In the southern half of Malawi, well away from the lake, are two separate destinations that are often sought out by the cognescenti: Zomba Plateau and Mua Mission.

Overlooking Liwonde and the Shire River Valley, Zomba Plateau is Malawi's oldest forest reserve. Here, waterfalls, trout dams and walking trails are interlaced with pine and indigenous montane forests. Ku Chawe Inn is a super mountain retreat on the Zomba Plateau.

Mua Mission is about 160 kilometres east of Lilongwe, in the foothills of the Dedza Highlands. It was first established by the Roman Catholic Church about 100 years ago, and a village has since grown up around the parish buildings. The KuNgoni Art and Craft Centre was started here in the 1970s and is now famous throughout the region for the high quality of its woodcarvings.

Mua also has a remarkable plantation of mahogany trees. This was started by the first missionaries to ensure continuity of supply for the woodcarvers, and remains an impressive testament to their foresight. Recently, in keeping with this tradition of promoting of plant and animal awareness amongst the local people, a beautiful landscaped garden has been added, and there is also a fascinating cultural museum here.


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