Lake Malawi and Likoma Island

Introduction

Regarded as one of the Great Rift Valley lakes, Lake Malawi is the 3^rd largest lake in Africa covering 1/5^th of the country. Four busy ports and hundreds of fishing villages line the shores while the waters are dotted with local fishing vessels. Renowned for its rich diversity of fish and recently declared a world heritage site, situated on the southern lakeshore is the remote forested headland of Cape McClear, jutting out into the crystal clear waters. Lodges here offer scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking and yachting for adventurous souls, or for the more relaxed visitor, an opportunity to spend the evenings lying in a hammock watching the spectacular sunsets.

The national park is a sanctuary for the biologically unique, brightly coloured cichlids and more than 2000 freshwater species which exceeds Europe’s and the USA’s species total put together! Snorkelling is an ideal way to get up close to the exotic fish and feel like swimming in an aquarium. The occasional hippo or crocodile make appearances, but the lakeside is better known for its exceptional array of reptile life. Large monitor lizards are frequently spotted while shiny skinks warm themselves on rocks and at night, opaque ghekos feature. For bird lovers, the mainland hosts a wide range of territorial fish eagles, along with smaller kingfishers, cormorants and herons. The lucky few will spot the elusive grey duiker, grysbok and leopard, while baboons, antelope and hyrax are more frequently seen.

The highly praised Likoma Island is the ideal romantic getaway for those seeking an idyllic paradise. Located on the eastern side of Lake Malawi very close to the Mozambique coastline, visitors are transported back in time as the small 17km² island has only one dirt road. Lined by beautiful sandy beaches and rocky coves, the crystal clear waters offer some of the country’s best diving and snorkelling opportunities. Visitors can explore the rich colonial history by visiting the third largest cathedral in central Africa. Built by missionaries in 1903 and inspired by David Livingstone, the carved soapstone and stained glass windows of St Peters Cathedral are stunning and a must see. For a cultural experience, interact with the resident communities, join in with local dancing or take a visit to the witch doctor clinic. The island is a perfect location to unwind after safari.

When To Visit

Lake Malawi and Likoma Island are best visited during the winter months of May to October which is warm, dry and cooler at night. Storms can occur during the wetter summer months of November to April which is considered off peak time to visit.

January to April – January is the peak of the rainy season as temperatures reach 29°C and humidity high. Nights are warm at 21°C and rainfall averages 257mm. Unpredictable storms are common during these months, making the waters of Lake Malawi rough and reducing visibility for divers and snorkelers. Around Likoma Island, rains occur during the night, temperatures during the day reach about 30°C with medium humidity and evenings are cool. Towards the end of May, the winds abate and the waters are calmer with clear skies and no haze over the lake as temperatures and humidity also begin to lessen.

May to September – Regarded as the best time to visit Lake Malawi, these winter months have less wind so waters are calmer; better for water sports and diving activities. The month of May has lovely clear blue skies, starry nights and little rainfall. During this time around Likoma Island, lake temperatures are around 20°C which is ideal for divers. The coolest season prevails from June to September, with daytime averages of 26°C and night-time lows of 16°C. The mornings tend to be calm however by mid-day the wind picks up and occasionally produces a swell.

October to December – October is considered as one of the best months to visit as the lake is calm, the air is hot and there is no haze. The clear waters magnify the multitude of azure and silverfish that reside in the lake, making this the best time for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. However, October and November are the hottest months, reaching a maximum of 33°C which can be unbearable coupled with high humidity. Evenings are warm, averaging 23°C. Mid-November and December mark the onset of the rains along with a rise in temperature and humidity. These months offer fantastic birding opportunities.

Temperature & Rainfall

Climate Chart – Lilongwe