Zomba was the capital of Malawi until the mid-1970s and it’s still a large, busy place. The town has good facilities, though, and there are Stanbic, National and First Merchant banks in the town. For supplies, there’s a Shoprite and a Metro Cash and Carry. The mist-shrouded Zomba Pleateauxx, hovering protectively above the town, has fantastic views of the surrounding plains, hills and lakes and is a favourite with hikers. Queen’s View and the Emperor’s View are particularly impressive. There’s no bus up here, so you’ll have to hitch or take a taxi (around US$8). You can walk, but there have been reports of occasional attacks on lone hikers.