Destination Malawi 2015-16

2 0 1 5 - 1 6 DEST INAT ION

THE OFFICIAL MALAWI TOUR ISM DIRECTORY

2 0 1 5 - 1 6 DES T INAT ION

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Conłents

THE OFFICIAL MALAWI T OUR I SM DIREC T ORY

FOREWORD

25 AIRL INES Rebirth of flagship airline

A hidden gem that will change your life

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26 AIRPORTS

NAT IONAL PARKS

Airports offer better-than-ever facilities

Malawi’s breathtaking choice of wildlife hot spots

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LOCAT ION MAL AWI

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FOREST RESERVES Forest reserves offer a pageantry of flora and fauna

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CENTRAL REGION

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NORTHERN REGION

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SOUTHERN REGION

Exciting events bring sport and music stars to Malawi

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USEFUL CONTACTS

MAL AWI FACT F ILE

Feałures 29

SS Rent a car

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Land and Lake Safaris

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Crossroads Hotel

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Game Haven Lodge

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Fisherman’s Rest

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Blue Zebra Island Lodge

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Ideal Travel & Tours

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Africa Wild Truck

41 Danforth

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Kwacha Dawn

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African Parks Majete

49 Tongole

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Victoria Forex Bureau

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L ILONGWE AND BL ANT YRE Capital and seat of government offers charm and green spaces

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ANNUAL EVENTS

16 GOLF When it comes to great golf courses…small is beautiful

17 PL ANTAT IONS A plantation holiday could be your cup of tea

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MOUNT MUL ANJE Fabulous world of Tolkien’s favourite mountain

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Lisłings

EAT ING OUT Upmarket or low budget – you’ll eat well in Malawi

22 CULTURE Vibrant culture that springs from tribal living

Malawi Department of Tourism Ministry of Information, Tourism and Culture Tourism House, Off Convention Drive Private Bag 326, Lilongwe 3 Tel: +265 1 775 499; 772 702 Fax: +265 1 775 4943 Email: info@visitmalawi.mw

www.visitmalawi.mw malawitourism

@malawitourism

Destination Malawi was published by:

Land & Marine Publications Ltd 1 Kings Court, Newcomen Way Severalls Business Park Colchester, Essex CO4 9RA United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 Fax: +44 (0)1206 842958 E-mail: publishing@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com

33 Riverside 35

Golden Peacock

37

Ethiopian Airlines

39

Countrywide car hire

39

MSB Forex Bureau

Hu_cess Executive Lodge

Printed by: Buxton Press Photographs: Malawi Department of Tourism, Land & Lake Safaris, Danforth Yachting, Fisherman's Rest.

The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor nor of any other organisation associated with this publication. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions.

ISSN 2045-6484 ©2014 Land & Marine Publications Ltd

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

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FOREWORD

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A hidden gem łhał will change your life

Malawi also has a delightful

W

elcome to Destination Malawi – the Department of Tourism’s official guide to the Warm Heart of Africa.

selection of forest reserves, all with their own attractions and ecosystems and located at varying altitudes. In contrast to other parts of Africa, our parks and reserves are inexpensive and

For those unfamiliar with our nation,

uncrowded. There are strict limits

Malawi is neatly squeezed between

on the construction of new camps

Zambia, Tanzania and Mozambique

and lodges, thus ensuring that our

– a hidden gem awaiting discovery.

wilderness areas remain just that.

Perhaps not for much longer, however, as Lonely Planet nomi-

Our two main cities of Lilongwe and Blantyre

nated Malawi one of its Top Ten

offer top-quality accommodation and have

destinations for 2014.

the necessary facilities to host large international conferences.

Lake Malawi – our ‘Lake of Life’ – is the body of water that domi-

I wish to offer an invitation to visit Malawi.

nates our country and the lives

For many, it’s a life-changing experience; one

of many of our people. No visit to

they wish to repeat again and again.

Malawi is complete without a visit to Lake Malawi, whose shores are dotted with excellent hotels and good-quality campsites. Lake Malawi National Park is one of our two Unesco World Heritage Sites.

Patricia Liabuba Director of Tourism

Our nine national parks and wildlife reserves have been, or are being, restocked and restored to their former glory – often in close collaboration between the Department of National Parks & Wildlife and non-profitmaking outside agencies.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

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NAT IONAL PARKS

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Malawi’s breałhłaking choice of

wildlife hoł społs M

alawi is a paradise for naturalists, offering a rich variety of large mammals in many of its parks and reserves. Most species of big game are now restricted to game reserves and national parks owing to an increase in poaching over the past decade. There are three types of protected areas in Malawi: national parks, wildlife reserves and nature sanctuaries. They cover an estimated 11 per cent of the country’s total land mass.

DESTINATION DESTINATION MALAWI MALAWI 2015-16 2015

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NAT IONAL PARKS

Kasungu

NATIONAL PARK

Lake Malawi NATIONAL PARK

popular resorts such as Makokola Retreat and Sunbird Nkopola Lodge. Nkhata Bay, located in Nkhata Bay District, is ideal for both couples and families and is especially popular with honeymooners. The bay has golden beaches and the resorts and lodges offer romantic settings.

Kasungu National Park, stretching along the

Lake Malawi National Park has been a

Zambian border, 175 km north of Lilongwe,

World Heritage Site since 1984 and is the

is Malawi’s second-largest park. The park

only park in Malawi to be created for the

Lake Malawi offers great yachting adven-

is located in the central region about 1,000

conservation of fish and aquatic habitats

tures through Danforth Yachting, which has

metres above sea level. It consists mainly of

as opposed to most parks that protect

named its fleet of boats after characters

miombo woodland and also has grassy river

wildlife. Considered Malawi’s touristic

in ‘The Lion King’. For visitors wishing

channels known as dambos. Flowing through

jewel, this landlocked freshwater lake is

to experience the lake, the ‘Mufasa’ – the

the park are the vitally important Dwanga

second to none, with a length of about 600

only live-aboard yacht on Lake Malawi – is

and Lingadzi rivers, the main water sources

km and a width of 75 km. In the north, the

highly recommended. Dining experiences on

that support its ecosystem.

lake is an extraordinary 700 metres deep.

the yacht include dishes prepared by local

YACHTING

Looking almost like the ocean itself, this

and international chefs using only fresh local

Some of the best game viewing in Malawi

huge expanse of blue water is a breath-

ingredients. Alfresco dining is available for

can be found at Kasungu, especially in the

taking sight. The lake is filled with brightly

families.

warmer months of August to November,

coloured fish and aquatic wildlife unique to

when water levels begin to drop, forcing the

the lake. Lake Malawi is located between

animals to stay close to the park’s remaining

Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania and for

waterholes. During the annual heavy rains

this reason it is also referred to as Lake

of March the park closes for the month –

Nyasa. Fishing villages scattered along

perhaps earlier if the rains begin in late

the shore have also contributed

February – as tracks are washed out and

to the naming of Lake Malawi.

become inaccessible.

As the fishermen set out each evening they often set adrift many

Large populations of elephant can be found

lanterns, which from a distance

roaming the plains, although the increase in

look like stars, leading to the fond

poaching over the past five years has reduced

nickname of ‘Lake of Stars’.

their numbers. In addition to elephant, Kasungu is home to other intriguing wildlife

The national park offers an

including various species of buck (sable,

unmatched experience, blending a

roan, kudu and impala) as well as buffalo

classic beach holiday with adventure,

and zebra. Hippo can also be spotted on the

sport and wildlife. The southern and central

Lifupa River, in particular where it dams at

areas of the park contain the most popular

Lifupa Conservation Lodge, a peaceful retreat

sites for tourists. These are the areas where

next to the dam. Predators such as hyena and

most of the lakeside accommodation can be

Lake Malawi offers a freshwater

wild dog are most active in the evening and

found.

scuba diving experience like no other. Danforth Yachting has

their signature laughs can be heard as they roam the park.

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There is an impressive choice of accommoda-

a fully equipped PADI resort

tion for visitors, ranging from lodges to hotels

scuba diving centre. Divers can

to backpacker establishments. Mangochi

enjoy the warm, clear, fresh

Lakeshore and Monkey Bay have the highest

water with no tides or currents

concentration of lodges and hotels, with

or salt water and a chance to see

the brightly coloured tropical fish known as

northbound Saturday to

cichlids. Dive spots are easily accessible and

Monday and southbound

with PADI certified scuba divers on hand, the

Tuesday to Thursday.

experience is quite magical.

Accommodation on board In addition to diving, Lake Malawi offers

the ‘Ilala’ is charming, with five

kayaking, sailing in Laser dinghies, Hobie

double cabins (one en-suite) and two

Cat sailing, water-skiing, wakeboarding,

single cabins on the upper decks for tourists.

tube rides, mountain biking, hikes and

The top deck above the cabins is reserved for

nature walks in the hills around the national

cabin-class passengers except when in port.

park.

There is a spacious recreation area with a covered bar.

Lengwe NATIONAL PARK

FERRY SERVICE FISH FARMING AND CONSERVATION

Lengwe National Park, about 50 km from

on board the 620 tonne ‘Ilala’, which has

Salima, on the shore of Lake Malawi, is

Malawi as it consists of dense woodland.

recently been fitted with new engines. The

the site of one of the region’s largest fish

Man-made pools assist game viewing as

‘Ilala’ has a passenger capacity of 400 and

farms, operated by Stuart M. Grant Ltd,

wildlife congregate around the water catch-

provides an essential means of travel both for

which focuses on the professional fishing

ments, especially in the dry season. It is also

tourists and for local people, who transport

and transport of cichlids both locally and

a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 300

goods for trading. The ‘Ilala’ goes to the

internationally. The lake contains hundreds

bird species. Guests on game drives can easily

Mozambican territory of Likoma Island as

of species of fish which are in demand by

spot Livingstone’s suni, bushbuck and impala

well as to Ulisa Bay Lodge, Kaya Mawa and

enthusiasts around the world. The cichlids

as well as baboon, monkey, warthog, bush pig

Mango Drift.

are collected by professional local divers

and buffalo. At the entrance of the park is the

and the fishing sites are carefully moni-

‘Tisunge!’ heritage centre (meaning ‘Let us

The ferry operates on a weekly schedule

tored to ensure there is no overfishing or

preserve!’ in Chi Chewa), formed to preserve

between Chipoka and Chilumba, with nine

destruction of the aquatic ecosystem. The

Lower Shire culture. Various artefacts are on

other stops en route including Nkhotakota,

fish farm also reintroduces cichlids on the

display at the centre’s museum.

Nkhata Bay, Likoma Island and Metan-

brink of extinction through various breeding

gula on the Mozambique shore. It travels

projects carried out on the farm. Working

Liwonde

A ferry trip across Lake Malawi is highly recommended. This can be experienced

closely with the Department of Fisheries, the company releases the fingerlings back into the lake.

More and more tourists have shown an interest in close interaction with

Blantyre, is different from most parks in

NATIONAL PARK

Liwonde National Park lies on the east bank

the cichlids. It was for this reason

of the Shire River in southern Malawi. With

that Red Zebra Tours was born,

scenic views and a hippo-filled river running

offering picnic and hiking excursions and lake safaris

through it, the park is a true reflection of beautiful African bushland. The environment

as well as accommodation

of the park is untouched and less travelled

at the Red Zebra Lodge

than most parks in Africa, thus enhancing

with its views of Lake

its beauty and tranquillity. There are several

Malawi.

lodges in the area that allow visitors to take full advantage of the surroundings. Wildlife on view here include elephant, lion, leopard, warthog, greater kudu, vervet monkey, DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

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NAT IONAL PARKS baboon, impala, waterbuck, bushbuck,

and the surrounding environment and is

mongoose, crocodile and monitor lizard.

perfect for the traveller seeking to experience both these aspects in full. The landscape is

Elephanł

The black rhino has been introduced to

breathtaking, with rolling hills and grasslands

Liwonde and the population has now grown

as far as the eye can see, dotted with over

to 10 as the result of a conservation project

200 species of orchids when in season. Over

in partnership with the government. These

400 species of birds thrive here, including the

Although Elephant Marsh is not classified

animals usually steer clear of the beaten

rare Denham’s bustard.

as a national protected area, efforts are still

MARSH

made to preserve this important catchment

track, so it can be a challenge to spot them.

The park is ideal for birdwatchers, with nearly

Large populations of antelope reside here

area, which sustains both human life and

300 species of birds. And there are opportuni-

owing to the vastness of the grassy plains and

wildlife. Lying in the flood plain of the lower

ties for beautiful photography, with orchids

perhaps it is for this reason that the park has

Shire River, the marsh provides water for

and lilies in full bloom just after the rains.

the highest population of leopard in Central

local communities and their livestock.

Nyika

Africa. Visitors can also expect to see eland, roan, zebra, elephant and lion.

A revenue-sharing scheme through Wildlife Fund Order allows the government to share

Activities in the park include trekking,

revenue gained from tourist fees. Through

mountain biking and 4x4 excursions as well

the Kasungu Treasury Fund and Lake Malawi

NATIONAL PARK

as horse-riding safaris with beautiful views.

Treasury Fund, the money goes towards

Waterfalls, trout pools and even the famous

health, education and human welfare.

