ZAMBIA & MALAWI

Zomba Forest Lodge is a cosy, intimate guest house nestled in 20 acres of beautiful mixed woodland and secret gardens. A perfect retreat where relaxation is guaranteed.

There are 3.5km of nature trails around the property and a huge variety of birds, including sunbirds feeding from flowers mere inches from the veranda.

Completely off-grid, ZFL is an ideal place to hide away, to sit back and relax, away from the pressures of ‘real life’! Enjoy the luxury of switching off in a day in age when being connected is seemed to be so important – Come and try it out.

Alternatively, why not step it up and go walking on one of the many trails around the lodge, or Plateau; or simply lie in the hammock, enjoy the bird song, butterflies and a good book.

However, it isn’t all about relaxing and hiking, it is also about enjoying great food. Here you will enjoy some of the best home-cooked food in Malawi.

ZFL is more than a lodge, more than a hotel; as guests you are welcomed and treated like friends by the owners Tom and Petal. Their home is beautiful and humble, and yet promises a warm and enriching experience.

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Side view of Zomba Forest Lodge Credit: Jonathan Ramael

Bedroom Credit: Mike Varndell One of our four bedrooms lit up at night

Living area Credit: Mike Varndell Warm lighting of candles and paraffin lamps

Inner trails Credit: Petal Wimbush One of the many trails inside the ZFL property

Sunset Credit: Petal Wimbush From our "Sunset spot"

Samango monkey Credit: Jonathan Ramael One of the monkeys belonging to a semi resident troupe

Mvuu Camp has a spectacular vantage point along the Shire River that draws all manner of fauna to its banks. The camp, comprising 14 units as well as a nearby campsite, is a clever mix of spacious stone and canvas chalets and specially designed family tents. An impressive thatched dining and lounge area offers a magnificent river vista that is framed by two large baobab trees. Dinners are sometimes held under the stars in a specially constructed boma. A custom-built education and conference centre with facilities for up to 40 delegates or smaller corporate and team building functions is available.

Mvuu Camp offers a wide range of accommodation options such as full board rates and camping, and a variety of activities including boat safaris on the Shire River, game drives, nature walks & trails and non-stop birding. Trips to community projects in nearby villages and Nanthomba School are also popular.

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Mvuu Camp Mvuu Camp On Shire River

Mvuu Camp Shire River

Mvuu Camp

Mvuu Camp

Mvuu Camp Game Drive

Mvuu Camp Family Chalet

Mvuu Camp - Family Chalet Mvuu Camp - Standard Chalet

There are five family units with two beds per room. The bathroom is shared by both rooms.

There are seven twin bedded chalets. The twin beds can be moved together to make a double bed.

Property Facilities

Bar, Eco Friendly, Pool, Restaurant

Room Facilities

Balcony / Deck, En-Suite

Available Services

Credit Card Facilities

Activities on Site

Bird Watching, Boating, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks

Activities Nearby

Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours

The perfect getaway for nature lovers looking for a combination of adventure and relaxation in a tranquil, private setting. Exclusively situated on Nankoma Island, a wild paradise in Lake Malawi National Park (UNESCO World Heritage site). Unobtrusive and eco-friendly, operating on solar power.

Offering a unique and sustainable travel experience, Blue Zebra is a conservation driven lodge working with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife in Malawi to protect three islands making up the Marelli group: Nankoma, Maleri, and Nakantenga. These uninhabited islands are home to a vast array of fresh water fish, including some of the most rare and colourful in the world. They support diverse flora and fauna and are a bird watcher's paradise.

Accommodation: a unique set-up with 9 en-suite safari-style tented chalets, 1 forest-set Pitta Cottage, and 1 Superior Family Cottage overlooking Lake Malawi. Secluded executive chalets boast stunning views from private balconies. The chalets are set in an unspoiled environment, immersed in nature.

Facilities: spa, infinity pool, cocktail bar, restaurant, games room, meetings room, curio shop.

Activities: nature trails, birding, kayaking, snorkeling, water-sports, sunset cruise.

A 2 hour drive from Lilongwe, this is a great combination with Zambian Safaris as well as various wildlife parks in Malawi.

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• Restaurants

Nankoma Island Credit: Michael Wendel Situated in Lake Malawi National Park (A UNESCO Wolrd Heritage site).

