SHIRE RIVER, MALAWI 

Shire River is the largest river in Malawi. The River is vital to the Malawi economy. It supports hydroelectric stations generating electricity, agriculture, fisheries, and wildlife tourism. 

I have seen the Shire River from different areas and locations in Malawi. From Liwonde, where it flows from Lake Malombe (a small lake stemming from Lake Malawi), to all the way down in Nsanje. From there, it disappears into Mozambique and pours into the Zambezi River. 

SHIRE RIVER IN THE LIWONDE AREA

The Liwonde section of the Shire River is one of the most ecologically rich in Malawi. This is because it flows through Liwonde National Park. Wildlife is abundant on the banks of the river—not just hippos and alligators—but also elephants, antelopes, and all sorts of animals and birds.  

Trees are also a major part of the banks of the Shire River right inside Liwonde National Park. Baobab and acacia trees are some of the ubiquitous flora. 

Local communities also thrive on the banks of the Shire River. Fishing in the river is part of daily routine for some fishing communities. Liwonde town center is close to both the Shire River and Liwonde National Park. 

I loved our stop at Hippo View Lodge. We were there for food and drinks, when driving to Liwonde National Park from Blantyre. I also loved the tree house at Kutchire Lodge. 

HOW TO SEE SHIRE RIVER IN THE LIWONDE AREA

1| Take a Boat Safari Tour

The hotel you have booked will likely give you guidance on boat safaris available. Most hotels and mid-size lodges offer guided tours or know tour companies that offer boat safaris. 

2| A view from Liwonde Shire River Bridge

Liwonde Shire River Bridge is the right starting spot when exploring the Shire River portion in the Liwonde area. From here the river moves up north cutting across Liwonde National Park. If you are driving, start from the bridge then drive along the smaller roads that extend along the River. 

3| From Hotels & Lodges along Shire River in the Liwonde Area

There are a few hotels, lodges, and Bed & Breakfasts that are very close to Shire River. Some of them are inside Liwonde National Park. You can go to one of these hotels or hop from one hotel to another to get different feels of the River. Here is a list of accommodations along the River in Liwonde. Some are high end hotels and others are budget friendly lodges. They are listed according to their placement on the Shire River —from the south to the north o the River: 

• Liwonde Country Lodge
• Shire Camp
• Kanga Resort
• Mwanati Executive Lodge
• Villa LIWONDE
• Waters Edge Liwonde
• Kumadzi Tourist Lodge
• Hippo View Lodge 
• Mawila Big Five Lodge (Campground)
• Liwonde Safari Camp
• Kutchire Lodge 
• Shire Eco Safari Camp
• Chimwala Bush Camp
• Mvuu Camp
• Mvuu Wilderness Lodge
• Kuthengo Camp – Robin Pope Safaris

In conclusion, the Shire River in the Liwonde area is full of life. It is not just a scenic waterway but where wildlife and local communities share this majestic river generously. You can see a huge number of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and many bird species. Liwonde National Park is the star attraction along the whole Shire River. You can see the Shire River via boat safaris, from bridges, and from different hotels/lodges situated right on the banks of  the River.