Hiking Mount Mulanje, the highest mountain in Malawi
About Mount Mulanje
Mount Mulanje is the highest mountain in Malawi at 3,002m and is made up of hard metamorphic rocks such as granite and diorite.
From the outside, Mount Mulanje looks like a rugged mountain, but once you step into the mountain, you will find a series of grasslands, forested plateaus and wooded valleys surrounded by valleys and ridges.
It is known as the ‘Island in the Sky’ and is a paradise for hikers.
The hiking route depends on how long you spend in the mountains and what you want to see and do.
Mulanje has 6 main trailheads and 10 mountain huts and 62 peaks, including Sapitwa (3,002m), the highest peak in Central Africa, and Chambe Peak on the West Face, Africa’s longest rock climb, but here are some of the most popular routes for Mulanje first time climbers, including the route to Sapitwa Peak.
The Best Time to Hike to Mulanje
Mulanje has three main seasons: cool and dry from May to early September, hot and dry from late September to early December, and hot and rainy from late December to April.
The best time to hike to Mulanje is from May to early September, when the temperatures are pleasantly cool in the dry season.
From May to August, frost can occur at night.
October and November are the hottest and haziest months, but the rainy months from December to March are cooler and clearer.
Hiking during the rainy season is possible, but great care should be taken.
Guides & Porters
Mount Mulanje has guides and porters at each trailhead, which can be arranged on the day of your hike.
Although guides and porters are not mandatory, we recommend that you hike with a guide as it can be difficult to find your way around in unfamiliar areas and the weather can change rapidly.
If you want to make your hike more comfortable, you can also arrange for a chef to prepare all your meals during the hike in addition to your guide and porters.
Some guides will also prepare meals for you, but a chef can go to the hut first and prepare your meals while you are enjoying the hike with your guide, making your hike much smoother and more comfortable.
Guides and porters can be arranged at each trailhead, but if you would like to discuss route recommendations and what to bring beforehand, or ask to arrange porters and a chef, or even rent sleeping bags, please contact this guide.
Vincent Kesten
Phone: +265 (0) 994 323 874
He is very experienced and will be able to arrange the best hike for you.
Hiking Options
Day Hikes
Option1: Hiking to Likhubula Falls from Likhubula
Option2: Hiking to Likhubula Falls and Chipaluka Pool from Likhubula
3days / 2nights
Option3: Hiking to Sapitwa from Likhubula
Option4: Hiking to Sapitwa from Thuchila
