Zomba

Zomba, the gateway to its eponymous plateau, is located on the outskirts of the Shire Highlands. The town, which was once the hub of British Central Africa, has a rich colonial history, with interesting little frontispieces belying the Anglo influence on corners all over the place.

The majority of visitors, however, are drawn to the wildernesses that erupt around the city. These are dotted with rare cypress trees and juniper bushes, and they wind their way through verdant forests and highland lakes. Many people choose to hike to the top of the great escarpment, where lookouts provide sweeping views of the Mulunguzi and Shire rivers.

Visitors come to Zomba for its colonial buildings and history, as well as its bustling market, but primarily to gain access to the Zomba Plateau, which overlooks the town and is only a few minutes drive away. There are a few hotels and guest houses in Zomba town, including the character-filled Pakachere Backpackers Lodge on the edge of the golf course, and the modern Hill Springs Lodge a little further out of town, back on the Zomba-Blantyre road. Alternatively, the charming Zomba Forest Lodge, known for its excellent food, is not far up the Plateau slopes.

• Location: southern Malawi