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Viphya, Malawi. 18-20 August 2007

Participants: George (Wardrobe) Wardlow, Christine Wardlow, Rupert (West Face) Roschnik, Sally Roschnik, Natan Cointet

3 days “wilderness walking trail” from near Luwawa Lodge crossing over to the Lake shore. 4-5 hours hike each day through Viphya highlands and beautiful indigenous forests. 2 camps, transport back to Luwawa Lodge the third day. Accompanied by a guide and 3 porters.

First day (18th). after about an hour in a landrover, we set off on the hike, on a small track in mixed open grassland and forest, in chiperone conditions. We traversed our highest point, Kawandalanda mountain, and pitched camp shortly afterwards; 4 ½ hours walking. Second day (19th): through long grass, scrub and forest, along ridges, mainly downhill. Foggy at first, sunny later. After a stream crossing and an uphill section, we ended up on an overgrown forest road that took us to a clearing next to a school, near Fumbawona village, where we camped; 5 hours walking. Conversation with several villagers that came to visit the camp. Third day (20th): started on the road to the coast but soon deviated onto tracks through forest with isolated farm dwellings (mud and thatch houses with small "gardens"). Sunny, mainly downhill at first. Eventually, we emerged onto flat ground, cultivated fields and numerous dwellings. By now it was very hot. After 4 hours walking, we reached the main road just north of Mlenga Senga. The landrover picked us up and took us a few miles north to Konde beach resort, for beer, a meal, and a swim. Then back to Luwawa Lodge via Nkhata Bay and Mzuzu.

Luwawa Forest Lodge is mentioned in many guidebooks (e.g. Lonely Planet) and tour organisers. It also has a Facebook page!

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