Lake Malawi

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Visit Lake Malawi

Formed by the Great Rift Valley, Lake Malawi is Africa’s third largest lake at roughly 600km in length and up to 80km wide in places and is the heartbeat of Malawi. With its sparkling clear waters, Lake Malawi is home to over 1,000 different exotic (cichlid) fish and was one of the first large areas of freshwater to receive national park status.

A number of beautiful islands pepper the Lake and picturesque villages dot the shoreline. Days can be spent swimming off the sandy beaches, diving, snorkelling, kayaking or chilling out on one of the desert islands.

Likoma Island

Likoma Island is steeped in colonial history, has pristine sandy beeches and offers some of the best diving and snorkelling in Malawi.

Covering an area of only 17km, the main draw is the abundance of beeches and activities available – every water sport you could wish for is provided on the beach and hours can be wiled away gently paddle boarding along the shoreline and exploring secluded coves. Likoma is the location of our favourite lake retreat Kaya Mawa, a wonderful property, unique in Africa.

Facts about Lake Malawi

29,600 km²

Size

(GMT+2)

Local Time

Malawian kwacha

Local Currency

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Henry

It’s been nearly ten years since we last visited Malawi, that time we just went to Lake Malawi after we’d been on safari in Zambia. This time we wanted to experience a bit more. It was amazing. We loved the Nyika Plateau and our stay at Mkulumadzi was one of our most memorable safaris. I don’t think there’s anywhere better on earth than Kaya Mawa – it’s the dream!