Mzuzu

Northern Malawi's largest settlement is frenetic Mzuzu, a large and sprawling city that serves as the transport hub for the entire Mzimba District.

Mzuzu, which is popular with travelers passing through on their way to Tanzania, serves well as a service center for the more remote areas in Malawi's north, and has all necessary facilities such as banks, petrol stations, supermarkets, post offices, and so on. There is a good, bustling market that is worth a look. The city is an excellent place to refuel and rest before heading to the northern shores of Lake Malawi, the man-made Viphya Forest, or the acclaimed Nyika National Park.

The city itself has some interesting botanical gardens, as well as a plethora of adventure tour providers who can organize treks in the nearby mountains and hills.

Mzuzu has a few simple hotels and lodges, as well as an airport on the outskirts of town. Malawi Airlines currently does not fly there, but Ulendo Airlink began using Mzuzu in 2019.

• Location: Northern region, Malawi