Nyika National Park, 500 km north of

‘magic lake’ of Kaulimi are a ‘must see’ for

Lilongwe, is Malawi’s largest national park,

visitors, who will find accommodation in one

Tackling climate change is top of the conser-

of the lodges dotted around the park.

vation agenda and the development of carbon

covering 3,200 sq km. The park covers the entire Nyika plateau and is one

agreements with participating international

of the country’s most important

Initiatives are under way by various govern-

states is well under way. Private as well as

catchment areas. ‘Nyika’

ment ministries to conserve wildlife and the

government institutions work closely with

means ‘where the water

environment. These include development

local communities on projects to tackle defor-

comes from’ and this is

of the national park infrastructure as well

estation in protected areas.

the wettest area of the

as administrative support. Trans-Frontier

country. It has an incom-

Conservation Area (TFCA), Peace Parks

parable ecosystem that

Foundation and the Norwegian govern-

supports the local wildlife

ment contribute significantly while joint

Lilongwe

government initiatives with Zambia form institutional frameworks to manage the protected area.

WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Located in the heart of Malawi’s capital, Lilongwe Wildlife Sanctuary is the place where ‘wildlife and people meet’. The wildlife centre, located in the sanctuary, is an award-winning rescue, conservation and education hub. It was the Born Free Foundation that helped to set up the centre in 2007 and this renowned animal conservation body is still actively involved in projects. In partnership with the Department of National Parks & Wildlife and some of the world’s leading international wildlife charities, the centre aims to raise the profile of wildlife

8

welfare and conservation, working with

and waterholes, nearly 3,000 animals of

local communities to preserve habitats in

13 species have been introduced including

protected areas.

black rhino, elephant, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest and eland. In fact, Majete

Education involves working with hundreds

Wildlife Reserve is the only protected area

of schools across the country and providing

in Malawi where the famous ‘big five’ can

information about environmental conserva-

be seen. Poaching has been reduced signifi-

tion. The community outreach programmes

cantly as a result of community outreach

promote community empowerment and

programmes and government enforcement.

sustainable livelihoods so that issues such as

There are various lodges offering a choice of

human wildlife conflict are addressed.

accommodation with activities such as game

Kułi

WILDLIFE RESERVE

drives, birdwatching and treks.

Mwabvi

with streams and waterfalls and there are great spots for fishing and canoeing.

Various lodges have been established within and

WILDLIFE RESERVE

outside the reserve to take

Wildlife Reserve, one of Malawi’s smallest

Mwabvi Wildlife Reserve, in southern

inaccessible reserve. Tongole

reserves, run by a non-profit trust committed

Malawi, is the country’s smallest wildlife

Wilderness Lodge opened

to the conservation and protection of wildlife

reserve, with only 135 sq km of protected

up accessibility even further

and the environment. This tiny gem offers

area. The reserve is not easily accessible

by creating an airstrip that allows

lots of activities and sights for tourists.

because it is so remote, thus allowing a large

visitors to reach the reserve by charter

They include horse-riding, bike safaris,

variety of habitat to thrive. Wonderful views

flight. Lion, leopard, elephant and buffalo

birdwatching and, of course, the wonderful

of woodland and surrounding environs can

can be spotted on game drives organised by

sunsets. Giraffe, zebra and antelope are the

be seen in the course of game drives or treks,

the reserve’s authorities. For guests staying

predominant wildlife here.

which can be arranged by the local reserve

at a lodge, the management will offer various

Majełe

authorities. Various lodges and campsites

packages.

Located just an hour from Lilongwe is Kuti

WILDLIFE RESERVE

The story of Majete Wildlife Reserve is perhaps the most interesting of all parks in Malawi. In the late 1990s most species of large game had been eradicated, mainly as a result of poor law enforcement and an

have been established, including Njati Lodge, close to Mwabvi Gorge, where guests can admire the beautiful sunsets. This once-empty reserve is exceptional for those wishing to experience the ‘road less travelled’ in Malawi’s tourist circuit.

Nkhołakoła

full advantage of this once-

Vwaza

VWAZA WILDLIFE RESERVE Along the Zambian border lies Vwaza Wildlife Reserve, a 400 sq km marsh plain filled with an outstanding number of bird species and a backdrop of woodland that is

WILDLIFE RESERVE

second to none. Although accommodation is

government, in liaison with local commu-

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve is said to be

nature has to offer, such as the hippo-filled

nities and a non-profit organisation, took

Malawi’s oldest reserve, covering some 1,800

Lake Kazuni or the numerous herds of buffalo

control of the situation and turned it around

sq km of rocky terrain filled with woodland

and elephant.

so that rehabilitation of the park could go

stretching from the Great Rift Valley in

ahead. Today, as a result of infrastructure

the west to within a few kilometres of Lake

development including new fences, tracks

Malawi in the east. The plateau is dotted

inability to deal with poaching. In 2003, however, a project spearheaded by the

not yet available, tourists can still enjoy what

DESTINATION DESTINATION MALAWI MALAWI 2015-16 2015

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Karonga

LOCAT ION MAL AWI

TA N Z A N I A

Rumphi

AFRICA Mzuzu

NORTHERN

Malawi

a w i M a l

Kasungu

e L ak

Mzimba

Nkhata Bay

Nkhotakota

MALAWI CENTRAL Mchinji

MOZAMBIQUE

Ntchisi Dowa Salima

Lilongwe

Dedza

Mangochi Lake Malombe

Ntcheu

Machinga

MOZAMBIQUE

Sh

Mwanza

ir

e

SOUTHERN

Blantyre

Chiradzulu

Chikhwawa

Mulanje

S h

Thyolo

ir e

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Lake Chilwa

Zomba

Nsanje

reserves Fofferoresł a pageanłry of flora and fauna

FOREST RESERVES

Nłchisi

FOREST RESERVE

Thuma

Ntchisi Forest Reserve is one of Malawi’s last

Located in the Great Rift Valley about

remaining rainforests with thriving vegeta-

80 km from Lilongwe is Thuma Forest

tion and trees that form a canopy 30 metres

Reserve, filled with lush miombo woodland

high. True to its nature as a rainforest, Ntchisi

and a striking variety of plants and indig-

contains a range of flora and fauna that is

enous trees. Like most of the country’s

second to none. Wild orchids thrive here

forest reserves, Thuma has an exceptional

and after the rains edible wild mushrooms

number of bird species and an ecosystem

Dzalanyama Forest Reserve, 40 km south-

flourish and are often used in dishes served at

that is closely monitored and protected by

west of Lilongwe, has been a protected area

FOREST RESERVE

communities, the group has a mission to protect the forest’s flora and fauna. Elephant and buffalo roam the rugged terrain and can often be seen in one of the patches of bamboo around the park.

Dzalanyama FOREST RESERVE

Ntchisi Forest Lodge located in the park. The

since 1922 in order to guarantee the capital’s

rainforest covers an area of 75 sq km and is

water source.

home to a wide variety of bird species, monkeys and baboons. There have

Miombo, the main tree that grows in these

been reported sightings of a black

parts and covers large areas, is part of an

leopard in the mountain terrain

amazing ecosystem filled with indigenous orchids and birdlife.

near the park.

This 989 sq km reserve also has pine and eucalyptus trees that were introduced to the area in 1977. Tourists can take advantage of the reserve’s beauty by staying in one of the lodges located on the outskirts.

At the heart of the forest lies Dzalanyama Forest Lodge, with comfortable accommodation overlooking the Makata River. In the early morning, the many different species of the Department of Forestry. Also joining

birds can be heard for miles around while

conservation efforts is the Wildlife Action

indigenous butterflies form a colourful

Group, which spearheads the Thuma Forest

pattern beside the river. In the afternoons,

Reserve Eco-system Rehabilitation Project

guests can take a refreshing dip in one of

as well as conservation in Dedza-Salima

several natural pools and streams in the

Forest Reserve. In partnership with local

locality.

DESTINATION DESTINATION MALAWI MALAWI 2015-16 2015

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L ILONGWE AND BL ANT YRE

Capiłal and seał of governmenł offers

charm and green spaces L

ilongwe, the capital of Malawi, lies right in the centre of the country and is divided into two.

The Old Town is characterised by informal settlements and is home to many of the city’s markets, while the New Town is filled with modern buildings, cafés and restaurants.

well as shopping centres and cosy suburbs.

Town Mall also has a

Lilongwe is the administrative centre of

few craft shops as well as

Malawi, where parliament, diplomatic

bookshops offering a range of travel

missions and other state departments are

guides.

based.

Lilongwe has a good a choice of accommodaThe Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary adds a novel

tion, from budget hotels to luxury properties.

dimension, providing visitors with an opportu-

Kumbali Country Lodge is a favourite with

nity to couple a city experience with a wildlife

travellers who want to stay in a tranquil

adventure. Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, located

location close to a city. This high-end lodge

within the sanctuary, is home to wild animals

offers modern conferencing facilities and

Named after the Lilongwe River, which

that have been rescued, including lions as

excellent cuisine as well as beautiful gardens

flows through the centre of the city into Lake

well as various species of monkeys.

where guests can stroll or enjoy a sundowner.

Malawi, Lilongwe has a fascinating history, growing from 19th-century

Modern shopping outlets can be found

settlements into a charming city

throughout the city. The Four Seasons

with green open spaces.

shopping centre features boutiques, quaint

SECOND CITY COMBINES BUSINESS WITH OLD-WORLD CHARM

coffee shops and speciality restaurants as well

Blantyre, the nation’s commercial hub and

as a tranquil garden where visitors can relax

second city, has a vibrancy that attracts both

by its remarkable

in the afternoons. The Crossroads Shopping

business travellers and seekers of adven-

degree of planning and

Complex has modern banking facilities as

ture. This cosmopolitan city is a popular

infrastructure, with

well as international clothes shops, minigolf,

centre of business in East Africa. It contains

large indigenous trees

car hire services and a wide range of fast

iconic buildings such as the 19th-century St

food outlets.

Michael’s Church as well as museums and

Lilongwe is distinguished

throughout the city as

markets. Blantyre is the country’s oldest city Malawian art and craft work is second to

with an air of time-honoured charm.

none and there are various markets and arcades in Lilongwe where visitors can view high-quality creations. Ishq sells upmarket items ranging from recycled mahogany tables to hand-woven rags,

12

Multi-storey buildings are now part of the city’s horizon. They include financial institutions such as international banks and the Malawi Stock Exchange. Carlsberg opened

while craft markets in the Old Town

its first brewery outside of Denmark in

offer batik, basketware, jewellery and

Blantyre in 1968. Today the brewery organ-

traditional wood carvings. The Old

ises tours during which visitors can sample

the speciality beers that have been brewed here for decades.

Blantyre is a key transport hub and is famous as the northwest terminus of the Tete Corridor connecting Zimbabwe with Malawi via western Mozambique. This route was popular with travellers crossing between South Africa and East Africa.

The weather is pleasant for the most of the year and this is reflected in the dense green of the suburbs and nearby valleys. The city has many attractions, including upmarket shopping areas, restaurants, pubs and clubs, while hikers are drawn to the nearby Michiru, Ndirande and Soche hills.

REMARKABLE Mandala House, one of the oldest buildings in Malawi, was constructed in 1882. It houses a remarkable library and archive with an unrivalled collection of books and journals.

The art gallery, La Caverna, is a favourite with visitors. After touring the house, they can relax in the cafĂŠ and enjoy tea, fragrant local coffee and an assortment of sweets and snacks.

There is a range of business hotels in Blantyre offering executive services with international standards. There is also a choice of comfortable, budget-friendly accommodation for both business and holiday travellers.

DESTINATION DESTINATION MALAWI MALAWI 2015-16 2015

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ANNUAL EVENTS

Exciłing evenłs bring

sporł and music słars ło Malawi Lake Malawi

Lake of słars Blanłyre

Date: Late June, early July

MUSIC FESTIVAL

ARTS FESTIVAL

Date: September

Date: October

Lake of Stars is a three-day international

The Blantyre Arts Festival, usually known

festival that brings together some of Africa’s

as BAF, was initiated in 2009 with the aim

top artists. Renowned musicians from else-

of giving a platform to Malawi’s performing

The annual Lake Malawi Sailing Marathon

where, such as Groove Armada and Beverley

arts community. The festival celebrates

is an international event that draws sailing

Knight, have also graced the festival. All

Malawian cultural diversity through theatre,

enthusiasts from around the world. Initiated

performances take place on the shores of

song and dance and is a ‘must attend’ for

in 1984, the marathon has grown steadily

Lake Malawi and this wonderful setting may

both local and international tourists.

over the years and now is a six-leg race that

be the reason why the festival has been classi-

allows competitors to fully demonstrate

fied as one of the top three in Africa.

SAILING MARATHON

their prowess on the water. The competition is usually divided into two categories – for yachts with spinnakers and for those without.

The competition involves a handicap system and the event is closely monitored by the marathons committee, which consists of veteran sailors.

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FACT F ILE

Ał a glance ...

ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISIONS: 28 districts;

ETHNIC GROUPS: Chewa, Nyanja,

Balaka, Blantyre, Chikhwawa, Chiradzulu,

Tumbuka, Yao, Lomwe, Sena, Tonga,

Chitipa, Dedza, Dowa, Karonga, Kasungu,

Ngoni, Ngonde, Asian, European.

