Rated by Cond้ Nast Magazine as one of the planet's ten most romantic destinations, Kaya Mawa is located on the south-western tip of Likoma Island in the far north-east of Lake Malawi, close to Mozambique. The island is covered with mango trees and ancient baobabs and encircled by glorious sandy beaches and rocky coves.
The stunning setting of the lodge and the unique comfort of the rooms means that many guests choose to make relaxation their main activity should one choose to be active, there are a few conventional activities on offer. Walking or biking around the island is a must.
The local population is friendly. An unescorted stroll around the island perhaps with a few cold drinks and snacks, where one can stop off to swim en route, engage the locals in conversation, visit the cathedral and the lively market nearby, proves to be a popular activity.
The waters around the lodge are both safe and clear. Swimming and snorkelling are favorites - some of the best snorkelling sites on the island are right at the lodges shore (snorkels and masks are provided at the Lodge). Alternatively there is a rock pool right near the bar to swim in.
The lodge has its own PADI accredited instructor and excellent dive equipment, casual dives as well as a range of dive instruction, are on offer. Waterskiing, tube riding and wake snaking are offered as well as fishing trips. The lodge has a small wooden skip for sailing trips around the island. Overnight trips to Nkwichi Lodge and the Manda Wilderness area can also be arranged.
Ten stone and teak-framed thatched cottages - including two family cottages and one honeymoon chalet - have a panoramic view of the lake and private terraces with direct access to the water. Each one has en-suite bathroom facilities, a four-poster bed, shower, and a sunken stone bathtub. The honeymoon chalet with its incredible views is tucked away on its own private island.
10 chalets in total consisting of:
7 double-bedded cottages
1 honeymoon chalet
2 Family cottages
This camp can accommodate 20 guests.
Kaya Mawa has a dining room and bar under cover that serves local Malawian as well as international cuisine.
Location: On the Island of Likoma in the north-east of Lake Malawi. 1 hour flight north-east of Lilongwe.
General facilities:
Dining room
Bar
Swimming pool
Sundeck
Room Facilities:
Each cottage has a private terrace with direct access to the water
En-suite facilities with a shower
Solar-powered fans
Mosquito nets
Soaps, shampoos and insect repellents are supplied in each room
Free Of Charge Activities:
Mountain biking around the Island
Canoeing
Laser-dinghy sailing
Fishing free of charge unless taking a motorized boat (Costs involved)
Skiing
Snorkelling (equipment is available for use)
Guided walks (with experienced guides)
Visits to local villages
Other activities: (to be used as a guideline and costs are available upon request)
Waterskiing, Wakeboarding and Kneeboarding
Two man ringo (inflatable disc for all ages)
Motor boat trips around Likoma Island or to Chizimulu Island
Picnics on Msemwe Island
Scuba Diving
Resort courses (this includes a two hour instruction followed by a dive). These can be done by unqualified divers.
PADI Open Water course and Advanced courses
