Huntingdon House - Chigumula Forest Reserve

Huntingdon House is a hotel near Chigumula Forest Reserve.

Location
Chigumula Forest Reserve, Southern Malawi & Shire Valley, Malawi, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-16.081375, 35.080400
Website
https://www.huntingdon-malawi.com/
Activities
Spa
Amenities
Pool, Spa, Bar

Best Time to Visit Huntingdon House

The best months to visit Huntingdon House are April, May, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature 20.65°C, rainfall 349.5mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 87.9%
  • February: Good, temperature 21.19°C, rainfall 164.5mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 85.2%
  • March: Poor, temperature 20.21°C, rainfall 237mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 85.6%
  • April: Great, temperature 19.34°C, rainfall 49.2mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 82.1%
  • May: Great, temperature 17.4°C, rainfall 18.2mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 74.2%
  • June: Good, temperature 15.88°C, rainfall 36.4mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 75.4%
  • July: Good, temperature 15.49°C, rainfall 21.1mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 72.3%
  • August: Great, temperature 17.61°C, rainfall 21.2mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 65.2%
  • September: Great, temperature 20.38°C, rainfall 8.5mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 56.9%
  • October: Great, temperature 22.38°C, rainfall 35.7mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 57.9%
  • November: Great, temperature 23.07°C, rainfall 93.3mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 64.6%
  • December: Good, temperature 22.64°C, rainfall 168.5mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 73.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

We're considering Huntingdon House for a relaxing getaway. What's the best time of year to visit Malawi for this kind of experience, and what should we pack beyond the usual safari gear?

We love visiting Huntingdon House during the dry season, from May to October. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the surrounding Chigumula Forest Reserve. Beyond your standard safari attire, we definitely recommend bringing a good book and comfortable loungemwear; the lodge's spa is exceptional, and you'll want to fully embrace the tranquility.

What kind of wildlife can we realistically expect to see near Huntingdon House, and are there any specific guided walks or drives you recommend to maximize our chances?

While Chigumula Forest Reserve isn't a Big Five destination, we've always been delighted by the diverse birdlife and smaller mammals we've encountered. We recommend the early morning guided walks; the forest truly comes alive then. Keep an eye out for various monkey species and the vibrant bird species that call this reserve home. It's a more intimate wildlife experience than the larger parks.

We're looking for a lodge that offers a bit of pampering. How does the spa at Huntingdon House compare to other Malawian lodges we might have visited?

The spa at Huntingdon House is a real highlight, offering a serene escape that feels both luxurious and timeless. We found their signature massage treatments, using locally sourced oils, to be incredibly restorative after a day of exploring. It's a level of dedicated wellness we don't always find, making it a perfect complement to the natural beauty outside.

What is the general cost range for a stay at Huntingdon House, and are there any packages or inclusions we should be aware of?

A stay at Huntingdon House typically falls into the mid to upper-mid price range for Malawi, reflecting its quality and service. We recommend checking their website for current rates, as they often offer all-inclusive packages that cover meals and some activities. This can be excellent value, especially considering the high standard of cuisine and the peaceful atmosphere.

How safe is it to explore the areas around Huntingdon House, particularly if we're interested in venturing into Chigumula Forest Reserve independently?

We always felt very secure during our visits to Huntingdon House. For any excursions into Chigumula Forest Reserve, we strongly advise going with one of their experienced guides. They know the terrain intimately and ensure your safety while also enriching your experience with their local knowledge. Independent exploration is generally not recommended for safety and to best appreciate the reserve.

Other Safari Lodges in Chigumula Forest Reserve

Parks in Southern Malawi & Shire Valley

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Malawi

Travel advisory for Malawi