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Blue Zebra Island Lodge | Blue Zebra Island, Senga Bay, Malawi
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.
Just 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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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.
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.
Executive Chalet: Cormorant. En-suite safari-style tented chalet, exclusively located around the side of the island with private lake-facing balconies.
1 queen bed & 2 sofa beds for U12's.
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. *Photographs will be updated soon as this is the newest room.
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.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Conference Centre, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Detached Private Bathroom, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fan, Hair Dryer, Laundry Service (Available), Mosquito Nets, Plunge Pool, Safe, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card Facilities, Room Service
Activities on Site
Beach Drop Off, Bird Watching, Boating, Boules, Canoeing, Fishing, Kayaking, Massages, Snorkeling, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Water Skiing
Activities Nearby
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
BEE-EATER RESTAURANT
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.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 11
Special Interests: Adventure, Beach / Coastal, Birding, Flora, Hiking, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Watersports
Tongole Wilderness Lodge | Nkhotakota
Tongole Wilderness Lodge is an exciting new eco-tourism venture deep within the pristine woodlands of the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve. Our vision was to create a stunning luxury wilderness lodge with first-class accommodation, food, service and safari activities that will delight our guests. The long-term aim is to benefit the local communities and the conservation of the abundant wildlife through sustainable tourism. The lodge has created significant training and employment opportunities in a deprived part of the country and with it has brought hope and pride in the area. Built with a vision of sustainability, the luxury safari lodge is fully eco-friendly. Both electricity and hot water are produced by solar energy.
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The riverside suites are perfectly designed to comfortably accommodate two adults. Two of the riverside suites are equipped with super king sized double bed and the other two feature twin beds, which can be easily joined to create a super king if required.
All rooms are en-suite with a spacious shower, twin marble basins, flushable lavatory and a large hand-built sunken bath, doubling as a plunge-pool ‘with a view’!
Every room has a fantastic wooden deck area offering stunning views over the river and forest; the perfect spot to enjoy a peaceful moment with nature.
Crafted by locals using the same distinctive red earth and rock upon which Tongole stands, the riverside family cottage has two bedrooms and a spacious lounge and deck area.
In addition to a second bedroom, the cottage provides plenty of extra communal space and is therefore ideal for a family or two couples travelling together.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Paid), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Canoeing, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fine Dining, Fishing, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Kayaking, Walks (Guided)
The Nkhotakota Wildife Reserve is home to over 280 species of bird. Classified as an ‘Important Bird Area’ by Birdlife International, the region is filled with a spectacular variety.
Take a gentle stroll through the woodlands or embark on a more strenuous mountain hike!
Meet the local Malawian community.
For a different kind of experience take a guided excursion to the meet the local community.
Camp under a star-lit sky.
Tongole offers its guests one-night or two-night fly camping trips within the Nkhotakota reserve.
Relax by the river...
Enjoy superb fly fishing and freshwater fishing the whole year round on the banks of the beautiful Bua River.
Explore by river.
The Tongole eco-lodge sits on the picturesque banks of the Bua River. Drift along the river on a relaxing canoe safari and enjoy a true wilderness.
Explore the reserve on foot, on water or on a relaxing drive.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
4 Star
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 6
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Gourmet, Hiking, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Chelinda Lodge | Nyika National Park
Chelinda Lodge offers spacious log cabins, which have sweeping views over Nyika’s rolling grasslands, which are often dotted with large herds of roan, eland and zebra. A pocket of hagenia woodland and forest, perfectly shelters this idyllic upland camp.
Accommodation comprises eight warm log cabins made of pine with fireplace, en-suite bathroom and an upstairs viewing area, or room for accompanying children. Two chalets are joined to form an interconnected family unit. Elevated wooden walkways link the cabins to the inviting main building, complete with outside deck for sundowners, convivial dining around a fireplace and lounge area for quiet reflection or conversation.
Activities include game drives to discover the wonders of the park, informative walks, birding, and mountain biking. Visiting Chelinda Lodge is an exciting component to any visit to Malawi and, indeed, to the subregion.
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Chelinda Lodge - Standard Chalet
There are eight twin bedded chalets. The beds can be moved together to create a double bed.
Property Facilities
Bar, Conference Centre, Eco Friendly, Internet Access
Room Facilities
Dressing Gowns, Fireplace, Lounge Area
Available Services
Airport Shuttle, Laundry Service, Room Service
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Safaris, Walks
Activities Nearby
Cultural Tours, Cycling
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 8
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Cycling, Fishing, Flora, Hiking, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Kaya Mawa | Likoma Island, Lake Malawi
Sprawled along the white sandy beaches of Likoma Island, in the heart of Lake Malawi, is Kaya Mawa. This boutique lodge welcomes honeymooners, families and friends for an indulgently carefree getaway.
