WHERE IS LAKE MALAWI?

Lake Malawi, the third largest lake in Africa and the fifth largest freshwater lake globally, is situated in southeastern Africa. It encompasses about 7% of the world’s surface freshwater. The largest portion of Lake Malawi is located in Malawi, with Mozambique and Tanzania holding smaller sections. 

In Malawi, Lake Malawi passes through different districts, cities, and towns. When I visit Lake Malawi I like to explore beyond the beaches—visiting local markets, visiting villages nearby, and eating local foods. Self-driving along the lake shore road is profoundly freeing and adventurous. The following are the areas covered by Lake Malawi in Malawi:

LAKE MALAWI IN MANGOCHI CITY

Mangochi is a township in the southern region of Malawi, located in the Mangochi District. Situated near the southern end of Lake Malawi, it is a well-known city and can be reached easily from both large cities of Blantyre and Lilongwe by car and bus. See the detailed post on Mangochi Malawi and its beaches and historical sites.

LAKE MALAWI IN MONKEY BAY

Monkey Bay, also in the Mangochi District, is a renowned town situated on the shores of Lake Malawi. It serves as one of the main ports providing access to the lake. The town’s sandy and rocky beaches of Cape Maclear Malawi as well as the famous Lake Malawi National Park make Monkey Bay a perfect exploration hub. 

LAKE MALAWI IN NKHOTAKOTA

Nkhotakota is another port town on the shores of Lake Malawi. This city boasts beautiful beaches surrounded by traditional huts and a ferry dock. Notably, Nkhotakota holds historical significance as the location where the Scottish explorer, Dr. David Livingstone, encountered a slave trader named Jumbe in the late 19th century. This encounter took place under a large tree near Mosque Bay, giving rise to the name “Livingstone Tree” for the area.

LIKOMA ISLAND ON LAKE MALAWI

Likoma Island, situated on Lake Malawi, is home to a diverse range of mammals, birds, and plants. Its sandy beaches offer a serene and tranquil escape. Likoma is a town on the island and is home to the famous St. Peter’s Cathedral, constructed with stones in 1903. A statue of Saint Peter stands outside the cathedral, which is a prominent tourist attraction in Malawi. People go to Likoma to experience the pristine waters of Lake Malawi and the colorful fish harbored there. 

CHIZUMULA ISLAND ON LAKE MALAWI

Chizumulu Island, smaller than Likoma Island, is located a few kilometers away from Mozambique and not far from Likoma Island. Visitors are drawn to Chizumulu for its beautiful beaches and secluded location.

LAKE MALAWI IN NKHATA BAY

On the western shores of Lake Malawi, there is a port town known as Nkhata Bay. The harbor is sheltered by forests and rocky headlands. One popular spot on the southern side of Nkhata Bay is Chikale Beach, renowned for its crystal-clear water and cichlid fish. The ferry port in Nkhata Bay serves as a departure point for Chizumulu Island and Likoma Island. 

Close to Nkhata Bay in the northern region of Malawi, there is a settlement called Chintheche, situated on the shores of Lake Malawi and in close proximity to the main road.

LAKE MALAWI IN KARONGA

Karonga, located in the Northern Region of Malawi, was historically a center for the slave trade. Presently, the Karonga district is thriving and gaining traction as another good destination for Lake Malawi visitors. Chilumba, a town within Karonga, offers picturesque views of Lake Malawi.