3 Days Safari in Nyika National Park Malawi

Morning: The Nyika Safari Begins

Your safari to Nyika National Park begins with a scenic drive from Lilongwe, Malawi’s capital, or from the northern city of Mzuzu. The roads leading to Nyika are an experience in themselves, winding through rural villages and hillside terrain. As you approach the park, the landscape transforms into vast open grasslands, dotted with patches of evergreen forest – a hint of the natural splendor that awaits.

Upon arrival at Chelinda Lodge or Camp, the main accommodations within the park, you’re greeted with warm hospitality and a refreshing welcome drink. The air is crisp, and the altitude (the park sits on a plateau averaging 2,500 meters above sea level) adds a briskness that’s invigorating.

Afternoon: Getting Acquainted with the Park

After settling into your accommodations, you embark on your first foray into the wilderness. Nyika is known for its montane grassland ecosystem, which is unique in Africa and the setting for your first guided game drive. You’re immediately struck by the park’s serenity and the feeling of having this vast expanse almost to ourselves.

The rolling hills are a haven for large herds of eland, zebra, and roan antelope. As your guide navigates the landscape, you are lucky enough to spot a few warthogs and bushbucks. Bird enthusiasts are in for a treat, as the park is home to over 400 bird species, including the rare Denham’s bustard and the wattled crane.

Evening: Sunset and Stars

As the day wanes, you position yourselves atop one of Nyika’s many hills just in time to witness an African sunset. The sky blazes with hues of orange, pink, and purple, reflecting off the grasslands in a surreal display of natural beauty.

Dinner is served back at the lodge or camp, featuring local cuisine with an international twist, all sourced from nearby communities and prepared by expert chefs. The day ends with a stargazing session, where the clear skies of Nyika reveal constellations and celestial bodies in stunning clarity. The Milky Way stretches across the sky, a reminder of our place in the universe.

Morning: Guided Walking Safari

The second day of your safari in Nyika National Park starts with an exhilarating walking safari at dawn. Accompanied by an armed ranger and a knowledgeable guide, you tread lightly across the dewy grasslands, learning about the flora and fauna that make this ecosystem so special.

This up-close encounter with nature on Nyika Safari allows you to appreciate the smaller wonders of the park, from the colorful wildflowers and orchids to the diverse insect life. You also get a closer look at the antelope species and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the elusive leopard, which calls this park home.

Afternoon: Optional Game Drive

After a satisfying lunch back at the lodge, you will continue with the afternoon game drive to explore the park till evening when you will return back to the lodge for a short rest dinner and overnight.

Evening: Night Game Drive

As evening approaches, you set out on a night game drive – a chance to see the nocturnal creatures of Nyika National Park. With powerful spotlights, you search for the reflective eyes of predators and nocturnal birds. The night drive is an entirely different experience, with the sounds of the African night providing a thrilling soundtrack.

Leisure breakfast in the lodge and depart for journey back to Lilongwe or Mzuzu town. Along the way you will pass by Viphya crafts center allows you to interact with the local people and see their craftsmanship. Here, woodcarvings, woven baskets, and other handmade goods tell stories of the region’s traditions and way of life.

End of the Safari in Nyika National Park