Chelinda Lodge: Our full report

Chelinda Lodge stands on the edge of a pine forest, with panoramic views over the rolling grasslands of the ...

... Nyika Plateau. This Park was established in 1965 and covers an area of 3,134 square km’s and is Malawi’s oldest and largest national park. The lodge is built entirely out of timber and stone collected from the plateau and the rooms are reminiscent of a Swiss chalet.

Chelinda Lodge has a cosy central area with large windows opening out onto the vistas beyond. There is a dining room with large fireplace and lounge that opens onto a deck, which is ideal for sundowners on warmer days.

Connected to the central area by elevated wooden walkways, each of the eight double-story log cabins has an open plan lounge with fireplace and bedroom, with double or twin beds, a private veranda and en-suite bathroom - including a separate bath and shower. The rooms have warm wooden floors and wood paneled walls and are furnished in neutral earthy tones. Two of the rooms are joined to form a family unit – ideal for families or friends travelling together.

Activities at Chelinda include day and night drives. You will be able to get close to large herds of roan, eland and Crawshay’s zebra and also see reedbuck, bushbuck, warthog and side-striped jackal. During the evening drives you may be lucky enough to see the elusive leopard, serval and hyena as well as other nocturnal game. Nyika is also a great spot for birdwatchers – being the home to over 400 species. It is also home to a number of endemic subspecies such as Rufous-naped Lark and Red-winged Francolin.

Chelinda Lodge also has mountain bikes and this is a great way to explore the scenery and get close to the wildlife. There is a range of biking trails to suit all levels of fitness.

There are three dams close to the lodge and “catch and release” fishing is available from here.

Nyika is a botanists delight in the summer with 11 local orchid and other beautiful species.

Being at such a high altitude, Nyika is malaria-free, but this does also mean that the air temperature can be cold so it's best to bring warm clothing with you all year round. Fortunately, the lodge has numerous log fires and you will often return to one roaring in your room in the evening.

Our view

Nyika is a beautiful spot for birders, botanists and for those who just want to enjoy the vast open vistas of the rolling grasslands. Chelinda Lodge is a comfortable lodge from where to experience this.

Claire Scott

Country manager: Malawi

Geographics

Location: Nyika Plateau, Malawi
Ideal length of stay: 2 to 3 nights will allow you to relax and explore this beautiful, remote part of Malawi.
Directions: It is best to fly ito Nyika by charter plane from Lilongwe. The airstrip is located a short drive away from the lodge.
Accessible by: Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Full Board & Activities
Dining style: Individual Tables
Dining locations: Indoor Dining
Drinks included: Drinks are not included

Special interests

Wildlife safaris: Chelinda Lodge, on the remote Nyika Plateau, is a lovely spot to view plains game such as eland, roan, zebra, reedbuck and bushbuck. You may also see warthog, spotted hyena and side striped jackal and the occasional leopard. Nyika is also home to around 400 different bird species.; See ideas for Wildlife safaris in Malawi
Walking: Chelinda offers guided walks through the Nyika Plateau, which focus on the huge range of flora. Chelinda can only be accessed by charter flight, but may appeal to those looking for some more serious walking in Malawi.; See ideas for Walking in Malawi

Children

Attitude towards children: Chelinda Lodge accepts children from 6 years and above
Property’s age restrictions: Chelinda Lodge accepts children from 6 years and above
Generally recommended for children: We think that Chelinda Lodge is suitable for children over the age of 10. There is not too much to do here to keep young children entertained.