Exciting activities to experience on Lake Malawi

Situated at the crossroads of Tanzania, Mozambique, and Malawi lies a remarkable beach paradise – pristine and untouched – known as Lake Malawi.

This freshwater lake ranks as the ninth-largest in the world by volume, showcasing extraordinary beauty and serving as a vital hub of biodiversity. There are endless experiences waiting to be discovered across the expansive 29,600 km² area of Lake Malawi, perfect for every kind of explorer. Here are just a few of our top picks:

1. Exploring the underwater world through snorkelling and scuba diving

Starting our list of must-do activities on Lake Malawi, be sure to immerse yourself in the crystal-clear, blue waters. Grab a mask and snorkel to explore the wonders of the underwater realm and meet our finned companions. The multitude of endemic fish species in these waters holds a significance akin to that of the finches found in the Galapagos Islands, as highlighted in Darwin’s Theory of Evolution.

The Malawi Cichlids, known for their ecological significance, are a stunning sight in aquariums worldwide, captivating all with their vibrant and luminescent beauty. Remarkably, Lake Malawi is home to over 700 species of cichlids. These charming little creatures flit in and out among the rocks in the shallows of the lake, boldly swimming right up to your face for a closer inspection.

2. Exciting kayaking and boat excursions

One of the joys of Lake Malawi is the abundance of sheltered bays and deserted islands. Launch a kayak into the inviting waters and smoothly navigate your way through the bay or explore the islands.

Discover the hidden coves and remarkable wildlife that thrive in this enchanting place, where African Fish Eagles soar high above, keenly observing the azure waters for their next catch; scaly monitor lizards lounge on the striking pale boulders that line the Malawi coast; and playful otters frolic in the water, peeking out to greet any newcomers.

Absolutely, a sunset boat cruise is an experience you will not want to overlook. The sunsets here are nothing short of breathtaking, with vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold shimmering on the glistening blue waters of the ‘Lake of Stars’.

3. Exploring the rugged coastal peaks and enchanting islands

Nothing quite ignites a day like embarking on a morning hike. Embark on a journey on foot to uncover the wonders of the natural world surrounding the lake, all while getting your body moving and earning those delightful cocktails and three-course meals. Stroll along the sandy shores lined with swaying palms, enjoy a leisurely wander around the island, or gear up for an exhilarating mountain trek to discover that breathtaking vista.

Many lodges offer guides ready to lead you along well-planned paths in the surrounding area, sharing their knowledge about the fascinating sights you encounter: vibrant flowers, towering trees, diverse plants, buzzing insects, wildlife, and the melodious songs of bees and birds…

4. Explore the nearby villages

Malawi is often referred to as the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’. It is called this because of the warm and gentle people who reside there, and it is regarded as one of the safest and most welcoming destinations for travel in Africa. To truly understand a country, one must connect with its people, and there’s no better place to embark on that journey than right here.

Why not spend a morning or afternoon exploring the nearby village? You can grab some ‘mandasi’ (local doughnuts) or ‘chimanga’ (charred corn) from a food stall and pick up some crafts along the way. Malawi boasts a vibrant community of skilled artists, showcasing a stunning variety of wood carvings, jewelry, paintings, and clothing. Consider mingling with the crowd to enjoy the excitement of football – matches featuring Manchester United and Arsenal will always be on display, attracting fans from all corners of the village and creating a lively atmosphere! Engage with the kids who will be eager to connect with you; they enjoy practicing their English and are thrilled to see photos of themselves. Just be sure to ask for permission before snapping their picture.

5. Nourish the majestic fish eagles

In the southern lakeshore bay of Cape Maclear, you can enlist the help of a local boatman for an exhilarating cruise to explore Otter’s Rock, and/or venture to an island where you can feed the majestic fish eagles. They will gather some small fish from a local fisherman, and then you’ll embark on an exciting journey to the nearby, uninhabited island of Thumbi.

The African Fish Eagles are remarkable creatures – a fully grown adult female can soar to a height of about 77cm and boast a wingspan that stretches up to 2.4m. With remarkable vision, they can see five times better than humans, allowing them to detect tiny fish in the water from impressive distances. These remarkable creatures can lift prey that weighs up to ten times their own body weight, and contrary to what their name suggests, they also hunt other birds, monkeys, and even young crocodiles!

Gliding close to one of these magnificent beings perched in the island’s treetops, seize a fish and toss it skyward into the shimmering lake below. The eagles will dive dramatically in front of the boat, snatching their prize from the water with their massive talons, and the swift ones can even seize it mid-flight. An incredible opportunity for a photo and a chance to observe these remarkable birds up close.

6. A plethora of watersports

Numerous lodges by the lake provide a variety of watersport options, from a serene paddle on awhat is up board to exhilarating rides around the bay on a wakeboard; however, certain lodges, such as Pumulani and Kaya Mawa, will deliver the complete experience!

Across Lake Malawi, you will have the chance to water-ski, wake-board, paddleboard, snorkel, scuba dive, kayak, sail, fun-tube, and fish, along with land-based activities like mountain biking, e-cycling, nature walks, and spa treatments. Indulge in a soothing massage with a breathtaking view of the water after an exhilarating day of exploration!

7. Equestrian escapades on Kande Beach

No matter if you’re a seasoned jockey or if your only experience with horses comes from your neighbor’s Great Dane, Matamba Equestrian welcomes everyone without any need for prior skills. Along the northern lakeshores, a charming family-run stables and farmhouse awaits, tucked away in the forest just behind the pristine white sandy shores of Kande Beach. Sign up for an exhilarating ride through the forest and along the beach (and some training if necessary); you will be equipped with all the gear and matched with your equine companion for the day.

With your guide by your side, you can choose your own pace as you journey along the familiar paths of the forest and farmland, leading up to the exciting grand finale… concluding by the waters of Lake Malawi, your horse meandering through the soft, pristine sand unique to the northern shores. Leap off your weary companion and remove the saddle before vaulting back on, riding free, and making your way toward the water. These horses relish a drink and a refreshing swim after a long walk, just like we do. So, let them embrace the moment as they dive into the surf, joyfully paddling away. Just hold on tight and savor this extraordinary and thrilling experience of being atop a weightless horse in Lake Malawi!

Stay at Chintheche Inn, just under an hour away, to relish a ride along the stunning shores of Lake Malawi.

8. Unplug and recharge

While much of Malawi boasts reliable cell network service, there are hidden gems that remain off the beaten path, such as Mumbo Island Lodge. While this might pose a challenge for some, it’s a blessing for others, and we certainly place ourselves in the latter group. Stow that phone beneath the crumpled clothes at the bottom of your bag, grab that well-loved book you’ve set aside, and… unwind.

Seize this moment to truly inhale and immerse yourself in the here and now, fully engaged. No cumbersome device sticking out of your pocket, no “did you get my message?”, no eye strain from screens, no endless group chats, no imaginary notifications buzzing, no self-portraits, no mindless games, no “let me look it up”… Instead, rise leisurely or greet the dawn, stroll along the shore, engage in a conversation that eludes certainty, admire the vibrant birds and the dazzling lizards, dip into the inviting waters, enjoy a gin & tonic (or two), wander through the woods, soak in the breathtaking vistas, hear the call of the fish eagle, cherish the company surrounding you, or relish the beauty of solitude.