Originally the family home built by Maclean Kay in 1928, Huntingdon House exudes a colonial charm and unique character that cannot be recreated. This magnificent house forms the heart of Satemwa Tea Estate and is surrounded by sprawling manicured gardens with secret patios and terraces waiting to be discovered by guests. As one of Malawi’s first land claims registered in 1874, Satemwa Tea Estate is undoubtedly among the country’s most respected and established tea and coffee producers, managed and operated by third generation members of the Cathcart Kay family.

The house has been tastefully refurbished to offer 5 unique suites, each individually decorated to reflect the quirks and character of this grand residence. The rooms are named based on their original function in the household: Mother's Room, Father's Room, The Nursery, Planters' Suite and The Chapel. Guests are encouraged to share the colorful history of one of Malawi’s oldest homes while being spoilt by our team of professional staff.

Arguably the most scenically beautiful region of Malawi, The Thyolo district forms the heart of Malawi's tea producing region with rolling hills of immaculately cultivated, emerald green plantations and some of the oldest estates in the country. With magnificent views of Mount Mulanje and the Lower Shire valley to the west, Satemwa enjoys a temperate climate of the Shire Highlands and relaxed ambiance of a by-gone era. Visitors to this corner of Malawi cannot but help to be caught up in the colonial magic of the area and diverse scenery which ranges from tropical evergreen forests to riverine thickets and rolling hills.

Tea tasting is one of the not-to-be-missed experiences unique to staying on a tea growing estate. Mountain bikes are available for hikes around the estate (rental fee applies). With over 105 miles of dirt roads and hundreds more paths, trekking and leisure walks around the estate offer magnificent views over the estate and surrounding areas.

Mount Mulanje rises to almost 10000ft (3000m), dwarfing all that surrounds it. Popular for hiking and mountaineering with a variety of trails and huts on the massif, Mulanje is the third highest free-standing peak in Africa. 1 One hour and 30 min from the estate, guides can be arranged for any guests wishing to tackle Malawi's largest piece of rock!

Huntingdon House guests are invited to help themselves to the various lawn games available at the house. Croquet are available from the house staff at any time. Thyolo Sports Club, situated on grounds donated by the Estate, features a 9 hole golf course, swimming pool, tennis and other activities available for guests enjoyment for a daily fee.

SwissAfrican Travel Service
Dammstrasse 27
8702 Zollikon
Zurich, Switzerland


Telephone: +41 (0)44 451 40 51