Why we like it
- Beneath the warm cerulean waves, Lake Malawi’s ancient but turbulent geographic history has created truly spectacular underwater scenery decorated by electric flashes of vibrant fish.
- Lying within the Western Rift Valley, Lake Malawi is one of the deepest lakes in the world. The property is an area of exceptional natural beauty with the rugged landscapes around it contrasting with the remarkably clear waters of the lake.
- Located at the southern end of the great expanse of Lake Malawi, with its deep, clear waters and mountain backdrop, Lake Malawi National Park is home to many hundreds of fish species, nearly all endemic.
- Across the extensive shoreline of Lake Malawi, tiny beach villages, resorts and lodges offer the adventurous tourist a plethora of opportunities to explore the waters
Below the waters of this inland lake a pristine freshwater ecosystem thrives. Diverse marine life, with 400 species of colourful cichlid fish, many of which are endemic, create equally magical viewings for goggle-wearing swimmers. Steep, tree covered hills enclose the lake, and sandy beaches and large granite boulders characterise its shores. The calls of African fish eagles fill the air above.
David Livingstone famously named Lake Malawi “The Lake Of Stars”, and for a good reason: during the day, the light dances across the deep blue water and once the sun has set, the stars twinkle brightly both in the sky but also on the lake as the fishermen light up their hurricane lamps for their night on the lake.
Lake Malawi is famed for the abundance and diversity of its fish life and holds a greater array of freshwater fish species (over 1000) than any other lake on Earth and more than all of Europe and North America combined. The majority of these are colourful fish called cichlids (their local name is mbuna) of which the Lake contains more than 400 types, 30% of all known species. Other fish species, such as chambo form the primary protein source of the people that live on the lakeshore and beyond. Much of this astounding underwater diversity is protected within the National Park at Cape Maclear in the southern part of the lake.
The best time to visit Malawi is during the drier months, from early May to late October. This is a cooler time of year with sunny days, pleasant evenings, and perfect temperatures. The winter period of this season can be chilly in the north of the country, but down on the shores of Lake Malawi, you can expect warm, dry days and great balmy weather. This is also the best time to go to Malawi for game viewing, as much of the vegetation has thinned out, and animals can be found concentrated at rivers and permanent waterholes.
Places to stay
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