Dedza

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Dedza's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Orientation
morning
:

Arrive at Dedza and settle into your accommodation, soaking in the serene environment of this picturesque town. Take a moment to relax and recharge after your journey, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding hills. Briefly explore the local area to get acquainted with the village atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Visit the Dedza Pottery where you can observe artisans at work creating beautiful ceramic pieces. Participate in a pottery-making workshop to create your own unique souvenir. Enjoy a light lunch at the on-site café, sampling local delicacies.

evening
:

Stroll through the village as the sun sets, capturing the golden hues of the sky. Stop by a local eatery to savor traditional Malawian dishes. Engage with locals, sharing stories and experiencing the warmth of Chichewa hospitality.

day 2
Exploring Dedza Mountain
morning
:

After breakfast, embark on a guided hike up Dedza Mountain, where you’ll encounter lush forests and panoramic views. Breathe in the fresh air as you make your way to the summit, keeping an eye out for unique bird species along the trail. Enjoy a picnic breakfast with a view once you reach the top.

afternoon
:

On your descent, visit the nearby Dedza Pottery, learning how it’s intertwined with local culture. Grab a lunch break at a local tea house, indulging in the popular 'nsima' dish. Consider buying some beautiful pottery as souvenirs to take home.

evening
:

Wind down with a visit to a local cultural performance where you can appreciate traditional dances and music. Participate in some of the festivities, engaging with the performers. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring a diverse menu of Malawian cuisine.

day 3
Visit Lake Malawi
morning
:

Set off early for a day trip to Lake Malawi, one of the country’s most stunning natural attractions. Relax on the shore or choose to kayak across the clear waters, admiring the beautiful landscape. Experience the vibrant local life by visiting nearby fishing villages.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a seafood lunch at a lakeside restaurant, soaking up the sun and the tranquil lake views. Afterward, explore the area, diving into local markets to shop for handmade crafts and textiles. Spend some leisure time swimming or sunbathing on the beach.

evening
:

After returning to Dedza, savor a quiet evening with a home-cooked meal at your accommodation. Reflect on the day's adventures, and perhaps enjoy some storytelling with fellow travelers. End the day with a peaceful walk under the stars, enjoying the tranquil night air.

day 4
Cultural Day in Dedza
morning
:

Dedicate this day to immersing yourself in the local culture. Visit the Dedza Cultural Centre to learn about the traditions and crafts of the Chewa people. Participate in a cooking class to prepare traditional dishes using local ingredients.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore local markets, where you can find handmade crafts and textiles. Connect with artisans to learn about their crafts, and perhaps try your hand at carving or weaving. Return to the cultural center for a storytelling session with locals.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner with a local family to experience authentic Malawian hospitality and cuisine. Share stories and experiences while learning more about daily life in Dedza. Close the evening with a traditional dance or music session that you can join in.

day 5
Adventure in Liwonde National Park
morning
:

Take a guided tour to Liwonde National Park, an incredible wildlife haven located nearby. Early morning is the ideal time for safari drives, giving you the chance to spot elephants, hippos, and a variety of bird species. A knowledgeable guide will share insights about the flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Once the sun is high, enjoy a packed lunch within the park, surrounded by nature. Continue your adventure with a boat safari on the Shire River, where you can see crocodiles and more wildlife in a serene setting. Capture the stunning scenery and wildlife on your camera.

evening
:

Return to Dedza and unwind after an exhilarating day of exploration. Opt for a quiet dinner at your lodging or venture out to a nearby restaurant. Reflect on your encounters with nature while enjoying the beautiful Malawian night.

day 6
Nature Walks and Landscapes
morning
:

After breakfast, take a guided nature walk around Dedza, exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the area. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful butterflies and unique plant species. Engage with your guide, who will explain the ecological significance of the landscapes.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch in nature, surrounded by peaceful sounds and sights. Afterward, visit Zomba Plateau, a short drive away, to experience its breathtaking vistas and unique geological formations. Spend time taking in the magnificent views and perhaps explore some of the trails.

evening
:

Return to Dedza for a relaxing dinner, reflecting on the beauty of the day's adventures. Engage in conversation with other travelers, exchanging stories and travel tips. Wind down your evening with a cup of Malawi's finest coffee under the stars.

day 7
Day of Leisure
morning
:

Spend a leisurely morning exploring Dedza at your own pace, visiting your favorite spots or uncovering new ones. Perhaps return to the pottery shop to create more pieces or explore quieter paths through the town. Optional yoga or meditation sessions are available to rejuvenate your spirit.

afternoon
:

Indulge in a delightful lunch at a local café, mingling with locals and reflecting on your experiences thus far. If you feel adventurous, consider renting a bike to explore the surrounding countryside. Capture amazing landscape shots that depict the essence of Malawi.

evening
:

Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Dedza's charming restaurants, relishing in the flavors of Malawian cuisine. Take a moment to soak in the vibrant atmosphere as new friendships have formed. Conclude the evening by stargazing and reminiscing about your journey.

day 8
Reflect and Depart
morning
:

Take your final morning to enjoy a slow breakfast and reflect on all that you have experienced in Dedza. If time permits, visit the local community for a last-minute shopping run to pick up any souvenirs. Say your goodbyes to new friends and cherished memories.

afternoon
:

Prepare for your departure by checking out of your accommodation and soaking in the scenery one last time. Travel back to the nearest town or airport, taking with you the stunning landscapes and warm encounters. Think about the lasting impact Dedza will have on your travels.

evening
:

As you depart Dedza, carry the spirit of Malawi with you, knowing that adventures await in future journeys. Share your experiences with friends and family, encouraging them to explore this beautiful part of the world. Dream about the time spent in Dedza, looking forward to returning someday.

Discover Dedza

Read more in our Dedza 2025 Travel Guide.

Dedza Travel Guide