Things To Do
in Liwonde
Liwonde is a small town in southern Malawi sitting along the Shire River and near Liwonde National Park. It serves as a laid-back gateway to riverine safaris, wildlife viewing, and nearby villages. The town blends rural Malawian life with lodge hospitality, making it a relaxed base for nature lovers.
Visitors can expect warm hospitality, easy access to wildlife, and scenic sunsets over the riverfront.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Liwonde National Park and settle into your eco-lodge, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the park’s layout and available activities. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while soaking in the stunning views of the Shire River.
Join a guided walking safari to observe the diverse wildlife that inhabits the park. Learn about the local flora and fauna from your experienced guide, while keeping an eye out for elephants, antelopes, and various bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic spot within the park.
As the sun sets, take a serene boat cruise along the Shire River, offering a perfect opportunity to spot hippos and crocodiles. Experience the vibrant colors of the African sunset reflected on the water. Conclude your day with a delicious dinner under the stars, followed by storytelling around the campfire.
Set out early for a game drive to witness the wildlife at dawn when animals are most active. With your camera ready, keep an eye out for lions, leopards, and various antelope species as you traverse the park's roads. A hearty breakfast awaits you upon returning to your lodge.
Visit the Liwonde National Park's Interpretation Centre to learn more about conservation efforts and local ecosystems. Interact with park staff to understand the challenges and successes of wildlife conservation in Malawi. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at your lodge, perhaps trying local Malawian dishes.
Participate in a night safari where you’ll get a chance to meet nocturnal species that come alive after dark. Guided by knowledgeable rangers, look for bushbabies, genets, and the elusive nightjars. Return to your lodge for dinner, sharing stories and experiences of the day with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥪Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🛏️1 night in budget hotel | $25-40 |
| 🚲Bicycle rental (per day) | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to Liwonde National Park and wildlife
- Warm local hospitality and affordable prices
- Limited nightlife and advanced medical facilities within town
- Public transport can be infrequent; plan private transfers or lodge arrangements
- "Moni" - Hello
- "Muli bwanji?" - How are you?
- "Zikomo" - Thank you
- "Pepani" - Sorry
- "Ndikufuna chakudya" - I would like to eat / I am looking for food
Places to Visit in Liwonde
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic morning light, water reflections, and abundant wildlife along the river’s edge.
Elevated vantage over savanna and river channels with opportunities for silhouette photography at dawn or dusk.
Old bridge framing river scenes and village life with sunset backdrops.
Food in Liwonde
Liwonde Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Maize porridge served with river fish (Chambo) and vegetables; a core Malawian staple.
Must-Try!
Fresh river fish, typically grilled or fried, often served with nsima and greens.
Sweet fried dough snacks popular with tea or coffee at markets and lodges.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local stalls selling fresh produce, maize, leafy greens, fish, and roasted corn.
Roasted maize, fried dough snacks, and sugar cane juice along main routes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a friendly handshake and a warm greeting; politeness goes a long way.
Dress modestly in rural areas; cover shoulders and knees when visiting villages or religious sites.
Ask permission before photographing people; offer small tips when appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Liwonde
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for guides, boat crews, and lodge staff when not included in service charges; typical amounts vary by service.
Cash (Malawian Kwacha) is widely used; US dollars are accepted in many lodges; credit card acceptance is limited in smaller towns; ATMs are mostly in larger towns and airports.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant days with cooler mornings; excellent wildlife viewing away from dense vegetation; mosquitos less pervasive but still present in evenings.
Hot and humid with regular rain showers; lush green landscapes; river levels rise; mosquito prevention is important.
Liwonde at Night
Hiking in Liwonde
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and panoramic viewpoints on the Zomba Plateau; a day trip from Liwonde.
Scenic riverbank hikes with birdlife and river views near Liwonde.
Airports
How to reach Liwonde by plane.
Kamuzu International Airport; main gateway to central Malawi; longer road transfer to Liwonde.
Regional hub closer to Liwonde; shorter road transfer compared with Lilongwe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major southern Malawi communities; Chichewa is widely spoken; warm, traditional hospitality.
Mix of local residents in villages and visitors staying at lodges; tourism infrastructure supports a small expatriate presence.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local matches and informal games common in towns.
Popular recreational sport, especially among women and youth groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Liwonde.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many kitchens can accommodate vegetarian meals; ask for nsima with greens, beans, matooke, or lentil stews, and avoid fish-based dishes if needed.