View over the Maleri Islands Credit: Michael Wendel

Boat Cruise Credit: Gemma Thomas

Kayaking Credit: Stephane Perrier

Nature Trails - The Ancient Fig Tree Credit: Jonathan Raemal

Duiker Credit: Gabriella Costantini

Sisters enjoying the lake view Credit: Anneke Jagau

Hammock Sunset Credit: Gemma Thomas

Poolside cocktails Credit: PJM Photography Tequila Sunrise, Blue Zebra Sunset & The Malachite

Poolside Cocktail Credit: UMP Festival

Infinity Pool Credit: Jenn Wendel

Family fun Credit: Anneke Jagau

Poolside vibes Credit: Jenn Wendel

Kayaking Credit: Artur Cabral

Sunset cocktails Credit: Gemma Thomas

Nature Trail Credit: Gemma Thomas

Nature Trail Credit: Gemma Thomas

Malachite Kingfisher Credit: Dimitri Giannakis

Fisheagle Credit: Gemma Thomas

Sunset Credit: Athira Mohan

Baobab Skyline Credit: Artur Cabral

Cormorant Credit: Michael Wendel

Cormorant Executive Chalet Credit: Roaming Media

Cormorant Executive Chalet Credit: Gemma Thomas

Sandpiper Executive Chalet Credit: Micheal Wendel

Superior Family Cottage Credit: Roaming Media

Superior Family Cottage - Lounge Credit: Gemma Thomas

Kayaking Credit: Jonathan Raemal

Island Spa Credit: Michael Wendel

Island Spa Vibes Credit: Michael Wendel

Couples Massage Credit: Michael Wendel

Private lunch Credit: Anneke Jagau

Boat transfer Credit: David DiGregorio

Cichlids Credit: Blue Zebra

African Pitta Credit: Ivan Monk

Superior Family Cottage Executive Family Chalets Executive Chalets Pitta Cottage Lake Safari Tents

The most luxurious and spacious of the island room types. A large, open planned cottage (house) with a lounge and dining area and two en-suite bedrooms (one queen, one double). 2 single beds can be added to the main room.

The master bedroom has ample cupboard space with a built in dressing table and an open bathroom with a shower and bathtub. The second bedroom is a smaller en-suite double room opening onto the lake-facing balcony.

Minimum 2 adults required (or supplement to the equivalent).
Capacity: 4 adults, 2 children. This unit can be set up in different ways: suitable for a couple; 2 adults sharing separate rooms; 3 - 4 adults sharing (with discounted sharing specials); a family with 2 adults and up to 4 children; multi-generational families.

Credit: Roaming Media (Rogan Roams)

Credit: Gemma Thomas

Credit: Gemma Thomas

Credit: Gemma Thomas

Credit: Gemma Thomas

Credit: Gemma Thomas

Main Bathroom Credit: Gemma Thomas

Credit: Vikki McEwan

Room Facilities

Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Fan, Fridge, Fridge/Freezer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Available), Lounge, Mosquito Nets, Safe, Table, Tea / Coffee, Wardrobe

2 Executive Family Chalets: Malachite and Fisheagle. Spacious en-suite safari-style tented chalets each with 2 bedrooms, a lounge and bathroom. Private lake-facing balconies.

Typically for families of up to 5 (2 adults & up to 3 children) or up to 4 adults.
Main room: 1 queen bed / Twin room: 2 single beds / U12's sofa bed in the lounge

FISHEAGLE: located around the side of the island with a long downward stairway entrance, in a natural and very private setting.

MALACHITE: located just behind reception at the lodge entrance. Private but closer to lodge facilities.

Fisheagle Chalet Credit: Rogan Roams

Fisheagle Chalet Credit: 3WheelsCo

Malachite Credit: ARTUR CABRAL

Credit: 3WheelsCo

Room Facilities

Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Dressing Gowns, Fan, Laundry Service (Available), Mosquito Netting, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Queen Bed, Safe, Twin Bed

Executive Chalets:
Cormorant. En-suite safari-style tented chalet, exclusively located around the side of the island with a private lake-facing balcony.
1 queen bed & 2 sofa beds for U12's.

Sandpiper, our newest room at the lodge offers an en-suite safari-style tented chalet, exclusively located around the side of the island with a private lake-facing balcony
1 queen bed only.

