Day Trips in Blantyre

Blantyre is often referred to as the commercial capital of Malawi and is a destination of unconventional natural beauty and striking historical monuments. Here is some information on the best day trip options from Malawi’s economic hub.

Mirchu Mountain Conservation

One of the best day trip ideas in the Blantyre region is the breathtakingly beautiful drive to Mirchu Mountain Conservation, a forest and nature reserve that also features a quaint farming area. Take a nature hiking trail through the labyrinth paths of the park and see spectacular sights of Malawi’s flora and fauna. The lovely mountains and lush greenery provide an idyllic backdrop for a relaxed day trip.

Wildlife Reserves

Visitors can take a day trip to the numerous wildlife reserves that are located in Blantyre’s adjoining areas. The Majete and Mwabvi Wildlife Reserve is a fantastic pick to view a host of rare indigenous birds. Lengwe National Park features a series of mammals including the wild buffalos, antelopes, African elephants, zebras and an array of primates. The Elephant Marsh located in the Lower Shire Valley offers thrilling vistas of a large herd of African elephants in motion. Other creatures here include ferocious crocodiles and the pygmy hippopotamus.

Thyolo and Mulanje Tea Estates

The sprawling Thyolo and Mulanje Tea Estates are a super getaway amidst bountiful greenery and offers visitors an up close and personal chance to see fresh tea leaves being picked and sorted. Finish your trip with a cup of piping hot, delicious and flavorsome tea.

Mount Mulanje

Mount Mulanje is a dramatic smorgasbord of fascinating granite peaks, thick forests, green meadows and white cascading streams. The hike atop the attraction is one that offers undiluted adventure and unrivalled thrill. The trail climaxes at the lofty peaks of Mulanje and awards visitors panoramic views of quaint wood camping huts and a captivating landscape along with more walking trails that wind through unknown paths. Visitors are advised to carry rain gear during their hike as the region witnesses a near perpetual rainfall. The best time to hike here is from May to July when the climate is relatively pleasant.

Zomba

Zomba Plateau is a vast forested mass of land that rises from the eastern rift over the town. The destination is dotted with myriad pines, montane forests, Afromontaine forests, grasslands and striking examples of Bracchystegia woodlands.

Fisherman’s Rest

Fisherman’s Rest is an enjoyable natural reserve near the Shire River. The lush retreat is home to several rare plant and wildlife species and also features an enchanting Old Mill Tea House.

Blantyre has the good fortune of being surrounded by a number of stunning natural getaways that offer pleasurable day trip options.