Likoma, Lilongwe, Machinga, Mangochi, Mchinji, Mulanje, Mwanza, Mzimba, Neno,

ELECTRICITY: 230 to 240 volts,

Ntcheu, Nkhata Bay, Nkhotakota, Nsanje,

AC 50 Hz. Square-pin plugs mostly

Ntchisi, Phalombe, Rumphi, Salima, Thyolo,

used.

Zomba EXCHANGE RATES: US$ 1 = AREA: 118,484 sq km (land: 94,080 sq km,

MWK 438 (October 2014)

water: 24,404 sq km) HISTORY: Established in 1891, the BORDERS: 2,881 km (Mozambique 1,569

British protectorate of Nyasaland became

km, Tanzania 475 km, Zambia 837 km)

the independent nation of Malawi in 1964.

BANKING HOURS: Mon to Fri 8 am to 3 pm;

INDUSTRIES: Tobacco, tea, sugar, sawmill

Sat 8 am to 11 am.

products, cement, consumer goods, mining minerals such as uranium, coal and rare

BUSINESS HOURS: Mon to Fri 7.30 am to

metals.

5 pm.

GEOGRAPHY: Malawi is landlocked. Lake CAPITAL: Lilongwe.

Malawi, 580 km long, is the most prominent physical feature.

POPULATION: 16.36 million (2013 estimate)

November to May; dry season May to

LANGUAGES: English is the official

RELIGIONS: Christian 80 per cent, Muslim

November. Maximum average temperature in

language, Chichewa is the national language.

13 per cent, other 3 per cent, none 4 per cent

southern lake region varies from 21°C in June

Other widely spoken languages are Tumbuka,

(1998 census).

and July to 27°C in October to March.

Yao, Lomwe and Sena.

CURRENCY: The Malawian kwacha (MWK)

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS: 1 January, 15 January

is divided into 100 tambala.

(John Chilembwe Day), 3 March (Martyr’s

CLIMATE: Subtropical. Rainy season

TIME DIFFERENCE: GMT +2 hours, CET + 1 hour, UTC + 7 hours.

Day), Good Friday, Easter Monday, 1 May

TOPOGRAPHY: Narrow elongated plateau

ELEVATIONS: Lowest point is junction of the

(Labour Day), 15 June (Freedom Day), 6 July

with rolling plains, rounded hills and some

Shire River and international boundary with

(Independence Day (Republic Day), 6 July

mountains.

Mozambique at 37 metres above sea level.

(1964), second Monday in October (Mother’s

Highest point is Sapitwa (Mount Mulanje) at

Day), 25 December (Christmas Day), 26

3,002 metres.

December (Boxing Day).

DESTINATION DESTINATION MALAWI MALAWI 2015-16 2015

15

GOLF

When ił comes ło scenic golf courses…

small is beaułiful

M

alawi may not feature on the list of top international golfing destinations; yet there are some remarkable courses in both Lilongwe and Blantyre that would impress any avid golfer.

grassland in Malawi. This nine-hole course

to the surroundings, while the standard of

was designed and constructed by renowned

service and cuisine at the Ambrosia Restau-

golf architect Peter Matkovich, who has

rant is a reflection of the property’s class and

created a series of acclaimed courses world-

style.

wide.

Right in the heart of the capital is Lilongwe

TREAT

Golf Club, a semi-private 18-hole course, the only one in Malawi. Built in 1930, the

Golfers are in for a treat when they play at

course has beautiful fairways and, thanks to

Visitors will find a dozen nine-hole golf

Mbawa as their round is likely to be accom-

the recently upgraded irrigation system, it is

courses spread across Malawi, along with

panied by exceptional viewing of wild animals

now playable year-round. Lilongwe Golf Club

just one 18-hole golf course; but this should

such as giraffe and zebras plus the ‘big six’

is home to the Malawi Open and continues to

antelope (kudu, eland, roan, sable, nyala

attract professional golfers from across the

and waterbuck) as well as a proliferation of

world.

not detract golfers from travelling to Malawi with the aim of enjoying a satisfying round.

Mbawa Country Club is

birdlife.

Game Haven Lodge provides first-rate accommodation and guests can enjoy beau-

Malawi has eight other golf courses. They

game park surrounded

tiful views of Mbawa Country Club. The lodge

include Blantyre Sports Club (founded in

by one of the last

has five luxurious en-suite cottages, each

1896), Limbe Country Club, Mulanje Golf

remaining indigenous

with a fireplace and a veranda. There is also

Course, Thyolo Golf Club and Nchalo Golf

areas of forest and

a choice of 20 spacious executive suites, all

Club. There is also a nine-hole, par-3 course

equipped with modern amenities to ensure a

at Mlambe belonging to the Makokola

located in a 500 acre

thoroughly comfortable stay. The decor in each room is a perfect complement

16

OTHER COURSES

Retreat on Lake Malawi.

PL ANTAT IONS

A planłałion holiday could be your cup of tea

M

alawi is quickly making a name for itself as a unique holiday destination thanks to the range of special visitor experiences on offer, from Lake Malawi to Mount Mulanje.

ACCOMMODATION

is set in grounds with manicured lawns and surrounded by gigantic blue gum trees. There

Chawani Bungalow is located on the working

are five tastefully decorated suites, quaintly

Fair Trade tea estate of Satemwa. Its beau-

named Mother’s Room, Father’s Room, The

tiful gardens are surrounded by tea fields,

Nursery, Planter’s Suite and The Chapel. All

making this an ideal getaway for family and

come with magnificent king-sized beds and

friends. This recently refurbished property is

superb bathrooms featuring clawed tubs,

available on a self-catering basis. Decorated

separate showers, bath robes and bamboo

Joining this stable of remarkable experi-

in Edwardian rustic style, the bungalow

cotton blend towels.

ences are tea plantation holidays offered at

retains the character and charm that have

the Thyolo estates. Tea has been grown here

made it so popular with visitors to the

for over a century and this accounts for the

Highlands over the years. Chawani Bungalow

signature landscape of the Shire Highlands,

has large entertainment rooms, a beautiful

The culinary experience here is second to

where tea-covered hills stretch as far as the

wooden deck and a fireplace for those cold

none, with an à la carte menu that features

eye can see. There are various packages on

nights. Staff members are on hand to make

meals made from locally sourced ingredients

offer that allow visitors to tour some of the

your stay more comfortable.

made to perfection by the resident chef.

opportunity to visit Malawi’s friendly farming

A short distant from Chawani Bungalow is

Huntingdon House is an ideal place to stop

communities as well as a chance to taste a

Huntingdon House, a charming boutique

and relax while exploring the countryside of

variety of indigenous tea at various factories

property. Once a family home, it is filled

Malawi and a perfect venue for visitors who

in the area.

with 19th-century pieces of art. The house

appreciate a temperate climate.

LOCALLY SOURCED

region’s estates. Some tours also include the

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

17

MOUNT MUL ANJE

M

ount Mulanje – known locally as ‘chilumba mu mlengalenga’ (‘island in the sky’) – covers an area of 650 sq km and is the highest peak in southern central Africa at an impressive 3,002 metres above sea level.

Fabulous world of

Tolkien’s favouriłe mounłain

The mountain, located in the south-eastern corner of Malawi, has a fascinating ecosystem. As many as 500 unique species of animals and plants are found here and the area is recognised as a biodiversity hot spot.

Since time immemorial there have been myths and legends about Mount Mulanje, mostly originating from the people of the local Lhomwe, Yao and Mang’anja communities, who believe that spirits control life on the mountain. It is said, for example, that the trees where the spirits live can regrow within a day of being cut down. It is also believed that the Dziwe la Nkhalamba pools at the head of the Likhubula River are inhabited by the spirits who can be spotted in human form swimming in the pools. A sighting is said to bring good luck.

One of the mountain’s most popular venues is the beautiful Likhubula Waterfalls and pools.

These can be accessed only on foot and are located about one hour from Likhubula

Akerbeltz | Wikimedia Commons | CC-BY-SA-3.0

Forest Office.

18

THE TOLKIEN CONNECTION The story goes that J.R.R Tolkien, author of ‘The Lord of the Rings’, visited Mount Mulanje in the 1930s and was inspired by its mystery, magic and beauty – so much so that he chose the mountain as part of the backdrop for his book. Many travellers

SMuyila | Wikimedia Commons | CC-BY-SA-3.0

have followed suit, seeking to experience the

from extinction.

magic of Malawi’s second most outstanding geographical feature after Lake Malawi.

The high rainfall, deep ravine and dense

On the south side of the mountain lies

vegetation have led to the

the Great Rift Valley, with spectacular

formation of many rivers

free-standing eroded mountains known as

which supply clean water to

monadnocks or inselbergs. Their geographical

thousands of households in the

features are similar to those described by

surrounding plains. The indigenous

Tolkien in ‘The Lord of the Rings’.

communities have always revered Mount Mulanje, seeing it as a gift from God that

Thuchila. The remaining hut,

Hiking to Mount Mulanje is an exceptional

preserves and sustains life. Traditional rites

Hope Rest Cottage, is maintained

experience, whether one approaches from the

are often performed to appease the mountain

by the Church of Central Africa,

south or north side of the mountain. Trails

spirits who provide the food that they culti-

Presbyterian (CCAP). All provide

are clearly marked and visitors can choose

vate and harvest. This settlement, however,

basic amenities for a comfortable

between a gentle trek and a serious climb.

has placed great pressure on the land and

stay including mattresses, cooking

Wildlife is limited on Mount Mulanje, but

this has led to a close working relationship

and eating utensils and other useful

vervet monkey, rock hyrax, leaf-nosed bat

between the Department of Forestry and

items. Visitors climbing Mount Mulanje

and klipspringer are not uncommon. Profes-

Mount Mulanje Conservation Trust (MMCT).

have the option to join the MCM. Benefits

sional porters and guides are on hand to help

They now spearhead conservation efforts

include the provision of cooking and camping

visitors get the best out of their experience.

aimed at protecting the forest’s irreplace-

kits and other basic equipment. Most of the

able natural resources as well as encouraging

huts have spectacular views of the terrain and

GRUELLING RACE

community participation.

are used regularly.

The Mount Mulanje Porters’ Race, held every

Also involved in conservation efforts is the

July, has been attracting both local and inter-

Mountain Club of Malawi, a social club for

WHAT TO WEAR

national participants since it was first held in

residents of Malawi and visitors affiliated with

Mountain weather can be severe and

the late 1990s. Definitely not for the faint-

mountain clubs internationally. The club aims

unpredictable. Visitors are advised to check

hearted, this 25 km event involves running

to encourage and assist people to make the

with local weather advisories before setting

up and across the challenging plateaux of the

most of the country’s unique opportunities as

off. Information and weather forecasts

mountain. Usually it would take about 12

well as helping to provide long-term solutions

relating to the main mountain areas of

hours to cover the whole distance, but some

for the conservation of natural resources.

Mulanje, Zomba, Dedza and Nyika are available at freemeteo.com.

athletes have done it in less than three hours.

The race is open to men and women. Although

The Mulanje Mountain Biodiversity Conserva-

it may be described as gruelling, the race is

tion Project contributes by raising awareness

considered a great alternative way to enjoy

of the value of biodiversity and its importance

the unique surroundings of the mountain.

for the local communities. This not only ensures

The country’s tea-growing industry is centred

that conservation takes place but also allows

around Mulanje and Thyolo in the south

the community to play its part in conservation.

of Malawi. The tea estates around Mount

FOREST RESERVE In 1927 the Mount Mulanje area was gazetted as a forest reserve owing to its

TEA PLANTATIONS

Mulanje bring the landscape to life and are

MOUNTAIN HUTS

part of Mulanje’s heritage. The mountain offers spectacular views of the plantations

unique ecosystem, home to a variety of rare

The Mountain Club of Malawi (MCM) works

stretching up to Mozambique. Various

life forms. The government felt it was impor-

with Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust

tea estates are open to the public. Tours

tant to create the reserve in order to protect

and the Forestry Department to maintain nine

give visitors a chance to learn more about

the area and safeguard the water catchment

of the 10 huts on Mount Mulanje: Chambe,

the various types of tea and how they are

as well as preserving indigenous flora such

Chinzama, Chisepo, France’s Cottage,

produced. Tea tastings are an enjoyable and

as Malawi’s national tree, the Mulanje cedar,

Lichenya, Madzeka, Minunu, Sombani and

popular part of these tours.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

19

EAT ING OUT

Upmarkeł or low budgeł –

you’ll eał well in Malawi

W

hether you’re exploring a city, going on a wilderness safari or relaxing on the lake shore, Malawi serves up an amazing culinary experience.

of this restaurant, a cosy retreat from the

cuisine at Alem Ethiopian Restaurant

city’s bustle.

(Victoria Avenue) is second to none, while Bombay Palace (Hanover Avenue) serves

The Sanctuary Restaurant on the corner of

popular curries in a great ambience.

Kenyatta and Youth Drive offers a cool dining experience with its silent fans and exposed-

Most upmarket hotels, lodges and resorts

brick decor. The serene ambience is enhanced

in Malawi offer a range of fine dining that

by mature fig trees in which cicadas sing.

includes buffets and private dining. Visitors to

Most restaurants serve traditional Malawian

This tin-roofed lodge offers an outstanding

Lake Malawi will find out-of-the-way restau-

cuisine, offering delicacies such as chambo (a

vegetarian menu as well as meatballs, fish,

rants serving freshly caught fish including

freshwater fish), vegetables in season and an

steaks and also breakfasts. In the evening,

chambo when in season. It is possible to have

assortment of meats cooked with traditional

guests can enjoy perfect privacy with a

a memorable dining experience by the lake on

herbs and spices. Word has it that Area 18

romantic candlelit dinner.

a relatively small budget.

