NYIKA NATIONAL PARK

Introduction

Nyika National Park is situated 129 km northwards from Mzuzu and 68 km from Rumphi. Drive west from Rumphi for approximately 60 km and take a right turn towards the gate. The name, Nyika, means "where water comes from" as the plateau's elevation makes it wetter than surrounding areas.

Figure 1: picture of Nyika Plateau

In 1965, The Nyika National Park became the first certified park in Malawi. It encompasses the majority of the Nyika plateau area in the Northern Religion. It is the largest ( covering an area of over 3,000 sq. km ) and Highest ( heights averaging 1,800m ) of Malawi's parks bordering Zambia on the western side. The area is virtually uninhabited by man, with only a few settlements of Aphoka people. The Nyika is covered in moor-like, treesless grasslands, endless rolling hills, occasionally interrupted by pockets of evergreen forest in the ravines and valleys. There are numerous waterfalls on the rivers flowing off the plateau.

Figure 2: Map of Nyika  Plateau

The plateau is remote, wild and beautiful providing dramatic scenery and panoramic views, especially to the north. The Nyika National Park is home to large herds of zebra, eland, roan antelope, sable antelope, lichtenstein's hartebeest, kudu, reedbuck, bushbuck, duiker, and warthog. It houses the largest concentration of leopard in the county. The nocturnal family of wild animals include hyena, jackal, civet cat, honey badger, porcupine and aardvark. Due to the absence of lion in the park, it is possible to go on a walking safari of up 5 days but you must be escorted by a game scout.

Figure 3: Some of Animals found inside Nyika National Park

More than 300 birds species have been recorded in the Nyika Plateau, including the Den Ham's bustard, the malachite sunbird and red winged francolin all found in the grassland area, whilst the cinnamon dove, bartailed trogon and starred robin are found high in the forest canopy, particularly the chowo forest near Zambia Resthouse. Four birds found on the Nyika Plateau that have not been recorded anywhere else in Malawi, the yellow mountain warbler, churring cisticola, cracking cloud cisticola and mountain marsh widow. It also contains three butterfly species and one species each of chameleon, frog and toad which are found nowhere else.

The river and dams are stocked with rainbow trout. trout fishing being a very popular pastime here. Fishing permits must be arranged at head office at Chilinda and can be obtained all year round for Nyika Plateau area. Owing to it's altitude, the Nyika offers a welcome break from the tropical heat of the lakeshore. Summer temperature rarely exceed 21.5 degree celsus and in the winter months ( June, July and  August) an evening by the logfire provides a relaxing distraction. The area is passable most of the year around but is best visited in a 4x4 vehicle durinng the rainy season. November to May is the best time for game viewing, October to December for bird watching, whilst January and February are the best months to visit to experience the spectacular flowering of indigenous orchid.

Accomodation in Nyika National Park 

Figure 4: Chilinda Camp Lodge inside Nyika plateau

There is a daily entrance fee payable at the gate. There is an airstrip for Nyika National Park Fly in Sarifis. Approximately 56 km from the entrance gate Chilinda Camp where there is a high luxury Lodge and cheaper camp with self catering units and a camping site.

WHAT RIVERS ARE THEIR INSIDE THE NYIKA PLATEAU?

Figure 5: North Rukulu River inside Nyika Plateau

Draining the Nyika Plateau the main perennial rivers are the North Rumphi, Chilinda( Rumphi), Runyina and North Rukulu. Originated from broad grass-covered dambos on the plateau, they have cut wide and deep valleys.

ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF NYIKA NATIONAL PARK

Nyika Nattional Park's highland plateau is econmically important for several reasons. First, it is a major tourist destination, bringing in revenue for the local economy. Second, the plateau is home to variety of plant species, including several species of wildflowers, which are harvested and sold by local communities. Third, the plateau's wetlands and streams provide important water resources for local communities. Finally, the plateau's unique ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife species, which attract tourists and researchers. So, the plateau has a wide range of economic benefits for the local communities.

CHALLENGES FACED BY NYIKA NATIONAL PARK

Like many protected areas, Nyika National Park faces a number of challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the pressure of human activities on the park's resources. This includes things like deforestation, poaching, and overgrazing by livestock. Another challenge is the impact of climate change on the park's ecosystem. For example, increasing temperatures and changing rainfall patterns are affecting the health of the park's wetland and plant species.  Finally, the park also faces challenges related to funding and management capacity.  Despite these challenges, the park's management is working hard to address them protect the park's unique natural resources.

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Writer's Name: HOSSANA  CHIKOPA

Contact  : (+265) 881 96 52 75 / 998 90 62 74