The vertical landscapes of Malawi are no longer just a backdrop to the country’s famous lakeshore; they have become the primary focus of a nationwide tourism surge. As the 2026 travel season begins, the "Warm Heart of Africa" is witnessing a strategic shift toward its highlands, fueled by international recognition and a wave of private-sector investment.

At the center of this transformation is the Mount Mulanje Biosphere Reserve. Following its official designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2025, the "Island in the Sky" has seen an immediate uptick in global visibility. This status has acted as a catalyst for operators like Africa Wild Truck and Trek Mulanje, who are pivoting toward more sustainable, high-impact adventure models.

The "Mulanje–Zomba" Connection One of the most significant developments for 2026 is the launch of integrated highland itineraries. For the first time, specialized operators are offering the Mulanje–Zomba Highlands Adventure, a multi-day journey that connects the 3,000-meter peaks of the Mulanje Massif with the mist-shrouded forests of the Zomba Plateau.

This new circuit addresses a long-standing demand for multi-day trekking in Central Africa. Infrastructure at Luwawa Forest Lodge in the Viphya Highlands has also seen a major upgrade, with the Luwawa–Kachere Trail now expanded into a comprehensive four-day trek. These routes are designed to offer "slow travel" experiences, including birdwatching for endemic species and mountain biking across the plateau's rugged terrain.

The push for modernization is being met with a strict commitment to low-impact tourism. Africa Wild Truck has set a new benchmark by introducing solar-powered operations across its guest rooms and communal areas at Mulanje. This shift is part of a broader "Green Highland" movement, which includes the establishment of dedicated sustainability teams and the expansion of on-site food production through organic vegetable gardens to reduce the carbon footprint of logistics.

Furthermore, the Lilongwe Wildlife Trust recently unveiled its 2026–2032 strategy, "People and Nature Together." This six-year roadmap directly impacts the highlands by prioritizing the restoration of priority ecosystems and strengthening the legal frameworks that protect the biodiversity of the Mulanje Cedar and the rare wildlife of the Zomba Plateau.

The Malawian Department of Tourism has underscored that these highland developments are central to the country’s $660 million Tourism Master Plan. By shifting focus to the mountains, the government aims to create a year-round tourism cycle that is less dependent on seasonal beach travel.

Local communities are being integrated through "village-linked" hiking models. These programs ensure that the economic benefits of high-altitude tourism—such as guide fees, porterage, and cultural exchange visits—flow directly into the hands of those living at the base of the massifs. In 2026, new initiatives like eco-friendly camping and improved mountain gear rentals are expected to lower the barrier for international trekkers while professionalizing the local workforce.

As Malawi continues to refine its visa policies—shifting toward a reciprocal regime to ensure diplomatic parity, the ease of access for regional and international travelers remains a priority. With the highlands now boasting world-class trails and UNESCO credentials, the nation is successfully rebranding itself as Africa's most complete adventure destination.

Africa News

Malawi highlands set for growth after Mulanje gains UNESCO status