About Destination
The crown and jewel of the country’s tourist attraction is Lake Malawi, “discovered” by the missionary explore Dr. David Livingstone just over 150 years ago. Malawi although landlocked, is not denied its “inland sea.” This enormous body of freshwater fringed by beaches of golden sand is only a spectacular wonderland, but it provides water sports activities for those looking for above the typical sun, swimming and sand, and experience. Lake Malawi is approximate 365 miles north to south and 52 miles broad, therefore the name: “the calendar lake.” The Lake, in the north, is quite deep plunging well below sea level: 2300 ft/700 m. reflecting the enormity of the natural faulting of the Great Rift Valley, which is the origin of the lake. The width of the lake’s shorelands varies from nothing to over 25 kilometers 16 miles, the edge of the Rift valley ascending steeply in areas and more smoothly in others.
Because of its plentiful fish harvest, the Lake plays an essential part in the economy. Scattered Fishing villages found on the shore, and the old industry and practices are an appeal to visitors. Getting to the lake is possible along much of its length, but it should be recorded that it usually is necessary to take a short detour off the main roads to reach the beach. Despite the attraction the lake has to the settlement, there are long ranges of isolated entirely golden sand crystal clear Lakeshore. Scuba diving, water skiing, Kayaking, Sailing, and Snorkeling, are just some of the many lake activities available to guests. Tours by lake range from the favorite motor vessel the Ilala to sailing in an ocean, yachting. Voyages into the upper fields of the great Shire River are available.
Likoma Island
Likoma Island is a little piece of Malawian territory in Mozambican waters. Its history the set up here of its headquarters of the University Mission to Central Africa in the 1880s brought it to be kept by Malawi when the Lake was distributed politically following World War II.
Likoma’s claim to glory is because of its cathedral the size of Winchester’s on whose work began in 1903. This large building has some most appealing features including carved soapstone and stained glass.
The island is otherwise somewhat barren although it has bustling local communities and some lovely beaches. Nearby is another tiny island, Chizumulu, also Malawian territory. Access to Likoma is currently by boat or charter aircraft. There is an ever-increasing number of vessel offering transfers between Nkhata Bay and Likoma. For details see here. Accommodation on Likoma is limited but includes the charming mid-market property of Ulisa Bay Lodge. A beautiful barefoot luxury lodge is just across the water on the Mozambique shore of the lake – Nkwichi Lodge at Manda wilderness.