The Likabulu River is one of many water streams that run down the escarpment of the Mulanje Mountains.

At the time of my visit in the dry season, water trickled into almost stagnant pools. It’s hard to miss liquid forces visual to the naked rock. I can only imagine the brutal strength behind rushing waters.

Benjamin asked me over again for a hike up the mountain. I had recently climbed Monte Binga and been on top of Mt. Sepitwa on my last visit. But I needed some well-worthy exercise. Sitting in Zimba most days and driving through the countryside takes its toll on my fitness levels. Rick will be happy for some airtime too.

‘Let me finish my breakfast before we scurry off’ I told Benjamin. ‘I am not Russian.’

We agreed on a tour guide price and packed with Rick, OM-D, apples, and water, we were on our way.

It had warmed up nicely already as the track climbed higher in elevation.

Over and over again, we dodged women and men carrying an enormous weight and length of wood on their heads. It’s unbelievable how and how much fire- or carving wood is collected and gets carried out of this national park.

This double-sided sword is the catch and fall of our natural world.

We reached Chapaluka Falls mid-morning and I recognized a few natural features. The slim gap only shows the trickle of water that is flowing. These falls are difficult to capture from solid ground due to the narrow gorge.

Mhhh, what to do!

Lucky for me I have a friend that can fly.

It’s a different perspective from up high as the Likabulu River is displayed on the sheer cliff-like veins cutting through granite.

Benjamin was a happy and friendly tour guide who made the most of this freshwater stream. His skin was covered in some sort of rash caused by a parasite.

We strolled to our second destination, Dziwe wa Nkalamba Waterfall. This impassive area I remember very well as I have been here a few times before.

The plunging waterhole is to believed be 7 meters deep, give or take a few feet. Perfect for a plunge into freezing waters from a ledge around 5 meters high.

The smooth granite boulders are perfect to lay and warm up again and chill in tranquil.

Someone finally made up a sign to keep this area rubbish-free. Free we were, there was no one else here.

Rick explored this waterfall and its surroundings just as well.

The photographic options are just as endless around here.

Stationery pools offer perfect reflection options in the late afternoon as we ended our stroll.

However, there is one African trait I find extremely annoying and confusing. Actually, just annoying.

Renegotiating on an already agreed price at the end of a trip or business deal because of this or because of that. Yes, but this! Or, yes but that!

Yeah but hell no! It’s frustrating the shite out of me.

Benjamin was desperate to get a medical shot for his skin irritation which cost so and so much.

He didn’t mention any of that before we set out. Be a man and straight up from starters.

It actually spoilt my day because it is those little things that make the big difference.