The Lake Of Stars

Malawi may be one of Africa’s smallest countries, but when it comes to exploration and adventure it has tremendous amounts to offer.

Malawi is dominated by Lake Malawi, a magnificent body of water 365 miles long and 52 miles wide, and hence sometimes referred to as the calendar lake. David Livingstone famously named Lake Malawi “The Lake of Stars” and for good reason: during the day the light dances across the deep blue water and once the sun has set the stars twinkle brightly, both in the sky and on the lake, as the fishermen light up their hurricane lamps for a night on the water.

Lake Malawi is the third largest body of water in Africa and is teeming with life, including over 400 species of cichlid, many of which are endemic. Most of this astounding underwater diversity is protected within Lake Malawi National Park, a World Heritage Site and one of the first in the world set aside for the protection of freshwater fish. Lake Malawi National Park is situated in the south - the most picturesque region of the lake. The scenery inside the park is scintillating; steep hills carpeted with trees tumble down into the deep blue water, while the shoreline is punctuated by islands, bays and large granite boulders. The northern part of the lake has its own charm and is extraordinarily deep, up to 700 metres, plunging well below sea level. This reflects the enormity of the natural faulting of the Great Rift Valley, the origin of Lake Malawi.

This vast body of freshwater, fringed by beaches of golden sand, is not only a scenic wonderland but it also provides endless water-sport opportunities for those looking for something beyond sun, sand and swimming. The clarity of the fresh water and

the great abundance of marine life make it ideal for snorkelling and diving, while the absence of strong currents ensures it is wonderful for sailing, kayaking, water skiing and an array of other water sports.

A short distance from Lake Malawi National Park is a beautiful natural harbour, the base for the Ilala Ferry. Named after Ilala in Zambia, the final resting place of David Livingstone, this iconic passenger and cargo ferry, built by Yarrow Shipbuilders in Scoutstoun, Scotland, has been plying its trade on Lake Malawi since 1951. Once built, the ferry was transported in pieces by ship to Mozambique, and then by road to Malawi where it was assembled. It makes a weekly journey of 480 kilometres and reaches as far north as Chilumba near the Tanzanian border.

Due to its rich fish harvest, the lake plays an important part in the local economy. Fishing villages are scattered along the shore and the traditional fishing industry and practices are an attraction for visitors. Access to the lake is possible along much of its length, but despite the popularity to settle along the lakeshore there are still long stretches that are totally uninhabited.

As it is becoming an increasingly popular beach destination, Lake Malawi is the perfect ending to a safari, giving travellers a complete bush and beach experience.

This bird was carefully captured on an exploratory trip to the Congo Border near Mwinilunga.

Photo by Kyle Branch

We offer attractive packages where you can visit all of our three camps. Unique by Nature Fig Tree Camp lies in an undiscovered part of the park on a Shishamba River lagoon. It is the only camp in a range of 30 km!

Mukambi Safari Lodge is Mukambi Plains Camp has overlooking the Kafue River 8 beds available in a classic and is the gateway to Kafue bush camp on the famous National Park. Busanga Plains.

Pioneer is an oasis stopover, located just 14 kilometres from the International airport, it is the ideal place to be if you need to be near Lusaka but don’t want to be in it. Offering a range of accommodation and a shady campsite for those who wish to be a little closer to nature.

Pioneer Safaris are soon to release some special packages with set itineraries. Our mobile safaris will cover the whole of Zambia, enabling guests to explore the many wonders of our diverse and beautiful country. Simply contact us to arrange your Zambian safari adventure!