Malawi,
1 week
- 1 week
- 2 weeks
About Malawi
Malawi lies in sub-Saharan Africa, nestled between Zambia and Mozambique. It's one of the poorest countries in the world. But! It is safe. And with safari parks, mountain treks, tea estates and a lake of fresh water which covers one-third of the country, Malawi has plenty to offer when you want to venture off the beaten track.
Practical information
Visit Malawi's beautiful tea plantations at Mulanje
Rolling hills of tea, beautifully restored colonial houses, pristine foothill forests, the tea plantations of Malawi’s Southern Highlands will make you enjoy some of the greenest and most breathtaking views of Africa. Follow M2 south from Mulanje.
Tip!
Make a (unannounced!) visit to one of the largest estates to buy some tea. Lujeri Tea Estate sells their tea to customers all over the world, starting from 50.000 USD. They make an exception for tourists though, but the smallest amount you can buy is 1 kilo 😉
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Discover Central Africa's richest rock art at Chongoni
Malawi’s most neglected national treasure is actually the richest rock art site in Central Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Little visited Chongoni Rock Art area contains beautiful rock faces and shelters that represent an ancient painting tradition dating back at least 2,000 years (according to the local guide it’s 10,000!). It’s a pain getting there, the dirt road uphill is REALLY bad but the views are more than rewarding.
Tip!
Ask around for Lemiton Misindi when you need a knowledgeable guide.
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Meet local villagers and fishermen at Cape Maclear
Cape Maclear is said to be Malawi’s best beach destination. It has the honey-coloured sand, turquois water and beachside bars, but I did not appeal to me.
Why? The local fishermen village is seperated from the beach by a line of guesthouses run by foreigners. Feels like us and them. The beach is still much of a local fair. At the tideline you find women washing clothes, men in soaps, while fisherfolk spread out vermilion nets. The tourist are watching from their sun beds. It felt to me like tourists are intruding, and probably will take over in the future. Don’t expect an Algarve of Koh Samui just yet.
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Enjoy good food and the Great Outdoors at Zomba Plateau
At over 2,000 metres above sea level, the Zomba Plateau is a refreshingly cool place in every way. The area is a must for those in search of adventure, you can hike to beautiful waterfalls and lakes, mountain-bike through the forest or visit one of the many lookout points that provide a spectacular vista of southern Malawi and the landscape all the way to Mozambique.
Tip!
Indulge in great Italian dishes at lovely Casa Rossa. The restaurant is half way up the Zomba plateau.
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If I could re-do it ...
I wouldn't rent a car from a local company
1. My car broke down when overheated. 2. The paperwork wasn't in order, the police fined me and I could not continue my trip. Costed me 2 days.
Make sure you don't miss ...
1. Monkey Bay Beach Lodge, a little relaxed place away from the Cape Maclear crowds.
2. Check out the tabacco farms along the road sides.
3. Buy your bag of coals for a great BBQ.
