8 Day Malawi Hiking & Trekking Nyika National Park Wilderness

8 Days

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day trekking adventure across Malawi’s highlands, from the forested escarpments of Livingstonia to the sweeping grasslands of Nyika National Park. This 50 km wilderness expedition blends challenging hikes, rustic camping, breathtaking scenery, and authentic cultural encounters with local communities. Traverse coffee plantations, climb to the vast Nyika Plateau, spot wildlife on foot, and soak in panoramic views over Lake Malawi. Designed for adventurous travelers, this off-the-beaten-path journey offers pure immersion in Malawi’s raw and untouched wilderness.

Best Travel Period:
May–October: Ideal for dry weather and wildlife sightings
November–April: Green season (challenging, for seasoned hikers)

Highlights

Package Name: Nyika National Park Wilderness Trek
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Destinations Covered: Livingstonia → Nyika Plateau → Chelinda Camp → Mushroom Farm → Lilongwe
Experience Type: Multi-Day Trekking + Wildlife + Cultural Immersion

Day 1 :

Arrival in Malawi

Arrive at Kamuzu International Airport (LLW)
Private transfer to Mitengo House in Lilongwe for overnight
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 :

Transfer to Livingstonia Highlands

Drive 6 hours from Lilongwe to Mushroom Farm Eco Lodge
Enjoy panoramic views over Lake Malawi from the escarpment
Gear check & detailed trek briefing
Meals: Dinner

Day 3 :

Trek Begins – To Phata Village (14 km / ~5 hrs)

Motorbike ride to Chakaka trailhead
Begin trek through coffee & banana plantations, passing traditional Tonga villages
Overnight at wilderness campsite under the stars
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 :

Climb to Nyika Plateau (18 km / ~7 hrs)

Challenging full-day hike to Chelinda Camp at 2,500m elevation
Spot wildlife including zebra, reedbuck, and Denham’s bustard
Overnight camping on the plateau
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 :

Plateau Exploration & Optional Mission Visit

Guided morning wildlife walk on the Nyika grasslands
Optional visit to Kaulime Mission (+$75)
Afternoon return hike to Phata campsite (16 km / ~6 hrs)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 :

Final Trek & Return to Mushroom Farm

Trek 12 km to Chakaka trailhead
Motorbike transfer back to Mushroom Farm Eco Lodge
Sunset celebration dinner overlooking the escarpment
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 :

Return to Lilongwe

Leisurely breakfast and 6-hour transfer back to Lilongwe
Overnight at Mitengo House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8 :

Departure

Breakfast and private transfer to Kamuzu International Airport
Meals: Breakfast