Malawi Safari Animals: 12 Species Guide

Last updated: July 2026

Malawi safaris let you see the Big Five, hippos, crocodiles, and diverse antelope species across Liwonde and Majete parks. The best time to visit is May to October when wildlife is concentrated near water sources. A 7-day safari costs $1,800–$4,500 per person depending on lodging and park choices.

What Are Malawi Safari Animals?

Malawi safari animals include the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino) plus hippos, crocodiles, and diverse antelope species. The country's parks host over 400 bird species and smaller predators like wild dogs and hyenas. Malawi is not as crowded as Kenya or Tanzania, so you often see animals with fewer tourists around.

The Big Five can be seen in Malawi's flagship reserves, particularly Majete Wildlife Reserve. Majete's granite hills and miombo woodlands shelter all five species, with elephants and buffalo easiest to spot. Liwonde National Park, meanwhile, offers excellent hippo viewing along the Shire River.

Malawi's wildlife diversity makes it a unique safari destination. You can find caracals, servals, and other smaller cats alongside warthogs, zebras, and impalas. The combination of riverine habitats and woodland means you see different species in different seasons.

The Big Five in Malawi: Where to Find Them

Lions and Leopards

Lions and leopards inhabit Malawi's protected reserves, though sightings require patience and good guides. Majete Wildlife Reserve is your best bet for both species. Lions prefer open grasslands and woodland edges, while leopards hunt in riverine forests and rocky outcrops.

Early morning and late afternoon game drives increase your chances of seeing these big cats. Lions are more active in cooler hours when they hunt or move between territories. Leopards are nocturnal hunters, so night drives with experienced guides offer better sightings.

Elephants and Buffalo

Elephants and buffalo are the easiest Big Five members to spot in Malawi. Large herds roam Majete and Liwonde, especially during dry season (May–October). Liwonde National Park hosts large elephant populations that gather at the Shire River.

Elephants need water daily, so they visit rivers and waterholes regularly. Buffalo move in herds of 50–200 animals, making them highly visible. Both species are most active in early morning and late afternoon when temperatures drop.

Rhinos

Black rhinos are present in Malawi but remain rare and elusive. Majete Wildlife Reserve protects a small population as part of African rhino conservation efforts. Spotting a rhino requires patience and skilled guides who know their favorite habitats.

Rhinos prefer thick bush and rocky areas where they can hide. Your guide will look for fresh tracks, dung, and browse marks to locate them. Early morning walks with experienced trackers offer your best chance.

Ready to book your Malawi safari? Explore 7-day Malawi safari packages from $1,800 with verified operators on SafariFind.

Hippos and Crocodiles: River Giants

Hippos are found in large numbers throughout Malawi's waterways, almost symbolic of the country's wildlife experience. Liwonde National Park is famous for massive hippo populations concentrated in the Shire River floodplain grasslands. You'll see dozens of hippos during a single game drive along the river.

Hippos spend days submerged in water to keep cool, emerging at dusk to graze. They are unpredictable and dangerous, so guides maintain safe distances. Early morning and late afternoon river cruises offer excellent hippo viewing opportunities.

Crocodiles inhabit the Shire River and other water bodies throughout Malawi. These prehistoric hunters sun themselves on riverbanks and in shallow water. Nile crocodiles can grow over 16 feet long, making them formidable apex predators.

River cruises and boat safaris let you observe hippos and crocodiles up close. The Shire River floodplain grasslands are particularly rich in both species. Water-based tours are gentler on your back than long game drives and offer unique perspectives.

For a comprehensive view of what Malawi offers, read how Malawi compares to Kenya and Tanzania for safari wildlife.

Antelope Species and Smaller Predators

Sable and Waterbuck Antelope

Malawi's antelope diversity is stunning, including sable and waterbuck species. Sable antelope are striking animals with long curved horns, found in woodlands and grasslands. Waterbucks prefer areas near water and are easily spotted along rivers and waterholes.

Impalas are the most common antelope you'll encounter in any Malawi national park. They're incredibly beautiful but often overlooked by tourists distracted by bigger animals. Many guides skip impala sightings, but their grace and behavior are worth observing.

Kudus, reedbucks, and other antelope species share Malawi's parks. Kudus are large, shy antelope with spiral horns, while reedbucks are small and delicate. Each species occupies different habitats and feeding zones.

Wild Dogs and Hyenas

Wild dogs are highly social predators living in packs of 5–15 animals. They hunt cooperatively with incredible success rates, chasing prey at speeds over 40 mph. Spotting wild dogs is a privilege reserved for lucky safari-goers with patient guides.

Spotted hyenas are common in Malawi's parks, though often seen at night. These powerful carnivores have a bite force stronger than lions. They're intelligent scavengers and skilled hunters, not just the comedic animals portrayed in movies.

Both wild dogs and hyenas play crucial roles in ecosystem balance. They control herbivore populations and clean up carcasses. Night drives increase your chances of spotting these nocturnal predators.

Other Notable Malawi Safari Animals

Warthogs and Zebras

Warthogs are quirky animals you'll see regularly across Malawi's parks. They run backward when chased, with tails held high like antennas. Despite their comical appearance, they're surprisingly aggressive when protecting piglets.

Zebras roam grasslands and open woodlands throughout Malawi. These striped equines are social animals living in family groups. Each zebra's stripe pattern is unique, like a fingerprint.