Meaning ‘maybe tomorrow’ in Chichewa/Nyanja, the ethos of Kaya Mawa is in its name. Relaxed lakeside living is woven into the style, luxury and comfort of its Houses and Rooms. Each of Kaya's eleven rooms and private villa is unique and offers something extraordinary. Serene and secret decks for sunbathing or romantic dinners; secluded lakeside chalets with private lounges. You may find yourself showering under the stars, taking a midnight dip in your private pool, or simply walking hand-in-hand after a moonlit supper on the beach.
If all the relaxation is too much, your days can be filled with everything from stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, kitesurfing, waterskiing, sailing and quad-biking, plus a full PADI dive school. And as the sun goes down on another perfect day, enjoy a massage at the spa, nestled in the rocks on the lake, and have the last of your cares soothed away as you wonder, "Shouldn't I be leaving?...maybe tomorrow."
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Khuyu is the perfect place for those who wish to just relax and enjoy the lake. With direct beach and lake access, Khuyu also has the perfect deck for sunbathing and sundowners. The spacious bedroom with a shower and bath give you all the comfort you need while staying at Kaya Mawa. The first chalet on the beach, closest to the bar and restaurant, makes Khuyu ideally suited for the less agile. Khuyu is a Standard Room.
A favourite to many, nestled right on the edge of the lake, Msekwa is a picturesque chalet. Enter through an arched doorway, making your way down the steps passing the outdoor bath and shower, you arrive to your private deck. The outdoor living area leads you to a wooden walkway, giving direct access to the lake. Jump and snorkel right into the crystal clear waters and watch the abundance of fish that the lake has to offer. Msekwa is a Standard Room.
The second chalet from the beach, Mbungu is built higher up in the rocks giving you stunning views across the lake to the neighbouring island Chizimulu and the Kaya Mawa beach. A secluded chalet with an outdoor living area perfect for sundowners. Follow the stone stairway to the private deck with access straight into the lake. Mbungu is a Standard Room.
Want to stay on your own island? Make your way across the wooden bridge and you will find yourself at Makengulu. Covered in bougainvillea, a scenic chalet with an even more beautiful room leading out to a wooden deck with striking views to Mozambique. Swim in the crystal clear waters of Lake Malawi or enjoy sundowners on your private deck outside the room. Makengulu is a Premium Room.
Set higher up on the hill, Mbamba give you stunning views of the lake. Step out side the spacious bedroom to the plunge pool and deck, where you will find stunning views of Mozambique. And enjoy an outdoor foam bath or shower with more magnificent views. Mbamba is a room you will love to stay and relax. Mamba is a Premium room.
A beautifully crafted family beach chalet. Big enough for a family of 5, find yourself in a two roomed house with an interconnecting bathroom. The main room looks down across the beach straight into the lake. The other room perfect for children can fit two single beds with space for another that hangs from the roof. Ulissa is as close as you can get to the beach living, with a beautiful baobab tree on you doorstep. Ulissa is a Standard room.
Yofu is an ideal chalet with two separate rooms enough for a family of four. Nestled into the back of the beach partially hidden by a large mango tree, perfect for families wanting to spend as much time as possible on the beach and in the lake. A bathroom intersects the two rooms with a shower and a picturesque bath found at the top of some steps makes it an ideal place for star gazing while you relax in the foamy water. Yofu is a Standard Room.
Walk across the main Kaya Mawa beach and you will find a grand house called Madimba. The presidential suite with a large bedroom, a twin shower and a bath with a view of the pool. Simply relax in the sitting area that has your own private bar and fridge or sunbathe the day away on your large private deck, complete with lake views. What more could you want? Madimba is a Premium room.
Follow a wooden walkway from the main Kaya Mawa beach, pass the stunning infinity pool and you will arrive at Mainja house. A two bed roomed house with a Tanzania style seating area found in the middle. Sit and relax or cool off in the beautiful pool with views across to Honeymoon Island. Mainja is ideal for a family break or even friends staying in a group. Mainja is a Premium room.
On it's own private beach, with views over the neighbouring island of Chizimulu towards mainland Malawi, Ndomo House is a luxury four bedroom villa. Fully staffed with a private chef, guests will enjoy their own private sanctuary with all the facilities Kaya Mawa has to offer.
The first chalet on the beach, closest to the bar and restaurant makes Khuyu the perfect place for those who wish to just relax and enjoy the lake.
Our second chalet from the beach. Built higher up the rocks Mbungu has stunning views across the lake and across the Kaya Mawa beach. Below the chalet down a stone stairway is a private deck with access straight into the lake.
Nestled right on the edge of the lake, Msekwa is a photographer's favourite. Enter through an arched doorway. The wooden walkway allows you to make the best of the lake.
