← Blantyre International Marathon·3 nights

Zomba Town and Plateau: A Slow Stay After the Marathon

Three nights split between Zomba town and the plateau above it, with short viewpoints and nothing that needs a long hike.

Duration3 nights
TransitPrivate driver, about 40 miles north of Blantyre (confirm with your driver)
DepartsBlantyre

After the Blantyre Marathon: Zomba

The Route: Blantyre → Zomba town → Zomba Plateau → Blantyre → Chileka Airport Logistics: A driver throughout. Zomba is about 40 miles north of Blantyre and the plateau road climbs steeply. Marathon Month: September Duration: 3 nights

Blantyre ──(about 40 miles by road)──> Zomba town ──(plateau road)──> Zomba Plateau
                                                                          │
Chileka Airport (BLZ) ◄──(driver)── Blantyre ◄──(road)───────────────────┘

The Blantyre marathon has run in late September, in the dry season. The plateau, a large massif rising above Zomba town, is cooler than the plains and is crossed by forest tracks, streams and viewpoints.

September in Zomba: dry and clear, with good visibility from the viewpoints. The plateau can be chilly at night, so bring a warm layer. If you travel in the wet months from about November, mist and slippery roads change the plan.

Malawi Tourism places Zomba about 40 miles north of Blantyre. The plateau peaks exceed 2,000 metres, which is high enough to feel on your breathing. Use a driver, move your luggage once, and ask for current drive times.

Night One: Zomba Town

Zomba was Malawi's first capital under colonial rule, and the town has older buildings and a market. Walk a short, flat stretch near your lodge and rest. Annie's Lodge in the town is a long-established base; check availability and rates.

Nights Two and Three: The Plateau

The plateau road is steep and winding, so do not drive it yourself. Pick short viewpoints that a vehicle can reach and walk only the last few hundred metres. Do not promise yourself a mountain hike: the plateau paths involve steep climbs and uneven ground. Sunbird Kuchawe Inn is on the plateau; check what it offers and whether it is open.

Take food and water for the day; services are limited.

Where to Eat

Eat where you stay on the plateau, and try the market stalls in Zomba town for simple local food.

Getting to Chileka Airport (BLZ)

Return to Blantyre by driver, then continue to Chileka International Airport (BLZ). Do not drive after dark, and leave enough time for the Blantyre section.