Mwabvi Wildlife Reserve, Wildlife reserve in Lower Shire Valley, Malawi

Mwabvi Wildlife Reserve covers about 135 km2 in Nsanje District, near Malawi's southern tip, between 150 and 400 m above sea level. It takes in part of the Matundwe Range, which forms part of the border with Mozambique, and lies near the Shire River lowlands. Its habitats range from mopane and Combretum woodland to dry Brachystegia woodland, open savanna, dambo and riverine areas, with sandstone hills and rocky cliffs throughout.

The reserve was established in the 1950s as a protected area and later expanded in the 1970s to cover more land. It served as a refuge for animals whose numbers were declining in surrounding regions.

The reserve takes its name from the Mwabvi tree, the Henga term for the Ordeal tree native to this part of Africa. Walking tours led by the park's Game Rangers are the main way to visit, and birdwatching draws visitors for the more than 270 recorded species, including Woodwards' batis and Grey waxbill.

Access is difficult: apart from guided walking tours arranged by the reserve's game rangers, the only way in is by 4x4 vehicle. The reserve lies in Nsanje District near Malawi's southernmost tip, close to Lengwe National Park and Majete Wildlife Reserve. Project African Wilderness set up game roads and tourist lodges in the park.

The reserve takes its name from the Mwabvi tree, the Henga name for the Ordeal tree, which grows in this part of Africa. Over 270 bird species have been recorded here, including Woodwards' batis and the grey waxbill, making birdwatching a draw for visitors.