Ntchisi Forest Reserves
Ntchisi Forest Reserve is one of the last remaining patches of tropical rainforest in southern Africa. The reserve is 75sq km and is surrounded on all sides by rolling hills covered by subsistence farming and dotted with traditional villages. It is untouched paradise, undiscovered by mass tourism. The forest is a haven for rare birds, several species of samango monkeys and baboons, hyenas, small antelopes, civet, serval cat and many other small species. The rainforest flora, however, is the real highlight of this area of outstanding natural beauty.
The reserve contains some of the last remaining indigenous rainforest in Malawi. Some trees tower thirty meters overhead while lianas and strangler figs compete for sunlight. Montane forest grassland provides a contrasting habit of open forest and bush. It is excellent hiking and mountain biking territory and give stunning display of wildflowers each year when the rains start.
Where To Stay
Ntchisi Forest Lodge
Ntchisi Forest Lodge is a remote eco-lodge in historical building on the foot of one of the last remaining indigenous rainforests in an isolated spot near Lilongwe with the most stunning view in Malawi. The lodge offers a real African experience as it offers its guests most memorable experiences in rainforest and participation in some cultural activities in remote rural villages still untouched by tourism.
Ntchisi forest lodge runs entirely on renewable energy and grow most of its herbs and vegetables. You can stay in one of the Five lodge rooms, or in a newly build Forest Cabin or stay in one of the two luxury tents. Experience the real Africa life in comfortable and safe surroundings and with a good experience.
Accommodation
Ntchisi Forest Lodge offers you the best way to experience one of the last rainforests of Malawi.
Forest Cabins
The Forest Cabin is the modern way to stay in the forest. With full glass walls it almost feels like sleeping directly in nature. It comes with a private bathroom and offers you a spacious, private living room with a fireplace to spend cozy evenings and nights just by yourself. The private terrace in front of the Cabin invites you to drink your early morning coffee or have a dinner under the sky just surrounded by nature.
The Room Features
Double bed with the option of an extra single bed -- Private bathroom -- Private living room -- Private terrace -- Continental Breakfast included -- Starlink internet available
The Two Bedroom Forest Cabin
The two-bedroom Forest Cabin is hidden away in the Forest Reserve, the spacious living room with full glass walls offers stunning views on the rainforest part of Ntchisi Forest Reserve. It comes with a spacious bathroom and also has a fireplace to spend cozy evenings and nights with your family and friends. The private terrace in front of the Cabin invites you take in the pure beauty of your surroundings.
Amenities
Bedroom with a double bed and option of two extra single beds -- Bedroom with two single or a double bed -- Private bathroom -- Private living room -- Private terrace -- Spacious Bathroom incl. Bathtub -- Breakfast included -- Starlink internet available -- The Cottages
Single Room Cottage
The One Bedroom Cottage is the perfect space for couples and small families to enjoy tranquility and privacy. It’s located on the edge of the Forest Reserve and offers beautiful views through big windows and glass doors to the private terrace.
Amenities
Double bed with the option for an extra single bed -- Private bathroom -- Working desk -- Private terrace -- Shower with solar geyser -- Starlink internet available
Two Bedroom Cottage
The Two Bedroom Cottage is the perfect space for friends and families that are looking for privacy and independency. It’s located on the edge of the Forest Reserve with a spacious terrace and khonde area, that are directrly connected to the small kitchen and living room space. The two separate bedrooms are on the opposite ends of the Cottage and share a bathroom together.
Amenities
Bedroom double bed -- Bedroom two single beds -- Private bathroom -- Small kitchen with fridge -- Private terrace -- Shower with solar geyser -- Starlink interntet available
Ensuite Rooms
Ensuite Standard Room
Located in one of the oldest buildings in Malawi our Ensuite Rooms offer you a very special stay. The room features;
Twin or Double Bed options available
Private bathroom
Internet available
Ensuite Plus room features
- Double Bed
- Option of an extra single bed
- Private bathroom
- Breakfast included
- Option of 1 extra bed
- Internet available
Ensuite Deluxe room Features
- Double Bed
- Private bathroom
- Woking desk and private living area
- Breakfast included
- Option for an extra single bed
- Internet available
Forest Tents
Budget Twin and Double Bed options available -- Option of an extra single bed -- Shared bathroom -- No electricity
What To Do
Staying at the Ntchisi Forest Lodge provides you to explore and experience the pureness of nature with the local tour guides or a take a freedom to wander around by yourself.
Guided Walks
The rainforest is directly next to the lodge and offers you a wide variety of possibilities. One of the most recommendable activities is to go on walk with a local tour guide.
Take a walk through the marked and hidden paths of the Ntchisi Forest and the surrounding communities.
Bird Watching
Ntchisi Forest is home to many animals. Especially birds love the variety of trees and the undisrupted ecosystem. They know their home very well and always have an eye on you when you walking around in the forest.
If you want to spot them, we recommend taking a local expert with you to show you where their homes and explain more to you about their habits.
Ensuite Deluxe room Features
- Double Bed
- Private bathroom
- Woking desk and private living area
- Breakfast included
- Option for an extra single bed
- Internet available
Experiences While At the Lodge
The lodge is a diver’s place of nature and places all offering you individualized experiences according to your wishes.
The Pool
Enjoy the sunny days at the brand new eco pool. Filled with spring water from the mountain, heated by the sun and filtered by Malawi’s first UV-Filtration System.
Star Gazing
Especially the nights at the lodge are breathtaking. Enjoy the magic of pure night sky only surrounded by nature and nothing else.
It will take you far while staying close to yourself. Take time. Enjoy. Breath. Dream.
Sunset tea at Boulder Rock
-- Sunset tea at Boulder Rock
-- Enjoy a tea watching the sunset at one of the best view point.
-- As on the website – change format.
On the Fields
The Ntchisi Forest Lodge is surrounded by communities which forms important part of the Lodge. Most of its neighbors are farmers and work hard on their fields. To give you a better understanding of their way of living and get in direct contact with them, the lodge implemented guided field tours to start a common understanding and dialogue of different ways of living.
Best Time To Visit
The lodge is open all year round. However, the best time to visit Ntchisi Forest Reserve is during the dry season, typically from May to October, when the weather is cooler and drier, making it ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Dry Season (May-October): Ideal for Hiking and Wildlife
The trails are easier to navigate, and the weather is conducive to enjoying the forest's beauty and spotting wildlife.
Cooler Temperatures
The evenings can get chilly, so pack warm layers.
Beautiful Scenery
The landscape is vibrant after the rains, offering fantastic photography opportunities.
August-October
This period is particularly good for game viewing in the national parks.
Rainy Season (November-April) Road Conditions
The roads to the lodge can become challenging during the rainy season, requiring a 4x4 vehicle.
Greenery
The forest is lush and vibrant during the rainy season, but the weather can be unpredictable.
Unique Experiences
The rainy season offers unique experiences, such as the abundance of mushrooms and pickles made from wild figs.
Your journey starts here
We design holidays rooted in local knowledge. Please feel free to contact us for expert advice and a personalized itinerary tailored specifically for you.