Mount Mulanje

Mount Mulanje, rising dramatically and abruptly from the surrounding plains of southern Malawi, is one of the most striking landscapes in the country, a vast granite massif so imposing it is often called the Island in the Sky. Its soaring bare rock peaks, deep forested gorges, tumbling rivers, waterfalls and high, grassy plateaus make it a paradise for hikers and climbers, crowned by Sapitwa, the highest peak in south-central Africa at over 3,000 metres. Laced with trails and dotted with simple mountain huts, it offers multi-day treks through spectacular, ever-changing scenery, home to the rare Mulanje cedar.

The landscape

• Sapitwa Peak - the highest summit in south-central Africa.
• The granite massif - the soaring bare rock peaks and plateaus.
• The gorges and waterfalls - the forested ravines and cascades.
• The mountain huts - the simple huts for multi-day treks.

When to go

May to October, the cooler, drier season, for the best and safest hiking conditions and clearest views; the massif can be shrouded in mist and lashed by sudden storms, and the rare, dangerous chiperoni weather can bring cold, wet whiteouts, so weather awareness is vital. Guides and porters, arranged locally, greatly enhance safety and the experience.

Good to know

Mulanje is a serious mountain, and its weather can turn suddenly and dangerously, with mist and cold catching out the unprepared, so proper gear, a local guide and respect for conditions are essential, and the treks, while rewarding, are demanding; huts are basic. For hikers, though, the dramatic granite scenery, soaring peaks, gorges and the chance to climb the roof of south-central Africa make Mulanje one of Africa's great and underrated trekking destinations.

Nearby

The tea estates of Thyolo and Mulanje and the Zomba Plateau are close by.

Key facts