Cormorant View Credit: Michael Wendel

Cormorant Credit: Gemma Thomas

Cormorant Credit: Gemma Thomas

Cormorant Credit: Michael Wendel

Sandpiper Credit: UMP Festival

Sandpiper Credit: Michael Wendel

Sandpiper Credit: Michael Wendel

Sandpiper Credit: Michael Wendel

Room Facilities

Balcony , Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, Fan, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Available), Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Queen Bed, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah

Named after the African Pitta.

En-suite, spacious thatched cottage, nestled in nature. Located above the central Lake Safari Tents, with stairway access. One spacious ensuite bedroom, a lounge with a sofa bed, and a large side-patio with a table seating area, patio furniture & hammock.

Pitta Cotta Bedroom Credit: Michael Wendel

Pitta Cottage Lounge Credit: Michael Wendel

Pitta Cottage Outdoor Area Credit: Michael Wendel

Pitta Cottage Entrance/Lounge Credit: Jennifer Wendel

Pitta Cottage Bathroom Credit: BZ

Pitta Cottage Stairway Credit: BZ

Room Facilities

Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Fan, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Available), Mosquito Nets, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Tea / Coffee, Verandah

Lake Safari Tents: Bulbul, Darter, Heron, Hornbill & Nightjar
En-suite safari-style tents, smaller than executives but quaint and comfortable. 3 doubles, 1 twin, 1 single. Some have sofa beds for U12s.

DARTER: 1 queen bed & 2 sofa beds
Centrally located, nearest the restaurant, no stairs, largest balcony.

HERON: 1 queen bed & 1 sofa bed
Centrally located, small stairway entrance.

HORNBILL: 2 single beds & 1 sofa bed
Centrally located in-between Darter & Heron, small stairway entrance.

BULBUL: 1 queen bed & 1 sofa bed
The furthest chalet from the communal area overlooking the lake. At the entrance to nature trails.

NIGHTJAR: 1 single bed
Centrally located, small stairway entrance. This is the smallest of our accommodation options, with one single bed only.

Credit: Anneke Jagau

Credit: PMJ Photography

Credit: Anneke Jagau

Credit: 3WheelsCo

Credit: 3WheelsCo

Credit: Athira Mohan

Credit: 3WheelsCo

Room Facilities

Balcony , Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Dressing Gowns, En Suite Bathroom, Fan, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Available), Mosquito Nets, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee

Property Facilities

Accept Credit Cards, Bar, Conference Centre, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, Vegetarian

Room Facilities

Balcony / Deck, Detached Private Bathroom, Dressing Gowns, Fan, Laundry Service (Available), Mosquito Nets, Plunge Pool, Safe, Tea / Coffee, Verandah

Available Services

24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Room Service

Activities on Site

Beach Drop Off, Bird Watching, Boating, Boules, Canoeing, Fishing, Kayaking, Massages, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Water Skiing

Activities Nearby

Nature Trails Kayaking Snorkeling Boat Cruises Birding Chill out at the Infinity Pool Wake Boarding / Water Skiing / Tubing Spa Yoga Retreats

Explore the wonderfully wild paths around and over Nankoma Island & connect with nature. The further you go the smaller you feel as you walk among massive Baobab trees. Venture off track to The Ancient Fig for a halfway break and soak in the enchanting natural beauty of this unspoiled paradise.

The main trail around the island is only 2.3km. Enjoy the thriving birdlife, look out for the elusive Red Duiker along the top path, Chameleons camouflaged in in trees, Monitor Lizards along the shore.

Early-birds will catch a stunning sunrise!

Explore the Marelli Archipelago by kayak - a great way to get out and explore the coves and coastal wildlife up close.

It takes around 45min-1hr around Nankoma Island, but for the more active and adventurous you can kayak all 3 islands in around 2.5 - 3 hours.

For a shorter kayak, there are rocky outcrops close to shore. Paddle around and spot all the different kinds of colourful fish. Other possible sightings: otters, monitor lizards, bird-life (especially Cormorants and African Fish-Eagles).

6 kayaks available: 4 single & 2 double.

Kayaking Credit: Artur Cabral

Credit: Stephane Perrier

Credit: Jonathan Ramael

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Rarely does one have such effortless and immediate access to a site teaming with aquatic life. Just a few meters off the shore, 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! Look out for the Blue Zebra!

The best sites depend on lake levels and the time of year. Snorkel equipment is free to use for off-shore snorkeling. At an additional charge, snorkel trips can be arranged to Maleri and/or Nakantenga Islands.

