Rest at Mvuu Camp (by Susan Hanthorn)

The day started early, about 1 am. when some of us were awaken by hippos tramping around the camp compound. It makes very clear why we were advised not to leave our tent after dark.

In the morning, after breakfast on the terrace, we took two boats and went on a river safari. This gave us the chance to view up close some of the magnificent flora and fauna of the area.

Mvuu camp is located in the Liwonde Nature preserve. All wild life is protected. While on the safari some poachers were seen fishing. It would be reported to officials.

Due to the rains the river level has risen dramatically which made it harder to spot crocs and hippos. But they were there and we spotted many. Some of the other animals seen were water bucks, bush bucks, verbet monkeys, baboons, impalas, monitor lizards, etc.

The preserve boasts over 400 species of birds. We were able to spot many including the red bishop, squacco heron, goliath heron, weaver bird (a beautiful bright yellow bird), egrets, ibis, and an African chacma that was seen walking over lily pads carrying 4 chicks under her wing. We saw a spectacular baobab tree with a hollow trunk where many people can stand inside.

The river safari was on the Shire River, the large river that flows South from Lake Malawi. Outside the leisure area we came to a small fishing village. Men were in the river pulling in a huge fishing net. It takes them hours to pull it in.

Back at Mvuu Camp we were entertained by a group of local school children. They sand, danced, and played drums. Rain interrupted their performance. After lunch many rested. Rest was interrupted by a hippo that came ashore near a cabin around 3 pm. That was a Kodak moment for all.

From 4 to 6 pm. we were able to again take a river safari. By leaving the main river Shire and going up small feeder rivers, new sights were seen. The land and sky are endless and beautiful.