The Zomba Plateau

The Zomba Plateau rises steeply above Zomba, the former colonial capital of Malawi: a forested tableland of pine and cedar woods, streams, waterfalls and trout dams well above the hot plains, crossed by walking and driving trails. At its edges are escarpment viewpoints, among them the Emperor's View and Queen's View, where the plateau drops in cliffs to views over the plains, Lake Chilwa and, on a clear day, Mount Mulanje.

The landscape

• The escarpment viewpoints - the Emperor's and Queen's Views.
• The forest trails - the walks through pine woods and streams.
• The waterfalls and dams - the cascades and trout dams.
• Old Zomba town - the former colonial capital below.

When to go

May to October, the cooler, drier season, gives the clearest views and the best walking; the plateau is cooler than the plains all year. A lodge on the plateau allows an overnight stay.

What to expect

It is a gentle, scenic highland retreat of forests, waterfalls and viewpoints rather than a dramatic wilderness or wildlife destination, so its appeal is cool air, easy walking and beautiful panoramas rather than adventure or big sights; some forest areas have suffered logging.

Nearby

Mount Mulanje, the tea estates and Lake Malawi are within reach.

Key facts