Exciting sightings for multinational guests at Chelinda Lodge

Chelinda Lodge in Malawi’s Nyika National Park played host to guests of a remarkable number of different nationalities this Easter, all of whom were treated to viewings of an equally broad selection of wildlife, including a rare sighting of lions! Chelinda is situated a scenic eight and a half hour drive away from the capital city of Lilongwe, on the montane grasslands of Nyika, Malawi’s largest park spanning 3,200 km.

A unique area of wilderness often said to be reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands and recognised as one of the most iconic wildlife destinations in the region, Nyika National Park is a must-see location on a trip to Malawi. Over the recent Easter weekend, Chelinda Lodge hosted guests from around the world including from Holland, Japan, Pakistan, Nepal, England, Scotland, Sri Lanka, South Africa and Malawi itself. Operated by Central African Wilderness Safaris, an ecotourism and destination management company with over 30 years of experience in Malawi, Chelinda offers a luxurious stay in the park in eight beautifully appointed chalets, that overlook the rolling grasslands. During the weekend, guests were able to enjoy excellent game viewing, both day and night game drives and guided walks across the plateau.  Sightings that were reported included that of a bull elephant spotted by the main road, several hyenas, a serval cat, a leopard on the airstrip and for the first time in many years, two lions were also seen in the park.

Nyika national park is also home to more than 400 bird species, and is a top birding hotspot in the region, with many migrant species flying into the park during the rainy season.  The park is also one of the best places in Malawi to spot leopards, which are seen regularly by guests and lodge staff alike.

Activities on offer at the lodge include day and night game drives across the plateau, seasonal fly fishing, mountain biking, visits to the nearby school and a variety of trails of which the Sangwala Trail and the Livingstonia Trail are the most popular.

To find out more about a trip to Nyika National Park, contact Central African Wilderness Safaris.