AUTHENTIC

There are, however, also signature tourist

There are other speciality restaurants in

dining experiences.

serves the best street food in Lilongwe. Here, in rustic sheds, visitors will find barbecued fish, chicken and goat being served with traditional side dishes.

lodges across the country that offer classy fine

Lilongwe serving Chinese, Mediterranean and Indian cuisine. Blue Ginger located in Pacific

In both Lilongwe and Blantyre, fast food

Seasons Centre in Lilongwe

Mall in Area 10 serves authentic Indian

outlets are located in all the main shopping

serves mouth-watering steaks

cuisine in a beautifully designed dining area.

outlets and malls serving favourites such as

and a range of freshly made

Chicken vindaloo, a variety of fish curries and

chips, burgers, pizzas and fried chicken.

sandwiches. The restaurant is

an assortment of accompaniments are among

set in beautiful gardens with

the delicious items on offer. Many restaurants

lily ponds. Guests can opt to

with seafood on the menu serve prawns,

Buchanan’s Grill at the Four

dine indoors or on the terrace.

RELAXED For a relaxed night out, Don Brioni’s

mostly from Mozambique.

A number of pubs and clubs can be found in Lilongwe, serving popular international beverages and beers. For tourists who like

in the centre of town is highly recommended.

to dance the night away, Legends is

This recently renovated bistro offers quality

recommended.

Italian cuisine in a charming setting served by friendly hosts.

Blantyre, too, has a good selection of restaurants and watering holes.

20

Another popular spot is Mamma Mia’s in Old

As Malawi’s commercial hub, the

Town Mall, renowned for fresh pastas, pizzas,

city is home to various restaurants

seafood and an impressive wine list. Attentive

located in upmarket hotels dotted

staff are a key factor in the great atmosphere

around the city. The Ethiopian

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

21

CULTURE

Vibranł culłure łhał springs from tribal living

22

of cooperation is at the heart of all they do.

M

alawi, fondly known as the ‘The Warm Heart of Africa’, has a rich cultural heritage based on a symphony of tribes and traditions with a long history. The cultural diversity of Malawi (formerly Nyasaland) is a continuing source of fascination for historians and travellers alike.

Indigenous Malawians are of Bantu origin, which includes the Nyanja, Yao, Lomwe and Ngonde tribes. The Chewa are the most recognised tribal community and Chichewa is an official national language along with English. Both languages are part of the national education system and are spoken in many parts of the country.

Mealtimes are seen as an important cultural activity,

The first inhabitants are believed to have

bringing together the family

settled around what is now Lake Malawi as

as well as the larger commu-

long ago as 10,000 BC. It was not until 1859

nity. Food has always had

that the Scottish explorer David Livingstone

a special place, especially in

became the first European to set eyes on the

ceremonies such as initiation rites,

lake, which he named Lake Nyasa.

weddings and even burials. Malawians are renowned for their hospitality, going

Today, Malawi has both European and Indian

the extra mile to please guests, especially

communities that have added to its cultural

when it comes to cooking. In the villages,

diversification – particularly in the cuisine

‘chippies’ serve low-budget food, often

and entrepreneurial spirit to be found in the

cooked over an open fire. Local chefs pride

main cities of Lilongwe and Blantyre.

themselves on using the best readily available ingredients including fresh fruit and vegeta-

The life of indigenous communities has been

bles in season.

guided by traditional practices since time immemorial. This is especially so for rural communities, where a spirit

FRAGRANT Nsima is the staple food in Malawi – in the same way as fufu in Nigeria and ugali or posho in East Africa. It is a thick starch made from maize and usually served with a relish.

The locally grown fragrant rice is popular both locally and internationally and is served in most restaurants.

Malawi is a ‘Nation of Growers’ who depend on agriculture for their livelihood. Produce such as pineapples, guavas, mangoes, cucumbers and peanuts are common and, when in season, sugar, tea and tobacco are exported.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

23

CULTURE The Kungoni Centre of Culture and Art in Dedza District, about an hour’s drive from Lilongwe, brings together artists in a space where religious and cultural artefacts

tional cultural

are displayed. The centre, founded in

undertones) is rapidly

1976 by Claude Boucher Chisale, was one

gaining in popularity.

of the first training schools in Malawi to offer practical instruction in the development

Plays are widely enjoyed in

of artistic expression using natural resources.

Malawi and a budding theatrical community can be found in both

For about 40 years a notable number of

are sourced from

Lilongwe and Blantyre. Travelling theatre

Malawians who make a living from art as

natural products. Artists ‘immortalise’ wood,

companies go across the country, especially to

a form of cultural expression and preserva-

elephant grass and even seeds by turning

rural venues, performing comedy and drama.

tion have passed through the centre. Over the

them into pieces of art.

The theatres also give people access to works

years, art has provided local communities

published by local writers in a creative way,

with an alternative source of revenue to agri-

Museums across the country are maintained

bringing large groups together. Debates are

culture, so that families need not wait until

by the National Museums of Malawi through

often held after the show to discuss its under-

harvest time for their income. Every day is a

private and public collaborations. Blantyre is

lying message.

potential pay day.

home to the Museum of Malawi, also known as the Chichiri Museum, a major exhibition

UNIVERSAL

ARTS AND CRAFTS

centre for the natural and cultural heritage of the nation. There are guided tours, lectures,

The traditional music of Malawi has a

Visitors to the cultural centre can purchase

film shows, traditional dances and excursions

distinct sound that has been influenced by the

high-quality arts and crafts, original pieces

that help visitors to understand the artefacts

cultures of eastern and southern Africa. There

that are never duplicated. Masters of the

as well as an impressive ethnology collec-

are different types of instruments across

tion from Malawi’s history. The government

tribes but, as in most African communities,

has also helped to establish mobile museums

the drum is universal. Some of the traditional

to make culture and history accessible to

musicians have found reached the interna-

children and communities in rural areas.

tional stage such as Alan Namoko and folk

craft teach novice artists until they, too, become masters and this is how it has been since the art school began. At the centre, Claude Boucher teaches the idea that ‘sand becomes

fusionists Pamtondo. Tony Bird, famous for

crystal’ and almost anything

Archaeological finds, including traces of

his anti-colonial lyrics, combined traditional

can be turned into creative

prehistoric man found in Malawi, can be

Malawian sounds with Dutch melodies and

art. The artists are encour-

viewed in the museum. There is a large collec-

reached stardom in the 1980s when he toured

aged to be environmentally

tion of insects and geological matter found

with the South African group Ladysmith

conscious as most raw materials

in 1981. One of the museum’s most popular

Black Mombazo.

features is an outdoor exhibition relating to the modernisation of transport in Malawi.

Various cultural festivals are held throughout the year including the end-of-year celebra-

24

There is an impressive fraternity of authors

tions with traditional music, fireworks and

such as John Lwanda, Harvey Sindima,

plenty to eat and drink. The Malapenga

Frank Chipasula and Aubrey Kachingwe who

Dance Season in August is a traditional

have captured the attention of readers both

celebration of one of Malawi’s most iconic

at home and abroad. Although the tradition

art forms. The day is marked by exhibitions

is predominantly oral, through storytelling

around the country to showcase Malawi’s

and proverbs, the written word (with tradi-

cultural heritage.

AIRL INES

Rebirłh of flagship airline is good news for Malawi

Johannesburg and Harare, with plans to expand into East Africa in the near future.

Passengers flying Malawian Airlines enjoy signature Malawian hospitality service from

W

hen Malawian Airlines announced it would be launching its operation and taking its first inaugural flight at the beginning of 2014, there was just cause for celebration.

Airlines owns 49 per cent of Malawi Airline

the cabin crew; and the domestic service

Ltd, the Malawi Government 20 per cent and

between Lilongwe and Blantyre makes

Malawian citizens the remaining 31 per cent

business travel within Malawi that much

with about $20 million of start-up capital

more convenient.

invested by Ethiopian Airlines.

In addition, there are now daily flights to The much-needed capital investment in

Johannesburg from Lilongwe with a stopover

Malawian Airlines has resulted in the acquisi-

in Blantyre – the first time daily flights have

tion of two new-generation aircraft: a 67-seat

been available from Lilongwe or Blantyre to

Formerly Air Malawi, the carrier was

Johannesburg.

rebranded after the government identified a strategic partner, Ethiopian Airlines,

This year and next, Malawian Airlines will

to get the airline back on its feet.

open up routes to Mozambique, flying to Beira and Tete, as well as to the Kenyan

Through a public-private part-

capital, Nairobi. Passengers can take advan-

nership agreement, Ethiopian

tage of Ethiopian Airlines’ Star Alliance membership programme, which offers a range of benefits including very competitive air fares worldwide.

Things are definitely looking up for Malawian Airlines as it continues to offer value-formoney air travel into the Warm Heart of Africa and beyond. The airline is expected to be an invaluable asset for Malawi as it gears up to support the business and tourism sector Bombardier Q400 (with business class) and a

through domestic and international travel.

Boeing 737-800.

Residents of Malawi can also look forward Malawian Airlines took to the skies on

to easier access to education and medical

31 January and has since established

services as the airline opens up more routes

regular routes to southern Africa, including

in the region.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

25

AIRPORTS

Airporłs offer

bełłer-than-ever faciliłies and Lilongwe Handling Company

K

amuzu International Airport, about 35 km north of Lilongwe, is Malawi's main airport. It has modern facilities including a website providing useful up-to-date information for those planning to travel to Malawi.

to ensure that airport services are

delivered efficiently and to international standards.

The major international carriers Malawian Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways and South African Airways operate services to and from Kamuzu offering flights to key

SAFARI

BY ULENDO

destinations worldwide.

The relatively new main terminal is managed by Airport Developments Ltd (ADL), a commercial parastatal that is wholly owned by the Government of

BLANTYRE

in 1998, is one of Malawi’s leading tour operators and service providers.

The commercial city of Blantyre is served

by Chileka International Airport, located 16

Ulendo deals with inbound international

km from the city centre. To cope with the

travel from Europe and North America.

growth in international traffic into Blantyre,

Together with its original partner, Club

also owned by ADL, provides

there has been strategic investment in the

Makokola, it provides support services such

in-flight meals at Kamuzu

renovation of airport buildings and runways.

as ground handling for tourists travelling to

International Airport as well

These renovations are to be carried out

Mfuwe Lodge and the Bushcamp Company

as catering services at the

mostly in the course of 2014 and 2015. All

in Zambia as well as Makokola Retreat in

Terminal Restaurant, bars

the major carriers into Malawi also operate

Malawi. Recently a 25 per cent interest in

and Tilipano Leisure Centre in

into Chileka, thus providing a convenient

Ulendo was acquired by the owners of Kaya

travel option for both leisure and business

Mawa Lodge on Likoma Island.

Malawi.

Malawi Catering Services Ltd,

Hansueli Krapf | Wikimedia Commons | CC-BY-SA-3.0

The Ulendo group of companies, established

Lumbadzi.

customers.

ADL works closely with key

26

Ulendo has won top agent awards from South There is a series of airports located across

African Airways, British Airways, KLM and

ment of Civil Aviation, the Department

Malawi, handling mostly charter flights to

Kenya Airways in Malawi and is accredited

of Immigration, the Department of Port

the popular centres of tourism. They include

by the International Air Transport Associa-

Health, the Malawi Police Service, the

Kasungu, Likoma, Chelinda Makhanga,

tion (IATA). The group continues to introduce

Malawi Revenue Authority, Air Cargo Ltd

Makokola Retreat and Salima.

new products and services.

stakeholders such as the Depart-

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

27

SS RENT A CAR

Bigger is better for firsł-rałe car hire industry. It has a reputation for high stand-

company also has motorcycles available for

S Rent A Car has the distinction of being not only the longestrunning car rental company in Malawi but also the largest.

ards in terms of the quality of its vehicles.

hire.

LARGEST FLEET

The company’s fully equipped garage ensures

Today, in addition to operating the largest

fleet. A 24-hour back-up service is in place.

Wholly owned and entirely run by the

fleet of rental cars in Malawi, SS Rent A Car

Singh family, this Malawian company was

can also lay claim to the country’s newest

SS Rent A Car employs a professional team

founded in 1978 and boasts the largest fleet

fleet of vehicles. Its vehicle fleet ranges from

with a broad knowledge of the car rental

of vehicles in the country. As the country’s

small cars to executive saloons and from

business and of Malawi. The team also has

oldest car rental company, SS Rent A Car has

four-wheel-drive vehicles to utility vehicles

experience in cross-border travel and is able

been responsible for setting the trend in the

and trucks. It offers a selection of Mercedes-

to advise customers on all aspects of their

Benz vehicles in its executive range, while its

journey.

S

a high level of service and maintenance of its

saloon cars, 4x4 vehicles and off-roaders are supplied by Nissan, Suzuki and Toyota.

Whether it’s a business trip or a tour, a group holiday or a conference, a wedding

SS Rent A Car can provide both 16-seat

or even a funeral, SS Rent A Car aims to

and 30-seat buses, while for lovers of

provide each customer with a satisfactory

adventure the

and personalised level of service.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

29

CROSSROADS HOTEL

Locałion and luxury in Lilongwe

A

t the Crossroads Hotel in Lilongwe it’s all about location and luxury. Ideally situated in the heart of the central business district, about 25 minutes from Kamuzu International Airport, the hotel offers ready access to government buildings, the diplomatic district, the offices of major NGOs and other key amenities.

