Zomba Forest Lodge
Nestled halfway up Zomba Mountain, Zomba Forest Lodge offers a serene retreat within 20 acres of mixed woodland. This off-grid lodge is designed for those seeking peace and tranquility, with no electricity, creating a charming atmosphere with candles, paraffin lamps, and a roaring fire in winter. The lodge features five comfortable rooms, each with en-suite bathrooms, ensuring a cosy and intimate stay. The rooms are tastefully decorated with local art and crafts, adding to the lodge’s unique charm. Rates include a full breakfast, a hearty lunch, and a delightful three-course dinner, all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy their meals in the dining room or on the veranda, overlooking the lush gardens and forest.
Zomba Forest Lodge is a paradise for birdwatchers. The diverse habitats around the lodge, from indigenous rainforest in the valley to pine and eucalyptus on the slopes, attract a wide variety of bird species. Guests can enjoy guided bird walks to spot some of the region’s unique avian residents. The lodge provides updated bird lists and maps of the trails, ensuring a rewarding birding experience. Some of the special bird species that can be found in the area include the Livingstone’s Turaco, White-winged Apalis, Red-faced Crimsonwing, Forest Double-collared Sunbird, Thyolo Alethe, and the Yellow-throated Apalis. These species, along with many others, make Zomba Forest Lodge a must-visit destination for avid birdwatchers.
The lodge is surrounded by lush gardens and mixed woodland, offering a rich and varied habitat for wildlife. The indigenous rainforest by the stream is home to many bird species, while the pine and eucalyptus trees provide a different environment for other flora and fauna. This diversity makes Zomba Forest Lodge an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. The gardens are also home to a variety of butterflies and small mammals, adding to the lodge’s natural charm.