CAPE MACLEAR, LAKE MALAWI

Cape Maclear is a town situated on the shores of Lake Malawi, not too far from Monkey Bay and Mangochi. This area is known for its colorful sandy beaches that are surrounded by rocks. Fishing is also a predominant activity. There is a fish market that has many fishermen’s boats anchored in the water.

Cape Maclear is also known as Chembe. It is particularly famous for housing Lake Malawi National Park. This is a freshwater national park with hiking trails surrounding the park—the stunning scenery when you hike is worth it. 

LAKE MALAWI NATIONAL PARK

Lake Malawi National Park is located in Cape Maclear. Rocky mountains surround the park and it has crystal-clear waters and offshore islands. This stunning national park showcases a rich diversity of flora. These include baobab trees and flat-top acacias.

If you have a keen interest in fish, Lake Malawi National Park is a must-visit destination. The park is home to hundreds of Cichlids’ species, each displaying vibrant colors and varying sizes. The park was established to safeguard these fish and their aquatic habitats. 

Additionally, take the opportunity to encounter a diverse range of wildlife. Antelopes, baboons, and hippos are plenty. The park also boasts a remarkable avian population. There are various bird species, including Kingfishers, Cormorants, and African Fish Eagles. 

BEACH AND WATER ACTIVITIES IN CAPE MACLEAR

Beach and water activities are offered by most hotels in Cape Maclear. These include volleyball, paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, canoeing, snorkeling, boat sailing, and many more. Kids also enjoy beach and pool activities. Guided tours are also offered by most hotels and tour companies.

For wellness and relaxation, some hotels offer yoga and meditation sessions. 

LOCAL CULTURE AND SHOPPING IN CAPE MACLEAR

Food and Drink Experiences In Cape Maclear

To fully appreciate the culture and traditions of Malawi, venture out to local markets to enjoy local food and drinks. Food vendors and market restaurants offer local and regional specialties. Traditional food offered by hotels and lodges can also be authentically traditional. Some of the local foods that are a must try are Chambo fish, nsima, local vegetables, and baobab fruits. Also, all sorts of Malawi snacks and drinks sold in street kiosks and grocery stores are the country’s delights.

Shopping in Cape Maclear

Handcrafted goods offered by local artisans are widely available in local markets and even along the main roads. These are perfect for souvenirs. Most locally made items reflect the region’s culture and general Malawi traditions.

For those who want to explore further out, go to Monkey Bay. This town boasts various amenities. There is a bank, supermarket, internet cafe, police station, several hotels/lodges, and a hospital. You will also find Ilara Ferry Port, and Lake Malawi National Park Office. It is worthwhile to dedicate time to exploring the traditional market and local shops in Monkey Bay. The distance between Cape Maclear and Monkeybay is about 18 km (12 miles) and takes 30 minutes by car.

Cultural Performances

Malawi has rich traditions. These can be experienced through local cultural shows, storytelling, dance performances, and many other aspects. In Cape Maclear, Monkeybay, and many other towns along Lake Malawi, it is best to visit markets and villages. Here you experience the authentic way of living in Malawi. Most hotels may give visitors a glimpse of Malawi traditions. However, these may not be rich and deep enough because of how westernized touristic areas are. But still, tour groups and hotels are able to arrange good presentations such as traditional dances.

CAPE MACLEAR ACCOMODATION

Cape Maclear offers a variety of accommodations such as hotels, lodges, and camping spots. You enter the gates of Lake Malawi National Park in order to get to most hotels in Cape Maclear and different popular swimming points. 

These establishments may not be classified as five-star hotels, but they provide satisfactory and essential services. The accommodations listed below have received positive reviews on platforms such as TripAdvisor. For further details, please refer to TripAdvisor and Booking.com. 

• Cape Maclear EcoLodge
• Thumbi View Lodge
• Mumbo Island
• Norman Carr Cottage
• Mgoza Lodge
• The Funky Cichlid
• Warm Heart Adventure Lodge
• Domwe Island Adventure Camp
• Gecko Lounge
• Fat Monkeys
• Malambe Camp

Sometimes, it is best to email the hotels/lodges/Air BnB’s directly. This is because some hotels in Malawi seem to have more rooms available than what’s listed on the third-party booking sites. If you find the hotel you want fully booked, a quick email or WhatsApp text might get you a room booked.

HOW TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN CAPE MACLEAR

To ensure we contribute to efforts that promote sustainable tourism, it’s important to be a conscious traveler. Eco-friendly and sustainable practices include: 

• Reusing cups/bottles
• Eating at local restaurants 
• Purchasing handmade goods from small businesses
• Staying at eco-friendly accommodations (hotels/lodges/camp sites that practice energy and water conservation, minimize their waste by using reusable items like water bottles and bags, and genuinely support and respect local people)
• Respecting the natural environment by staying on designated paths
• Engaging in ethical wildlife experiences 
• Supporting sustainable tourism initiatives that benefit both the community and the planet

HOW TO GET TO CAPE MACLEAR 

Getting to Cape Maclear by Car

Many people drive from Lilongwe and Blantyre to stay in the accommodations situated at Cape Maclear. But, there are many people as well who stay in Mangochi and Monkey Bay hotels and take a day trip to Cape Maclear. Some people drive from Liwonde National Park in Liwonde. The park is close to Malape Pillars in Machinga where visitors go to see rock formations. 

If you are driving from Lilongwe, the distance to Cape Maclear is 136 miles (219 km); it takes about 3.5 hours to get there. From Blantyre, it is a 4 hours drive covering 167 miles (268 km). Those who are driving from Mangochi, it takes about 1.5 hours to get to Cape Maclear. Car rental companies are located at airports and in major cities. Hotels can also assist with car rental bookings or arrange airport transfer. 

Getting to Cape Maclear by Bus or Mini Buses

The most affordable way to travel to Cape Maclear from Lilongwe or Blantyre is by bus or mini bus. It might be easier to get to Mangochi first and catch a minibus from Mangochi to Cape Maclear. This is because there might be plenty of buses and mini buses going to Mangochi than those going directly to Cape Maclear.

If you are in Lilongwe, you can find buses and minibuses at Lilongwe Bus Depot. From Blantyre, buses and mini buses depart from Limbe (a short drive from Blantyre). Mini buses can be crowded, but they offer a more flexible schedule and they are faster compared to larger buses. From Lilongwe to Cape Maclear mini buses take about 3.5 hours, and from Blantyre they take about 4 hours. They may take longer if they make more unscheduled stops along the way. Buses take longer than mini buses—they usually stop in all bus depots and travel slower.