THE ELEPHANT
MARSH

We are incredibly privileged to border 3km of the Elephant Marsh, a wetland of international significance and an officially recognized Ramsar Site under the UNESCO Ramsar Convention. Conservation of this unique ecosystem is a top priority.

OUR MARSH.

The marsh is a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers, bursting with life, particularly aquatic birds. Flocks of pelicans and flamingos number in the hundreds, alongside a diverse array of migratory species. Bring your camera—you’ll want to capture the spectacle. Beyond the birdlife, the marsh supports pods of hippos, the occasional crocodile, and an abundance of fish that sustain its rich biodiversity.

Covering over 500km², the Elephant Marsh is an intricate network of ponds, swamps, and channels stretching eastward from the Shire River. Remarkably, despite being a vast permanent wetland, the area receives minimal rainfall—less than 100mm in poor years—relying almost entirely on overflow from the Shire River and tributaries originating in the Thyolo Escarpment.

David Livingstone named the marsh after witnessing a herd of 800 elephants here on his first expedition up the Shire. In 1896, it was declared a game reserve, but by 1910, all elephants had been hunted out, leading to its de-gazettement. Today, the marsh remains unprotected but continues to harbour Malawi’s largest crocodile population, numerous hippos, otters, and a spectacular diversity of aquatic birds.

Even if birdwatching isn’t your passion, the Elephant Marsh captivates with its raw beauty. The southern waters bloom with purple hyacinths and white lilies, while towering baobabs and palms dot the landscape. In the north, narrow channels weave through the wetland, where crocodiles slip silently beneath the surface.

Few travellers venture into this hidden gem, but those who do find it unforgettable. Drifting quietly through the marsh, surrounded by lush vegetation and teeming birdlife, is a truly immersive experience. Our expert guides and boatmen bring the marsh to life with their deep knowledge, turning even casual visitors into birding enthusiasts. Serious birdwatchers can expect sightings of African fish eagles, African marsh harriers, purple and goliath herons, sacred and glossy ibises, open-billed and yellow-billed storks, malachite and pied kingfishers, and two highly sought-after species: the pygmy goose and the African skimmer.

As part of our commitment to conservation, our first phase of operations focuses on protecting the 3,000-hectare Community Conservation Area (CCA) adjacent to us. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the marsh by boat, offering an up-close encounter with this extraordinary wetland.