Zomba Plateau

Zomba Plateau marks the dramatic edge of the Rift Valley where steep cliifs plunge 1200 metres to colonial Zomba Town and the plains of the Shire valley. Thick forest, rich vegetation and birdlife, waterfalls and extraordinary views provide a wonderful location to explore on foot, in the saddle or by car.

Planted pine and Mulanje cedar are complemented by rich indigenous woodland creepers and bush. Impressive wild flowers and orchids are best seen in November and December. Prolific birdlife and large butterflies are joined in lower areas by monkey, baboon, even leopard and hyena.

Mulunguzi River provides a riverside hike from pretty Williams Falls as it flows into a major river through the town below. The plateau's main viewpoints are found at Queen's View and Emperor's View looking out over Phalombe Plains, broken up by numerous large outcrops.

Zomba Town was the centre of colonial administration from 1885, becoming capital until independence in 1975. The old Parliament is among many surviving colonial buildings. Outside town, Mikuyu Jail is now a memorial to political detainees, kept in terrible conditions by Dr Banda. Lake Chilwa provides a good view of the fishing community, busy with boats, fish market and waterbirds.