Credit: Stephane Perrier

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Cruise around the Marelli islands and experience an awe inspiring Lake Malawi sunset out on the water - MGT (Malawi Gin & Tonic) or your sun downer of choice in hand. Every sunset is different & it's always an unforgettable event as the sun gently dips below the low lying Nkhotakota hills in the distance.

Sunset Cruise Credit: Gemma Thomas

Credit: tbc

Credit: tbc

Credit: tbc

Credit: tbc

Credit: tbc

Credit: tbc

Credit: tbc

Credit: tbc

Credit: tbc

Malawi is world renowned as a birdwatchers paradise. The country boasts over 650 different species of birds, 10% of which are native species non-existent anywhere else on the globe.

Lake Malawi provides an ideal habitat for bird life has the highest concentration of African Fish Eagles on the continent. Their cry is heard frequently echoing across the skies over Nankoma Island.

There are over 350 species at the islands - best seen in the dry season. Take a bird check-list around the island and tick of how many you see.

African Pitta Credit: Ivan Monk

African Pitta Credit: Michael Wendel

Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Credit: The Birding Life 2024

African Fisheagle Credit: The Birding Life 2024

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: BZ

Credit: Kim Paffen

Credit: BZ

Credit: Kim Paffen

Credit: The Birding Life 2024

Credit: M.Giannakis

Bul-Bul Credit: The. Birding life 2024

Credit: D.Giannakis

Credit: D.Giannakis

Credit: D.Giannakis

Credit: D.Giannakis

Credit: BZ

Credit: M.Giannakis

Credit: BZ

Credit: D.Giannakis

Quite possibly the most popular 'activity', although this doesn't require being active. With stunning views over Lake Malawi, what better way to spend an afternoon than splash about in the Infinity Pool with a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail for kids) or laze on the deck-chairs with that book you've been too busy to read!

Island View Credit: Michael Wendel

Infinity Pool Credit: Jenn Wendel

Pool view Credit: Jenn Wendel

Poolside Cocktails Credit: PJM Photography

Lunch at the pool Credit: PJM Photography

Miss Ump Credit: UMP Fest

Poolside Fun Credit: Anneke Jagau

Cocktail Credit: Miss UMP - UMP FEST

An exciting way to experience Lake Malawi, flying over the fresh clear water of the lake at high speed.

Motorized water-sports have additional charges.
Must be booked at the lodge, around the boat transfer schedule.

What better place to relax and pamper oneself than a tranquil private island, surrounded by the calming sounds of nature. Set under a giant fig tree with views across Lake Malawi.

Cheers! Credit: Michael Wendel

Spa Vibes Credit: Michael Wendel

Island Spa Credit: Michael Wendel

Couples Massage Credit: Michael Wendel

Yoga weekends are usually scheduled during low season. Guided practice with restorative immersion in nature.

For self practice, the lodge has a few spare yoga mats, or guests can bring along their own and set up on their balcony or where they like!

Fig-Tree Bar BEE-EATER RESTAURANT

Welcome to the Fig Tree Bar – Your Front Row Seat to the Lake
Unwind with a chilled cocktail or a zesty mocktail in hand as you take in panoramic views of Lake Malawi from our infinity poolside bar. The Fig Tree Bar is the perfect spot to relax, recharge, and soak up the island atmosphere. From crisp wines to refreshing mixers, there’s something for every taste — especially when paired with a legendary Blue Zebra sunset.

Cheers to good vibes and even better views!

Cocktails Credit: Habari Media

Credit: Anneke Jagau

Named after a frequent visitor to the island, the African bee-eater.

All packages are inclusive of meals prepared by a team of Malawian Chefs at Blue Zebra Island Lodge.

Creatively inspired by international cuisine, with a touch of Malawi:
The menu is prepared around seasonal foods and catered to all dietary requirements. Advance request should be given for special requirements, given that it may be difficult to get some ingredients to the island.

Enjoy a continental buffet with hot-breakfast to order; select a 2-course lunch & 3-course dinner from a set menu presented daily.

Breakfast: 6.30 to 10.00
Lunch: 12.00 to 14.00
Dinner: 18:30 to 20:30

The restaurant can seat 40 guests. Guests may opt for a poolside lunch or a private evening dining experience at the sunset lounge or Nankoma Beach.

