The greatest concentration of lodges around Lake Malawi can be found on the southern lakeshore between Mangochi and Monkey Bay. Here, you will find something for every taste: from luxurious properties with golf courses to simpler lodges with adjacent camping sites. They all have some things in common though: beautiful uncrowded beaches, a sense of privacy and isolation, and a variety of lake activities on offer. This is the perfect place to let go of your worries while taking in the splendor of Lake Malawi.

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Where to Stay

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We have listed some accommodation places in this area. If these don't suit you, we are more than happy to create your custom tour with your priorities.

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Kingfisher Inn

A relaxed, family-orientated resort on the shores of Lake Malawi. Arrive as a guest and leave as a friend. Kingfisher prides itself on a friendly and accommodating environment. They aim to make guests feel at home, so you can relax and let them make your stay an unforgettable one.

Nestled under a canopy of indigenous trees, the chalets have beautiful high-thatched ceilings with plenty of ventilation, so air conditioners aren’t needed, and you're doing your bit for the environment. With over 200 species of bird life, Kingfisher Inn is a haven for our feathered friends.

Campsites are set on soft grass sites next to the beach, so campers and overlanders will be spoiled with beautiful views of Lake Malawi, with the promise of spectacular sunrises and sunsets that never fail to impress. They are equipped with a BBQ area as well as a power point, ablutions, a scullery, and a laundry. 

A well-stocked bar with local and international beverages is available. Enjoy a cold drink with the views of the Mangochi mountains across Lake Malawi. 

The menu is simple but delicious. It offers a range of curries, light meals, the ever-popular hamburger, chicken dishes, and fish. The kitchen is stocked with locally grown, fresh vegetables, and the chefs are well-trained in making mouth-watering meals. 

There are two crystal clear swimming pools: a separated shallow kiddies pool and a larger pool for the older ones. Also available are a jungle gym for the little ones, volleyball and cricket for the more energetic, and a pool table in the bar. 

With stunning views of the lake and a backdrop of the Mangochi mountain range on the eastern shores of Lake Malawi, this is the perfect place to be.

Makokola Retreat

At Makokola Retreat, it will be a pleasure for the team to welcome you to their little piece of paradise. This three-generation, family-owned business has been blessed by the nurturing love, care, and commitment that can only be found in a family-run business. They pride themselves in delivering an ethical, natural, local experience to charm your stay.

Over the years, Makokola Retreat has seen tremendous growth and transformation to constantly meet the evolving needs and expectations of its guests. With over 250 permanent employees, it has a strong commitment to the surrounding community and future generations of hoteliers. Various hospitality students pass through their doors on internships that allow them to start their careers in this exciting industry.

The Makokola Retreat offers you a wide variety of room categories to choose from, all surrounded by lush gardens, along the southern shore of Lake Malawi. The tranquillity transmitted by the lake and the protective surrounding green vegetation give rise to a sense of natural connectedness in the true essence of the word “retreat.” The integration of local traditions and culture can be seen in the art, crafts, and design of the retreat.

Combined with their social and environmental dedications and enthusiasm in preserving local traditions, Makokola Retreat wishes to generate an authentically Malawian experience to their guests.

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Norman Carr Cottage

Norman Carr Cottage is situated on the southern shore of Lake Malawi, in the beautiful sheltered bay of Namakoma, only 15km south of Monkey Bay. A gentle and restful place where you can expect a memorable Malawian experience. 

Awaken to the call of the African Fish Eagle for a glorious day at the charming Norman Carr Cottage. This idyllic romantic retreat is right on the beach, tucked away under a canopy of large indigenous trees, a perfect hideaway of sun-drenched beaches and turquoise waters.

The rooms are spacious, well-appointed, and airy, with open-air showers, king-size beds, and coffee/tea-making facilities. Norman Carr Cottage consists of five executive suites and two courtyard rooms. The executive suites are lake-facing and just a few steps from the beautiful beach. The courtyard rooms are set back a bit, but one can still enjoy views of the lake.

Norman Carr Cottage's renowned cuisine offers home-cooked meals that you can enjoy in the open beach dining area overlooking the sparkling waters of the lake. 

Enjoy all activities on offer, such as canoeing, a morning snorkeling trip, and the feeding of the fish eagles from the steel launch boat ‘Alfie’.
An evening cruise  with a chilled glass of wine while watching the magical sunset over the lake marks the end of  another enchanted ‘Warm Heart of Africa’ day.

