Malawi, a small country in southeastern Africa, is discovering a new adventure identity through rock climbing. From the granite domes of Mulanje to community climbing walls in Lilongwe, local climbers and global organizations are shaping the nation’s next tourism frontier.

A New Face of Adventure Tourism in Malawi

Once known mainly for safaris and the tranquil waters of Lake Malawi, this southeastern African nation is beginning to climb—literally—toward a new form of adventure tourism. Across the granite peaks and vast boulder fields of southern Malawi, rock climbing is taking hold as both a sport and a potential source of economic growth.

Perched high on Chambe Peak in the Mulanje Massif, climbers often find themselves surrounded by breathtaking wilderness—green plains below, clouds clinging to the slopes, and wildlife like baboons and lizards close enough to touch. For many visitors, the raw and unspoiled terrain feels like an undiscovered paradise for climbers.

Building a Culture of Climbing

Until recently, Malawi’s tourism scene revolved around safaris and hiking trails. But organizations like Climb Malawi and its international partner, the Global Climbing Initiative, are introducing something new: a climbing culture that blends outdoor adventure with community development.

According to Climb Malawi board member Ed Nhlane, the country’s granite walls and endless boulder fields are a hidden treasure. “There’s so much untapped potential here,” he said during a discussion at the Mulanje Golf Club, which now even boasts an indoor climbing wall.

Nhlane began climbing in 2018 under the mentorship of Canadian expatriate Tyler Algeo, who founded Climb Malawi. What started as a backyard training wall has evolved into a nationwide movement to map, bolt, and climb Malawi’s massive granite faces.

The Mulanje Massif: Africa’s Hidden Yosemite

The Mulanje Massif in southern Malawi is often compared to Yosemite for its towering granite domes and vertical cliffs. The massif’s highest point, Sapitwa Peak (9,849 ft), dominates the skyline. Around its slopes, trails lead to waterfalls, cedar forests, and ten mountain huts managed by local hosts.

Climbers describe the rock quality as exceptional—solid granite with friction-friendly surfaces ideal for beginners and experts alike. Despite having only about 25 established climbing routes today, experts believe the potential exceeds 2,000 routes, making Mulanje one of Africa’s most promising future climbing destinations.

Local Empowerment Through Adventure

Rock climbing in Malawi isn’t just about thrill-seeking; it’s also opening new income streams for local communities. Guides like Witness Stima and George Pakha, once traditional hiking guides, now assist climbers by carrying gear and helping on the approach routes. Their involvement means more sustainable income and skill-building for local youth.

Climb Malawi plans to train more of these local guides in technical climbing and safety systems. “We want them to become independent climbing guides,” Nhlane explained. “They already know the mountains better than anyone.”

A Growing Climbing Community in Lilongwe

In Malawi’s capital, Lilongwe, the country’s first open-air climbing gym has become the beating heart of the movement. Run by Climb Malawi, the gym welcomes everyone under a pay-what-you-can model, ensuring that no one is turned away for lack of funds.

Young Malawian climbers such as Clive Luwanja and Ernest Kadwa are leading this new generation of athletes. “I can’t go two days without climbing,” Kadwa admitted. Together, they are expanding Malawi’s presence on the global climbing map—organizing trips, developing new routes, and mentoring newcomers.

From Mulanje to Mulundi: The Next Big Project

With support from the Global Climbing Initiative, Climb Malawi continues to explore new regions. Their next major target is Mulundi, a 260-foot cliff recently discovered by Nhlane’s team.

“It’s these hidden gems that make Malawi special,” Nhlane said. “We already have Lake Malawi and safaris—but rock climbing can show the world another side of this country.”

Adventure Awaits in Malawi

Malawi’s climbing potential rivals that of established global destinations like Spain’s Siurana or Greece’s Kalymnos—but with the added charm of raw wilderness and community warmth. Whether you’re scaling Chambe’s granite face, hiking to Sapitwa, or bouldering in Nkhoma, Malawi’s natural playground offers something truly unique.

As adventure tourism grows, Malawi stands ready—not just as a destination, but as a movement led by its own people, determined to climb toward a brighter, bolder future.

From granite domes to grassroots gyms — Malawi is climbing its way into the adventure tourism spotlight.