Linked to the Crossroads Shopping Complex, the hotel caters for both leisure and business travellers, offering business services, state-of-the-art conference facilities and contemporary dining.

Guests can enjoy a memorable stay at this elegant hotel, with its reputation enhanced by good staff, personalised service, beautifully appointed dining venues and a luxury spa.

ELEGANTLY STYLED Accommodation consists of 101 elegantly styled and varied rooms, with 21 superior

Professional, fully serviced

twin rooms, 21 superior queen rooms, four

meeting rooms are avail-

superior suites, four superior family rooms,

able for the convenience

a superior barrier-free room, 16 deluxe twin

of business guests, while

rooms, 23 deluxe queen rooms and seven

banqueting and confer-

deluxe suites. Each spacious room is fitted with fine furniture and luxurious fabrics.

ence facilities meet all event requirements, from

In-room facilities include air condi-

weddings and banquets to

tioning, internet connection and en-suite

conferences and exhibitions.

bathroom with complimentary toiletries.

There is also an express laundry service.

DECORATED

The hotel is conveniently located within

The hotel has 2,000 square metres of meeting

the Crossroads Shopping Complex, which

and banqueting space with 10 well appointed

has eating places, coffee shops, banks, a filling station, a gift shop, a supermarket and a range of shops.

meeting rooms consisting of four boardrooms, an auditorium and five multipurpose rooms. Each room is uniquely decorated and equipped with the latest audio-visual equip-

The delightful 18-hole, par 72 Lilongwe Golf

ment. Capacities range from 10 to 3,000

Club is just five minutes’ drive from the hotel.

people for receptions and up to 800 people for

Guests can also visit Lake Malawi.

dinners.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

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RIVERSIDE

Privacy, łranquilliły

and ałłenłion ło dełail The hotel has 110 deluxe rooms

R

iverside Hotel and Conference Centre is part of one of the fastest-growing hotel chains in Malawi. It is situated in a green residential area in the heart of the city and just 25 km from the international airport.

with modern facilities including Wi-Fi, multi-channel DStv, minibar and safe. Each room is elegant in style and comes with air conditioning, minibar, telephone, DStv, fully fitted bathroom, separate hanging closets and an executive writing desk.

In close proximity to both the old town and

Privacy, tranquillity and personal attention

the main business areas of the city, this fully

are the features that appeal to both business

air conditioned hotel is located in a safe

travellers and leisure guests, drawing them

and quiet area, ideal for both tourists and

back to the Riverside Hotel experience time

business travellers.

and time again.

DISTINCTIVE The hotel also features a spa and one of the

For palates accustomed to refined tastes, the

best conferencing facilities in Malawi for all

hotel offers a whole new culinary dimen-

categories of business meetings. It offers a

sion. No trip to Lilongwe would be complete

selection of distinctive facilities for banquets,

without at least one memorable meal at

conferences, seminars, meetings and social

Riverside Hotel. The options at Riverside are

events.

sure to liven up any experience of dining in Lilongwe.

For fine dining, the multi-cuisine Charcoal offers a unique experience to suit any occasion. Monalisa, the 24-hour coffee shop, serves authentic regional fast food along with refreshing hot and cold beverages and some of the best dessert recipes.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

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GOLDEN PEACOCK

A landmark in słand-ouł hospiłaliły T

he spacious and impressive fourstar Sogecoa Golden Peacock Hotel in Lilongwe is a stand-out property that has become one of the city’s best-known landmarks since it opened in August 2012.

It has brought new levels of style and

The hotel’s main restaurant specialises in

first-rate facilities, and a banquet hall for

Continental, Chinese and Indian cuisine.

up to 245 people. The hotel complex covers

There is also a coffee bar and four VIP

30,000 square metres and there is about

restaurants, one for 20 guests and three for

10,000 square metres of grassed areas for

10 guests each.

parties and weddings.

Leisure facilities include a 25 metre open-air

The Sogecoa Golden Peacock Hotel is

swimming pool and a gym. Complimentary

located on Plot 13/97 in Area 13 along the

internet connection is provided in all guest

Presidential Way in the City Centre. It is

rooms.

one of many Sogecoa hotels in 36 countries

sophistication to Lilongwe while meeting the previously unfulfilled needs of those visiting Malawi from China and the Far East. Over 50 per cent of the hotel’s guests are from China.

including Zimbabwe, Mozambique,

FACILITIES

Côte d’Ivoire and Madagascar.

The conference centre has various fully functional meeting rooms to suit different

The hotel has 245 clean and spacious rooms

purposes for up to 600 delegates, as well as

comprising deluxe twins, deluxe queens, as

seven 35 seat meeting rooms. Other amenities

well as deluxe and presidential suites. The

include a boutique, a hair and beauty salon, a

presidential suites were used by visiting heads

massage facility and a fitness centre, all with

of state during the 2012 COMESA summit in Malawi, when two presidents chose to stay at the Sogecoa Golden Peacock.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

35

ETHIOPIAN AIRL INES

Unrivalled air services in Africa

E

thiopian Airlines (Ethiopian) is said to be the fastest-growing airline in Africa. In nearly 70 years of operations, Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success.

Ethiopian commands the lion’s share of the

Ethiopian is the first airline in Africa to own

pan-African passenger and cargo network,

and operate these aircraft.

operating the youngest and most modern fleet to more than 80 international destinations

Ethiopian is implementing a 15-year

across five continents.

strategic plan called Vision 2025 that will see it become the leading aviation

ULTRA MODERN

group in Africa with seven business

The Ethiopian fleet includes ultra-

Airline; Ethiopian International Passenger

centres: Ethiopian Domestic and Regional

modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as the Boeing 787, Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 777-200LR, Boeing

Airline; Ethiopian Cargo; Ethiopian MRO; Ethiopian Aviation Academy; Ethiopian In-flight Catering Services; and Ethiopian Ground Service.

777-200LR Freighter and Bombardier Q-400 with double cabin. In fact,

Ethiopian is a multi-award-winning airline registering an average growth of 25 per cent in the past seven years.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

37

COUNTRY WIDE CAR HIRE

Reliable vehicles

for all łerrains

areas, but they are not ideal for the country’s

Countrywide offers a choice of over 50 vehicles

rural terrain. Countrywide Car Hire offers

of various makes, types and configurations

more than just alternative transport in rural

suitable for all terrains and occasions in

terrain. The cost of maintaining high-quality,

Malawi. Its fleet includes, but is not limited

reliable and glamorous vehicles is prohibi-

to, Toyota (Corolla, Hilux, Fortuner, Land

tive for most people in Malawi including

Cruiser, Prado GX, VX), Nissan (Teana, Patrol,

organisations, private companies, government

Hardbody), Suzuki (Vitara, Jimny), Volkswagen

institutions and tourists.

(Polo, Jetta), Mercedes-Benz and Volvo.

Whether the car is required for business or

All vehicles come with power steering, air

prestige, Countrywide is an excellent choice.

conditioning, fire extinguisher, radio, CD and

The growth in second-hand vehicles in Malawi

It offers reliable, comfortable and brand-new

MP3 player and are fitted with an alarm

has eased the transport problem in urban

vehicles that are serviced by dealers.

system and a car tracking device.

C

ountrywide Car Hire stands out from the crowd as the preferred option for car hire in Malawi, with a range of distinctive services. It offers a fleet of brand-new vehicles, flexible conditions, tailor-made services and a guaranteed customer service.

Key service for łravellers M

SB Forex Bureau, a wholly owned subsidiary of Malawi Savings Bank Limited was incorporated in August 2006.

MSB FOREX BUREAU

sends and receives money through Western

Malawians wishing to travel abroad and

Union and Money Gram money transfer

holding a valid passport and travel ticket

services. It is a registered bureau which

or documentation can buy forex, as can any

adheres to the Reserve Bank of Malawi rules

foreigner with a valid work permit and a

and regulations.

residency of over six months for those staying in Malawi. Those visiting will need proof that

MSB Forex Bureau has outlets in the

they sold forex while in Malawi.

following locations: KIA and Chileka The bureau buys and sells foreign currencies

international airports, Mwanza and Songwe Borders, Limbe – Aram Mall, Blantyre – Unit

WHY CHOOSE MSB FOREX BUREAU?

in US dollars, South

House, Lilongwe Capital City – Kang’ombe

• Highly competitive rates

African rands, euros,

House, Lilongwe – Gelu House (opposite

• No commission

British pounds and

Lilongwe Hotel), Zomba – Umodzi House,

• Friendly staff

Tanzanian shillings.

Mzuzu – MSB House, and Mangochi –

• Fast and efficient service

The bureau also

Mangochi Boma.

• Forex always available.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

39

Superb accommodałion,

fabulous wałer sporłs

I

magine a luxury lodge beside a beautiful lake in the heart of Africa with a focus on sailing and water sports. This is exactly what Danforth Yachting on Lake Malawi has to offer.

DANFORTH

aboard yacht of its kind on Lake Malawi. The ‘Mufasa’ sleeps eight guests in comfort and style and there is a choice of sailing safaris of between five and 11 nights’ duration.

Guests can be as active or as relaxed as

It focuses on sailing and water sports, deliv-

they choose. Water sports instructors are on

ering all-round excellence.

hand to give expert tuition in water-skiing, wakeboarding, snorkelling and sailing. There

Danforth Lodge has eight en-suite rooms,

is also a range of land-based activities.

all with spectacular views of the lake and overlooking Thumbi West Island. The garden

The on-site PADI scuba diving centre is fully

Danforth is both a yacht charter company

leads to a beachside infinity pool. The lodge

equipped and there is a resident dive instructor.

and a luxury lodge. Danforth Lodge at Cape

operates on a full-board basis. Dining is in the

Courses and casual diving are offered to

Maclear offers superb accommodation in

thatched beachside gazebo.

guests. There are more than 20 dive sites in

an idyllic location bordering Lake Malawi

and around Cape Maclear. Lake Malawi is

National Park and surrounded by islands.

Moored nearby is the 11.5 metre luxury yacht

ideal for diving enthusiasts, with clear, fresh,

Danforth Yachting was established by owners

‘Mufasa’. This fully equipped and crewed

warm water, no tides or currents and over 600

Howard and Michelle Massey-Hicks in 2001.

oceangoing catamaran is the only live-

species of brightly coloured tropical fish.

Place of beauły for all ło en joy

AFRICAN PARKS MAJETE

and black rhino they include buffalo, eland,

T

he 700 sq km Majete Wildlife Reserve is located in the Lower Shire Valley, part of Africa’s Great Rift Valley. It became a protected area in 1955.

In the 1980s and 1990s poachers and a lack of resources caused widespread damage to the

Parks for the rehabilitation, development and

sable, waterbuck, nyala, hartebeest, impala,

management of Majete.

zebra and warthog. Leopards were reintroduced from October 2011 and three lions in 2012.

Through this partnership, African Parks (Majete) was born. Since then, with the

The project has been a big success, prompting

help of donors and government support, the

a call for more such ventures elsewhere in the

reserve has been restocked with wildlife, a

country.

perimeter fence has been installed to protect the local communities and a successful

A total of 130,000 people live around Majete

tourism product has begun.

and they have input into park management

park; but in 2003 the Govern-

via community-based organisations. Sustain-

ment of Malawi entered into

Over 2,559 animals of 14 species have been

able resource harvesting is permitted within

a 25-year public-private

reintroduced to Majete to supplement the small

the park, and micro-enterprises have been

partnership with African

mammal population. In addition to elephant

initiated.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

41

Getting more value for your cash

E

stablished in 1998, Victoria Forex Bureau has become the leading foreign exchange bureau in Malawi.

VICTORIA FOREX BUREAU

pleasant, modern, spacious premises while they complete their business.

sector by offering a confidential, competitive

Victoria Forex has a Limbe branch along

and reliable customer service provided by

Churchill Road at Arram Mall; and it also

friendly and efficient staff.

has a bureau in the arrivals hall of Blantyre’s Chileka International Airport for those

This successful and vibrant organisation has

arriving in Malawi.

become the leading forex bureau for buying and selling of foreign currencies. A Victoria

For visitors to Lilongwe, on holiday or

Forex is never far away.

business, Victoria Forex has a centrally located bureau in the Shoprite Centre in Old

The demand for banking services has grown with globalisation and

Strategically located in the central business

Town. And in April 2014 the bureau opened

district of Blantyre along Victoria Avenue,

a new branch in the Shoprite complex in the heart of Mzuzu.

so has the demand for foreign currencies.

Victoria Forex offers competitive rates and

Some banks can keep customers waiting in

charges no commission on its services, so

long queues. By contrast, Victoria Forex

that customers get real value for money.

Victoria Forex Bureau is also an agent for

has tackled this shortcoming in the banking

At Victoria Forex, customers can relax in

MoneyGram and Western Union.

