Lilongwe is not necessarily your wildlife destination but there is plenty to see and do whilst here.
Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary – which houses Lilongwe Wildlife Centre. The centre is a sanctuary for rescued, orphaned, and injured wild animals; the only such in Malawi.
Day trip option: Chongoni Rock Art – A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Best visited with a drop in at Dedza Pottery (another excellent place to visit for wonderful pottery work, perfect souvenirs). Ancient rock paintings constituting the densest cluster of rock art in Central Africa. Covering the traditions of the Chewa agriculturalists and their cultural history and still have strong cultural relevance to the Chewa people.
Day trip option: Dzalanyama Forest Reserve – Offers great explorations by walking, trekking or mountain biking. Excellent flora and fauna. Keen birders are in for a treat with the rare species like the olive-headed weaver, miombo pied barbet, Boulder Chat, White Tailed Flycatcher, and many more. There are also some natural pools and streams worth a little dip.