At 1,050 metres above sea level in Malawi's central region, Lilongwe bridges traditional and modern Africa within its dual cityscape. The Old Town, characterised by bustling markets, small shops, and historic golf clubs, contrasts sharply with the organised structure of the New Town, a hub of embassies, government ministries, and modern infrastructure. Lilongwe's lush green spaces, particularly the Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary, provide an urban oasis that rehabilitates injured animals while promoting environmental education. The Kamuzu Mausoleum, built of marble and granite, is the final resting place of Malawi's first president, with pillars bearing his principles of unity, loyalty, obedience, and discipline. The Parliament Building, located near Capital Hill, houses the government's operations and is an example of modern Malawian architecture. Other sights worth seeing include a day trip to the Kumbali Cultural Centre, offering the opportunity to view traditional Malawian dancing and drumming, as well as an excursion to Chongoni Rock Art Area featuring one of the densest clusters of rock art in Central Africa.
Bordering the Luangwa River, the northern and southern Luangwa National Parks contain some of the most breathtaking and untouched wilderness in Africa. As a result of this and the parks’ successful anti-poaching campaigns, the area has developed into a world-renowned wildlife haven. The South Luangwa National Park is renowned for its walking safari, which allows visitors to view elephant, hippo and even lion close-up under the supervision of professional and knowledgeable armed guides.
Nankoma Island is part of the Marelli Archipelago in southern Lake Malawi, where the waters are particularly rich in brightly coloured tropical fish known as cichlids. Swimming and snorkeling with them is an amazing experience, as they flash by in iridescent shades. Incredible birdlife is also evident on the island, with species such as hornbills, kingfishers, paradise flycatchers and owls, as well as cormorants and fish eagles inhabiting the lake shore. Active travellers will enjoy the chance to kayaking around the island, take a boat trip to neighbouring islands or relax on a sundowner cruise.
The town of Mulanje lies at the base of Mount Mulanje, Central Africa’s highest mountain and the gateway to its trekking trails. This giant massif measures over 3 000 metres at its pinnacle and covers more than 500 square kilometres. Many trails, ranging from leisurely strolls around the lower slopes to strenuous climbs up its peaks, are available to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. There are pools, waterfalls, granite gorges, and ancient cedar forests along the trails, with trees standing as tall as 30 metres. You will also encounter rich wildlife such as Dwarf Chameleons, Forest Butterflies, antelope and myriad birds. Besides being a hiking Mecca, Mulanje is surrounded by lush tea plantations that can be explored on a guided tour. Although surrounded by vast natural scenery, this quaint town is easily can be accessible from the city of Blantyre.
Situated in southern Malawi, the city of Zomba formerly served as the colonial capital of the country. It is known for its architecture and its location on the southern slopes of the scenic Zomba Plateau. It serves as an excellent base for visitors to explore the surrounding area. The rugged wilderness featuring lush forests, glistening lakes, and cascading waterfalls lends itself to a variety of adventurous outdoor activities including, hiking, fishing, horse riding, birdwatching, mountain biking and rock climbing. Visitors can explore the city’s botanical gardens and golf course or venture further afield to the beautiful Zomba Nature Reserve.
Liwonde National Park is situated at the southern tip of Lake Malombe in southern Malawi. Although Liwonde is a smaller park, it is arguably the most popular of all the game parks in the country. Malawi’s main river, the Shire, forms its western boundary and is the reserve’s lifeblood. Boasting plenty of animals including hippos, kudu, elephants, crocodiles and elephants, and even black rhino, the park has become one of Malawi's premier wildlife-viewing destinations. The birding opportunities here are excellent and a favourite sighting among birdwatchers is the Pel’s fishing owl. Visitors can look forward to a wide selection of activities including canoeing, sublime boating safaris, and excellently positioned camping spots. The area is also incredibly photogenic, with its lush Borassus palms, Impala lilies, and abundant wildflowers blooming after the rains.
Located on the southern shore of Lake Malawi at the tip of the Nankumba Peninsula, Cape Maclear is a little resort town surrounded by mountains and set within Lake Malawi National Park. This town features an array of beachside bars and local restaurants in a spectacularly scenic setting of golden sand beaches lapped by dazzling turquoise water. Cape Maclear is a Robinson-Crusoe paradise, making it a sought after tourist destination. Kayak over to the nearby Thumbi island and spot the majestic fish eagle, sail across the lake and catch a picturesque African sunset, or scuba dive into the crystal-clear depths of the lake, which boasts some of the best freshwater diving in the world. Other popular activities include: bird watching, windsurfing, hiking, swimming or shopping in the local craft markets as well as island tours and guided village walks.
