Mount Mulanje

The Mulanje Massif includes Central Africa’s highest peak, Sapitwa, at 3000 metres and covers a vast area of 650 square kilometres. This mass of granite rock, just to the east of Blantyre, creates an imposing sight as you approach, worth a visit for the spectacle alone. However, most will have come to explore the network of trails that allow visitors to discover Mulanje’s varied landscape of deep gorges, waterfalls, peaks and forests.

The routes range from shorter and more gentle walks to visit icy cold river pools or waterfalls, to much longer treks over a few days, accompanied by local guides, to reach Mulanje’s highest peaks. You can camp or stay in the charming mountain huts, which are maintained by the Malawi Mountain Club and Forestry Department.

As you ascend, the change in altitude from Mulanje’s foot to its summit results in an interesting variation in habitats and flora, including impressive cedar trees that reach over 30 metres in height. You may also be lucky enough to spot some of the mountain’s mammals and birdlife, such as the klipspringer antelope, or black eagle.

There is a choice of accommodation, as well as shops and other services, in Mulanje town itself, or in the nearby area at which to base yourself.