Lake Malawi, replete with tropical beauty, clear and calm waters, offers travelers a great opportunity to witness firsthand, the delights of a true African environment. The great lake, which is the third largest of the African Great Lakes, second largest in the world after Lake Victoria and the ninth largest in the world, spans the countries of Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania and supports a huge array of aquatic life.
The Namwera Peninsula, almost in the middle of the lake, is an unspoilt paradise which offers visitors a vast range of possibilities to experience the wildlife and culture of the area. Interesting excursions include a day on a sailing vessel exploring the many bays and inlets of the lake, snorkeling, canoeing and game viewing in the nature reserves.
For the less energetic travelers, there are plenty of options to contain their explorations to the resort areas and enjoy a range of facilities such as swimming pools, bars, and restaurants. Some resorts also offer boat rides and lake cruises for further exploration.
To get a truly genuine experience of the lake area, visitors should consider a visit to the local villages. The village of Nkwichi is a great spot, situated on the beautiful shore of the lake, and here, visitors have the opportunity to meet some of the local people and learn more about their culture, tradition and lifestyle.
Villagers here are known for their warm hospitality and keen insights into the local customs – it can be a great way to understand the area and learn more about Lake Malawi’s history, culture and natural environment. Visitors can stay in one of the beautifully located accommodation options of Nkwichi and enjoy a true African experience by taking part in activities such as snorkeling, fishing, and sailing.
Swimming and sunbathing are popular activities for those looking for a more relaxed and chilled out experience. A favorite spot to check out is Lalude beach, located a short walk away from the village. The dramatic shoreline and great beach make for a beautiful spot for an afternoon in the sun.
For those interested in wildlife, a variety of safari-style tours of the area are available and the best place to start is in the nature reserves. Nyika and Vwaza are stunning national parks located close to the great lake and offer visitors the chance to see some of the incredible wildlife which inhabits the area, including spectacular birdlife.
Scuba Diving
For the more adventurous travelers, there is the possibility of scuba diving in several of the underwater sites located across the lake. The underwater sites are abundance with fascinating species of fish, crustaceans, and corals. The Mumbo archipelago is well-known for its artesian springs, and the lake itself is home to numerous species of freshwater fish.
Adventure Sports
Those looking for a more adrenalin-filled adventure can explore the many thrilling water sports available in this area. There are plenty of activity operators catering for a range of water activities, such as kite-surfing, wind-surfing, and canoeing. For those who prefer something on land, there are also some great bush walks and hikes available.
Cultural Experiences
Experiencing a new culture is an important part of any trip and Lake Malawi offers unique cultural experiences for its visitors. The area is home to the Chewa tribe and the people living in its surrounding areas are very welcoming- allowing visitors to get a true sense of the traditional and social life in the area. There are also a number of fascinating cultural sites to explore, including a range of sacred rock art sites, that hold centuries of cultural heritage and insight.
Nightlife
After the sun sets, visitors to the area have the chance to let their hair down and explore the vibrant nightlife that Lake Malawi has to offer. There are some great bars and eateries located close to the resorts, with local dishes and international cuisine available. Music and dance events are also popular in the area, with many of the local artists putting on evening performances in some of the town’s venues.
Eco-tourism
Lake Malawi is a great place to take part in eco-tourism, with a number of small conservation and reforestation projects available to visitors. There are a number of initiatives to work with local communities to help protect the environment, and visitors to the area can join in with ecological projects that aim to facilitate better water, energy and waste management. This can be a great way to combine education and responsibility while exploring the great lake area.
Shopping
The local markets and villages are a great place to experience the local charm and visit the bustling stores overflowing with vibrant fabrics, baskets and crafts. Different products can range from common everyday items to more decorative items, allowing travelers to bring back interesting souvenirs to remember their time in the area.
