Mulanje is a district in the Southern Region of Malawi, close to Blantyre and to the border with Mozambique. Its capital has the same name. The district offers a lot of tourist attractions, especially if you are a fan of the outdoors.  It is mainly known for its tea growing industry and Mount Mulanje where you will find one of the highest peaks in Southern Africa.

Where to Stay

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We have listed some accommodation places in this area. If these don't suit you, we are more than happy to create your custom tour with your priorities.

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AfricaWildTruck Camp and Lodge

AfricaWildTruck Camp and Lodge is an eco-friendly lodge and camp in Malawi, Mulanje district, about a 1-hour drive from Blantyre International Airport. It offers the ideal break before, after, or during your travel or safari in Malawi. 

They have rooms and a camping area, with a bar and an exclusive restaurant just for guests. There is no better place to share travel experiences and chat at the fireplace!

Secular and giant trees, a secluded garden overlooking tea hills, and Mulanje Mountain in the background - AfricaWildTruck Camp and Lodge found its home in an old colonial red brick building dated back to 1912. Formerly used as a library, it was rehabilitated in a way that has the least possible impact on the surrounding nature. It offers an atmosphere of tranquility, peace, and relaxation. 

Respect for the environment, the communities that live there, and therefore, responsible tourism are the concepts that inspire AfricaWildTruck.

AfricaWildTruck Camp and Lodge is the break you deserve amidst a tropical garden.

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Likhubula Hikers' Nest

Likhubula Hikers' Nest is a locally-owned lodge and features comfortable rooms, a restaurant with both local and international dishes, and a dining area. You can choose between en-suite rooms, a dormitory, or rooms with shared showers and toilets.
Conveniently located near the entrance gate to Likhubula Forest, Hikers’ Nest is the perfect starting point for your hike on the Mulanje Massif. It is only a 15-minute walk to the Likhubula Pools where you can go for a refreshing dip, and a 1-2 hour hike to the spectacular Likhubula Falls. You can also take a short walk to the market and chat with the friendly locals, while you experience life in an authentic Malawian village. Stay with friendly owner Ruth before and after your hike, or if you want to relax in a place surrounded by mountain scenery.

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The CCAP Likhubula House

The CCAP Likhubula House at the bottom of Mount Mulanje is a great place to start your ascent and exploration of the massif.

It offers private chalets with twin bedrooms, a living room and a fully-fitted kitchen, as well as dormitory rooms, and private twin rooms with shared bathroom facilities.

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Activities in the Area

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Hiking: The Mulanje Massif, also known as the Island in the Sky, is a large and spectacular granite mountain that covers an area of about 650km2. The average altitude is about 2000m and at least a dozen peaks higher than 2500m populate this giant. It has the distinction of being one of the highest mountains in southern and central Africa, arriving, with the Sapitwa peak, at an altitude of 3002m.

With ten mountain huts spread over the massif, six main trail heads, and a total of 62 peaks, there are numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty to choose from, ranging from 1-day treks to multi-day expeditions.

 

Swim in waterfalls:  The pools and waterfalls around Likhubula offer the perfect opportunity to relax, dip your toes in the water or go all in for a refreshing swim.

 

Visit Tea Fields: Take a guided walk or bicycle ride through tea plantations with magnificent views of Mount Mulanje, and learn all about tea - how it is grown, picked and produced. Have a cup of pure Malawi tea to give you a taste of this magical area.

 

Village Walks: Learn more about Malawi’s village life, explore local markets, and have the chance to meet a village chief.

 

Porters Race:  Established in 1996, this race was originally limited to the porters and guides of Mount Mulanje. Over time, it became an annual event, and now it’s open to both local and international athletes. It traditionally takes place on the second Saturday of July, with hundreds of participants from around the globe, running a distance of approximately 25km up and across the Mulanje Biosphere Reserve. It attracts over 5000 spectators.

Best Time to Visit

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The best time to visit Mulanje is between May and early September, when the temperatures are pleasantly cool on the mountain, and the weather is dry. It is usually very hot and rainy between December to early April, while September, October and November are considered extremely hot and dry.

While it is possible to hike during the rainy season, great care should be taken.