[2] This is approximately 97 kilometres (60 mi), by road, east of Blantyre, the financial capital of Malawi and the largest city in the country's Southern Region.

[5] It is situated below the Fort Lister Gap between the two larger parts of the Mulanje Massif.

[6] Due to this location it is vulnerable for flash floods, which can easily occur during the rainy season.

The most devastating one in recent history occurred in March 1991, which left Phalombe with a 2-3 meter (7 to 10 feet) high mud layer and killed hundreds of people.

[9] Generally, the weather in Phalombe is warm, muggy and cloudy, from November to April and is comfortable, clear and cool from May through October.