Liwonde National Park lines the Shire River with dense pods of hippos, best seen on a gentle boat safari that drifts past them alongside elephants and crocodiles. Now beautifully restored and easy to combine with Lake Malawi, Liwonde makes for a relaxed, affordable river-wildlife trip. The dry season from May to October pulls the animals to the water and peaks around August.
Liwonde National Park lines the Shire River with dense pods of hippos, best seen on a gentle boat safari that drifts past them alongside elephants and crocodiles. Now beautifully restored and easy to combine with Lake Malawi, Liwonde makes for a relaxed, affordable river-wildlife trip. The dry season from May to October pulls the animals to the water and peaks around August.
Up to 86% sighting chance in Liwonde National Park, Shire River, Malawi. Best months: August, July, September.
Yes, the Shire River holds large hippo pods that are reliably seen on boat safaris, often within metres.
Since its restoration Liwonde has elephants, black rhinos, cheetahs and even reintroduced lions, alongside crocodiles and rich birdlife.
Boat safaris run roughly 40 to 70 USD per person (2026 prices), with lodges and community camps at a range of budgets.
