Hikes in Chakumwera

Chambe Peak is renowned as one of the toughest, but most rewarding peaks on Mulanje. The unrivalled monolith stands alone on the Western reach of the massif. The hut is below the peak where the plateau forms a natural basin. Finish with a dip in the waterfall and pools on the Likhubula River.

Locally known as Dziwe wa Nkhalamba, the Likhubula Falls are an impressive sight, and particularly powerful in the rainy season. The Likhubula river cascades over a 10-12 m drop into a large pool ideal for swimming. The falls are just a short walk from the access road.

Follow the route of the renowned Mulanje Porter’s Race. Head up the Skyline path and onto Chambe basin before turning towards the Lichenya plateau and down the Milk Run.

The Grand Traverse is an epic trek that crosses the full length of Mulanje and touches Sapitwa, its highest point. The route takes you from Mulanje town on the SW of the mountain to Phalombe on the NE. It's a 5-day trek, though could be easily extended by adding any of the peaks along the route.

Scrambling peaks, spectacular waterfalls, and sumptuous pools combine with charming huts amidst rolling grasslands - The Ruo Loop provides the full Mulanje experience. This 4 day circular route starts and ends in the midst of the beautiful Lujeri Tea Estate.

The forests and tea fields surrounding Mulanje Boma offer surprising tranquillity and some of the finest views of the mountain from ground level. This short circular walk meanders through the old forest and blue gum plantations to the mouth of the crater and back through tea fields.

The spiritual Mbiya pools are a series of plunge pools connected by small drops and chutes. Mbiya - the traditional spherical clay pot – beautifully describes the ponds formed by the power of the Little Ruo river. It is a short walk from the road through a village and tea fields to the pools.

Sapitwa is the highest of Mulanje’s peaks, standing at 3,002m. Its commanding position at the centre of the massif affords spectacular panoramic views. The climb involves some hard scrambling and the top section can be treacherously difficult to follow in bad weather.

Loop of Zomba Plateau. Starts/ends at the Sunbird Ku Chawe and visits trout farm, William's Falls, Emperor's View, Queen's View. N.B. there is a charge of 200MKW per person to walk over the dam on the way back

Thuchila falls is a hidden gem. The 15-20m high cascade falls into a huge pool formed by the mystical Spirit Dam. The high cliffs provide a natural diving board for the brave. It is a short walk from Thuchila Lodge passing through pleasant woodland and crossing the Thuchila river.