Blantyre Day Trips

Zomba

Zomba Plateau is an undulating, forested plateau rising from the eastern Rift above the town. The plateau is heavily planted with pines, but there are many easily accessible montane forests around with patches of Afromontaine forest, interspersed with grassland, pine plantations and, further down, some fine Brachystegia woodland. Zomba itself has retained some of its old charm as the former colonial capital of Malawi.

Transport: Car rentals and bus services are available although roads are badly potholed.

Mt Mulanje

Mount Mulanje rises from the plains of southern Malawi with steep cliffs protecting a vast wilderness of granite peaks, dense forest, grassy meadows and trickling streams. Hire a guide (essential) and porters from Mulanje village, and buy any provisions that you may need. The first day's hike is testing as you climb steep mountain paths. Once you reach the top, you enter an enchanting landscape; there are wood huts where you can sleep and enough trails for days of walking. Climbers can scale some of the peaks and the prominent granite crags also provide a challenge. The best time to hike is in the early dry season (May to July) when temperatures are moderate (it can get reasonably cold at night on the plateau). Be prepared for rain whenever you visit.

Transport: Car rentals and bus services are available although roads are badly potholed.