Nyika Plateau

Nyika Plateau, Malawi — a rolling, treeless highland of montane grassland and wildflowers over 2,000 meters up, unlike anywhere else in the country and one of the least-visited parks in Southern Africa.

Self-drive or guided game drives across the plateau turn up zebra, eland, and leopard against a backdrop that feels more Scottish Highlands than tropical Africa. October–December brings a spectacular wildflower bloom, including wild orchids; horseback safaris are a distinctive way to cover the open terrain.