Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Mountain Biking
Nyika's network of dirt roads is ideal for mountain biking. You can base yourself at Ch-
elinda and go for day rides (per day bike/guide US$40/40, kids half price) in various dir-
ections or camp out overnight (for which you'll need to hire a guide). Make sure you
leave plenty of time to return before dark.
Horse Riding
Nyika's wide, open landscape lends itself perfectly to horse riding and this is by far the
most enjoyable and exhilarating way to experience the plateau. You can also get much
closer to animals such as zebras, elands and roans when on horseback.
Wilderness Safaris won the concession for horse riding in 2011 and by the time you
read this they should
hopefully
have found a suitable partner to reinstate horseback safaris
once again.
Fishing
Some anglers reckon Nyika National Park offers some of the best rainbow trout fishing in
Malawi. The best time of year to fish is October and November. Fishing is allowed in the
dams near Chelinda Camp (Dam One has the lion's share) and in nearby streams. Only fly
fishing is permitted and there's a limit of six fish per rod per day to maintain numbers.
Cost of rod per hour/day is US$4/20.
Sleeping & Eating
Camping Ground $
(campsites per person US$15)
About 2km from the main Chelinda Camp, this camp is set
in a secluded site with vistas of the plateau's rolling hills. The site has permanent security,
clean toilets, hot showers, endless firewood and shelters for cooking and eating. All self-
caterers should stock up in either Mzuzu or Rumphi. There's a small shop at Chelinda for
National Parks staff but provisions are often basic and supplies sporadic.
CAMPING
LODGE
Chelinda Lodge $$$
( 01-771393;
www.wilderness-safaris.com
; Nyika National Park; chalets US$450;
)
One kilometre from Chelinda Camp and sitting on a hillside in a clearing of pine
trees, upscale Chelinda Lodge is a traveller's dream. The main building crackles with fires
