For those who dream of authentic Africa, now is the time to travel Malawi. A small but vibrant and densely populated country at the southern end of Africa's Great Rift Valley, Malawi boasts green and fertile land, lots of small traditional farms and famously friendly people. Watching local children play around the lake, you'll quickly understand why Malawi is promoted as the 'Warm Heart of Africa'. There is relatively little tourism in Malawi and with a relaxed pace of life, friendly locals, idyllic landscapes and exquisite lakeshore beaches it is a great place to relax at the start or end of your safari, or to explore as a destination in its own right. The country is dominated by the huge sparkling waters of Lake Malawi but in addition to the lake, Malawi boasts a diversity of scenery, wildlife and activities to rival those of her better known neighbours.
In the south of the country visitors will find vibrant green tea plantations and the lofty Zomba Plateau, ideal for a day hiking in the clear mountain air. More adventurous travellers can attempt a multi-day hike to the top of Mulanje Mountain, the highest mountain in Central Africa. In the country's south, there is also Liwonde National Park, home to elephants, sable antelope, waterbuck, impala and bushbuck. The palm fringed Shire River twists through the park and has a couple of small tented camps on its banks, where hippos mow the lawn at night. To the north the rolling highlands of the Nyika Plateau are grazed by zebra and roan antelope, and ideal for cycling and horseriding safaris.
At the heart of it all lies Lake Malawi, the 'Lake of Stars', stretching for over 300 miles whose clear waters and beautiful lakeshore are ideal for those seeking either watersports or pure relaxation while they travel Malawi. Its clear, mineral-rich waters teem with countless, brightly coloured cichlid fish, most of which are endemic. Lake Malawi has some beautiful beaches, particularly on Likoma Island and on the southern end of the lake around Cape Maclear.
For those travellers who are less focused on predator action and more interested in the subtle experiences that Africa has to offer, Malawi makes a great destination with its striking landscapes, warm-hearted people and rich cultural history.