Exciłing iłineraries

L AND AND L AKE SAFARIS

and sell-ouł safaris

Based in Lilongwe Old Town, this family-run

L

and and Lake Safaris is a company with 26 years in the business and its staff know Zambia and Malawi like the backs of their hands.

company has partners throughout Malawi and Zambia, so guests can be sure of a warm welcome. Regional guided tours, self-guided itineraries, car hire, transfers and a lodge reservation service can all be arranged by Land and Lake. Catering for individuals and private bookings as well as large

In addition to its sell-out South Luangwa

specialised groups, the company can tailor any

safaris, the company has introduced exciting

itinerary to the client’s specific needs.

new itineraries, with tours in North and

Centre and Dzalanyama School Project. It is

South Malawi as well as day trips and short

Land and Lake is committed to responsible

a member of the Malawi Tourism Association

breaks in the Central Region.

tourism and supports the Lilongwe Wildlife

and the Wildlife Society of Malawi.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

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A special ambience in łhe game park

GAME HAVEN LODGE

MBAWA COUNTRY CLUB

There is also a choice of 20 spacious execu-

Mbawa Country Club offers a selection of

ame Haven Lodge is set in the serene and beautiful 500-acre Chimwenya Game Park, conserving Malawi's wildlife, about 20 km from Blantyre. The park is located in one of the last remaining indigenous forests and grasslands of the Shire Highlands of southern Malawi.

tive suites. Two conference halls in this quiet

family-orientated recreational activities. It

environment provides the ideal venue for any

gives access to a first-class golf course and a

event or meeting.

brand-new clubhouse complete with a sports

cuisine at the Ambrosia Restaurant, relax in

Guests can enjoy a sundowner on the

In this tranquil setting there are five luxu-

the picturesque swimming pool or go fishing

clubhouse veranda and patio as they watch

rious en-suite cottages, each with a fireplace

and braaing at Nswala Malo lounge bar,

the sun set behind the Mbawa trees and

and a veranda offering exceptional views.

Lake Bvumbwe.

game park.

G

bar as well as access to Lake Bvumbwe and The game park contains giraffe, eland, roan,

Mwana Park at Game Haven Lodge. Other

kudu, wildebeeste, sable, zebra, nyala, impala

features include a swimming pool, discounts

and waterbuck. There are game drives,

on certain facilities and opportunities to drive

walks, and mountain bike trails through the

or walk in the game park.

park to view the wildlife. Enjoy international

Escape from łhe ordinary F

isherman’s Rest offers enchanting accommodation, from lodges to camping, in a 50-acre private park on the edge of the escarpment, overlooking the Great Rift Valley.

From its location 2,000 ft up the escarpment it offers magnificent

Accommodation consists of The Lodge, with

The camp site, accessible by foot is a five

four bedrooms, a lounge, dining room, khonde

minute walk into the park. Group bookings,

and kitchen for self-catering groups; The

dry season only.

Cottage, with two bedrooms, a bathroom, lounge/dining room, kitchen and khonde; The Woodland Suites, surrounded by a khonde,

COMMUNITY PROJECTS

with two en-suite bedrooms and self-contained

Fisherman’s Rest also organises unforget-

family accommodation; and The Teahouse,

table holidays including day trips and tours

accommodating more permanent visitors,

to national parks, wildlife reserves and

workers and gap year students with comfort.

the famous Lake of Stars, using lodges

views over the Shire Valley. It is also close to Blantyre, with

F ISHERMAN’S REST

and venues to meet all budgets. It offers There are also two Bushcamp Hides, located

opportunities for individuals and groups to

its many restaurants and

in the park, with double beds, shower and

help community projects in schools, clinics,

places to visit.

bathroom facilities.

prisons, orphanages, churches and villages.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

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BLUE ZEBRA ISL AND LODGE

Exclusive lakeside hideaway T

ucked away on Nankoma Island, part of the Marelli Island archipelago on Lake Malawi, Blue Zebra Island Lodge is an exclusive retreat offering delightful accommodation and a range of land and water-based activities.

protection of Lake Malawi National Park,

these three islands offer a unique opportu-

nity to see Malawi’s rare cichlid fish, which

Activities include kayaking, boat trips to

account for the area’s status as a Unesco

explore the beautiful archipelago and lake,

World Heritage Site. The islands are also

fishing, sunset cruises, snorkelling, bird-

renowned for their dazzling array of birdlife.

watching and scuba diving.

Accommodation available includes luxury

Beach and safari lodges are found in plenty

tented chalets offering en-suite bathroom and

across Africa, but what makes Blue Zebra

other first-rate facilities as well as private

Island Lodge a unique experience is its

access to the lake.

location in a completely uninhabited area, yet only an hour from the capital, Lilongwe.

Less than two hours from Lilongwe, Blue

The lodge also has five safari chalets which

There is nothing quite like it anywhere else in

Zebra is located on an unspoilt island

are set on the hillside overlooking the lodge

the world.

surrounded by nature and luxury. Under the

and lake.

IDEAL TRAVEL & TOURS

The advenłure starłs here

arrange car hire and transfers, book

I

deal Travel and Tours is a locally owned and fully registered travel agency operating from Lilongwe and serving clients from all over the world.

flights and take care of accommodation bookings.

The company ensures that all safaris conform to green tourism principles by choosing destinations on the basis of strict regulations in terms of the

The team of dedicated staff at Ideal

environment and interaction with

Travel and Tours has many years of

local people.

experience in different sectors of the tourism industry. Its experienced drivers, guides and travel consultants offer a high level of personalised service.

As well as organising tailor-made travel experiences, the company can

AFRICA WILD TRUCK

Take łhe road less łravelled

A

frica Wild Truck is a tour operator that organises expeditions rather than trips.

than luxury. In addition to the classic expeditions, there are specialised photographic workshops with experienced photographers.

Inspired by ecotourism, Africa Wild

It offers a combination of adventure

Truck is involved with nature conser-

and responsible tourism on the ‘road

vation projects, donating part of its

less travelled’ throughout Malawi,

income to conservation projects such

Zambia, Mozambique and neigh-

as Around AWT.

bouring countries.

The tours provided by Africa Wild Truck allow guests to experience the life of Africa from a fully equipped, self-sufficient 4x4 vehicle. These tours are about adventure rather

KWACHA DAWN

Enjoy łhe full Malawian experience offers a family-friendly service that

allows its customers to fully appreciate the magic of beautiful Malawi and its

C

ustomers who choose to travel in a Kwacha Dawn safari car are bound to enjoy the full Malawian experience.

wonderful people.

Kwacha Dawn not only gives priority to the safety and comfort of its customers but also provides well serviced and maintained

As one of the best safari car hire companies in the country, Kwacha Dawn

48

vehicles to suit every taste and need.

Creałe a wilderness adventure

T

ongole Wilderness Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge nestled deep among the beautiful Miombo woodlands of the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve.

TONGOLE

adventure

at Tongole can be fully customised and personally tailored to allow guests to be as wild or laid-back as they wish.

It is unique in being one of only two lodges in the reserve and the only lodge

Following the snaking Bua River on

to provide high-end, luxury accommo-

a canoeing adventure; trek through

dation and first-class facilities.

the rugged wilderness bush with an expert guide; or just relax in

Each experience in the wilderness is

a hand-built sunken bath before

unique. Whether you’re a first-time

enjoying a meal under the starlit

explorer or a safari veteran, every

African sky.

HU_CESS EXECUT IVE LODGE

Homely and exclusive lodge There is also a laundry service. The

L

ocated in Lilongwe, the Hu_cess Executive Lodge offers nine spacious air conditioned rooms and a private swimming pool.

lodge also has a bar and restaurant, Wi-Fi and a back-up power generator.

The whole lodge can also be rented exclusively. A large, fully equipped kitchen is available.

The lodge is only 30 minutes by car from

Each room comes with a TV with

Kamuzu International Airport. There are

satellite channels (DStv), safety deposit

shopping malls and restaurants within a

box, minibar and tea/coffee facilities.

20-minute walk of the lodge.

DESTINATION MALAWI 2015-16

49

L IST INGS INDEX

A

Cedar Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Golden Peacock Resthouse . . . . . . 54

Chatonda Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Green Gold Restaurant . . . . . . . . . 62

Africa House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Chenjes Nest Guesthouse . . . . . . . . 75

Green Valley Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Africa Wild Truck . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Chez Maky Restaurant . . . . . . . . . 78

African Parks Majete . . . . . . . . . . 68

Chibanja City Resthouse . . . . . . . . 66

Alcon Cottages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Chichiri Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Alem Ethiopian Restaurant . . . . . . 75

Chicken Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Andrews Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Chilembwe Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Haest Restaurant & Resthouse . . . . 78

Annie’s Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Chipoka Lakeview Beach Lodge . . 58

Hakuna Matata Campsite . . . . . . . 63

Aonenji Nsanje Lodge . . . . . . . . . . 58

Chitimba Campsite . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Hertz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Apex Rent-a-Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Cluny Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Heuglin's Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Aqua Africa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Comfort Inn Bed & Breakfast . . . . 75

Hippo View Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Aquanuts Divers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Conforzi Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Hong Kong Restaurant . . . . . . . . . 78

Area 3 Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Cool Runnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Horizon Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Aro Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Country Accommodation & Annexe 66

Hotel Masongola . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Avis Malawi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Countrywide Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . 59

Hotel Victoria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Creamy Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

House Five Guesthouse . . . . . . . . . 71

Crescent Guest House . . . . . . . . . . 53

Hu_cess Executive Lodge . . . . . . . 54

Crossroads Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . . 60

B

Crossroads Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Bangwe Motel . . . . . . . 68

I

Barefoot Safaris . . . . . 59 Beach Chamber Motel . 66 Beach Villa . . . . . . . . . 53

Ilala Crest Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

D Danforth Yachting (Lodge & Yacht

Best Car Hire . . . . . . . . 61 Betania Lodge . . . . . . . . 75

Charters) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Big Brother Lodge . . . . . . 68

Daree Rent a Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Blantyre Lodge . . . . . . . . . . 68

Dorvic Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

J B Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Blue Elephant Restaurant . . . . 75

Dziwa zako Resthouse . . . . . . . . . . 66

J&K Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

J

Blue Lagoon Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Jambo Africa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Blue Zebra Island Lodge . . . . . . . . 53

Jaset Resthouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Bombay Palace Restaurant . . . . . . 78 Bongani Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Jenda Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

E, F

Buchanan’s Restaurant . . . . . . . . . 59

Fat Monkeys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Budget Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Fisherman’s Rest . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Flame Tree Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Floja Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Food & Refreshments Centre . . . . . 78

C

Jungle Pepper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

K Kabula Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Kaka Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Caesar Palace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Kameza Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Café Rouge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Kande Beach Campsite . . . . . . . . . 63

Cairo Resthouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

50

H

G

Kande Horse & The Stables

California Dreams . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Galitos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Guest House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Cape Mac Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Game Haven Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Kanjedza Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Casa Mia Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Gapa Resthouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Kanjinga Town Lodge . . . . . . . . . . 58

Causerie Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Garden Court Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Kapata Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

CCAP Likhubula House . . . . . . . . . 69

Gecko Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Kapenga Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Kara O’Mula Country Lodge . . . . . 71

Mushroom Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Kaya Papaya Restaurant . . . . . . . . 66

Mvuu Lodge and Camp . . . . . . . . . 72

Kayak Africa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Mwai wa Abambo . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Khamalanga Rest House . . . . . . . . 58

Mwanza Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Khulubvi Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Mzoozoozoo Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Kiboko Town Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Kips Restaurants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

M

Korea Garden Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . 54

M’bawa Country Club . . . . . . . . . . 77

Krazy Foods Restaurants . . . . . . . . 79

Madidi Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Kukuza Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Madison Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Nanchengwa Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Kumbali Country Lodge . . . . . . . . 54

Maji Zuwa Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Ndindeya Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Kupenja Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Malawi Sun Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Nelly’s Guest House . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Kuti Wildlife Reserve . . . . . . . . . . 60

Malawian Style . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Nezzer Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

N

Mamma Mia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Ng’ona Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Masuku Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Ngala Beach Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Matechanga Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Ngara Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Matunkha Safari Lodge . . . . . . . . 64

Niyasu Guest Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Mayoka Beach Lodge . . . . . . . . . . 64

Njamba Club House & Take Away . 79

Mbuta Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Njaya Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Lakeside Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Mgoza Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Nkhotakota Lay Training Centre . . 62

Legacy Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Mikoma Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Nkhumano Resthouse . . . . . . . . . . 66

Leslie Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Milestone Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Noble China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Likhubula Forest Lodge . . . . . . . . 71

Mimiza Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Norman Carr Cottage . . . . . . . . . . 73

Lilongwe Golf Club . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Mimosa Court Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Nsanje Discovery Lodge . . . . . . . . 73

LISAP Guesthouse . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Mkulumadzi Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Nyachenda Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Lodge Mungo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Mkunkhula Baobab Lodge . . . . . . . 55

Nyala Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

London Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Mo & Mic Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Nyambadwe Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Lujeri Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Moni Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Lusangazi Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Motel Paradise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Luwawa Forest Lodge . . . . . . . . . . 63

Mphatso Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Lwesha Resthouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Mphiri Guesthouse . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Kwacha Dawn Safari . . . . . . . . . . 77

L L’Hostaria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

O Oriental Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Mphiri Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Mpingwe Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Mufasa Backpackers . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Mulanje Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Mulanje View Motel . . . . . . 76 Mundikhumbengi Lodge 66

P Pacific Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Palm Beach Leisure Resort . . . . . . 76 Pasfic Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Pastoral Training centre . . . . . . . . 67 Pat & Ashley Town Lodge . . . . . . . 76 Pedro’s Grill & Lodge . . . . . . . . . . 73 Peter’s Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Pine Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Pine Tree Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Pizza Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Planet Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 DESTINATION DESTINATION MALAWI MALAWI 2015-16 2015

