Kasungu National Park is one of Malawi’s largest protected areas, offering expansive wildlife habitats and excellent opportunities for game viewing and birdwatching in a relatively remote, peaceful setting.
Kasungu National Park, located in the central region of Malawi, spans over 2,000 square kilometers and is the country's second-largest national park. Established in 1970, it features a combination of Miombo woodlands, grasslands, and wetland ecosystems centered around the Kasungu River, which provides vital water sources for diverse wildlife. The park supports abundant populations of African elephants, antelope species such as kudu and impala, lions, and rare sightings of African wild dogs. Bird enthusiasts can enjoy over 300 recorded bird species, including martial eagles, African fish eagles, and native hornbills. Unlike more heavily touristed parks, Kasungu offers a quieter, less commercialized experience with opportunities for guided game drives, walking safaris, and photographic expeditions. Key landmarks include the Mkaula River Valley, known for its game concentrations, and the park’s mosaic of wetland plains and rugged escarpments. Visitors are drawn by the park's peaceful atmosphere, authentic safari experience, and relatively undeveloped tourism infrastructure. Kasungu’s remote location and open terrain favor sightings of large mammals and provide a different appeal from Malawi’s more popular parks such as Liwonde. The park also plays a significant role in local conservation efforts and environmental education. Kasungu is accessible from nearby towns and provides basic visitor amenities and camping sites, offering a wilderness experience tailored to adventurous travelers.
Large herds of African elephants migrating through the park’s Miombo woodlands
Diverse birdlife including rare large raptors and endemic species
Scenic Mkaula River Valley, a hotspot for wildlife viewing and photography
Opportunity to take guided walking safaris for an immersive bush experience
Kasungu's Miombo forests are home to a wealth of wildlife adapted to this distinct dry forest environment.
This seasonal river provides critical water access for animals and offers picturesque scenery throughout the park.
The park serves as an important corridor for elephant herds moving through central Malawi’s landscapes.