Nyika National Park, Malawi

Reaching a height of over 2600 metres above sea level and covering an area of 3200sq kms, Nyika is Malawi’s largest national park. The game here is rather more limited than in some of Malawi’s other reserves, such as Majete, but the bucolic scenery, and temperate climate, more than compensates.

Indeed, Nyika is most famous for its huge variety of flora, with over 200 species of orchid and many rare wild flowers and golden grasses present within the reserve. Many species of butterfly, chameleon, and toad are also endemic to the plateau. In terms of big game, high concentrations of leopard are present (but elusive!), as are warthog, bushpig, eland, zebra, roan antelope and elephant.

Birding is excellent with over 400 species recorded, including the rare Denham’s bustard.

In and around Nyika Plateau, Malawi
There are two places to sleep within Nyika, Chelinda Lodge and Chelinda Camp, both of which offer comfortable accommodation and modest rates.

Game-viewing in Nyika is on foot or by 4x4. Horse-riding safaris are also a means of exploring the plateau.