Overview
Zomba is a small, welcoming town in Southern Malawi that served as the country's capital until 1975. Most travelers visit specifically for the Zomba Plateau, which offers stunning waterfalls, panoramic viewpoints, and excellent hiking through forested mountain terrain.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Accommodation
Budget options include Pakachere Backpackers (dorm $10, camping $5) and The Trout Farm (cabins $10). Mid-range includes Annie's Lodge ($30/36) and Peters Lodge ($20/25).
Connectivity
Zain and MTL have shops in town. WiFi hotspots available at Annie's Lodge (Globe) and Casa Rossa (Skyband). Cyber bar at Pakachere Backpackers.
Food
Annie's on Mulunguzi Road has affordable lunch specials. Hotel Masongola serves excellent traditional chicken kawawa. Fresh produce available at the market behind the bus station.
Money
Standard Bank and National Bank of Malawi both have MasterCard/Visa ATMs. Prices in Zomba run higher than Blantyre due to transport costs. Local currency is Malawian kwacha (MK).
Safety
Zomba is generally safe for travelers. The plateau forest can be disorienting—hiring a guide is advisable. Guide boys on the plateau are generally reliable.
Transport
Buses to Blantyre take 1 hour; Lilongwe is 5-7 hours away. Taxis to the Zomba Plateau cost around 7000 MK each way. Police roadblocks are frequent on roads.