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L IST INGS INDEX Protea Hotel Ryalls . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Sunbird Capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Pumulani Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Sunbird Ku Chawe . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Q, R

U

Sunbird Lilongwe . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Ufulu Gardens Conference

Sunbird Livingstonia . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Centre & Suite Hotel . . . . . . . . . . 57

Sunbird Mount Soche . . . . . . . . . . 74

Ulendo Explorer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Sunbird Mzuzu Hotel . . . . . . . . . . 65

Ulendo Lodges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Raza Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Sunbird Nkopola Lodge . . . . . . . . 74

Red Pepper Restaurant & Bar . . . . 79

Sungawana Resthouse . . . . . . . . . . 67

Red Zebra Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Sungeni Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Renaissance Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Sunrise Ground Tours . . . . . . . . . . 78

V

Riverside Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Vas Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Riverside Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Venice Beach Backpackers . . . . . . 75

Rob & Wills . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Villa 33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Royal Palm Hotel . . . . . . . 76 Ruby’s Guesthouse . . . . . 76

T

Village Green Garden lodge . . . . . . 76 Tasty Bites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Viyere Resthouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Temptations Coffee Shop . . . . . . . . 79 Terrapin Station (Doogles) Lodge . 79

S

The African Parks Network . . . . . . 68

W

Sabonabona Lodge . . . . 67

The Makokola Retreat . . . . . . . . . .71

Wakwenda Retreat . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Safari Beach Lodge . . . . 56

The Responsible Safari Co . . . . . . . 78

Wamkulu Palace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Safari by Ulendo . . . . . . 60

Thirani Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Wendels Guesthouse . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Sambani Lodge . . . . . . . . 65

Thuchira Tourist Lodge . . . . . . . . . 76

Wilderness Safaris . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Sanctuary Lodge . . . . . . . . . 56

Thumbi View Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Sangilo Sanctuary Lodge . . . . . 65

Titanic Offshore Lodge . . . . . . . . . 57

Satemwa Ulendo Lodge . . . . . . . . 76

Tiwili Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Seneka Sunrise Lodge . . . . . . . . . . 67

Tiyanjane Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Serendib Suites & Conference Centre 73

TJs Restaurant & Bar . . . . . . . . . . 79

Sheila’s Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

TM Accommodation & Travelling . 79

Shire Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Tongole Wilderness Lodge . . . . . . . 57

Siku Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Top Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

Siku Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Travel Shop Wilderness . . . . . . . . . 62

Sino Garden Hotel & Restaurant . . 62

Tree Tops Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Zinenani Highfield . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Skywave Car Rentals . . . . . . . . . . 62

Tulsi Veg Delight . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Zitherepano Restaurant . . . . . . . . . 79

Sogecoa Golden Peacock Hotel . . . 56

Tumbikani Yehova Guest house . . . 67

Zonse Ndi Chauta Motel . . . . . . . . 76

X Xanalu Portuguese House . . . . . . . 58

Y, Z

Sputnik Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Zoom Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

SS Rent A Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Zulunkhuni River Lodge . . 65

SS Rent-a-Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Star Rent A Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Status Car Hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Steers and Debonaires . . . . . . . . . 79 Steers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Studio de France . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Sun ‘n’ Sand Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

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The 18 Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Accommodation Africa House

Cluny Lodge

Area 43, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 795 246; +265 (0) 1 795 246 Cell +265 (0) 999848586 Email: reservations@africahousemalawi.com www.africahousemalawi.com

Area 9/69, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 751 633 Cell: +265 888 764 805 Email: bev.taale@africa-online.net

CENTRAL REGION

Visitors of all kinds will appreciate the tasteful accommodation of Africa House with its warm hospitality and excellent collection of arts and crafts. Whether the material is wood, stone, beads, paint, metal, fabric or leather, Africans continue to make powerful statements about their culture while creating a rich heritage of artistic expression. Each room is named after an African country, style or culture and decorated in that style. This, together with 15 years of experience in the tourism and hospitality industry, has made Africa House Malawi a true destination with a difference.

Set in a quiet and serene cul-de-sac in Area 9 near Crossroads, Lilongwe, this guest house offers exclusive accommodation along with the helpful and friendly attention of its hosts, Bev and Marinus Taale. All rooms have cable TV, a desk for working executives and Skyband wireless internet.

Area 3 Lodge

Cool Runnings

PO Box 1104, Lilongwe Plot 3/450. Selous Road, Area 3 Tel: +265 1 753 180 Cell: +265 0888 205 789 Email: Area3lodge@gmail.com

PO Box 441, Salima Tel: +265 1 263 398; 999 915 173 Email: coolrunnings@malawi.net

Area 3 Lodge is situated in an exclusive part of Lilongwe. A visitor described it simply as ‘a formidable new player in the hospitality industry’. It is conveniently close to social, commercial and administrative facilities in the old part of the city and offers a hassle-free stay.

Beach Villa PO Box 357, Salima Senga-Bay Tel: +265 1 263 263 Cell: +265 9999 40089; 8880 40089 Fax: +265 1 727 609 Email: beachvillalodge@gmail.com

Cool Runnings is an ideal lakeside campsite and dorm for backpackers where they can relax and rejuvenate. Facilities include a bar, kayaks, surfing and a restaurant.

Crescent Guest House Box 1047, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 756 434

Beach Villa Lodge is on the shore of Lake Malawi. Built on top of a sand dune, the lodge features two-bedroom family container chalets, a conference hall with seating for up to 50 delegates, a restaurant and bar, a beautiful unspoilt beach, a safe water system, secure parking and a cruise boat for up to 40 people.

Crescent Guest House has 15 self-catering rooms in a strategic location in Lilongwe. It is ideal for business and leisure travellers and meetings, offering conference facilities, catering solutions and related banqueting services. It is 25 minutes from the airport with golf, tennis and a gym nearby.

Blue Zebra Island Lodge

Crossroads Hotel

c/o Waterlands, Lake Malawi National Park Tel: +265 992 244 244; 992 255 255 Email: bluezebra.mw@gmail.com www.bluezebra.mw Tucked away on Nankoma Island, part of the Marelli Island archipelago on Lake Malawi, the Blue Zebra Island Lodge is an exclusive hideaway offering a range of activities. Accommodation consists of a generously proportioned luxury tented chalet on the lake shore and five safari chalets set on the hillside overlooking the lodge and lake. Activities include kayaking, boat trips to explore the beautiful archipelago and lake, fishing, sunset cruises, snorkelling, birdwatching and scuba diving.

Crossroads Complex, Mchinji Roundabout PO Box X1, Post Dot Net, Lilongwe Tel: +265 (1) 750 333 or +265 (1) 750 444 Fax: +265 (1) 750 336 Email: reservations@crossroadshotel.net www.crossroadshotel.net Crossroads Hotel is set in the heart of the business, shopping and commercial hub of Lilongwe.

The hotel has 101 beautifully appointed guest rooms including luxurious suites. Each of the rooms and suites features a carefully chosen selection of fine furniture, luxurious fabrics and attention to detail. The hotel offers an unsurpassed level of hospitality and excellence set in a world of luxury and accompanied by a fine choice of food and drink complemented by impeccable service. It all adds up to a memorable experience.

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CENTRAL REGION

Accommodation

Garden Court Lodge Box 31150, Lilongwe Plot No 3056, Area 11, Tsiranana Avenue Tel: +265 1 773 083 Fax: +265 1 771 481 Email: gardencourtlodgelw@yahoo.com A guest house located less than 1 km from the city centre. Breakfast is provided and all rooms are en-suite.

Golden Peacock Resthouse PO Box 793, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 756 632 Cell: +265 88 882 4534 Email: goldenpeacock@globemw.net

The Golden Peacock Resthouse is located in a residential area just a five-minute walk from the town centre. Accommodation consists of double and triple rooms.

Heuglin's Lodge Tel: +265 1 795 364 Fax: +265 1 795 364 Email: m1@wilderness.mw www.wilderness-safaris.com

Mandala Road 4/278, Old Town, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 751 226 Fax: +265 1 752 682 Cell: +265 9 838 485 Email: reservations@kibokohotel.com www.kiboko-safaris.com The Kiboko Town Hotel, opened in 2005, lies in the centre of Old Town Lilongwe. It is ideal for sightseeing and for the growing range of services in this part of the Malawian capital. The hotel is 16 miles from Lilongwe International Airport and just a few minutes’ walk from the craft market, banks and supermarkets. There are 14 comfortable en-suite rooms decorated in an attractive ethnic style with DStv. The hotel also has a lounge, a restaurant, a shady roof terrace, secure parking and Wi-Fi. Small conferences can be accommodated. There is a Kiboko Safaris office in the hotel, making it easy to book a tour or excursion.

Korea Garden Lodge Box 2181, Lilongwe Area 3, Old Town Tel: +265 1 757 854; 1 753 467; 1 759 700/774 Email: info@kglodge.net/ kgl@malawi.net www.kglodge.net The Korea Garden Lodge, standing in three acres of landscaped gardens, offers a blend of convenience, personal service and luxury. Situated 25 minutes from the airport, it has a central location with easy access to Lilongwe’s business centres, leisure attractions and shops. There are 53 rooms ranging from standard to luxury, with safe, Wi-Fi and TV. The lodge also has a swimming pool and conference services for up to 60 delegates.

Kumbali Country Lodge Nature’s Gift Ltd, Capital Hill Dairy Farm Area 44, Lilongwe. www.kumbalilodge.com Tel: +265 (0)99 99 63 402 Email: kumbali@kumbalilodge.com

Heuglin’s Lodge is situated in the leafy residential suburbs of Lilongwe just minutes away from the city centre. This attractive rambling house is named after the Heuglin’s Robin, often seen in the garden. The guesthouse has eight spacious and tastefully furnished bedrooms; seven are en-suite and one with external bathroom facilities. Full catering is available and there is a swimming pool in the very attractive gardens. There’s a large comfortable lounge with its own wildlife library and a ‘help-yourself’ bar with television. Each room has a wireless internet connection for laptops and there is a small business centre.

Kumbali Country Lodge offers its guests exceptional comfort in individually decorated chalets along with an enthusiastic and professional service. There are 16 rooms comprising 14 executive suites and two deluxe suites, enclosed under ethnic thatch and with en-suite bathroom.

Tea and coffee facilities, TV, internet and a private veranda are included. A small, newly renovated dining room offers a varied menu of healthy, excellent cuisine. Private events and cocktail parties can be arranged. The conference centre includes a beautiful multi-level facility.

There is a fully catered service, so that groups can focus on the work of the day.

Hu_cess Executive Lodge

Lakeside Hotel

PO Box 399, Lilongwe Tel: +265 999 693 567 Email: reservations@hucesselodge.com www.hucesselodge.com Located in Lilongwe, the Hu_cess Executive Lodge has nine spacious air conditioned rooms and a private swimming pool as well as a restaurant and bar. Each room has a TV with satellite channels (DStv), safety deposit box, minibar and tea/coffee facilities. There is also a laundry service. Wi-Fi and a back-up power generator are provided. The whole lodge can be rented exclusively. A large, fully equipped kitchen is available. The lodge is only 30 minutes by car from Kamuzu International Airport. Shopping malls and restaurants within a 20-minute walk of the lodge

54

Kiboko Town Hotel

PO Box 493, Lilongwe Salima Tel: +265 1 263 400/500

Popular with business travellers and tourists, the Lakeside Hotel has a range of spacious rooms with TV, fridge, fans and Wi-Fi. Some rooms are lake facing and parking is available.

Accommodation

CENTRAL REGION

Madidi Lodge

Pacific Hotel

Area 9, no 367 Lilongwe, Private Bag 205 Tel/fax: +265 (0)1 752 661, Tel: +265 1 920 901 Cell: +265 888 607 169 Email: info@madidilodge.com www.madidilodge.com

PO Box 2296, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 776 575; 1 776 571 Email: reservations@ pacifichotelmw.com www.pacifichotelmw.com

Madidi Lodge is tucked away in a quiet corner of Area 9 in Lilongwe, within walking distance of shopping malls. All the spacious self-contained rooms are decorated with colour and flair.

The rooms are complemented by lounges, swing benches and rocking chairs set in the lush and tranquil gardens. The cosy restaurant serves snacks as well as a scrumptious breakfast and a different two-course dinner each day. The gym offers a wide variety of equipment and a TV in a charming area that provides a cool breeze during a workout.

A comfortable and spacious three-storey hotel in the centre of Lilongwe, the Pacific Hotel offers a choice of 48 sophisticated luxury bedrooms with a full range of personalised services. It has two restaurants serving Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisine. It also has conference facilities for up to 400 delegates.

Mkunkhula Baobab Lodge

Pine Lodge

Senga Bay, Salima Tel: +265 1 263 495 Tel: +265 999 375 574

Mkunkhula Baobab Lodge provides accommodation, a restaurant and bar, and a camping site.

It also offers conference services.

