Lake Malawi National Park is notably the first freshwater national park in the world. It was recognized due to its unique value of protecting hundreds of fish species, nearly all of which are endemic. It’s famous for being a habitat of diverse cichlids, a group of fish that are known for their vibrant colors and variety. Remarkably, more than 1,000 species of cichlids are found in Lake Malawi, representing a significant proportion of global cichlid species diversity.
Beyond its underwater riches, Lake Malawi National Park also hosts a range of terrestrial wildlife, including baboons, antelope, and a variety of bird species, making it a good spot for birdwatching. The land part of the park is mainly miombo woodland with some areas of savannah and patches of evergreen forest.
Accommodation within and near the park ranges from basic camping to luxury lodges, many of which are located on the islands within the park boundaries. These lodges often offer their own guided activities and can arrange boat transfers for their guests.
In this article, we explore the best camps and lodges found in Lake Malawi National Park.
Mumbo Island Camp
Mumbo Island Camp is a rustic and eco-friendly retreat located on a pristine, deserted island in the middle of Lake Malawi. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful islands in the lake and is part of the Lake Malawi National Park. The island itself is approximately one square kilometer in size, surrounded by crystal-clear blue waters and untouched golden sandy beaches.
The camp offers tastefully furnished tents perched on high rocks overlooking the water. The tents are shaded and come with their private viewing decks where you can lounge or nap in a hammock while taking in the panoramic views.
The camp is built with a light ecological footprint. It’s 100% off-grid and aims to create minimal impact on the environment. Features include solar power for lighting, composting toilets, and hot bucket showers.
Mumbo Island Camp is a paradise for water activities. Snorkeling in the clear, calm waters of Lake Malawi reveals an underwater world teeming with colorful cichlid fish. Kayaking around the island, particularly at sunrise or sunset, is a magical experience. Scuba diving, birdwatching, and sailing are other activities you can engage in.
Meals at the camp usually involve a lot of fresh foods, including fruits and vegetables, and locally sourced fish from the lake.
Keep in mind that because of its isolation, Mumbo Island Camp offers a true getaway and digital detox – there is typically no Wi-Fi, limited cell service, and no mains electricity.
Danforth Yachting
Located at Cape Maclear on the shores of Lake Malawi, Danforth Yachting is a luxury lodge that serves as a getaway to the pristine waters and diverse marine life of Lake Malawi National Park.
Danforth Yachting offers luxury accommodation. Rooms are typically spacious, decorated with a tasteful mix of local and imported materials, and have en-suite bathrooms. Many rooms offer panoramic views of Lake Malawi.
One of the highlights of Danforth Yachting is the range of water-based activities it offers. The lodge has its own fleet of yachts and boats for sailing excursions on Lake Malawi. Other water-based activities you can engage in include snorkeling, diving, and fishing. Kayaking and paddleboarding equipment are typically available for guest use, and bird watching is also popular.
The lodge is known for its cuisine, which often includes freshly caught fish from the lake and locally sourced fruits and vegetables. Meals can be enjoyed in various scenic locations around the property.
The lodge typically includes facilities like a swimming pool, a bar, and sometimes a small library or games area. Danforth Yachting, with its mix of luxury accommodation, diverse activities, and stunning lakeside location, offers a unique way to experience the beauty and biodiversity of Lake Malawi National Park.
Cape Maclear EcoLodge
Cape Maclear Ecolodge is a sustainable and eco-friendly establishment located in Cape Maclear, within the boundaries of Lake Malawi National Park. This lodge is committed to providing a comfortable stay while minimizing its environmental footprint.
Cape Maclear Ecolodge provides a range of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. These usually include private chalets, family rooms, and a budget-friendly campsite for those who prefer a more rustic experience.
The Ecolodge takes several measures to promote sustainability. Solar panels are often used for power, and waste is typically managed to minimize environmental impact.
Being located within Lake Malawi National Park, the Ecolodge offers numerous activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and bird watching. The lodge usually provides kayaks and snorkeling gear for guests, and boat trips to nearby islands can often be arranged.
The lodge typically has a restaurant that serves a variety of local and international dishes, often with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. Vegetarian and vegan options are usually available.
Cape Maclear Ecolodge often engages with the local community by employing local staff, providing training opportunities, and supporting local businesses.
Cape Maclear Ecolodge is a perfect choice for travelers who want to enjoy the beauty of Lake Malawi National Park while also supporting sustainable tourism practices.
