Malawi
Introduction to the Malawi expedition |
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| Malawi lies sandwiched between Tanzania, Zambia and Mozambique and is the home of Lake Malawi (described by David Livingstone as ‘the lake of stars’), the third largest lake in Africa covering a fifth of the country. The Great Rift Valley runs through it from the highland areas of the north to the great Mulanje Massif in the south of the country.
Often described as ‘the warm heart of Africa’ the Malawi people live up to this with their gentle and welcoming ways. This is wonderful trekking country where few other tourists tend to go and a true wilderness experience can be had. |
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Some possible expedition objectives are given below, please note these may alter between now and your expedition. The Expedition Program Manager for Malawi will agree a suitable expedition itinerary for you, to best match the abilities and aspirations of your team.
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Acclimatisation
Zomba Plateau
The plateau rises to 1000m and is covered in the oldest forest in Malawi. This is an ideal environment for day treks to explore the impressive viewpoints and waterfalls on the plateau.
Viphya Plateau
This little known plateau is excellent walking country with beautiful scenery and opportunities for seeing wildlife. The plateau offers great variety for trekking with open woodland and the exotic pine plantations of the Viphya Forest Reserve. Viphya also offers fantastic main treks from the plateau down to the shores of Lake Malawi.
Dzalanyama Forest Reserve
This is a beautiful area only 50km away from the political capital, Lilongwe, which offers a variety of day treks as well as a great 3 day acclimatisation trail.
Ntchisi Rainforest Reserve
Protecting one of Malawi’s last remaining tracts of rainforest, the Ntchisi Reserve offers a flexible combination of day treks in a beautiful rural area with lush forest and wide open views.
Main Trekking phase
Mulanje Massif
Mulanje is the highest mountain in south central Africa reaching 3001m at its highest peak, Sapitwa, and offering treks of up to six days. Mountain huts can form excellent bases for day hikes to reach certain peaks or vantage points for those seeking an extra challenge. The terrain is grassy uplands, deep forested gullies, rocky boulders and evergreen cedar forests and is home to a variety of wildlife.
Nyika National Park
Unique in Africa, the wide rolling plains of the Nyika Plateau is Malawi’s largest National Park. Nganda Peak (2605m), Chisanga Falls, the plunging North Rukuru River, shallow valleys of evergreen forest and undulating grassland all offer wonderfully open views and varying terrain for treks of up to 5 days.
Projects
The project can be a central focus of an expedition to Malawi. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved in local village and community life assisting in schools or health centres which is a rewarding experience for all those involved. There is also the possibility of involvement in community permaculture initiatives aimed at creating a sustainable agricultural future and increased food security for the Malawian people.
Rest and Relaxation
Whether it is the rich culture, intriguing history, guided walking safaris or tea plantations that capture the team’s imagination, they will find much to do in their final days of expedition in this amazing country.
Find out more
T +61 (0) 395 317 780 - Australia
T 0800 456 134 - New Zealand
T (852) 8170 3646 - Hong Kong
E support@worldchallenge.com.au
