Majete Wildlife Reserve Safaris

From near extinction to a thriving Big Five haven in Malawi’s south.

High Season

July to October

Size

Approx 700 square kilometres

Altitude

150 - 850 metres

above sea level

Safari Holidays in the Majete Wildlife Reserve

Where Conservation Brings the Wild Back to Life

Majete Wildlife Reserve is one of Africa’s most remarkable conservation success stories. Once devoid of its large wildlife, it has been reborn through dedicated protection and reintroductions — today, it is Malawi’s only official Big Five reserve.

Nestled in the Lower Shire Valley, Majete’s rolling hills, riverine forests, and savannahs are alive again with elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards.

The Shire River forms its western boundary, a life-giving thread where wildlife gathers and sunsets turn the water to gold. Here, you’ll find an authentic, uncrowded safari experience — rich in wildlife, history, and the quiet pride of a land restored.

Why Visit the Majete Wildlife Reserve?

Majete offers a safari experience that’s as rewarding emotionally as it is visually. For travellers who value conservation, this is a destination with a powerful story: since African Parks took over management in 2003, over 2,500 animals have been reintroduced, and the reserve has achieved zero poaching of rhinos and elephants for more than a decade.

Game viewing here is intimate, with low visitor numbers and a mix of habitats that support a diverse array of species.

Beyond the Big Five, you can encounter sable antelope, nyala, hartebeest, eland, and over 300 bird species.

It’s a reserve that proves what’s possible when people and wildlife share a vision for the future.

Wildlife and Nature

Majete’s wildlife is a testament to successful conservation. The Big Five — elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and black rhino — roam freely, alongside cheetah, giraffe, zebra, and hyena.

The reserve’s birdlife is equally impressive, from the colourful Lilian’s lovebird to the elusive Pel’s fishing owl. Landscapes shift from mopane woodland and acacia scrub to lush riverine vegetation along the Shire. The river itself is home to hippos and crocodiles, and its sandy banks provide prime viewing for animals coming to drink. The diversity of both wildlife and habitats makes Majete an all-round safari destination.

Best Time to Visit Majete

The dry season (May–October) offers the most rewarding game viewing as wildlife concentrates near the river and waterholes:

• May–June: Cooler weather, green landscapes, and active wildlife.
• July–October: Peak wildlife concentrations and excellent predator sightings.
• November–April: Lush scenery and exceptional birding, though game can be harder to spot and some tracks may be muddy.

Safari Experiences in Mejete

Majete offers varied and immersive activities:

• Game Drives: Explore the reserve by 4x4 with expert guides in search of the Big Five.
• Boat Trips on the Shire River: A tranquil way to see elephants, hippos, crocs, and abundant birdlife.
• Walking Safaris: Experience the bush up close and learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem.
• Birdwatching: Spot sought-after species, particularly around riverine habitats and dambos.
• Cultural Visits: Meet local communities engaged in conservation initiatives supported by the reserve.

With its combination of land and water activities, Majete offers something for every type of safari traveller.

Where to Stay in Majete

Majete’s accommodation options blend comfort with a strong sense of place:

• Luxury Safari Lodges: Private suites overlooking the river, with premium guiding and dining.
• Tented Camps: Intimate bush settings with modern comforts and personalised service.
• Community-Run Camps: Offering authentic stays that directly support local livelihoods.

We have access to a wide range of handpicked accommodation options in Majete Wildlife Reserve — from rustic eco-camps and authentic bush lodges to stylish tented retreats. If you don’t see the exact lodge or camp you’re looking for, just let us know — we’re able to arrange a variety of stays to suit different tastes, travel styles, and budgets.

A Selection of our Majete Safari Accommodation

We have access to a wide range of handpicked accommodation options — from rustic eco-camps and authentic bush lodges to stylish tented retreats with breathtaking views. If you don’t see the exact lodge or camp you’re looking for, just let us know — we can arrange a variety of stays to suit different tastes, travel styles, and budgets.

Average Weather and Climate in Majete

• Dry Season (May–October): Daytime temperatures of 20–30°C, cool nights, and low humidity — ideal for game drives.
• Wet Season (November–April): Warm, humid, and lush, with temperatures of 25–32°C and dramatic afternoon storms.

Combine with Other Destinations

Majete pairs perfectly with Liwonde National Park for varied river and savannah experiences, or Lake Malawi National Park for a relaxing beach and water safari finale. You can also combine it with Nyika Plateau for highland scenery or extend into South Luangwa National Park in Zambia for a transboundary safari adventure.

Its location in southern Malawi makes it easy to craft a diverse itinerary without long travel times. Talk to us about creating a custom journey.

Travelling from the UK to Majete

Fly from the UK to Blantyre via Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, or Nairobi.

From Blantyre, Majete is an easy 1.5–2 hour drive on good roads.

We can arrange private transfers or fly-in packages for convenience.

Its accessibility makes it ideal for combining with other Malawian parks and Lake Malawi.

Discover the Wild, Your Way: Tailor Your Majete Safari with Us

From the gentle glide of a boat along the Shire to the heart-racing moment of spotting a rhino on foot, Majete is a reserve that rewards the curious and the conservation-minded.



Talk to us about the experiences you’ve always dreamed of. We’ll match you with handpicked lodges, expert local guides, and authentic adventures that bring Majete to life.

Speak to one of our safari specialists today — call us or fill out our quick enquiry form, and let’s start planning your tailor-made adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions