Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserves
Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve is located approximately three hours from Lilongwe, in the east central of Malawi. It is about 10km off the M5 which follows the shores of Lake Malawi. It borders with Kasungu, Mzimba and Ntchisi Districts. The reserve extends from the edge of the escarpment above the Great Rift Valley at 1,638m (5374 ft) down to the narrow plain beside Lake Malawi at 500 to 600m (1640 to 1970 ft). The terrain is rugged and wild, with the rough slopes and ridges being much disserted by rivers and gorges. The land slopes from west to east, and is carved by three major rivers leading to Lake Malawi.
Managed by African Parks in collaboration with Malawi’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife since 2015. Between July 2016 and August 2017, African Parks successfully relocated a total of 520 elephants and 2000 animals including sable, waterbuck, kudu and impala, from Liwonde National Park and Majete Wildlife Reserve to Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserves. This was one of the largest relocations of elephants ever recorded in the history of the world. The elephant’ return to the reserve has established it as an important ecotourism attraction.
Where To Stay
About Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve
At 1,800km2, Nkhotakota is the oldest and largest wildlife reserve in Malawi, as well as one of its wildest and most unspoilt. It is a place of remarkable contrasts, from rolling hills to treacherous cliffs, gently lapping pools of the Bua River to spectacular rapids, and peaceful woodland glades to thick forest. Miombo woodland is interspersed with grassland and cut through by several rivers, while Chipata Mountain provides an evergreen forest, a place to hike and a scenic backdrop.
Thanks to reintroductions in 2016, 2017 and 2022, game viewing is excellent, from herds of elephant to buffalo, eland, impala, kudu, waterbuck, warthog, sable, zebra, and hartebeest.
Things To Do
Explore Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve: This reserve is one of the largest and oldest in Malawi, covering an area of over 1,800 square kilometers. Embark on a safari and spot a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, antelopes, hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.
Visit Nkhotakota Pottery: Witness the traditional pottery-making process at this local workshop. Learn about the techniques used to create beautiful clay pots, plates, and other ceramic items. Purchase unique souvenirs to take home.
Hike to Chipata Mountain: Challenge yourself with a hike to the top of Nkhotakota Mountain. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and Lake Malawi. Pack a picnic and have a relaxing lunch while taking in the scenery.
Visit Nkhotakota Cultural Museum: Immerse yourself in the local culture and history by visiting this museum. Explore the exhibits showcasing traditional artifacts, artwork, and historical information about the region.
Experience traditional dances and music: Attend a cultural performance and witness traditional dances and music. Engage with the local community and learn about their customs and traditions.
Go on a boat safari: Embark on a boat safari along the Bua River. Observe the diverse birdlife, including the rare African fish eagle. Keep an eye out for other wildlife, such as crocodiles and hippos, which are often seen along the riverbanks.
When To Visit
The region has three distinct seasons. The best time to visit is the dry season from April to October, as the game is easier to spot during this period.
The seasons are:
November – March
November to March – Is rainy season during which there are spectacular storms off Lake Malawi and the escarpment. Temperatures are typically hot and wet and the humidity peaks during January and February. The bush is a lot thicker at this time, and as a result, it can be difficult to spot game. However, Nkhotakota comes to life with many of the plants flowering over this period. Most of the mammals have young providing some lovely game viewing, and migratory birds move through the area. The turbulent flow of the rivers in the park provides a mesmerising spectacle for those who just want to relax in the beautiful setting.
April – August
The rains begin to end in April, and by May temperatures are cool in the morning, particularly along the rivers and in higher areas of the reserve. During this time of year be sure to bring along some warm clothes. The vegetation is still lush and many species of animal are active all day. This is the perfect time of year to go up Chipata Mountain as the temperatures are cool and the views are at their best until late June.
September – October
This is the hottest time of the year and many visitors choose to combine time in the park with visits to Lake Malawi nearby for some water sport or time at the beach. This time of year, provides some of the best game viewings as the vegetation is thin and mammals are drawn to water points in the core game viewing areas.