Majete Wildlife Reserve

Majete Wildlife Reserve is one of the outstanding success stories of African conservation. Located in the south of Malawi, Majete’s 70,000 hectares are made up of mature miombo woodland and granite toped hills in contrast with the river valleys and lush riverine forest.

Majete was the first park in Malawi to be taken over and run by African Parks (an NGO focused on conservation). Like many of the reserves in Malawi, poaching was rife but with a few years of strict management poaching is now under control, elephants have been translocated and new species reintroduced. This beautiful park is thriving once more and well worth a visit. 

The Majete reserve is full of unusual antelope and other game, including elephant, black rhino, buffalo, eland, zebra, sable, porcupine, hyena, lion and leopard. With a variety of habitats, the birdlife here is amazing with over 250 species spotted, including Pel's fishing owl. With the large rapid flowing Shire River on the eastern boundary it is a good place to take part in drives, walks, rhino tracking and boating safaris.

Did you know?

• Elephants have thrived in Majete, so 200 were translocated to Nkhotakota.
• 16 species have been reintroduced including black rhino, lion, elephant, leopard, cheetah, sable antelope and buffalo.
• The Local economy has been transformed since African Parks took over the management of the reserve, with jobs and tourist $ supporting infrastructure, schools and clinics in the area.
• Climb Chimwala Hill for some great views of the area.
• Boat trips on the Shire river are a peaceful way to bird watch and see animals come to drink.
• You can sleep out under the stars in Star beds raised up high off the ground on platforms.