About Destination
The magical Mount Mulanje can be found in the southern part of Malawi. Sapitwa Peak, the highest point on the massif at 3,002 m
Much of the Massif consists of lush green grassland at elevations of 1800–2200 m, with deep falling forested ravines. It has many individual peaks reaching heights of over 2500 m, including Chambe Peak, the West Face of which is the longest rock climb in Africa.
Mount Mulanje was formed by the intrusion of magma into the Earth's crust about 130 million years ago. The surrounding rock eroded over time, leaving behind the erosion-resistant igneous rock of the Mulanje Massif. The elevation of the mountain is high enough for it to disturb upper-level airflow and induce rain clouds to form around it, making it an important source of rainwater at the head of almost every river that runs through this part of Malawi.
The slopes of the mountain support the local timber industry. At one time there was a cableway to transport timber from the edge of the plateau down to the Likhubula Forestry Station but it fell into disrepair and currently, planks are carried down manually.
The mountain is part of the protected Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve. Mulanje is nicknamed the'island in the sky' because it rises almost sheer from the plains below, which have an average altitude of just 650m. The height of Mulanje is such that it creates its climate, and it has a great variety of vegetation reflecting its massive range of altitude.
The mountain is an ecosystem hub for many species of flora and fauna, which thrive on areas. Mulanje is home to a vast amount of threatened and endangered species, and some endemic ones. The endemic tree Widdringtonia whytei, known as Mulanje Cedar or Mulanje Cypress, has been so heavily logged that it is considered endangered Distinctive highland birds include the Thyolo alethe and White-winged Apalis.
The mountain offers many activities like hiking and climbing and has several mountain huts scattered across it which are maintained by the Malawi Mountain Club and the Malawi Forestry Department. Mulanje has many individual peaks reaching heights of over 2500m, including Sapitwa, Central Africa’s highest point (3,001m), and Chambe Peak, the West Face of which is the longest rock climb in Africa. Each of these peaks is accessible for hikers. Anyone trekking the mountain are to do so with a certified guide. The protected Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve offers game & safari drives. You can dive into several waterfalls and enjoy the large spring pools.
To visit Malawi, you will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months and a visa. The Malawian currency is Kwacha and is cost R0.20 or $0.02.
One can find camping and bungalow-style overnight accommodation at affordable prices.
Local cuisine would be fish from Lake Malawi, served with a tomato and onion salad, bread, and banans.