An exploration of African Parks’ journey to rehabilitate Malawi’s wildlife, starting in Majete Wildlife Reserve which was the very first park to enter their portfolio and now home to all the Big 5. In 2016 African Parks (Majete and Liwonde National Park) were able to restock Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve with not only 500 elephants but also several other herbivores. This was the largest and most significant elephant translocation ever seen; bringing much hope to the African elephants whose existence has been heavily threatened by poaching, habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict.

Mkulumadzi Lodge, in Majete Wildlife Reserve enjoys a stunning location on the confluence of two rivers. Majete Wildlife Reserve is one of the outstanding success stories of African conservation – including the reintroduction of endangered species. It has turned into a model of sustainable development and biodiversity. Today, therefore, you will find several beautiful animals. For example, elephants, leopards, rhinos, zebras, antelopes, buffaloes, lions and giraffe are found here. Majete is home to over 300 different species of birds, including four species of vultures and many bateleur eagles. Other bird highlights include the boulder chatterer, Livingstone flycatcher, Boehm’s bee-eater, cuckoo hawk, Pel’s fishing owl and rock pratincole.

Next stop Liwonde National Park, an ultimate safari retreat where you can experience the many activities on offer with complete privacy; from adventurous game drives to tranquil boat cruises along the grand Shire River, there is something for everyone. Located on a large open plain stretching towards the Shire River, you will find Kuthengo Camp. Liwonde is approximately 55,000 hectares in size. Its fertile environment makes it an attractive setting for wildlife. The park is home to crocodiles, hippos, elephants, antelopes, klipspringers, leopards, hyenas, wild dogs, cheetah, and lions. Black rhinos are also regularly spotted in Liwonde. Other commonly seen animals are roan, hartebeest and kudus. Liwonde is a wetland area and therefore a fine habitat for an incredible number of birds. The park is home to no less than around 400 different species of birds, such as Pel’s fishing owls, palm-nut vultures, ospreys and Lilian’s love birds.

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, home of Tongole Wilderness Lodge, is one of the imaging parks in Malawi, with increased animal populations over the years, especially after African Parks took over its management in 2015. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and lots of plains game. Visitors can enjoy walking safaris, trekking, or fishing in the reserve. Nkhotakota is also home to some of Malawi’s most important rivers, including the Bua River, which flows through the park and forms streams and waterfalls. For bird lovers, Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve is a true paradise. More than 280 different bird species have been recorded in the reserve, making it an Important Bird Area (IBA) according to Birdlife International. Some of the birds you can spot include giant kingfishers, black storks, fish eagles and palm-nut vultures.