Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

Nkhotakota Reserve map

Nkhotakota Reserve is situated 115km to the North East of Lilongwe, on top of the Rift Valley escarpment above the lake. Most of the reserve is miombo woodland with large expanses of tall grasses and an evergreen forest on the top of Chipata Mountain.

It is the oldest established reserve in Malawi. The Bua River cuts through the middle on route to the lake. and provides a excellent spot for a bit of fishing for mpasa and Lake Salmon (permits are required). It is a true wilderness and although there are no open plains elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and hyena can all be found in this area. As well as a wide variety of antelope including Roan, Sable, Kudu and Waterbuck.

Birdwatching is especially rewarding with more than 300 species being recorded, including Pel's Fishing Owl, Palmnut Vultures. Giant Kingfishers, Boehm's Bee-eaters and Finfoot

A walking safari is the best way of getting round the reserve as the roads are poor and in areas non-existent.

There are 2 lodges of international standard within reserve Tongole Wilderness Lodge and Bua River Lodge. There is a basic campsite and backpacker accommodation at Bua River Lodge