Mount Mulanje declared UNESCO World Heritage site

Exciting news this week as Mount Mulanje has officially been added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It joins a very select list of cultural landscapes worldwide and becomes Malawi’s third UNESCO World Heritage Site after Lake Malawi National Park and Chongoni Rock Art Area.

The massif, often referred to as an ‘Island in the Sky’ rises dramatically from the plains to over 3,000m at Sapitwa Peak, the highest point in Malawi. For hundreds of years the local communities, including among them the Mang’anja, the Lhomwe and the Yao, have held traditional ceremonies at its waterfalls, caves and springs. Some believe that the peak holds secrets and is a place where the physical and spiritual worlds connect. Now, UNESCO has officially recognised these cultural connections between people and nature and designated the whole area as of ‘outstanding universal value’.

The 'Island in the Sky'

In addition to its cultural heritage, Mulanje has unique ecosystems and rare species. Most significantly, Mulanje is the home to Malawi's national tree, the Mulanje cedar - found nowhere else on earth. Sadly, deforestation has significantly reduced the cedar population, so there’s hope that with the new status replanting efforts will protect the tree for future generations. There are also many endemic birds, reptiles, and amphibians such as the dwarf gecko, pygmy chameleon, and striped-greenbul bird who live in the area. The streams and rivers flowing from the mountain are also crucial for the surrounding neighbourhoods as the water is crystal clear and serves over a million people.

At Land & Lake Safaris, we’re excited to help you experience Mount Mulanje in all its newly recognised significance. Whether you’re trekking across its high plateaus, learning about cedar restoration, or joining a guided cultural visit to ancestral shrines, now is the time to visit this awe-inspiring place. 

Here’s our top 6 experiences for a trip to Mulanje:

• Summit Sapitwa Peak - Take on the challenge of climbing Malawi’s highest point (3,002m), with sweeping views stretching across southern Malawi and into Mozambique

• Explore Hidden Waterfalls & Pools - Cool off after your hike at natural gems like Dziwe la Nkhalamba and Likhubula Falls

• Discover Unique Flora & Fauna - Spot the famous Mulanje cedar trees, rare butterflies, and colorful birdlife found nowhere else on earth

• Hike Through Dramatic Landscapes - Trek across granite peaks, misty plateaus, deep forest valleys and rolling tea estates – suitable for all fitness levels with multiple route options

• Overnight in Mountain Huts - Sleep in rustic mountain huts on your multi-day trek for an off-grid experience under the stars 

• Connect with Local Culture - Meet local guides and porters who will take you to visit nearby villages and sacred sites to learn about the mountain’s cultural and spiritual significance 

And if that isn't enough to persuade you to take a trip to Mount Mulanje, speak to our travel consultants and they will help you plan your perfect itinerary.