Magical Malawi is fondly referred to as the warm heart of Africa. This is a country rich in culture, atmosphere and enchanting natural beauty. This landlocked, humble destination is best known as being the home of Lake Malawi, a gigantic inland sea boasting an array of water sport opportunities. However, the palm-fringed shores of the lake is not the only drawcard of Malawi.
There’s the Shire River, the only winding river from the lake that snakes its way across floodplains and cuts through rolling carpets of green hills of the Shire region. Palm savannah, riparian thickets and giant baobabs provide a magnificent bio-diverse region home to over 650 species of bird. Combine the beauty of the Shire region with the contrasting hazy aquamarine waters of Lake Malawi with the pristine wildlife-rich region of Liwonde National Park; and you have yourself a diverse safari and tropical holiday.
Malawi needs to be on your Africa bucket list. We’ve selected our top lodge in each popular tourist destination in Malawi.
Kaya Mawa Lodge in Lake Malawi
Kaya Mawa sits on the sandy golden beach gracing the shores of the lake. It’s a luxurious and secluded lodge located on the private Likoma Island. The lodge has with a light and breezy feel, where fresh air wafts through the wide open spaces.
Accommodation comprises 12 thatched-roof houses constructed by hand using local materials. There are sunken bathtubs for end-of-day relaxation, private terraces to take in the sublime surrounds of magical lakes, baobabs and mango trees. Each house has its own small splash pool where guests can relax and catch a few rays. After signing up for scuba diving, kite surfing and canoeing activities; there’s only one thing left to do : Book a spa treatment on the rocks in the lake.
Mvuu Lodge in Liwonde National Park
Mvuu Lodge is certainly not short of safari activities, and certainly has every type of adventure safari activity covered. Boat trips down the Shire River, bush walks, bike rides through the park, twice daily game drives and visits to the local community are just a few things guests can expect while staying at Mvuu.
Liwonde National Park is home to the largest elephant population in the country, and also has two breeding black rhino. Hippos litter the waters of the Shire, and seeing large bloats congregating on the shores is not uncommon. Three incredible species thriving naturally in Mvuu’s surrounds. What stands out most about the national park is that it’s Malawi’s top spot for birding activities.
The lodge overlooks a tranquil lagoon just off the Shire River, and there are even starbeds overlooking the floodplains.
Accommodation wise there is a total of eight tents, one of which is a romantic honeymoon suite.
Huntingdon House in the Shire Highlands
Located on an estate that produces tea and coffee, the Huntingdon oozes historical charm. Cocooned by manicured gardens and surrounded by Mount Mulanje and the Lower Shire Valley; Huntingdon House is by far one of the most spectacular places in Malawi.
There are only 5 suites, which means an intimate setting combined with a personalised service tailored to each guest. Each room possesses an olde world charm and comes complete with an elegant stand-alone Victorian style bath.
Horse riding, quad biking, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, tea and coffee tasting, and village tours are just a few of the activities on offer.
A simply splendid place in Malawi’d evergreen paradise.
