Zomba Plateau | Malawi Tourism

About Zomba Plateau

Zomba Plateau rises to over 2,000 metres above the old colonial capital of Zomba, offering cool forests, dramatic viewpoints, waterfalls, and some of the most accessible highland scenery in Malawi. The plateau was a favoured retreat for British colonial officers escaping the heat of the lowlands, and the historic Ku Chawe Inn still stands at the top.

The plateau is crisscrossed with hiking trails and forest roads winding through indigenous cedar and pine forests, past trout-stocked dams, and to viewpoints overlooking the Shire Valley, Lake Chilwa, and Mount Mulanje in the distance. Emperor Falls and Williams Falls are popular highlights. The diverse birdlife and butterfly populations attract naturalists from around the world.

Unlike many of Malawi's highland destinations, Zomba Plateau is easily accessible, a paved road winds up to the top from Zomba town, and the plateau can be explored on foot, by mountain bike, or by car. The cool climate and peaceful forests make it an ideal escape from the heat of the lowlands.

Best Time to Visit

Year-round, though May to October (dry season) offers the clearest views and driest trails. The wet season (November to April) brings mist and rain but the forests are at their most lush and green, with wildflowers in bloom. Morning mist can obscure views but usually clears by midday.

Activities

Experiences at Zomba Plateau

Birdwatching

2-4 hours

MWK 5,000-10,000 (guide fee)

Forest Trail Walks

1 hour to full day

MWK 3,000-8,000 (guide fee)

Hiking to Emperor Falls

3-4 hours round trip

MWK 5,000-10,000 (guide fee)

Mountain Biking

2-4 hours

MWK 5,000-15,000 (bike hire)

Trout Fishing

Half day to full day

MWK 3,000-5,000 (permit)

Where to Stay

Accommodation at Zomba Plateau

Government Hostel

Budget

MWK 10,000-20,000 per night

A basic but functional government rest house on the plateau, offering budget accommodation in simple rooms. Bring your own food …

Ku Chawe Inn

Hotel

USD 60-120 per night

The historic hilltop hotel on Zomba Plateau, dating from the colonial era. Offers comfortable rooms with fireplaces, stunning views over …

Zomba Forest Lodge

Lodge

USD 40-80 per night

A charming mid-range lodge set among the pine and cedar forests of the plateau. Offers cosy cottages with fireplaces, a …

Getting There

Zomba town is on the M1 highway, approximately 3 hours from Blantyre and 4.5 hours from Lilongwe. A well-maintained tarmac road winds up to the plateau from the town centre (about 30 minutes drive). Minibuses run frequently from Blantyre and Lilongwe to Zomba town. From town, take a taxi or walk the road up to the plateau.

Practical Tips

Know before you go

Hire a Local Guide

Local guides from the Forestry Office know the trails intimately and can point out wildlife, medicinal plants, and hidden viewpoints. Hiring a guide also supports the local economy and conservation efforts.

Leech Season

During the wet season (November to April), leeches can be common on forest trails. Tuck trousers into socks and apply insect repellent to ankles. Leeches are harmless but unpleasant — salt or a lit match removes them.

Bring Warm Clothing

The plateau is significantly cooler than the lowlands below. Bring a warm jacket or fleece, especially for evenings. Mist and drizzle can descend quickly, so rain gear is also advisable.