Almost at the top of a rocky knoll Nkhwazi boasts 180 degree views over the lake and across to Mozambique, a multi level deck with lounge area and a plunge pool with seating for two.
At the top of the knoll with 360 degree view of the lake. Stunning views whether it be from your bed or private plunge pool under the canopy of the ficus tree.
Want to stay on your own island? Make your way across the wooden bridge and find yourself at Makungulu. Covered in bougainvillea, a beautiful room leads out on to a wooden deck and jetty over the lake with striking views to Mozambique.
At the far end of the Kaya Mawa beach lies a grand house. A huge bedroom with a mezzanine sundowners spot, twin showers and a bath with a view over the deck to the pool or relax in the sitting room with a private bar. What more could you want?
A two bed roomed house with a Tanzania style seating area in the middle. Sit and relax or cool off in the beautiful plunge pool with views across to Honeymoon Island. Mainja is ideal for a family break or even friends staying together.
Wanting to stay as a family? Yofu is an ideal chalet with two separate rooms enough for a family of four. Nestled into the back of the beach partially hidden by a large mango tree, perfect for families wanting to spend as much time as possible on the beach and in the lake.
Our second family beach chalet. Big enough for a family of 5. A two roomed house with an interconnecting bathroom. The main room looks down across the beach straight into the lake. The other room perfect for children can fit two single beds with space for another that hangs from the roof leading out on to a shaded terrace.
Ndomo house has 4 bedrooms, three of which have their own bathrooms. The other has a bathroom located just outside the door. The house accommodates 8 people with access to your own private beach, kitchen and large living area. Your own plunge pool for the lazy days when the lake seems too far away.
Three large terraces, courtyard, outside dining and barbecue area, swimming pool and secluded beach. The house is fully staffed with a house manager, nanny, chefs, housekeepers, and watchmen.
The house is located on the South West corner of the island with uninterrupted views across to the neighbouring island. A year round sunset is a secret surprise, the only place on the island and as far as we know, the only place on the lake.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant, Spa
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath, Detached Private Bathroom, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Babysitting Service, Credit Card Facilities, Foreign Exchange, Room Service, Travel Desk
Activities on Site
Beach Drop Off, Bird Watching, Boating, Canoeing, Cycling, Fine Dining, Fishing, Kayaking, Kite Surfing, Massages, Quad Biking, Sailing, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Walks (Self Guided), Water Skiing
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Big 5, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Gorilla Tracking, Marine Adventures, Safaris, Whale Watching, Wildlife Tours
Kaya Mawa is partnered with Likoma Island Divers, a recognised PADI Resort. We have two in-house dive instructors who can cater for any skill levels and teach a full range of PADI courses, ensuring everybody can enjoy an underwater adventure during your stay. The centre is
able to teach courses all the way from a 3-hour discovery dive to Dive Master.
Likoma Island, surrounded by the pristine waters of Lake Malawi, is widely regarded as having the best diving on the Lake, both in terms of the diversity of fish species and their sheer abundance. With some of the best fresh water diving in the world and some 11 recognised dive sites nearby.
For the adventurous, why not experience the stunning Lake Malawi by boat and try your hand at water skiing and wake boarding, or for the younger ones, knee boarding and ringo.
We have skis that fit ages 5+ and a trained instructor on hand to give handy tips and pointers to ensure you will be on your feet (or knees) in no time.
Enjoy the island from the water, taking a local dhow boat to visit some of the best snorkelling spots and into town to visit the cathedral built in 1905. Make a day of it with a packed picnic and your favourite drinks, or set off for a sunset fishing cruise.
Explore the tranquility of Lake Malawi by kayak or stand up paddle board. Paddle to the neighbouring beaches or one of the smaller islands and admire the Mozambican coastline. Pack your snorkelling gear and enjoy some of Lake Malawi's 1000 species of fish, many endemic to the lake, more than all the freshwater species in Europe and North America combined.
Explore Likoma Island by E Bike making the excursion around the island not only silent but eco friendly as well. Visit the cathedral built in 1905, Katundu textiles workshop, the majestic valley of the baobabs and some of the eleven local villages. The warmth of the locals will make you feel right at home on Likoma.
A much more leisurely way to take the island, led by a guide you will be shown all the sights of Likoma without working up a sweat.
Single and double sailing boats are available for both the experienced and novice. Kaya Mawa offers three Lasers and one Laser 2 for our guests to enjoy, either sailing solo or with our instructor. Take a quick lesson with our expert instructors before sailing off into the majestic waters of Lake Malawi.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Fast Facts
5 Star
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 11
Special Interests: Adventure, Beach / Coastal, Birding, Cycling, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Sports, Star Gazing, Watersports, Wine
