Chairs around a camp fire in Chimwala Camp

Chimwala Camp

Chimwala is an excellent self-catering base from which to enjoy the impressive wildlife experience that is Liwonde.

Welcome to Chimwala Camp

Tucked against Chinguni Hill, sheltered by a mixture of mopane and miombo trees, Chimwala looks out over the Chikalongwe Lagoon and its floodplain.

The camp is constructed from local rock and thatch. The main area’s al fresco style brings the outside in, with high ceilings and a large garden in which visitors can dine or relax. Enjoy a laze around the pool with its magnificent views across the floodplain.

The spacious en-suite safari tents – while classic in style – have modern features: oversized windows, lovely décor, private verandas and open-air outdoor bathrooms.

This is truly a treasure of a bush camp.

Experiences

People in a truck, man with binolars self driving around Liwonde National Park

Self-drive through Liwonde

Visitors can self-drive on all roads, depending on season and road conditions – some roads are closed during the rainy season. 4×4 vehicles are recommended generally between December and April. Park hours are 6:00am to 6:00pm.

A guide with a group of tourist driving through Liwonde

Self-drive with a Guide

Community Guides are available to accompany visitors on a self-drive through the park. They can be hired at the main gate.

Game Drives

Two-hour game drives take place in the morning or late afternoon can be booked when staying at Chimwala or via external operators such as Kutchire Lodge or Liwonde Safari Camp just outside the main gate.

Boating Excursions

Thanks to the Shire River, Liwonde has some of the best river-based wildlife viewing to be had in southern Africa. Boat trips are very popular here and are offered at Chimwala and by external operators.

Guide walking with photographers through Liwonde National Park at sunset

Guided Walks

Two-hour guided nature walks take place in the early mornings during the dry season at Chimwala; maximum group size is six.

Bed inside Chimwala Camp Tent

More about Chimwala

– 4 twin/double Meru tents

– 1 private, fully equipped family unit: 2 en-suite bedrooms, open lounge-kitchen area, large veranda with view

– Solar power and gas geysers

– En-suite bathrooms with hot/cold tapped water, flush toilets and showers

– Full kitchen kit, gas stove, freezer and fridge

– Cell phone and data coverage intermittent

– Two camp hands for general assistance

– The camp is not fenced

How to Get There

Liwonde is a 3.5-hour drive (120km) from Blantyre; and a 4-hour drive (250km) from Lilongwe. Also accessible by private charter. 4×4 vehicles are recommended in the wet season.

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Chimwala is located 15 minutes from the Park’s main gate in the southern sector

Chairs and umbrella near a pool

Visiting a park managed by African Parks is one of the best ways to support communities, wildlife conservation, and the long-term success of Africa’s wild areas. Use the link below to plan your visit today.