Welcome to Thornicroft Lodge, your safari starts here.

Stay with us and become absorbed in the wonder of South Luangwa National Park, one of the greatest parks in Africa.

We are a small independent lodge run by people who adore wildlife and care about the environment. Our lodge is set in a beautiful location on the banks of Luangwa River, home to wallowing hippos and bathing elephants, and makes the most of our wonderful surroundings without compromising on comfort.

Learn from our expert guides about the wildlife and environment of this breathtaking National Park. Whilst here you can explore the untamed wilderness of South Luangwa with unforgettable dawn, sunset and night drives in open 4x4's with some of the best safari guides in Africa.

Your safari with us includes:
Accommodation in one of our river view chalets or lagoon view tents
Full board
Two 4x4 games drives per full day stayed (morning and night safari)
Special dietary wishes? We can handle it!

Other wishes? We try to handle it!
We look forward to meeting you..

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Thornicroft Lodge main building You'll find the lounge, the bar, reception and dinner area there. The pool is 50 meters from the main building, 4 chalets on the right and 5 on the left hand side.

Thornicroft Lodge main building interior Thornicroft Lodge main building interior

Thornicroft Lodge chalet The chalets are for 2-3 persons, not really luxury but very comfortable. Private bathroom, electricity, walk-in mosquito netting.

River view Thornicroft Lodge Elephants passing lodge on other side of the river

Relax after game drives The fireplace, a popular spot in the lodge to chill after game drives and dinner.

Lunch at the bank of the Luangwa River It feels like a restaurant in the bush ....

Thornicroft Lodge Chalet

The chalets have a bedroom, a private bathroom and a verandah. All have river view!
The bedroom has a double or 2 single beds, a walk-in mosquito net, storage for clothes and other belongings, coffee/tea facilities and 230 volt.
The bathroom has a flushing toilet, sink and shower with hot and cold water and 230 volt.

Our chalets are standard for 2 person occupation but we can add a third bed.

Property Facilities

24-hour Security, Bar, Eco Friendly, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant

Room Facilities

En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Lounge Area, Pure Cotton Linen, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah

Available Services

Babysitting Service, Chauffer Service, Credit Card Facilities, Room Service

Activities on Site

Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Safaris

Activities Nearby

Cultural Tours

Kumbali Country Lodge boasts everything you could expect from a nature reserve lodge and much more besides. It is one of the most tranquil alternatives to a Malawi hotel that you will find anywhere.

Plump pillows and refined decor await you. Should you require anything our Room Service will deliver it straight up, allowing you time for rest and relaxation.

Instead of the concrete jungle, you can gaze out at a forest reserve idyll, sipping on a gin and tonic whilst watching the African sun set in the distance.

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Main Lodge

Executive Double

Rooms

Garden

Swimming Pool

Fine Dining

Executive Double Room Deluxe Room Standard Room Executive Twin Room Executive Double Room Split Level

With a queen bed and optional twin or extra beds, private khonde, fridge, satellite television, en-suite bath & shower, coffee table and chairs, tea & coffee facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi access.

With a queen bed and optional twin or extra beds, private khonde, fridge, satellite television, en-suite bath & shower, tea & coffee facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi access, dining table & chairs, lounge suite seating area.

With a queen bed, private khonde, satellite television, en-suite shower, working desk & chair, tea & coffee facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi access.

With two twin beds and optional third, private khonde, fridge, satellite television, en-suite bath & shower, coffee table and chairs, tea & coffee facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi access.

With a queen bed, large khonde shared between 2 rooms, satellite television, en-suite shower, coffee table and seating area, tea & coffee facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi access. Room on a higher level not suitabe for those who have difficulty with stairs.

Property Facilities

24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Conference Centre, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Internet Access (Paid), Laundry Service (Available), Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking

Room Facilities

Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Detached Private Bathroom, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Internet Access (Paid), Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Verandah

Available Services

Airport Shuttle (Available), Foreign Exchange

Activities on Site

Bird Watching, Boules, Cycling, Fine Dining, Game Viewing, Garden Tours, High Tea, Massages, Night Drives, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided)

Activities Nearby

Beach, Boat Cruises, Cultural Tours, Fine Dining, Fishing, General Sightseeing, Health and Fitness Centre, Hiking, Kayaking / Paddling, Massages, Mini Golf, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Squash Court, Tennis Court, Wildlife Tours