Nyika National Park was Malawi’s first and oldest certified park, established in 1965. It is also the biggest of all the national parks in the country covering an area 3200km2 of beautiful, rolling scenery. Nyika Plateau is situated in the Northern Malawi and is unique in Africa. The Plateau is on UNESCO World Heritage tentative list for its cultural and natural beauty.
Wildlife of Nyika National Park
The montane vegetation of Nyika Plateau attracts large number of antelopes, and zebras. Smaller mammals like warthogs and bush pigs are also commonly found in the park.
In addition, Nyika is home to the highest number of leopard in Malawi! There have been a few spots of nomadic males. Although because of the size of the park, it is are hard to spot so keep your eyes peeled! Nyika is a birders paradise with over 400 species of birds.
Vegetation of Nyika National Park
The park is especially famous for its wild flowers and unique vegetation, and the terrain consisting rolling hills that are grass-covered, cut through by forested valleys and accented by steep escarpments. Peaks reach over 2km, and an especially breathtaking view is found at Nganda Peak; where a height of 2607m gives a view of Zambia to the west and Lake Malawi and the mountains of Tanzania to the east. The high number of rivers and the impressive waterfalls explain Nyika’s name (which means where the water comes from). Thanks to these sources the plant the plant life is abundant with over 3000 plant species and 200 different types of orchids!
What to do in Nyika National Park
Mountain biking: Get on your bike and discover on the large landscape to explore and a lots to see on Nyika Plateau – what better way than by bike! life is abundant with over 3000 plant species and 200 different types of orchids!
Walks: If you choose to travel by two legs rather than two wheels you can explore Nyika by foot. Not only does Nyika offer a wildlife experience but it’s also full of attractions such as a neolithic rock, trout pools, and a “magic lake”!
Game drives: If two wheels are not enough for you, take four! Chelinda Lodge offer game drives to its guests, which is the best way to see as much as possible. You can also self-drive around the National park.
Fishing (catch & release): For those who like a relaxed sport you can give your hand at fly fishing in Nyika!
Who is the park good for?
Landscape lovers will be stunned by Nyika as well as the bird watchers. If you have passion for flowers or leopard you should definitely add Nyika to your list!