Unforgettable Malawi Holidays | Lake Malawi Packages

The best places to stay in Malawi

Where you stay on your Malawi holiday is crucial, and so at Africa Travel we have rounded up a selection of our top accommodation picks.

Holidays in Malawi will invariably include an element of safari, and there is nowhere better to stay than Mkulumadzi. This luxury lodge has an idyllic setting in the Majete Wildlife Reserve at the confluence of two rivers, and it epitomizes splendid isolation with first-class service. Majete is almost unknown to tourists, but is home to the elusive black rhino along with elephant, buffalo, leopard and a myriad of antelope. Accommodation is in eight spacious chalets, each with its own outdoor shower and private viewing deck located on the banks of the Shire River.

In the Liwonde National Park, Malawi’s premier wildlife reserve, sits Mvuu Lodge. This is hippo central on the banks of the Shire River. In fact Mvuu means hippo, and this is indeed the place to see and enjoy all aspects of these great rumbling creatures. Along with hippos there are plentiful sightings of crocodile, elephant and leopard as well as hundreds of species of bird. At certain times guests do not even have to move from the lodge or its own private viewing area to spot the wildlife. Accommodation is in eight spacious tented suites, each of which is raised over a lagoon to make the most of the magical views.

Any Lake Malawi holiday would be incomplete without a stay at Pumulani Lodge - the most surprising and luxurious beach lodge in Malawi. Hidden away amongst trees and creeping out from the rocks, the lodge is a design dream with every villa having glorious views across the lake. Each of the ten villas is uniquely designed, with some incorporating the rocks that rush from the ground, and others incorporating the foliage growing around them. All have huge terraces, verandahs or decks plus spacious living, sleeping and bathing quarters. It is perfect to combine with a safari in neighbouring Zambia.

In Central Malawi lies the 1800 sq kilometre Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, and nestled in the forest here on the banks of the Bua River is the Tongole Wilderness Retreat. It enjoys an idyllic setting and provides the perfect opportunity to explore nature at a more leisurely pace. Rather than racing around on a game vehicle ticking off animals here you can a take a slow safari, stopping to explore the flora and fauna on a guided walk, taking a hike to waterfall or canoeing on the forest-fringed river. As well as being personally enriching a stay at Tongole benefits the local community as the lodge's foundation supports education and employment in the area.

Malawi holidays come in all shapes and sizes and those wanting to stay at the country’s premier resort should head for The Makakola Retreat. This is a lakeside paradise on a palm-fringed beach on the southern shores of the lake. It is the place to retreat to after days in the bush, to refresh and relax on the water’s edge. Each of its rooms and villas are based on the traditional African rondavel, with thatched roofs and local materials and fabrics used in the interiors. Family rooms are available, with all of the room types being within walking distance of the golden sands. The resort also offers a wide choice of water and land-based activities from sailing and squash, to windsurfing and golf.

On the south-western tip of Likoma Island you will find Kaya Mawa, where you can relax in the friendly and informal atmosphere of this unique getaway. Nestled on the lakeshore amongst rocky knolls and boabab trees the resort's rooms are all individually designed using natural materials and hand crafted furniture. The two bedroom family houses are right on the beach and for those looking for more exclusivity and privacy Ndomo House, a four bedroomed villa, has its own staff and private beach. Kaya Mawa has a PADI dive centre for those looking for adventure among the colourful cichild fish while snorkelling, kayaking and windsurfing are also available. Exploring Likoma Island is hugely popular and many find visits to the markets and cathedral and meeting the friendly locals a rewarding experience.

Whichever areas you wish to visit, for a once in a lifetime experience, book your Malawi holiday today to indulge in a combined trip of nature and adventure. Contact Africa Travel for your dream holiday to Malawi and let our experts help create your perfect Malawi holiday package.