Chembe Eagles Nest
Chembe Eagles Nest is a beachfront lodge located in the Cape Maclear area, which is part of the Lake Malawi National Park. Offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and direct access to the stunning lake waters, this accommodation provides a fantastic experience for visitors looking to enjoy Lake Malawi’s unique natural beauty.
Chembe Eagles Nest offers a variety of accommodations to cater to different guest needs. These include camping facilities for those who love the great outdoors, dormitory-style accommodation for larger groups or budget travelers, and private chalets for guests looking for more comfort and privacy.
Situated right on the beachfront, the lodge allows guests direct access to the lake and its waters. It’s an excellent spot for those who enjoy water-based activities, including snorkeling, swimming, or just relaxing by the water.
Guests can engage in various activities, such as kayaking, bird-watching, village walks, and beach games. Boat trips to nearby islands and snorkeling or diving trips can also be organized.
The lodge typically houses a restaurant that serves a mix of local Malawian dishes and international cuisine. Freshly caught fish from the lake often feature on the menu.
Chembe Eagles Nest offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, making it a fantastic option for travelers looking to truly experience the charm of Lake Malawi National Park.
Makuzi Beach Lodge
Makuzi Beach Lodge is a luxury accommodation located on the northern shores of Lake Malawi. It’s nestled in a secluded cove, offering private access to a white sandy beach. This lodge is an ideal choice for travelers seeking tranquility, privacy, and an intimate connection with nature.
Makuzi Beach Lodge offers a selection of thatched chalets, each tastefully decorated and fitted with modern conveniences for your comfort. Chalets usually have en-suite bathrooms and offer stunning views of the lake.
The lodge prides itself on its dining experience. Meals are often prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with a variety of dishes that cater to different dietary preferences. The dining area typically overlooks the lake, offering a beautiful setting for your meals.
Due to its prime location on the shores of Lake Malawi, Makuzi Beach Lodge offers an array of activities. These may include snorkeling and swimming in the clear waters of the lake, kayaking, and boat rides. Bird-watching is another popular activity, given the variety of bird species in the area. The lodge might also organize guided village walks, providing guests with a chance to engage with the local culture.
Makuzi Beach Lodge is often involved in conservation efforts in the area and operates with an eye towards sustainability. This can include the use of renewable energy sources, waste management strategies, and active support of local communities.
Kaya Mawa Lodge
Kaya Mawa Lodge is a luxury resort located on Likoma Island in Lake Malawi. Translating to ‘Maybe Tomorrow’ in the local Tonga language, Kaya Mawa sets the pace for a tranquil and relaxing retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Kaya Mawa offers uniquely designed rooms and villas that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Each room is individually designed and crafted in partnership with a local community project. Most units offer stunning views of the lake and some even have direct access to the water.
Kaya Mawa is known for its delicious cuisine. The lodge’s kitchen uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including fish caught daily from the lake, and vegetables from their organic garden. Their menu often consists of a fusion of African and European influences.
Given its island location, Kaya Mawa offers a wide range of water-based activities. You can expect to enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, and sailing. Additionally, the lodge can also arrange cultural tours of Likoma Island where guests can visit the local cathedral, meet the island residents, or explore local markets.
Kaya Mawa has a strong commitment to sustainability and local community support. The lodge was built and is staffed by people from the local community. They also support several local community projects, including a sewing workshop.
Some lodges, like Kaya Mawa, offer wellness services. These can range from spa services, massages, yoga classes, or wellness retreats, providing guests with opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Makokola Retreat
Makokola Retreat, often referred to as “Club Mak”, is a well-established luxury resort located on the southern shores of Lake Malawi. Surrounded by manicured gardens and nestled on a beautiful sandy beach, it offers an array of facilities and activities for guests looking for a relaxing or adventurous holiday.
Makokola Retreat provides a range of accommodation options, from comfortable beachfront rooms to luxury private villas. Each unit is tastefully furnished, and many offer stunning views of the lake.
The resort boasts a restaurant that serves a variety of local and international dishes. Fresh fish from the lake and locally sourced produce are often used, providing a real taste of Malawi’s cuisine.
Given its location, Makokola Retreat offers a broad spectrum of activities. Water sports, such as swimming, snorkeling, sailing, and paddleboarding are popular. The resort also has a golf course, a rarity in Malawi, making it an attractive choice for golfing enthusiasts. Additionally, cultural excursions to nearby villages can be arranged.