Caracals and Servals

Caracals and servals are smaller wild cats that hunt rodents and small mammals. Both are elusive and nocturnal, making sightings rare but memorable. Servals have long legs and spotted coats, perfectly adapted for grassland hunting.

These cats are rarely seen during day game drives. Night safaris and early morning walks offer better chances. Your guide's knowledge of animal behavior and habitat preferences is essential.

Birds and Smaller Wildlife

Malawi hosts over 400 bird species, making it a paradise for birders. Eagles, kingfishers, and hornbills are commonly spotted. The variety rivals any African destination.

Smaller animals like porcupines, genets, and civets are nocturnal and rarely seen. However, their presence shapes the ecosystem and food web. Night drives sometimes reveal these mysterious creatures.

Best Parks for Seeing Malawi Safari Animals

Majete Wildlife Reserve

Majete Wildlife Reserve is Malawi's flagship reserve with all the Big Five. The granite hills, miombo woodlands, and riverine landscapes create diverse habitats. About 12,000 animals share this reserve, including large elephant and buffalo herds.

Majete offers excellent game drives, walking safaris, and river cruises. The reserve is less crowded than parks in Kenya or Tanzania. Your guides are highly trained in wildlife tracking and conservation.

Accommodation ranges from budget camps to luxury lodges. Compare Malawi safari lodges by budget and park location to find your perfect fit.

Liwonde National Park

Liwonde National Park is famous for massive hippo populations along the Shire River. The floodplain grasslands attract elephants, buffalo, leopards, and crocodiles. This park is ideal for water-based safaris and bird watching.

River cruises are a highlight here, letting you observe hippos and crocodiles at close range. The park's riverine forests host diverse bird species. Walking safaris explore woodland trails away from crowds.

Liwonde offers both budget and mid-range lodges. The park is accessible year-round, though May–October offers best wildlife concentration.

Other Notable Parks

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve and Kasungu National Park also host diverse wildlife. These reserves are less visited, offering a quieter safari experience. Elephant populations and antelope species thrive in their woodlands.

Choosing between parks depends on your interests and budget. Explore night safaris versus river tours in Malawi packages to customize your experience.

When to See Malawi Safari Animals

The best time to visit Malawi for wildlife is May to October. During this dry season, animals concentrate around water sources, making them easier to spot. Vegetation is thinner, improving visibility during game drives.

July and August are peak season with the coolest temperatures and most reliable wildlife sightings. However, parks are busier and prices higher. September and October offer good wildlife viewing with fewer crowds.

November to April is the rainy season. Animals disperse into lush vegetation, making sightings harder. However, birding is excellent and prices drop significantly. Learn about peak wildlife season and daily costs in Malawi.

Each season offers unique benefits. Dry season guarantees more sightings. Wet season provides lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Choose based on your priorities and budget.

Planning Your Malawi Safari

What to Bring

Pack neutral-colored clothing in earth tones—browns, tans, and greens. Bright colors startle animals. Long sleeves and pants protect from sun and insects. Bring a quality camera with a good zoom lens to capture distant wildlife.

Binoculars are essential for bird watching and spotting distant animals. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses protect from the intense African sun. Comfortable walking boots are crucial for walking safaris.

Booking Your Safari

Book your Malawi safari 3–6 months in advance for better prices and availability. SafariFind connects you with verified tour operators offering transparent pricing and authentic reviews. Request quotes from multiple operators to compare packages and services.

A typical 7-day safari costs $1,800–$4,500 per person depending on lodging quality and park choices. Budget safaris use basic camps; luxury options offer high-end lodges. Mid-range packages provide excellent value and comfort.

Hiring a Guide

Your guide makes or breaks your safari experience. Experienced guides know animal behavior, tracking skills, and park geography. Ask operators about guide training, languages spoken, and customer reviews.

Tip your guide generously—usually $10–15 per day. A good guide shares knowledge, finds animals, and ensures safety. Building rapport with your guide enhances your entire experience.

Conclusion

Malawi safari animals offer an incredible African wildlife experience without the crowds of Kenya or Tanzania. The Big Five roam Majete Wildlife Reserve, while hippos and crocodiles dominate Liwonde National Park's Shire River. Diverse antelope species, wild dogs, and over 400 bird species create a wildlife paradise.

The best time to visit is May to October when animals gather near water sources. A 7-day safari costs $1,800–$4,500 per person in 2026, making Malawi an affordable safari destination. Hiring an experienced guide dramatically improves your sighting success and overall experience.

Start planning your Malawi adventure today. Compare verified safari packages on SafariFind to find operators with authentic reviews and transparent pricing. Request quotes from multiple operators, read traveler feedback, and choose the package that matches your budget and wildlife priorities. Your Malawi safari awaits in 2026.

Plan Your Safari with SafariFind

These recommendations use real data from SafariFind, where you can compare operators, browse packages, and read verified traveler reviews before you book.

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References

1. IUCN Red List assessments: Lake Malawi/Nyasa/Niassa Catchment freshwater species
2. International Fund for Animal Welfare: 12 animals that help people and the planet
3. SafariFind: Malawi Safari Animals Complete Species Guide by Park
4. Wanderlust Magazine: A wildlife guide to Malawi, Africa's unsung safari destination
5. Malawi Tourism: Safaris and Wildlife
6. SafariBookings: Malawi Animals and Wildlife
7. 1-2 Travel Africa: Our 7 favorite safari animals in Malawi
8. Bwindi Forest National Park: Malawi Safari Cost and Destination Guide