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View from Kaya Mawa Beach

Lake Malawi Vacations

The perfect safari holiday to Lake Malawi

Known as the 'Lake of the Stars', Lake Malawi is nature's greatest aquarium, surrounded by beaches and forests

Occupying about one fifth of Malawi’s total area and Africa’s third largest lake, Lake Malawi, or Lake Nyasa as it’s otherwise known, is a vast trough that stretches from the very northern tip of Malawi to the south. Lake Malawi has drawn many explorers to its shores over the years, from David Livingstone to the more adventurous travellers of today.

Lake Malawi - South

Around Cape Maclear, at the southern end of this vast inland sea, lies Lake Malawi National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s first freshwater national park. Covering just 94km², the park encompasses one of the most beautiful sections of the lake. Its crystal-clear waters protect a veritable aquarium of freshwater tropical fish in abundant colours and sizes, including over 350 species of endemic Cichlids.

Also falling within the protection of the national park are several islands, including the beautiful Marelli Islands off the shores of Senga Bay, as well as Mumbo and Domwe Island near Cape Maclear. There’s also a significant stretch of inland territory around the forested headlands of Cape Maclear where baboon, hyrax and antelope can be found.

Naturally, this is one of the more popular sections of the lake. With a choice of upmarket lodges (mostly on private islands or in more remote bays), family-friendly beach resorts, and backpacker accommodation, most visitors are well catered for. Yet don’t expect huge overdeveloped tourist areas, as Lake Malawi’s charm is its unspoilt beauty.

Lake Malawi – North

More like an inland sea than a lake, Lake Malawi’s waves lap golden sand beaches and its waters hold a myriad of colourful tropical fish.

It’s little surprise, therefore, that two of the more popular activities are scuba diving and snorkelling. There’s a choice of lodges along the lakeshore and on its islands that offer diving trips or courses. For non-divers, the crystal clear waters, especially around some of the more popular spots, provide a treat for snorkelling, with fish of a vast variety of colours, shapes and sizes.

For those who like to stay active, there is a range of other activities on offer, including kayaking, wakeboarding, horse riding, and even kitesurfing.

The northern shores of Malawi are often overlooked, but there are plenty of accommodation options catering for different budgets. Follow in the footsteps of the famous explorer David Livingstone as you head north. Pass the infamous slave trade centre of Nkhotakota, to the beautiful stretches of beach around Kande, Chintheche and Nkhata Bay, and on to the historic settlement of Livingstonia, named after the man himself.

In Mozambican waters, but still part of Malawi, Likoma Island is a gem in the sparkling lake. The idyllic island can be easily reached by air or, for the more adventurous and less time-sensitive, on board the Ilala Ferry.

Where else to go in Malawi

Top places to visit in Malawi

Elizabeth Spells

I have just returned from the most amazing trip to Tanzania, booked with Far & Wild. Everything went so smoothly from the first time I spoke with them. The planning was great, the itinerary was perfect for us, and the lodges were amazing. We spent 10 nights with an amazing guide, travelling through Northern Tanzania and even got to see the migration, which was a lifetime ambition of mine. This wasn't our first safari, so we were nervous as to how it would compare, but it was spot on. We're particularly grateful that she suggested a private 'bush lunch' in the Ngorongoro Crater as the public picnic spot was very busy! I will certainly be using them again to book our next trip....we're thinking of a relaxing beach stay next time to get over the excitement of safari!

Sep 17, 2025
Orla Rhodes

Just back from another amazing F&W organised trip to Namibia with the family (8 adults). Having been there before, Alistair tailored our trip to include our favourite locations and added a new one for us, Okonjima Plains camp, which we loved.The quality of accommodation and guiding, activities, food and drinks was exceptional throughout. Although not inexpensive I felt it was good value for the level of luxury we had. Kwessi Dunes, Shipwreck lodge, Ongava, Okonjima with pit stops Windhoek (city tour recommended ), Swakopmund (Sandwich Harbour and Walvis Bay tour) and Grootberg lodge (best sundowner drive )

Jul 31, 2024
Arnhild Schia

We had a wonderful trip to São Tomé and Príncipe - a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea with paradise (almost empty) beaches and jungle forest. It was all well organised by Far and Wild and we stayed at Omali lodge at Sao Tome, then on Roca Sundy, and Sunday Praia at Principe - a great combination of different types of resorts/hotels. Omali is close to Sao Tome town with its colonial buildings, markets, hustle and bustle. Roca Sunday gives an old plantation experience and Sundy Praia a luxury beach experience. Very friendly (from time to time a bit slow) service, great fresh food, specifically if you like fish/seafood, vegetables and fruits (almost all sourced locally). Nice temperature between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius, nice swimming conditions. We really recommend this for those who want to experience a pristine destination with few other tourists and friendly and welcoming people. The islands also feel (and I believe are) very safe. At Principe, there are no dangerous animals, snakes or whatever, and it was great to be able to hike in the jungle without being very conscious of where to put your hands and feet. Go before everyone else does!

Jul 3, 2024
Henri Papenfus

Back home again, basking in the joys of a superb safari. Every aspect you arranged for us, including linking up with Mack Air and Wild Horizons locally to transport us. The choice of camps, Camp Hwange in Zimbabwe and Muchenenje Safari Lodge in Botswana, was spot on and exactly what we had hoped for - ideally situated, comfortable, in good surroundings, and with excellent wildlife on the doorstep and throughout the wider country. The service staff in each looked after us very well, catering was excellent, and the game guides were professional, knowledgeable and helpful. The weather was, as usual for that part of the world, also good at the time of our visit. Blue skies and stunning sunsets. Warm but not too hot during the day, although quite cold at sunrise when viewing game. The viewing started. You made us happy, and we recommend you to similar safari enthusiasts with confidence.

Jun 28, 2024
AC

Far and Wild went above and beyond to make sure my trip to Zambia was special. I would definitely recommend them and their services to anyone wanting to travel to Africa.

Jun 5, 2024
Tiny

Lovely holiday at the amazing Almanara on Galu beach, a beach like no other. Far and Wild excelled themselves from beginning to end of our holiday in beautiful Kenya.... What a country!,

Jun 5, 2024
Stodge

Wow! These guys are amazing. Can’t recommend them highly enough. Friendly AND efficient! Sorted out our trip (last minute and lots of different family member needs, sorry!) in record time and everything worked like clockwork. Trip of a lifetime to the Masai Mara. Will be back (and use F&W again!)!

Jun 5, 2024
Fiona C

It was a dreamy holiday on the Kenyan Coast - Far and Wild, their efficiency and professionalism allowed us to relax and be the happiest family alive !! We cannot fault them, their care and understanding of what we wanted from a holiday ensured we had the most memorable trip. We will be booking with them again for sure!

Jun 5, 2024

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