Mzuzu

Mzuzu is the capital of Malawi's Northern Region and the main gateway to the northern highlands and lakeshore. Sitting at an altitude of 1,256 metres, the city enjoys a cool, pleasant climate and is surrounded by pine-covered hills and the remnants of tropical forest.

While not a major tourist destination itself, Mzuzu is an important transport hub and provisioning stop for travellers heading to Nyika National Park, Nkhata Bay, Livingstonia, and the northern lakeshore. The city has good infrastructure with banks, ATMs, supermarkets, and fuel stations — making it the last major supply stop before heading into the remote north.

The Mzuzu Museum (part of the Museum of Malawi network) offers insight into the culture of northern Malawi's ethnic groups, particularly the Tumbuka, Ngoni, and Tonga peoples. The nearby Viphya Plateau, one of Africa's largest man-made forests, offers cycling and hiking opportunities.