Mufasa Backpackers

Have you been searching for heaven on earth, an exotic place or simply a place to chill? Mufasa Eco Lodge, situated in Monkey Bay, is the answer for you. As you enter this stunning place, take your time and climb "Jam Rock" on your left to enjoy a 360-degree view of this secluded spot at Lake Malawi. It takes only two minutes. The majestic silence and the soft breeze will only be interrupted by chirping birds, the call of the fish eagle, the sound of the inviting crystal clear water, and everything else you expect in paradise. 

After this first impression, the friendly staff will warmly welcome you and show you around. From the bar to the restaurant with an all-day menu to the chill-out area, you will feel that you have just arrived at the right spot at the right time. 

The campsite was built in the shade of the mountain flora. From there, you can enjoy the marvelous view over the beach site and its unique surroundings. If you prefer a decent bed and a roof above your head, Mufasa offers double, twin, single, and dorm rooms right on the beach. They are cosily furnished, and include solar lighting and mosquito nets.

Apart from the restaurant, Mufasa offers a braai area for those who like to cook for themselves. The soft solar lighting will ensure you find your way at night without disturbing the fire sparks or the stars that do shine brighter over Africa. 

There is a lot to do at Mufasa Eco Lodge: Bird watching, snorkeling, hiking, cycling, and rock climbing along the lake shores are just a few of the activities on offer. Furthermore, it is only a 10-minute walk to the ferry port of the well-renowned and historical Ilala passenger ship, which can take you Likoma Island or all the way to Nkhata Bay, making Mufasa Eco Lodge the perfect base if you plan to border it.

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Pumulani Lodge

Luxury accommodation, friendly personal service and stunning views over Lake Malawi combine to make Pumulani Lodge the perfect African beach lodge.

Situated on the west side of the Nankumba Peninsula on the southern end of Lake Malawi, you can find the lodge subtly nestled in the lush hills amongst the trees and craggy outcrops. The ten villas provide the ultimate space, design, comfort, and privacy.

Guests can relax on the sandy beach or enjoy an elevated view of the lake from the stylish infinity pool. For those seeking some activity, they offer waterskiing, sailing, kayaking, walks in the hills, snorkeling, and diving.  Pumulani offers the perfect mix for a memorable holiday. Enjoy being active or simply relax in the beautiful and tranquil scenery.

Activities in the Area

 

Relax on the beach: This one seems obvious. Soak in the views of Lake Malawi, while sunbathing in the soft sand, reading a good book or spending quality time with your fellow travelers. Sunsets are especially beautiful.

 

Snorkeling: Discover the more than 1000 species of fish that call Lake Malawi their home, including 600 species of the colourful cichlids, which are endemic here. Most lodges offer snorkeling trips, or you can bring your own gear.

 

Kayaking:  Kayaking is the perfect activity to enjoy the tranquility of the lake, while being active. On calm days, the lake is so clear that you can see the fish swimming next to you. Go solo, or take your family and friends.

 

Birdwatching: Over 140 different species of birds have been counted in this area. Take your binoculars and go on a walk to discover them.

 

Sunset Boat Trips:  These can be arranged through several lodges. Enjoy the magical sunset from the middle of the lake. Maybe accompanied by a glass of chilled wine, if that is your thing.

 

Island Excursions:  Commonly called ‘Bird Island’, Boadzulu Island, is located in southern part of Lake Malawi's National Park. It’s home to the biggest breading colony of White Breasted Cormorants in Southern Africa. It is also a perfect place for snorkeling.

 

Golf: Mlambe golf course offers nine holes of par three golf. Enjoy the indigenous vegetation and plentiful birds while you pratice your golf swing.

Explore Mangochi: Mangochi is a township with a population above 50.000. It has several historical monuments that date back to the beginning of the 20th century, such as a clock tower erected in memory of Queen Victoria and a Hotchkiss gun taken from the Gwendolen, a gun boat that patrolled Lake Malawi from 1889 to 1940. There is also a Catholic Cathedral and a museum with exhibits on natural history and ethnographic history, especially about the Yao people who live in this region.

Best Time to Visit

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The best time to visit this area is during the dry season from April to November. It is also the best season for outdoor and water activities.