Nelly's Guesthouse - Lilongwe Nature Reserve

Nelly's Guesthouse is a guesthouse near Lilongwe Nature Reserve.

Location
Lilongwe Nature Reserve, Central Malawi Plateau, Malawi, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-13.983313, 33.749054
Activities
guesthouse

Best Time to Visit Nelly's Guesthouse

The best months to visit Nelly's Guesthouse are September, October, November, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 21.43°C, rainfall 267.3mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 84.6%
  • February: Good, temperature 21.66°C, rainfall 200.4mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 84.1%
  • March: Good, temperature 21.18°C, rainfall 120.5mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 83.2%
  • April: Great, temperature 20.56°C, rainfall 30.2mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 76.4%
  • May: Great, temperature 18.71°C, rainfall 4.6mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 65.1%
  • June: Great, temperature 17.34°C, rainfall 2.8mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 63.2%
  • July: Great, temperature 17.08°C, rainfall 0.6mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 57.2%
  • August: Great, temperature 19.33°C, rainfall 1.7mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 52.3%
  • September: Great, temperature 21.75°C, rainfall 1.5mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 47.9%
  • October: Great, temperature 24.15°C, rainfall 8.8mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 48.6%
  • November: Great, temperature 25.06°C, rainfall 25.4mm, sunshine 12 hrs, humidity 54.5%
  • December: Great, temperature 23.92°C, rainfall 112.1mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 67.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of wildlife can we realistically expect to see around Nelly's Guesthouse, given its proximity to Lilongwe Nature Reserve?

While Nelly's Guesthouse isn't deep in a major national park, we've always been delighted by the birdlife right on the property. You'll likely spot various antelope species and warthogs on walks near the reserve boundary. For more dramatic sightings, a dedicated day trip into the heart of Lilongwe Nature Reserve is essential, where we've seen elephants and even the occasional leopard.

We're planning a trip in the shoulder season. Is Nelly's Guesthouse still a good choice for experiencing Malawi's nature?

Absolutely. We love visiting Nelly's Guesthouse during the shoulder seasons. The landscape is lush after the rains, and the birdwatching is phenomenal. Plus, you'll often find fewer crowds, making for a more intimate experience, and the lodge staff are always happy to arrange guided walks tailored to what's active at that time of year.

What are the typical costs associated with staying at Nelly's Guesthouse, and what's usually included?

Nelly's Guesthouse offers excellent value. We found that rates typically include comfortable accommodation and breakfast, which is always a hearty start to the day. Day trips into the reserve or guided walks often incur an additional fee, so we recommend clarifying this with the lodge when booking to budget accordingly.

How safe is it to explore the areas around Nelly's Guesthouse, especially for solo travelers or families?

We've always felt very secure around Nelly's Guesthouse. The lodge itself has a welcoming atmosphere, and the staff are attentive. For excursions into Lilongwe Nature Reserve, we strongly advise going with a local guide provided by the guesthouse or reserve. They know the terrain and wildlife behavior intimately, ensuring a safe and enriching exploration.

Beyond the reserve, what unique activities or experiences does Nelly's Guesthouse itself offer that we shouldn't miss?

The true charm of Nelly's Guesthouse lies in its relaxed pace and personal touch. We highly recommend their home-cooked meals – the local flavors are incredible. They also have lovely gardens perfect for unwinding, and the staff are fantastic sources of local knowledge, often sharing stories or pointing out interesting flora and fauna right on the property.

Other Safari Lodges in Lilongwe Nature Reserve

Parks in Central Malawi Plateau

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Malawi

Travel advisory for Malawi