Livingstonia | Malawi Tourism

About Livingstonia

Perched on a dramatic escarpment 900 metres above the northern lakeshore, Livingstonia is one of Malawi's most atmospheric and historically significant destinations. Founded in 1894 by Scottish missionary Dr Robert Laws, the town was named after David Livingstone and served as the headquarters of the Livingstonia Mission of the Free Church of Scotland.

The town retains many of its original stone buildings, including the remarkable Stone House (Dr Laws' former residence, now a museum), the red-brick church with its beautiful stained-glass window depicting David Livingstone, and the old technical school. The setting is spectacular — views from the escarpment edge plunge down to the lake far below.

Getting to Livingstonia is an adventure in itself. The infamous Gorode escarpment road winds up 21 hairpin bends from the lakeshore village of Chitimba, climbing 900 metres in just 15 km. The road is rough and steep but passable by 4x4 and even by sturdy minibus. Many visitors hike up, stopping at the beautiful Manchewe Falls along the way.

Best Time to Visit

May to October (dry season) offers the clearest views from the escarpment. The wet season (November to April) brings mist and rain but the surrounding forest is lush and green. The altitude means temperatures are cooler than the lakeshore below — bring a jacket for evenings.

Activities

Experiences at Livingstonia

Church Visit

30 minutes

Free (donations welcome)

Escarpment Viewpoint Walk

30 minutes to 1 hour

Free

Hiking the Escarpment Road

3-5 hours up, 2-3 hours down

Free

Manchewe Falls Hike

2-3 hours round trip

MWK 3,000-5,000 (guide fee)

Stone House Museum

1 hour

MWK 2,000-3,000 entry

Where to Stay

Accommodation at Livingstonia

Lukwe Permaculture Eco Camp

Eco Camp

USD 15-40 per person per night

A unique eco-lodge on the escarpment edge with stunning views over the lake. Earth-brick chalets and dorms blend into the …

Mushroom Farm

Eco Camp

USD 8-30 per person per night

A well-known eco-lodge partway up the escarpment road, popular with hikers and backpackers. Offers dorms, private rooms, and camping in …

The Stone House

Budget

MWK 10,000-20,000 per night

Simple rooms in the historic Stone House within the mission grounds. Basic but atmospheric — sleeping in a 19th-century missionary …

Getting There

Livingstonia is accessed from Chitimba on the lakeshore (between Nkhata Bay and Karonga). The escarpment road from Chitimba climbs 21 hairpin bends over 15 km (4x4 recommended, allow 1-2 hours). Alternatively, hike up from Chitimba (3-5 hours). Chitimba is reached by bus from Mzuzu (about 3 hours). The MV Ilala ferry also stops at Chitimba.

Practical Tips

Know before you go

Bring Supplies

There are no shops, ATMs, or fuel stations in Livingstonia. Bring cash, food, water, and any supplies from Mzuzu or Chitimba. Lodges provide meals if booked in advance.

Respect the Mission

Livingstonia is a living community with active churches and schools. Dress modestly, ask permission before photographing people, and respect the historical buildings.

Cool Temperatures

At 1,500m altitude, Livingstonia is significantly cooler than the lakeshore below. Bring a warm jacket and layers, especially for evenings. Morning mist is common.

The Escarpment Road

The road from Chitimba to Livingstonia has 21 hairpin bends, steep gradients, and no guardrails. 4x4 is strongly recommended. Do not attempt in the dark. Many visitors choose to hike up and arrange a vehicle down (or vice versa).