Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
AROUND LILONGWE
Dzalanyama Forest Reserve
Dzalanyama is a beautiful forest reserve in a range of hills about 60km by road southwest
of Lilongwe. The area is famous for birdwatching, and species found here include the
olive-headed weaver and Stierling's woodpecker.
The only place to stay in the reserve is
Dzalanyama Forest Lodge
(s/d with shared
bathroom US$30/50, whole house US$160)
, run by Land & Lake Safaris. It's simple and
there's only one bathroom and toilet between eight people, but the romantic atmosphere
makes up for it. The lodge overlooks a stream and trees brimming with birds and butter-
flies; at night it's lit up by tons of candles and lanterns. You can spend your days exploring
walking trails, mountain biking, birdwatching or simply relaxing. There's no food
provided, but if you bring you own provisions there's a cook to prepare meals for you
should you choose.
If you don't have your own transport, Land & Lake Safaris arranges transfers to the
forest for US$100 per car from Lilongwe, as there's no public transport here.
Dedza
Dedza is a small town 85km southeast of Lilongwe, just off the main road between Lilong-
we and Blantyre. The town, one of the highest and coolest places in Malawi, is surrounded
by forested hills and sits in the shadow of stately Dedza Mountain. The road south of
Dedza skirts the border of Mozambique, revealing vast plains of rust-red earth and grass on
both sides, broken by conical granite peaks and a quilt of farmland.
Sights & Activities
There are numerous walks, all with spectacular views, in the
Dedza Mountain Forest
Reserve
.
On the northern outskirts of town is Dedza Pottery. Follow the road to the left from town
and it's signposted 1km down a dirt road off the main street. It's a pottery workshop and
boutique, selling crockery, tiles and garden ceramics that are all hand painted with colour-
