Nyika National Park Wilderness Trek

Nyika National Park Wilderness Trek

(8-Day Highland Expedition from Livingstonia to Chelinda Camp)
Embark on one of Malawi’s most epic wilderness adventures! Hike 50 km from the lush Livingstonia Escarpment to the rolling, wildlife-rich Nyika Plateau. With rustic camping, cultural encounters, and breathtaking scenery, this journey is perfect for intrepid travelers craving raw, off-the-beaten-path exploration.

1. Package Overview

• Package Name: Nyika National Park Wilderness Trek
• Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
• Destinations Covered: Livingstonia → Nyika Plateau → Chelinda Camp → Mushroom Farm → Lilongwe
• Experience Type: Multi-Day Trekking + Wildlife + Cultural Immersion
• Best Travel Period:
• May–October: Ideal for dry weather and wildlife sightings
• November–April: Green season (challenging, for seasoned hikers)

2. Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Malawi

• Arrive at Kamuzu International Airport (LLW)
• Private transfer to Mitengo House in Lilongwe for overnight
• Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Transfer to Livingstonia Highlands

• Drive 6 hours from Lilongwe to Mushroom Farm Eco Lodge
• Enjoy panoramic views over Lake Malawi from the escarpment
• Gear check & detailed trek briefing
• Meals: Dinner

Day 3: Trek Begins – To Phata Village (14 km / ~5 hrs)

• Motorbike ride to Chakaka trailhead
• Begin trek through coffee & banana plantations, passing traditional Tonga villages
• Overnight at wilderness campsite under the stars
• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Climb to Nyika Plateau (18 km / ~7 hrs)

• Challenging full-day hike to Chelinda Camp at 2,500m elevation
• Spot wildlife including zebra, reedbuck, and Denham’s bustard
• Overnight camping on the plateau
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Plateau Exploration & Optional Mission Visit

• Guided morning wildlife walk on the Nyika grasslands
• Optional visit to Kaulime Mission (+$75)
• Afternoon return hike to Phata campsite (16 km / ~6 hrs)
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Final Trek & Return to Mushroom Farm

• Trek 12 km to Chakaka trailhead
• Motorbike transfer back to Mushroom Farm Eco Lodge
• Sunset celebration dinner overlooking the escarpment
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Return to Lilongwe

• Leisurely breakfast and 6-hour transfer back to Lilongwe
• Overnight at Mitengo House
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Departure

• Breakfast and private transfer to Kamuzu International Airport
• Meals: Breakfast

3. Inclusions & Exclusions

✅ Included

• 2 nights at Mushroom Farm Eco Lodge
• 2 nights at Mitengo House (Lilongwe)
• 3 nights rustic camping with tents & sleeping mats
• All meals (B/L/D) + bottled water
• All road & motorbike transfers
• National park entry fees
• Armed ranger escort and certified guides

❌ Excluded

• International airfares
• Travel/medical insurance (mandatory)
• Alcoholic and specialty beverages
• Personal trekking gear (boots, daypacks, poles)

4. Pricing & Booking Information

• Tour Price Per Person: USD $4,200