Description

Malawi's highest peak, this spectacular mountain rises majestically from the grassy plateau. Named after the unique Mulanje cedar tree which grows abundantly on the steep slopes, Mt Mulanje offers a relatively easy climb up through tea plantations to steep gorges which hide numerous spectacular waterfalls and crystal clear streams. Forestry huts provide basic accommodation along the trail and experienced guides and porters assist in making the trek a most enjoyable experience.

Kayaking on Lake Malawi is a true paradise experience. A World Heritage Site and the first freshwater marine reserve in the world, Lake Malawi's calm turquoise waters are abundant with a myriad of colourful tropical fish. Based at two camps on the islands of Mumbo and Domwe, you spend the days kayaking the warm clear waters nearby. In between trips you can swim, snorkel, scuba dive, or just relax in a hammock under the trees. The two islands where the camps are located fall within exclusive concession areas, guaranteeing privacy in paradise. Rustic chalets set amongst the natural vegetation, offer a luxurious level of bush comforts. The warm fresh waters, the massive jumbles of underwater boulders and the many tropical fish create a magical swimming pool, and the opportunity to try sea kayaking, snorkeling and scuba diving in a beautiful and safe environment.

Highlights

• Relaxing at the beautiful pools and waterfalls at Likhubula
• Stunning views from Leopard rock and elephant head viewpoint
• Calm turquoise fresh water kayaking
• Snorkelling with multitudes of colourful tropical fish
• Relax on the shores at the private rustic island camps
• Additional activities of swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving

Sample Itinerary

Day 1
Depart from Johannesburg for your flight to Blantyre. Upon arrival in Blantyre, you will be met and transferred to Likhubula Forest Lodge near Mulanje where you will be staying overnight. After settling into your room, meet for an initial 3D orientation at the forest office. At 18h20 a detailed briefing will be held followed by an early dinner. After dinner make final preparations for the hike

Day 2
Check out of your hotel and transfer to Fort Lister for the start of your hike. Day one takes you through the tea plantations of the lower slopes, ascending up to Sombani Forest Hut where you will be staying overnight. Leaving your packs at the hut take a short walk on to Leopard Rock, returning just before sunset. Approximate walking time for the day is 6 hours.

Day 3
After an early breakfast depart from Sombani. Passing Chinzama Forest Hut where you stop for lunch, continue on to Thuchira Forest Hut. The trail takes you across the undulating plateau of Thuchira in view of spectacular peaks. Enjoy a spectacular sunset at Elephant head view -point. Return to Thuchira Forest Hut where you will be staying overnight. There’s an option to go on a night walk after dinner to see nocturnal animals. The day’s walk takes approximately 7 hours.

Day 4
Up at dawn, have an early cup of tea or coffee before leaving Chisepho. Descend via Chambe Forest Hut along the Chapaluka path to Likhubula Forest Lodge. The day’s walks is approximately 6 hours. A delicious lunch awaits at the lodge, after which you can relax and have a well deserved rest. Alternatively you can visit the craft vendors or the nearby local market. Over night Likhubula Forest Lodge.

Day 5
After breakfast you’ll be collected from Likhubula Forest Lodge for your transfer up to Cape Maclear. Depending on the road conditions it’s approximately a 5 hour trip. Upon arrival at Cape Maclear there’ll be a short familiarisation and safety briefing on the beach. Depending on the time of day you can choose to out to Domwe or take the boat. You’ll be spending your first night at Domwe.

Day 6 & 7
The morning is at leisure to relax at the lodge. In the afternoon it’s into the kayaks for a one to two hour paddle across to Mumbo island where you’ll stay for the next two nights. All snorkelling and kayaking activities are included and there are numerous short walks to be taken around the island.

Day 8
After breakfast have a leisurely paddle back to the mainland or you can transfer by boat. Along the way you may get the opportunity to get some close up photo’s of the Fish Eagles that nest on the islands you pass by. Once on the mainland transfer to Nkopolo Lodge where you’ll stay overnight

Day 9
Your last day sees an early morning transfer to the airport at Club Makakola for your flight to Johannesburg via Blantyre. Arrive in Johannesburg in the afternoon.