Mountains, beaches and wildlife in the north of Malawi

After a long journey you have finally arrived in the Warm Heart of Africa. Today is all about taking it easy and settling in. Feel the African sun, listen to the sounds of the city and let the adventure start slowly. Still have some energy left? Wander into one of Lilongwe’s lively neighbourhoods, browse a local market or grab a seat on a terrace between the locals. Get ready for untouched nature, stunning beaches and unforgettable encounters.

You are heading into the interior of Malawi, towards the Viphya Forest Reserve, a vast natural area in the north known for its pine forests and peaceful atmosphere. It is also a place where conservation is taken seriously. Local organisations and lodges work hard to protect the forest from deforestation and illegal logging, and to restore indigenous tree species. By staying here you directly support these efforts, as income from eco tourism helps local communities care for their land in a sustainable way. Explore this area on horseback, by bike or on foot.

A hidden gem perched high in the mountains of northern Malawi. Getting there is an adventure in itself, with bumpy winding tracks to conquer. But it is absolutely worth it. Once you arrive it feels like stepping into another world. You will stay in an eco lodge overlooking the valley. Fun detail: they are all about permaculture and sustainable tourism. The ingredients for your meals are grown right there and every dish is prepared from start to finish on site. Since you sleep right on the edge of the cliff, the sunrises here are breathtaking. And you do not even have to get out of bed to enjoy them.

An epic and seriously special adventure is coming up in the next few days. You are heading into the rolling hills of the Nyika Plateau. This area is not only insanely beautiful when it comes to landscapes, it is also home to zebras, antelopes and even elephants and leopards. Together with your guide you will spend a few days crossing straight through the park, camping at the most remote and magical spots and cooking your meals over an open fire. A real Charlie’s Travels experience. With a bit of luck you will even spot some wildlife along the way. A couple of days full of pure nature, good vibes and just a tiny bit of roughing it.

You will be driving through sparsely populated areas and can stop now and then for scenic viewpoints or small villages. Nkhata Bay is actually a fairly “touristy” spot by Malawian standards, so you will find a handful of restaurants, bars and nice little accommodations clustered together. You will probably bump into a few hippies and wandering backpackers. It is a cute, small and idyllic village tucked between the hills and the lake. Nkhata Bay is also a great place to wander around on your own and browse the local shops.

One of the absolute highlights of this trip is Likoma Island, a tropical paradise that actually sits closer to Mozambique than to mainland Malawi. This island has everything you dream of in a remote destination: untouched beaches, crystal clear water and a calm, laid back vibe. Colourful fishing boats float across the lake, kids laugh along the shore and the friendly islanders welcome you with a smile. No beach bars, no pushy vendors, no resorts. Just a slice of idyllic Africa the way it once was. Time seems to stand still here, and that is exactly what makes it so special.

A garden as colourful as the food on your plate. Here almost every spice from around the world grows, from fresh vanilla to papayas. In Chintheche you will dive into a real cooking experience. You will spend the whole day preparing dinner together with Lara and end it with an incredible meal overlooking the lake. This coastline is known for its wide white sand beaches, calm bays and lush green surroundings. Unlike the busier spots around the lake, Chintheche has a serene, almost timeless atmosphere.

The reserve is known for its rugged and varied landscape, from dense forests to open grasslands and lush riverbanks. You will explore it both on foot and by jeep. Start your safari with a drive through the park, where you have the chance to spot impressive animals such as elephants, giraffes, buffaloes and several antelope species. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to see most animals, when they are at their most active. The reserve is also famous for its birdlife, so do not forget your binoculars.

Hidden in the hills of central Malawi lies Ntchisi Forest Reserve, a place where it feels like time has paused for a moment. No crowds, no noise, just green as far as you can see. The forest sits at about one thousand five hundred to one thousand seven hundred metres, so the air is cool and refreshing. A welcome change after the heat of the lower areas. Ntchisi is one of the last true rainforests in Malawi. Think towering trees, twisting vines and misty mornings where everything smells of earth and life. There is almost no one around, just you, the birds and the occasional curious monkey. This is exactly the kind of place we at Charlie’s love. A bit remote, full of character and one hundred percent real. Here you do not have to do anything. Just walk, listen and let the place sink in.

Every adventure comes to an end, and so does this beautiful journey through Malawi. Fully recharged, you pack your bags and get ready for the flight home. With a healthy glow on your cheeks you sink into your airplane seat, close your eyes and drift off, replaying all the amazing moments you experienced. Full of inspiration and carrying a suitcase full of memories you open your front door again.