A Hidden Gem Of Wildlife, Conservation, And Adventure
Located in southern Malawi, Majete Wildlife Reserve is one of Africa’s greatest conservation success stories. Once nearly devoid of wildlife due to poaching, Majete has been transformed into a thriving Big Five reserve through one of the most ambitious wildlife restoration projects in Africa. Since African Parks took over management in 2003, Majete has reintroduced over 3,000 animals across 17 species, turning it into Malawi’s premier safari destination and a model for conservation across the continent.
Why Visit Majete Wildlife Reserve?
Big Five Safari Destination: Majete is the only place in Malawi where visitors can see the Big Five—elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, and buffalo—alongside other incredible species such as cheetah, wild dogs, giraffe, and Lichtenstein’s hartebeest.
Thriving Wildlife Populations: The park is home to over 12,000 large mammals, with healthy populations of antelope, zebra, kudu, and sable providing a strong prey base for predators.
A Conservation Comeback: Thanks to world-class anti-poaching efforts, not a single rhino or elephant has been poached since their reintroduction in 2003 and 2006, respectively. The success of Majete has allowed over 1,100 animals to be translocated to restore other Malawian parks.
Low tourism numbers
Birdwatching Paradise: With more than 300 bird species, including four vulture species, Livingstone’s flycatcher, Boehm’s bee-eater, and racket-tailed roller, Majete is a prime destination for bird enthusiasts.
Activities in Majete Wildlife Reserve
Game Drives: Explore Majete’s diverse landscapes on a game drive, with opportunities to see the Big Five and a variety of other iconic African wildlife.
Walking Safaris: Experience the wilderness up close on a guided walking safari, where you’ll track wildlife on foot and learn about the park’s ecosystems.
Boat Safaris: The Shire River offers incredible boat safari opportunities, where elephants bathe and hippos wallow while crocodiles patrol the waters.
Birdwatching: With thriving bird populations, Majete is an excellent destination for birdwatchers looking to spot rare and migratory species.
Cultural and Community Experiences: Engage with local communities benefiting from Majete’s conservation efforts, including beekeeping and fish farming initiatives that support hundreds of families.
A Model for Conservation and Community Impact
Majete’s success goes beyond wildlife conservation—it has become an economic and educational asset for local communities. Over 37 Wildlife Clubs have been created, and around 2,500 school children visit the reserve annually to learn about conservation. Majete also supports community-run initiatives such as beekeeping and fish farming, providing sustainable livelihoods and reinforcing the importance of protecting natural resources.
