the mountain

The CCAP Likhubula house is a bit of an architectural gem for the remoteness of its location. It can host big and small groups, has dorms, chalets, a dining room, an outdoor chapel space, a story-telling pavilion, even a swimming pool (although it was empty when we visited). It was renovated recently and really is a great spot to pause on your way up and/or down Mulanje. To camp, we were directed to the front lawn. With a lot of beautiful plants and a view-point type altitude it was a great place to prepare our mountaineering adventure.

The setting was dramatic in a way that matched our excitement and anticipation. There weren't other guests staying and we did not get the sense that we would be seeing many fellow hikers on the plateau either.
To get to  Likhubula House, there were some signs and people eager to help. After you've come through the forestry gate, keep to the right and follow the road. It passes by access to the river (the Likhubula Pools), then a few chalets on your right, a few hairpin turns which lead you to the end of the road. You have reached your destination. When we headed up the mountain the next day we were able to leave our vehicle parked there and we left our luggage (and valuables) in the store room too.

If you're interested in exploring a little: OpenStreetMap has a lot more detail than most other online and guide book maps. It shows the Forestry huts on the mountain and a lot of the paths too. Follow the Milk Run up the mountain and then take the turn to Lichenya hut if you want to be prepared to hear about our first climbing day.

If you're planning a hike more resources can be found through the Mountain Club of Malawi. 
For an excellent guide be sure to request Aubrey S. through the Forestry Office or contact him directly:
00265(0)884429448 (GSM/ WhatsApp)