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 (Mozambique) |
North Malawi has so much to offer the visitor. Less well known than the rest of the country and with a lower population density, it is a region for those who wish to experience Africa at its most unspoilt. Its quite astonishing beauty is the lasting memory of all who explore this unique area of central Africa.
The north of Malawi has been described as the country’s forgotten region. It has a different character from the rest of the country and this is recognisable in its scenery, its people and even in its politics.
Except for that part of the region which is occupied by 
Lake Malawi, the north is characterised by its great highlands. Most magnificent of all is the Nyika Plateau, towering to no less than 8000ft (2500m). The rolling landscapes of the centre of the plateau are described as whalebacks but the edges of this granite core are scarp-like especially where, in the north-east, it forms the edge of the Great Rift Valley. The other great highlands area is Viphya. This undulating plateau rises to 6000ft (1800m) although some peaks stretch a further 1000ft (300m) higher.
West of the Viphya Highlands are the Mzimba Plains, a modest 4500ft (1400m) high and drained by two large rivers, the South Rukuru and the Kasitu which effectively separate Nyika from Viphya. On the borders with Zambia and with Tanzania, in the north, other significant ranges include the Malingu Mountains and the Misuku Hills rising to over 7000ft (2100m) and 6500ft (2000m) respectively.
