Best hotels in Liwonde

Mvuu Lodge sits on the eastern bank of the Shire River (pronounced Shi-ree) inside Liwonde National Park in southern Malawi. Mvuu means "hippo" in Chichewa - aptly named since you're bound to see many in the camp lagoon, along the river and around the lodge in the evenings. It's the smaller (16 guests as opposed to 34) and more luxurious sister to Mvuu Camp, which is just upstream. Both are run by Central African Wilderness Safaris - a subsidiary, though now independent, of Wilderness Safaris. The lodge is beautifully curated and offers a well-rounded safari experience in a breathtaking setting.

Mvuu Camp overlooks the magnificent Shire River (pronounced Shi-ree) inside southern Malawi's Liwonde National Park. The camp's name means "hippo", which you're bound to see many of along this broad stretch of river and around the camp in the evenings. It's the big (slightly simpler and more affordable) sister to Mvuu Lodge, which is just down the road. Both are run by Central African Wilderness Safaris - a subsidiary, though now independent, of Wilderness Safaris. The camp is a superb option for budget-minded travellers, especially those driving themselves. It offers a well-rounded safari at a relaxed pace.

This camp in southern Malawi's Liwonde National Park has just four modern, eco-friendly tents that shelter beneath fever trees and baobabs on a large open plain that reaches towards the Shire (pronounced "Shiree") River. The tents are just perfect, with en-suite bathrooms and private decks that open to lush views. Liwonde is popular with birdwatchers, and its 380-odd species include Pel’s fishing-owl, Lilian's meadowlark, purple-crested turaco, Böhm’s bee-eater and colourful Nyasa lovebird. There's plenty for mammal lovers too – elephant, buffalo, black rhino, antelope (herds of waterbuck mill around the campsite), and recently reintroduced cheetah. It's 360-degree safari satisfaction!

The rustic atmosphere of the camp is enhanced by its location in one of the richest habitats of the park. Just lazing about on one of the camp's various observation decks to watch the elephants or count the many species of birds, is the perfect way to spend a day here. Walking safaris are available around the camp. Our fully equipped safari vehicles are always ready to take guests on game drives and our expertise and experience in the park guarantee the best possible safaris. For an idyllic sunset trip we can arrange a boat safari, to steam up the Shire River amongst the hippo's and crocodiles. Of course we can also arrange morning boat safaris.