On Nankoma Island in Lake Malawi
Lake Malawi has the highest concentration of African Fish Eagles, Malawi’s national bird, on the continent and its cry is heard frequently over Nankoma Island.
Blue Zebra Island Lodge is tucked away on Nankoma Island, a part of the Marelli Island archipelago. This ancient environment is thriving and alive with bird songs and waves gently breaking on the shore. Lake Malawi is the third deepest lake in the world and is inhabited by the largest assembly of fish species of any lake on earth: about 875 species of cichlids, most of them endemic. Under the protection of the Lake Malawi National Park, these three Islands offer a unique opportunity to see rare species of Malawi's colourful Cichlid fish that have earned this site its UNESCO World Heritage Site accreditation. Since Lake Malawi is heavily isolated from other seas’, oceans and other water bodies, the lake is an outstanding example of biological evolution. The Islands are also renowned for their dazzling array of bird life. Less than two hours from Lilongwe you will find yourself on an unspoilt island paradise, surrounded by nature and luxury.
Blue Zebra Island Lodge is an exclusive hideaway that offers Tented Chalets and Safari Tents. An executive tented en-suite chalet is generously proportioned, including a sitting area and boasts a romantic lake front. An absolute honeymoon dream. The two Family tented Chalets are spacious, double suite rooms with a stunning lake front. The four Luxury tented Chalets are deluxe standard en-suite chalets. The five Safari Terrace Tents are set on the hillside with spectacular views over the treetops and closest access to the wild hiking track around the island. These Safari Tents have twin beds for guests interested in water sports and outdoors activities, with shared bathroom facilities and a common area overlooking a dreamy sunset view. The main area boasts a swimming pool in which novice divers can learn the basics.
From experienced divers to beginners we have something to cater to all guests. Literally just a few meters off the shore, you will experience Malawi’s renowned cichlids in all their natural splendour. Famed for their vivid and vibrant colours, the Islands are home to species unique not only to Lake Malawi, but many to these islands! Whether it’s to explore the stunning, natural archipelago, enjoy a spot of fishing, or simply experience the pleasure of cruising across the calm and clear waters of Lake Malawi, at Blue Zebra you can do it all. The lodge offers its guests a complimentary trip out on a boat to enjoy activities of their choice and to fully appreciate everything that makes this world heritage site so special. Kayaking offers a great way to get out and explore the coves and coastal wildlife up close. There are six top of the line kayaks available for free use by guests.
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Best places to stay in Lake Malawi
Lake Malawi Trip Inspiration
When to go to Malawi
Find out the best time to visit Malawi with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is a good time for bird watchers, migratory birds from the Northern Hemisphere flock to Malawi's National Parks. The rains are in full flow with impressive thunderstorms lighting the sky across the country regularly - many lodges around the shores of Lake Malawi will be closed during this time.
February
Rain continues to pour regularly in February. The bird watching is incredible particularly in the high altitude Nyika National Park with many flowers blooming carpeting the lower plateaus.
March
In March the weather is still somewhat unsettled with regular rains, these diminish as the month goes on. Birders will be in paradise, young birds are spreading their wings for the first time preparing for their epic journey back to the Northern Hemisphere.
April
Rains begin to subside, the sun starts to shine and temperatures increase. Wildlife viewing is good, observers can watch animals emerge across Liwonde National Park. In particular antelopes are in rut and visitors to Malawi's National Parks can experience incredible clashes between rival males.
May
Days become sunnier and cooler during May. Wildlife viewing is at its best due to less vegetation and the animals gathering together around waterholes.
June
June days are long and sunny, but it's Malawi's winter and the temperatures drop significantly at this time of year. The evenings and mornings are very cold in the highland regions, with log fires lit. The dry season means animals congregate around the Shire River in Liwonde National Park for easier access to water and rich green vegetation - large numbers of elephants can be present at this time of year due to dwindling water levels.
July
July is a perfect time to visit Malawi, skies are clear there are less mosquitoes and there's virtually no rain. Although its high season, most of the National Parks won't be crowded despite the spectacular sightings of larger elephant herds - often reaching into the hundreds!
August
In August the weather warms, with daytime peak temperatures averaging around 30°C, whilst night time averages rise to 10°C. If you want to experience large wildlife herds, this is the time of year to visit. Water is diminishing and spaces at watering holes are becoming limited leading to increasing tensions between the animals. It's an amazing time to enjoy the delights of Lake Malawi's azure waters, with temperatures perfect for watersports or relaxing in the sun lakeside.
September
Night time temperatures rise rapidly, whilst daytime averages remain in the mid 20°Cs. With clear skies and dry vegetation concentrations of animals are still great but starting to dwindle in comparison to July and August. Lake Malawi is popular this time of year, the increased wind conditions make it perfect for an afternoon sail.
October
October is a humid month, temperatures regularly rise above 40°C and night times are increasingly warm. If you want to witness the world's largest antelope, the eland, can often be seen as they start regrouping for their breeding season - with herds reaching into the hundreds it makes for an awe inspiring sight.
November
The green season, November witnesses the first few storms of the rainy season arriving. It marks the arrival of the many migratory birds from the Northern Hemisphere.
December
In December the rains become more regular, with thunderstorms occurring every few days. With lush green scenery animals can be difficult to see because of the thick vegetation and the abundance of water. But birders will have an amazing time witnessing the incoming flurry of migratory birds.
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