LAKE MALAWI

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.

Featured Tours

11 Days Best of Malawi Safari & Tour
This trip showcases Malawi's wildlife in Majete Wildlife Reserve and Liwonde National Park, as well as the best of Malawi's beaches on Lake Malawi and the best of Malawi's smiling people.

10 days

Price on request

11 Days Zambia Safari & Malawi Beach
From South Luangwa National Park, in Zambia, to the perfect tranquillity of Liwonde National Park and finally ending on the natural shores of Lake Malawi.

11 days

Price on request

13 Days Zambia Safari & Lake Malawi Tour
This is a superb and complete tour that allows you to see the best of Africa's best attractions in two neighbouring nations, Zambia and Malawi.

13 days

Price on request

15 Day Malawi and Zambia Adventure Safari Tour
This two-week itinerary does not only makes travelling to Malawi and Zambia easy during these uncertain times (no standing in COVID-19 testing queues during your holiday) but is also of outstanding value for a limited time only!

15 days

Price on request

9 Day Best of Warm Heart of Africa Safari, Malawi
Malawi is known as the “Warm Heart of Africa” and as people, the Malawians live up to this name. They are extremely friendly and welcoming. There are many market scenes, road side stalls, cottage industries that a visitor can comfortably visit.

9 days

Price on request