Go off the beaten track in Malawi

In terms of drawing big crowds, Malawi is hardly overrun with tourists. It’s true that the south is fairly well developed—with the option of lakeside lounging around Cape Maclear and forays into Liwonde and Majete National Parks. The south of the country is also home to its commercial hub, Blantyre; Malawi’s highest peak, Mount Mulanje; and the bewitching surroundings of the Zomba Plateau—all widely considered Malawi’s most popular sites and well worth a visit. Nevertheless, there’s so much more to this emerald corner of Africa than these stops alone. When you go off the beaten track in Malawi, you’ll discover a world of magic.

Where to go off the beaten track in Malawi

Perhaps you have already been to Southern Malawi and you’re looking for an alternative itinerary for your second trip, or maybe you want to head down ‘the road less traveled’ in this oft-overlooked country of beautiful landscapes. Whatever your point of view, here are some ideas for getting off the beaten track in Malawi.

Likoma island

Despite being surrounded by Mozambican waters, the islands of Likoma and Chizumulu are Malawian territory. Likoma is a truly delightful destination to visit, peppered with sandy coves and possessed of a charming and mellow atmosphere that consistently bewitches visitors. With a population of 9000, there is plenty of activity to keep you entertained if the twin temptations of beaches and water begin to lose their allure. It may be a bit of an effort to get there, but Likoma is well worth the trip.

Chizumulu island

Only 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) away from its neighbor island of Likoma, Chizumulu is even more blissfully remote and a real get-away-from-it-all destination situated in Lake Malawi. It’s one of those segregated communities where only a couple of ferries run each week and electricity isn’t switched on at certain times of day. With no roads and only 4000 inhabitants on its five-kilometer (three-mile) long landmass, there are beaches, baobabs and lots of chances to experience laid back island life.

Nyika National Park

This highland reserve is far from urban bustle, situated 2000 meters (6,561 feet) high on the lofty Nyika Plateau. This extraordinarily scenic park is packed full of wildlife with some enticing trails for hikers and bikers alike. Among the grassy expanses and woodland you can expect to see leopards, elephants, antelope, bushbucks and zebras. Impressive birdlife includes rare species such as francolins and wattled cranes. The park is also known for its profusion of wildflowers including some exquisite orchids.

Read more: Five unique experiences you must-try in Malawi

Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve

This is a truly remote location in Malawi and tourism is still in its infancy here. Swamps and marshland characterize the 1,000 square kilometer (386 square mile) reserve which includes two meandering rivers and Lake Kazuni. Miombo and mopane woodlands dominate the vegetation, while much of the park is vast and flat. Wildlife in the wetlands includes herds of roaming elephants and a pod of hippos in Lake Kazuni, as well as impala, kudu, roan and hartebeest. Birdwatching is another highlight, as these waterlogged habitats support a number of species of storks and herons. If you are keen to visit Nyika Plateau (above) it is fairly simple to combine it with a trip to Vwaza, which lies just at its foot.

Livingstonia town

More than 400 miles north of Malawi’s capital and sat at 900 meters (2,952 feet) altitude is the missionary station of Livingstonia. Malawi’s Scottish missionaries had attempted to set up in two other low-lying locations before settling in Livingstonia in 1894, but were defeated by malaria. The mission was led for more than fifty years by Dr Robert Law, and the house he lived in is now a small museum. What makes this town so appealing is the peace, the colonial brick built architecture, the leafy streets and the spellbinding views down to Lake Malawi.

Nkhata Bay

Pristine white sandy beaches and turquoise water combine at Nkhata Bay to lend a Caribbean flavor to the area. Add in the perennial mouthwatering aroma of fish being grilled over charcoal, the various water-based activities on offer and the overwhelmingly picturesque surroundings, and you have a prime spot to unwind for a few days. Pack your snorkel to explore the clear, clean water teeming with fish, kick back and relax. It’s what Nkhata Bay is all about.

Chongoni Rock Art Area

Tucked away in Malawi’s forested granite hills, the Chongoni Rock Art Area is a UNESCO-listed site showcasing the richest concentration of rock art in Central Africa. With 127 shelters, the unique paintings date back to the Late Stone Age and were created by BaTwa hunter-gatherers and later Bantu-speaking farmers. The art is deeply tied to Chewa culture and depicts various ceremonies, rituals, and traditions in daily life. Some sites are even used for spiritual practices today. You can hire a local guide from Dedza to see this cultural treasure up close and hear the stories about the ancient rock faces.

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve is Malawi’s oldest and largest protected area and a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts. Once nearly emptied by poaching, this picturesque wilderness has been revived thanks to African Parks’ ambitious wildlife relocation project. With 500 elephants and thousands of other animals reintroduced, the reserve is teeming with life once again. Covering 695 square miles of rugged miombo woodland, it offers exciting outdoor experiences like canoe safaris along the Bua River and incredible birdwatching. For those craving an off-the-beaten-path safari in a natural sanctuary, Nkhotakota is an excellent excursion option.

Read more: Our top reasons why you should visit Malawi

Best time to visit Malawi

Malawi boasts distinct wet and dry seasons, which can impact wildlife viewing opportunities. The dry season (May to October) is the best time to visit, especially if you have safaris and hiking on your itinerary. If you’re visiting Lake Malawi, September to October can get hot, but it offers warm water and excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving.

Alternatively, the wet season (November to April) brings fewer tourists and lush landscapes, with the arrival of migratory species luring in photographers and birdwatchers alike. However, heavy rains can make travel difficult with road closures. Mosquitoes are more prevalent during this time, so travelers should take extra precautions against malaria.

Discover our top Malawi itineraries:

Malawi safari & beach tour: On the 9-day Malawi safari & beach tour, you’ll spend your first few days at Liwonde National Park, where you can spot elephants, hippos, and the rare black rhino. Next, you can admire the turquoise waters of Lake Malawi from your lakeside retreat before sailing to Mumbo Island, a secluded eco-setting perfect for kayaking and sunset swims. 

9-day tour | Malawi’s southern circuit: The 9-Day Malawi southern circuit tour starts in the tea plantations of Satemwa. After sipping freshly brewed tea, you’ll explore the Zomba Plateau and hike through lush forests while enjoying incredible panoramic views. Experience the thrill of a Big Five safari in Liwonde National Park, with game drives, river safaris, and night excursions, then retreat to Lake Malawi’s Mumbo Island for kayaking and snorkeling.

13-day tour: island-hopping in Malawi: This 13-day Island-hopping in Malawi tour includes a wildlife experience in Liwonde National Park, spotting elephants, hippos, and big cats on game drives and boat safaris. You’ll set sail for Lake Malawi’s islands and stay on Domwe, Mumbo, Likoma, and Chizumulu Islands, where you can snorkel among cichlids, kayak along the shores, and hike through scenic landscapes.

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