Nyika National Park is in Northern Malawi. Nyika is Malawi’s largest park, with an area of no less than 1250 sq miles (3200 sq km). It extends across the great plateau which is essentially a granitic dome. Reaching altitudes of over 8000 ft (2500 m); its environment is like none other in the whole of Africa. With its stunningly beautiful scenery. Often compared to wilderness areas in Europe, Nyika has the added attraction of large numbers of wildlife. And at times; sitting above the cloud.
The name, Nyika, means “where the water comes from” and it is, indeed, one of Malawi’s most important catchment areas. The rolling scenery is at its best from January until March. When over 200 types of orchids are in flower. The grasslands of Nyika are rich in wildflowers in the other seasons.
The vegetation attracts large numbers of antelope from the diminutive duiker to eland and roan. During the breeding season, both the roan and eland gather into herds as large as any seen across Africa. Zebra are common. The park has one of the highest densities of leopards in Central Africa and there are good sightings of them. Hyenas and jackals are occasionally seen. And a number of smaller mammals; such as warthog and bushpig. Elephants and buffalo usually keep to the lower ground on the northern edge of the park. Elephants very occasionally make it up to the higher plateau.
For the birdwatcher, the park has a lot to offer with over 400 species recorded. The rare Denham’s bustard and the wattled crane are among those to be seen. As is the red-winged francolin which is endemic to Nyika.
Nyika National Park is wonderful for trekking and mountain biking, and, as well as more conventional 4×4 excursions. There is such a lot to see; from waterfalls, trout pools, and even a ‘magic lake’.
