Lengwe National Park – Overview

Lengwe National Park was originally set aside to protect what was then the most northerly population of the beautiful nyala antelope. These days, however, it is easier to see nyala in the even more northerly Majete Wildlife Reserve (where a founding population was reintroduced from Lengwe in the 2000s). Otherwise, Lengwe is a rather low-key park that lacks most of the big safari animals. However, its well-priced lodge, wonderful birdlife, and accessibility make it a worthwhile self-drive destination.

Best Time To Go

July to September (Dry bush; animals are easy to find)

High Season

June to October (Though the park never gets very busy)

Size More info

887km² / 342mi²

Altitude More info

78-166m / 256-545ft

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Pros & Cons

• Low-key, off-the-beaten-track destination
• Comfortable mid-range lodge in the park
• Stronghold of the rare nyala antelope
• Game drives and walking safaris available
• Good bird watching
• Only one lodge, which is inaccessible during the Wet season
• Small park with limited road network
• Limited variety of wildlife

Wildlife

Lengwe is not a Big Five destination. Elephant, rhino and lion are entirely absent. If you are lucky, you might see buffalo, and possibly even leopard tracks, but these big cats are very seldom observed. The main attraction is the stately nyala antelope. Lengwe is also the only accessible place in Malawi where you might see blue monkey. Other mammals include impala, greater kudu, bushbuck, warthog, baboon and vervet monkey. Spotted hyena are often heard at night.

Scenery

Lengwe is in the Shire Valley and is mostly densely vegetated, especially along the rivers. The woodland savannah is dotted with pockets of impressive baobab and palm trees. Several waterholes are a focal point for wildlife in the Dry season (May to October).

Activities

The range of activities on offer is relatively limited. Self-guided game drives can be undertaken on the limited road network and offer an opportunity to look for nyala, buffalo and other wildlife. Walking safaris are also offered. In both cases, these activities will be highly rewarding to bird-watchers hoping to see local specials such as racket-tailed roller, Böhm’s bee-eater and crested guineafowl.

Weather & Climate

Lengwe has defined Dry (May to October) and Wet (November to April) seasons. During the Wet season, afternoon showers are common and humidity is high throughout the day. The Dry season months are cooler overall, although temperatures peak in October just before the rains start. The middle of the Dry season sees pleasant daytime temperatures and cold nights.

Best Time To Visit

The Dry season (May to October) is the best time for wildlife viewing in Lengwe, with ideal conditions from July to September. At this time, animals gather around the waterholes close to the camp and the accessible driving circuit. Daytime temperatures are quite pleasant in the middle of the Dry season, but it can get chilly at night. Warm clothing for early-morning game drives is recommended. Midday temperatures can be uncomfortably hot in October, at the end of the Dry season. The only accommodations in the park, Nyala Lodge is inaccessible during the Wet season (November to April), due to a bridge that collapsed a few years back. It generally only reopens in May.

Want To Visit Lengwe NP?

• Tour Operators for Lengwe