What to do on Lake Malawi
Relaxing on a beach on the shores of Lake Malawi is a must. Soak up the sun, recharge your batteries and just escape from it all. At around 580km long and 75km wide, there’s plenty of lakeshore waiting to be discovered. But there is so much more to this impressive body of water and it’s worth spending a little time here to make the most of it.
Cape Maclear is probably the most well-known lakeside village and is a hotspot for travellers as there’s plenty on offer here. But there are other areas of interest worthy of exploring too such as Likoma Island, and some fabulous lodges to base yourself at even a private island experience.
- Gentle relaxation
- Scuba diving
- Village visits
- Snorkelling
- Kayaking
- Sundowners
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EnquireSo much more than just a lake
This clean, freshwater lake is surprisingly biodiverse and it’s pretty easy to see some of the colourful fish that swim just beneath the surface. You could choose to scuba dive or simply snorkel your time away. With over 700 cichlid species in the lake, you could easily spend quite a bit of time seeking them out.
© GarethBentley2016, RPS
Watersports
Some of the lodges offer motorised watersports, and most have non-motorised equipment at your disposal. Perhaps try kayaking or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding (like the family above who were staying at Pumulani Lodge), sailing and water skiing. We can’t think of a better place to hone your skills.
© Shutterstock
© Shutterstock
Kayaking
For the most part, the waters of the lake are calm and the focus for many is on watersports. It's easy enough to rent a kayak and paddle your way around the lake shore. Visit Otter Point, a secluded rocky bay with water teeming with a kaleidoscope of colourful fish. Watch the majestic fish eagles as they swoop down to catch their dinner.
Lake of Stars Festival
Visitors arriving in late September coincide with the Lake of Stars festival, a three-day event packed with both local and international artists. The location varies each year, but it’s always on the lake shores.
Land activities
Away from the water perhaps climb atop a trusty steed and take a riding tour through local villages and along the lakeside. Take the opportunity to visit one or two of the surrounding villages, perhaps with a local guide and see the smiling heart of Africa for yourself, you’ll see how tourism is intertwined with everyday life for many people in the lake area with many of the lodges taking on local community projects.
Sundowners
And what better way to end the day on these impressive shores than to watch the sun go down over Lake Malawi with a sundowner in hand – bliss!
