Have you ever imagined walking through endless green terraces stretching over rolling hills, with fresh mountain air filling your lungs and workers tending rows of tea plants around you? The tea plantations in Malawi’s Mulanje Massif are exactly that magical experience.

Beyond the breathtaking views, these plantations tell stories of culture, agriculture, and the region’s long-standing coffee and tea traditions. Let’s explore this unique highland world together!

Geography and Location

The Mulanje Massif rises sharply in southeastern Malawi, forming the edge of the Shire Highlands. Tea plantations are mainly located between 1,000 and 1,800 meters in altitude, where the cool climate and high rainfall create perfect growing conditions. The eastern slopes receive up to 2,150 millimeters of rain annually, ensuring the tea bushes are always lush and thriving. Walking along the terraces, we can see how the steep slopes have been carved into neat rows that stretch as far as the eye can see, offering stunning panoramic views of the massif and nearby valleys.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit is during the dry season from April to October, when trails are easier to navigate and views are clear. Especially from April to June, the weather is mild, tea bushes are at their greenest, and the air is crisp—perfect for walking, photography, and exploring the plantations.

Entrance Fees and Costs

- Entrance Fee: Visiting the tea plantations and processing facilities costs approximately $10 per person.

- Guided Tours: Hiring a local guide costs around $25 per group (for 2 people) for a more in-depth experience.

- Transport Costs: A ride from Mulanje town to the plantations costs about $0.50 per person by minibus. Taxi fares range from $5 to $10 depending on negotiation.

- Accommodation Costs: Nearby guesthouses or lodges usually range from $20 to $50 per night.

How to Get There

- Self-drive: From Mulanje town, take the M2 road south for about 12 km, then continue another 15 km to reach the plantations.

- Public Transport: Minibuses run from Mulanje town to Satemwa or Thyolo; tickets cost roughly $0.50, and the trip takes 30–40 minutes.

- Taxi: A private taxi from Mulanje to the tea plantations costs between $5 and $10, depending on negotiation.

Recommended Accommodation

- Satemwa Tea Estate Lodge: Located inside the tea estate, this colonial-style lodge offers cozy rooms and garden views. Peak season rates (July–October & December–January) are around $325 per person, while off-season rates (January–June & November–December) are about $225 per person.

- Local Guesthouses: Budget-friendly options are available nearby for $20–$50 per night, offering basic amenities and easy access to the plantations.

Visiting Tips

- Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen for protection from the strong sun at high altitude.

- Food & Drink: There may be limited dining facilities inside the plantations; bring water and snacks.

- Guides: Hiring a local guide enhances the experience with stories of tea cultivation and local culture.

- Eco-awareness: Keep the plantations clean and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Highlights of the Experience

- Tea Picking: Try plucking the top two leaves and a bud—the part used for high-quality tea.

- Tea Processing: Observe how freshly picked leaves are steamed, rolled, and dried in processing facilities.

- Tea Culture: Meet local tea farmers and learn about the region’s agricultural traditions.

- Scenic Views: Morning and late-afternoon light create perfect conditions for photography across the green terraces.

Tea Adventures Await

Lykkers, visiting the tea plantations in Mulanje Massif is more than a sightseeing trip—it’s a full immersion into Malawi’s highland culture and natural beauty. Walking among tea terraces, breathing in the crisp mountain air, and learning about tea production makes every step memorable. Let’s plan a journey, enjoy the lush scenery, and take home not just tea, but stories and experiences that will stay with us long after the trip ends.