Malawi’s second-largest park, a broad miombo and dambo landscape on the Zambian border. Long depleted, its elephant and buffalo are recovering with renewed protection and cross-border efforts, and its scenic Lifupa dam draws game in the dry season.
Ratings
Wildlife Density: ★★☆☆☆ Infrastructure: ★★☆☆☆ Photography: ★★★☆☆
Adventure: ★★★☆☆ Exclusivity: ★★★★☆ Price: $ Scenery: ★★★★☆
Key wildlife: Elephant, buffalo, antelope, hippo (recovering)
Best for: Quiet bush, recovery story, value
Best time: June–November (dry; game at Lifupa dam)
Wildlife & Ecology
Broad miombo woodland is broken by grassy drainage lines and seasonal water, supporting woodland antelope, elephant and rich birdlife. The habitat is extensive but animals are often shy and dispersed.
Best Time to Visit
June to October is dry and the most practical time to visit, with animals drawn towards Lifupa Dam. The wet season brings difficult tracks and low visibility in dense vegetation.
Conservation & Community
Recent protection efforts and transboundary cooperation with Zambia aim to rebuild elephant and other wildlife populations, though firm recovery numbers should be treated cautiously pending a current official survey.
Activities
Birding, walking and quiet self-drive exploration supplement standard drives; facilities and guide availability should be confirmed before travel.
How to Get There
Kasungu is about two to two-and-a-half hours by road from Lilongwe on a mostly paved route followed by park tracks. A high-clearance vehicle is advisable, especially after rain.