The resort features an on-site spa offering a variety of treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Guests can also enjoy the large pool and fitness center.
As part of its commitment to sustainability, Makokola Retreat often engages in practices that minimize its environmental footprint, such as water conservation and waste management.
Nkwichi Lodge
Nestled on the eastern shores of Lake Malawi, on the Mozambique side, Nkwichi Lodge is a hidden paradise offering a unique and luxurious retreat. It’s located within the Manda Wilderness area, ensuring a tranquil and pristine environment for guests.
Nkwichi Lodge is known for its eco-friendly luxury chalets and houses, all built by hand using local materials. Each accommodation option offers private access to the lake and is designed to blend in seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Many have outdoor bathrooms or star beds, allowing guests to connect more deeply with the wilderness.
The dining experience at Nkwichi Lodge is a celebration of local flavours and fresh ingredients, many of which are sourced from the lodge’s own garden. Guests can enjoy meals on the beach, in the dining area, or in the privacy of their accommodation.
Given its prime location by Lake Malawi, the lodge offers a plethora of activities, including snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, sailing in a traditional dhow, guided walks, bird-watching, and cultural visits to local communities. There’s also stargazing; the lack of light pollution makes for breathtaking views of the night sky.
Nkwichi Lodge plays a pivotal role in conserving the surrounding wilderness area and in supporting local communities. The lodge’s existence helps protect the region from deforestation and uncontrolled fishing. A significant portion of the lodge’s revenue goes towards various community projects, including schools and healthcare facilities.
With its commitment to sustainability, the lodge has won several awards. It runs on solar power, utilises compost toilets, and its buildings were constructed with local, natural materials.
In summary, Nkwichi Lodge offers an unforgettable blend of luxury, adventure, and immersion in nature, all while supporting local communities and sustainable tourism practices.
Blue Zebra Island Lodge
Blue Zebra Island Lodge is a unique retreat located on Nankoma Island, part of the Marelli Archipelago in Lake Malawi National Park. This luxury lodge offers a distinctive experience with the backdrop of an unspoiled wilderness and azure lake waters.
The lodge offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. You can expect to find private en-suite tents and chalets with lake views, designed to blend in with the natural environment while providing comfort and luxury.
The dining experience at Blue Zebra Island Lodge typically features both local and international cuisines. Fresh fish from the lake and locally-sourced produce often feature in the delicious dishes prepared by the skilled chefs.
Owing to its unique location, the lodge offers an array of activities to enjoy the lake and surrounding area. These can include snorkeling, kayaking, birdwatching, and nature walks. The surrounding waters are a protected area, home to many species of colorful cichlid fish, which makes for excellent snorkeling and diving.
The lodge is located within a national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it plays an important part in the preservation of the region’s unique biodiversity. The Marelli Archipelago is particularly known for its endemic species of cichlids, and the lodge often contributes towards efforts to protect these species.
Blue Zebra Island Lodge typically operates with sustainability in mind. They often use solar power for electricity and hot water, and they actively participate in conservation efforts.
Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge, known as the “brightest star on Lake Malawi,” is a luxury beach lodge nestled in the hills of the Nankumba Peninsula. This lodge is operated by Robin Pope Safaris, renowned for their high-quality safari experiences.
The lodge offers ten spacious villas, each with a unique design that blends modern comforts with traditional African architecture. Villas are typically equipped with large bathrooms, private decks, and stunning views of Lake Malawi.
Pumulani Lodge prides itself on its fine dining experience. The menu often features a blend of African and Western cuisines, utilizing fresh and locally sourced ingredients where possible.
Pumulani Lodge offers a range of activities for guests to enjoy. These typically include water sports such as snorkeling, sailing, fishing, and waterskiing in the clear waters of Lake Malawi. Land-based activities might include guided walks, village tours, and bird watching. After a day of activity, guests can relax by the lodge’s infinity pool overlooking the lake.
Unique to Pumulani Lodge is the on-site stargazing deck equipped with a professional-grade telescope. As the meaning of ‘Pumulani’ is “rest well” in the local Chichewa language, guests are invited to relax under the stars after a fulfilling day of exploration.
The lodge’s commitment to sustainable practices can be seen in its construction, which utilized local materials, and its operation, which emphasizes minimal environmental impact and community engagement.
In summary, Pumulani Lodge offers guests a serene and luxurious retreat on the beautiful shores of Lake Malawi. Its balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion makes it an excellent choice for travellers visiting this incredible part of Africa.