Malawi - Places To Stay

Mumbo Island, Cape Maclear - This exclusive Kayak Africa camp is situated on a pristine tropical island in Lake Malawi. Mumbo Island is located within an exclusive concession area, guaranteeing privacy in tropical island paradise. The camp is constructed entirely of timber, thatch and canvas, and adheres to the strictest principles of eco-architecture. The chalets have shaded decks with hammocks, and en-suite bathrooms with bucket showers and eco loos. A dining area, bar & sundowner deck and a watersport gazebo complete the camp's infrastructure.

Private Island in southern part of Lake Malawi 10km north-west of Cape Maclear

2-3 hours drive from Lilongwe, 3-4 hours drive from Blantyre, 1 hour drive from Monkey Bay Airstrip. Followed by a 45 mins transfer by boat or a 2 hour Kayak trip to the island.

6 - Chalets, incl. 1 Family unit

£185 per person sharing

Meals and non motorized watersports. Scuba diving extra cost.

Children of all ages are welcome

Freedom and quality island time - together with a good dose of healthy outdoor fun - is what your Mumbo Island stay is all about. The only fixed items on the schedule are meals, otherwise you are free to choose between activity, exploration and leisure. Activities include sea kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving, guided or self-guided nature trails (5 clearly marked trails)

Mumbo Island's tiny camp is tucked away amongst the rocks of the island. It is set up with bucket showers and dry composting loo's to minimise environmental impact and has adhered to strict principles of eco-architecture. For lighting guests are encouraged to use low technology solar lanterns and wind up torches to ensure no hazard battery waste is produced as this is particularly difficult to dispose of safely in such a location.

This green tourism ethos was recognised in September 2008 by the Malawian government when Mumbo was presented with an award for `striving to sustain a tourist environment`. Mumbo was particularly praised for maximising its use of local produce and practicing `green procurement`. All waste produced on the island is now segregated before being transported back to the mainland for recycling, used as compost or reused by community uplift programmes. Further projects scheduled to come online in 2009 include solar cooking and water heating.

Mumbo Island also supports Malawi's Department of National Parks and Wildlife in combating illegal fishing operations.

Payments for extras can be made by credit card or cash in SA Rand, US Dollar, British Pounds, Euros or Malawi Kwacha.

There is no electricity on the island. The kitchen works off gas and all lighting is by means of solar-powered lights and hurricane lanterns. All drinking water is purified.

The lodge is closed mid January to end February