination, conservation is improving and wildlife numbers are increasing. Rhino was extinct in the country, but has been reintroduced into Liwonde and Majete, making Malawi a Big Five destination. Nyika has a high concentration of leopards, but overall big cats aren’t that easy to see. Elephants are common throughout and giraffe were recently introduced to Majete.
Wildlife Highlights
Malawi has a great variety of antelope, and some species considered quite rare in other countries are remarkably easy to spot. Roan antelope is the most common large antelope on Nyika Plateau. The graceful sable antelope is particularly common in Liwonde and although harder to find, it occurs in all other national parks as well. Other interesting antelope species include klipspringer and puku.
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
The best wildlife viewing time coincides with the Dry season (May to October) when water is scarce and animals congregate around waterholes and rivers. The bush is less dense at this time, and animals are easier to spot. From October until the rains, it can be very hot. Some roads might become impassable during the Wet season (November to April).
Wildlife Rating per Major Park
- Liwonde NP 3.8/5 11 Wildlife Ratings
- Majete WR 3.4/5 7 Wildlife Ratings
- Nyika NP 3.4/5 7 Wildlife Ratings
