Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve
Wildlife & Animals
Malawi Parks
Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many guidebooks to African destinations, including the Bradt guide to Malawi.
Around 500 buffalo and 250 elephant are thought to be resident in Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve, along with small numbers of leopard and probably lion. Lake Kazuni, which lies at the entrance gate, feels like the heart of the park in wildlife-viewing terms. Hippos and crocodiles are a constant presence here, along with a good variety of waterbirds. It’s not unusual to see up to 100 elephants drinking or bathing in the lake, while buffalo lurk nearby on the floodplains.
Wildlife Highlights
Some antelope to look out for at the lake include puku, greater kudu, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest and roan. Deeper in the reserve, in thick mopane woodland, there is a chance of seeing sable antelope and zebra. Several species of carnivore are resident or occasional visitors, but sighting are very uncommon. These include spotted hyena, side-striped jackal, leopard, lion, caracal, serval and various mongooses.
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
The Dry season (May to October) is the prime time for wildlife watching in Vwaza Marsh, with ideal conditions from July onward. At this time, animals gather around the lake and other permanent water sources, and the thinner vegetation helps with wildlife spotting.