Nelly’s Guest House

Area 9 / 156, PO Box 2187, Lilongwe Tel: +265 (0)1 759 514;920 037 Tel/Fax: +265 1 750 639 Cell: +265 8 823 505 Email: nellyshouse@globemw.net www.nellyslodge.com

PO Box 802, Lilongwe Tel: +265 192 0077/2806 Fax: +265 175 1082 Email: pinelodge@malawi.net Pine Lodge is in a major business area between Old Town and the city centre, 27 km from the international airport. It has 14 double en-suite and executive rooms with mosquito net, satellite TV, internet access, overhead fans, telephone and air conditioning. The restaurant serves à la carte, buffet meals and banquets, all featuring local and international cuisine. There are conference facilities with seating for up to 20 delegates, plus several meeting rooms for small groups. Other amenities include dry cleaning and laundry services, car parking and a TV lounge.

Although the lodge has no bar, drinks can be arranged with management.

Red Zebra Lodge Box 123, Salima Off Sunbird Livingstonia Rd, Senga Bay Tel: +265 1 263 034; 999 568 425; 999 913 630 www.lakemalawi.com/lodge

Surrounded by beautiful gardens, Nelly’s Guest House is located in a tranquil neighbourhood, 3 km from Old Town, within walking distance of the Crossroads Shopping Complex and 30 minutes’ drive from Kamuzu International Airport. The guest house has 11 rooms in executive and standard categories. All standard rooms are self-contained with overhead fan, fridge, TV, mosquito nets and mosquito trays with mats. In addition to being self-contained, the executive rooms have coffee and tea making facilities, air conditioning and a well stocked fridge with complimentary juice and bottled water.

Located at Kambiri Point, the lodge consists of eight en-suite rooms, each opening onto a small veranda. Each room has a double or two single beds as well as a shower, toilet and washbasin with hot and cold water. Both lake tours and land excursions are available, as well as underwater safaris to discover Lake Malawi’s diverse aquatic life.

Ngala Beach Lodge

Riverside Hotel

Box 1, Ngala, Nkhotakota Tel: +265 999 075 566; 888 192 003 Email: info@ngalabeach.com www.ngalabeach.com

Box 1268, Lilongwe, Paul Kagame Road Tel: +265 1750 511; 888 345 080; 992 771 914 Email: riverside@malawi.net www.riversidehotelmalawi.com

Ngala Beach Lodge is only 400 metres off the main road, 15 km north of Dwangwa, with unrestricted views of the Vipya Mountains and Lake Malawi. There are three cottages, six executive rooms and two family rooms. The main lodge comprises the main bar and residents’ lounge, restaurant and sun deck. An infinity swimming pool is next to the main lodge. The residents’ TV lounge and conference centre, internet café and curio shop are situated close to the main lodge. The bar offers a sheltered yet open space on the beach and rocks where guests can appreciate the beauty of the lake.

Riverside Hotel and Conference Centre is part of one of the fastest-growing hotel chains in Malawi. It is situated in a green residential area in the heart of the city just 25 km from the international airport. The hotel has 110 deluxe air conditioned rooms with modern facilities including Wi-Fi, multi-channel DStv, telephone, minibar and safe as well as a fully fitted bathroom, separate hanging closets and an executive writing desk. The hotel has a spa and conferencing facilities. The multi-cuisine Charcoal Restaurant offers a unique experience while Monalisa is a 24-hour coffee shop.

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CENTRAL REGION

Accommodation

Safari Beach Lodge

Sunbird Capital

Tel: +265 (0)1 263 143/007 Cell: +265 (0) 993 265 538 Skype: safaribeachlodge Email: info@safaribeachlodge.net www.safaribeachlodge.net

PO Box 30018, Chilembwe Road, Capital City, Lilongwe. Email: capital@sunbirdmalawi.com Tel: +265 1 773 388 www.sunbirdmalawi.com

Situated on the shore of Lake Malawi in a secluded forest reserve, Safari Beach Lodge has its own private beach, a swimming pool and a lush garden with views over Leopard Bay. There are six gazebos (chalets built from natural materials), all with big verandas overlooking the lake, while the main lodge, set in the garden, has four double rooms. Each of the gazebos, tents and rooms has its own private bathroom, electricity and hot water and rooms are air conditioned.

The restaurant has a big veranda with views of the garden, pool and lake. A notable feature of the international menu is fresh fish from the lake.

Located in the capital of Malawi, this hotel is set in magnificent parkland next to the government offices and only 500 metres from the new city centre, where most diplomatic missions are based. It has 182 air conditioned rooms including 73 superior rooms, eight suites, 93 standard rooms and eight deluxe rooms. Rooms are en-suite with DStv, international direct dialling, Wi-Fi, email, internet ports and 220 volt power points. There are also five conference rooms with a total capacity of 700 delegates for all types of conferences, meetings, seminars, workshops and product launches.

Sanctuary Lodge

Sunbird Lilongwe

Box 2140, Lilongwe New Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary Tel: +265 1 924 622 Email: enquires@thesanctuarylodge.net www.thesanctuarylodge.net

Box 44, Lilongwe Off Chilambula Road,Old Town Tel: +265 1 773 388 Email: lilongwehotel@sunbirdmalawi.com www.sunbirdmalawi.com

Sanctuary Lodge is a new eco-friendly lodge situated between Lilongwe city centre and the Old Town. The lodge is set in a quiet garden with a pool. The chalets have TV, telephone, air conditioning, a fridge and tea and coffee facilities. Buffet breakfasts and à la carte lunches and dinners are served in the restaurant or on the terrace and garden. There is also a coffee shop and a campsite.

The Sunbird Lilongwe is in the hub of the Old Town area of the capital, with easy access from all parts of the city. The property has 94 air conditioned rooms including nine studio, eight superior and 77 standard rooms. All rooms are en-suite with satellite TV, minibar, tea and coffee facilities, international direct dialling and email. The hotel has one of the best and largest conference venues in Malawi with modern facilities and seating for 170 delegates. A 20-seat boardroom is available for smaller groups, workshops and seminars.

Sheila’s Lodge Box 1847, Lilongwe Area 43, Sector 2 Tel: +265 1 794 010; 999 950 764 Email: namilanzi@hotmail.com

Located in a quiet upmarket area of Lilongwe, Sheila’s Lodge is a boutique lodge offering air conditioned rooms with fridges, safes and flat screen TVs. The restaurant serves gourmet food at affordable prices. Sheila’s Lodge has six executive rooms, one meeting room, one executive boardroom, a restaurant and a visitors’ lounge.

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Sogecoa Golden Peacock Hotel

Sunbird Livingstonia

Plot No 13/97,Area 13, PO Box 30759 Lilongwe. Tel: +265 1 776 666 Email: jkq_mw@afecc.com www.sogecoagoldenpeacock.com

Salima Town Tel: +265 1 263 222/ 454 Email: livingstonia@sunbirdmalawi.com www.sunbirdmalawi.com

The hotel has 110 spacious rooms comprising 76 deluxe twins, 31 deluxe queens, one deluxe suite and two presidential suites. The hotel’s 170-seat main restaurant specialises in Continental, Chinese and Indian cuisine. There are also four VIP restaurants, one for 20 guests and three for 10 guests each. Leisure facilities include a 25 metre open-air swimming pool and a gym. Complimentary internet connection is provided in all guest rooms. The hotel complex covers 30,000 square metres and there is about 10,000 square metres of grassed areas for parties and weddings.

Located on the lake shore in Senga Bay, Salima, 125 km from Lilongwe, the Sunbird Livingstonia has 32 rooms including nine deluxe rooms, eight rondavels and 15 standard rooms.

There is a conference room with a maximum capacity of 30 delegates. A range of equipment is available including a video screen and VCR, an LCD projector, flip charts and an overhead projector. Other facilities include laundry, babysitting service, hotel shop, secretarial services, free open car parking and day excursions. Room service is available from 6 am to 10 pm.

Accommodation The 18 Lodge Area 18B, Lilongwe PO Box 31222, Lilongwe 3 Tel: +265 1 796 652/864/675 Cell: +265 99 9 679 633 www.the18lodge.cpp.mw The 18 Lodge has 25 comfortable and convenient rooms, all with a pleasant and welcoming ambience. Children under 12 stay for free, making the lodge ideal for families. Accommodation includes a complimentary breakfast, daily housekeeping services, satellite TV, laundry service, 24-hour room service and a work area designed for business travellers. Guests can relax in the beautifully designed Yamikani Restaurant and enjoy Continental or traditional Malawian cuisine. The compound is surrounded by attractive and well kept gardens.

Titanic Offshore Lodge

Blantyre Street, Plot 409, Area 43, Lilongwe Tel/Fax: +265 1 794 412 Cell: +265 8 899500 Email: info@titanicoffshorelodge.net www.titanicoffshorelodge.net Located in Lilongwe, 20 minutes from Kamuzu International Airport, Titanic Offshore Lodge is in a quiet and safe area on Blantyre Street. It offers a range of luxurious air conditioned rooms with facilities including TV and internet. The main building has five rooms with own bathroom on the first floor and shared spacious living room, dining room and kitchen on the ground floor.

The dining and living rooms can be converted into conference rooms for business meetings. The Guest House behind the main building has two suites with their own living room, dining room, office, bedroom, bathroom and fully equipped kitchen.

Tongole Wilderness Lodge

CENTRAL REGION

Ulendo Lodges

441 Chilanga Drive, Area 10, PO Box 30728 Capital City, Lilongwe 3 Tel: +265 1 794 555 Fax: +265 1 795 666 Email: admin@ulendo.net www.ulendo.net Ulendo Travel Group offers a selection of lodges managed to a high standard. Guests can experience the tranquillity and relaxed atmosphere of exclusive city properties in Lilongwe while a team of professional staff caters for every need. Burley House offers visitors to Lilongwe top quality services and facilities coupled with the serenity and security of an executive home.

Ulendo’s selected lodges can be offered in all regions of the country.

Wamkulu Palace 343 Chinula Avenue, Area 12 P/Bag B395, Capital City, Lilongwe 3 Tel: +265 1 776 764; 1 776 762 Email: wamkulupalace@wamkuluhotels.com www.wamkuluhotel.com

Accommodation consists of 16 executive and superior suites with separate lounges and bedrooms. All rooms are self-contained with a unique veranda approach. There is also one selfcatering apartment, self-contained, and three standard rooms. All rooms are air conditioned.

Extensive conference facilities including a room for up to 70 guests, a meeting room for 40 guests, a lounge, a business centre and a summer house with two separate rooms.

Wendels Guesthouse

Box 1438, Lilongwe Tel: +265 999 941 421 Email: reservations@tongole.com www.tongole.com

PO Box 31037, Lilongwe Tel/Fax: +265 1 771 771/770 237 Cell: +265 9999 40167/64167 Email: wendels@africa-online.net www.wendelslodge.com

Tongole Wilderness Lodge features four riverside suites and 1 x two-bedroom cottage. All rooms come with a spacious shower, twin marble basins, a flushable lavatory and a large hand-built sunken bath. Each room comes with a spectacular raised wooden deck offering fabulous views of the surrounding area. Sit in perfect tranquillity and relax. Be soothed by the sounds of the river or watch the forest wildlife go by. Tongole is accessible by road and by air. Road transfers from Lilongwe can be arranged, as well as flight transfers from Lilongwe and to/from other destinations.

Wendels is a privately owned guest house opened in 1997 with seven en-suite rooms located around the private swimming pool. Facilities include Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas; an office with computer, printer, fax and scanner; a private gym; a TV lounge with satellite channels; secure parking; and a restaurant serving full English and Continental breakfasts, light lunches and set-menu dinners. German and English are spoken and airport transfers are available.

Ufulu Gardens Conference Centre & Suite Hotel PO Box 30727, Lilongwe 3 Plot 43/365 Ufulu Road, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 794 060/079 Fax: +265 1 795 529 Email: reservations@ufulugardens.mw www.ufulugardens.mw Set in Lilongwe’s exclusive Area 43, only 15 minutes from the City Centre, Ufulu Gardens Hotel is a serene, three-star style experience along with being the only all-suite hotel in the Capital City, offering attentive services and excellent amenities. A stunning swimming pool, Lapa with bar, contemporary dining and lush private gardens are just a few of the ways business and leisure guests can take it easy at Ufulu Gardens Hotel, Malawi’s tropical paradise.

Wilderness Safaris Tel: +265 1 771 393 Fax: +265 1 771 397 Email: m1@wilderness.mw www.wilderness-safaris.com Wilderness Safaris is a conservation organisation and ecotourism company dedicated to responsible tourism throughout the areas where it operates in southern Africa. The 27-yearold company runs camps and safaris in Botswana, Namibia, Malawi, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Seychelles. Wilderness Safaris is based in Lilongwe, the capital, and Blantyre, the commercial centre. Properties include: Mvuu Camp and Lodge, Liwonde National Park; Chelinde Lodge and Chelinde Camp, Nyika National Park; Chinteche Inn; Mumbo Island, Lake Malawi National park; and Heuglin's Lodge Lilongwe.

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CENTRAL REGION

Accommodation

Aonenji Nsanje Lodge

Riverside Lodge

P/Bag 4, Likuni, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 766 441; 111 203 944/43

Box 884, Salima Kamuzu Rd, Salima

Chipoka Lakeview Beach Lodge

Thirani Lodge

PO Box 45, Chipoka, Salima Tel: +286 999 292 523

Horizon Hotel PO Box 45, Salima Tel: +286 1 263 855 Email: horizonlakemalawi@yahoo.com

Jaset Resthouse Box 582, Salima Kamuzu Road, Salima Tel: +265 999 911 590

Kanjinga Town Lodge Box 108, Salima Tel: +265 1 262 789

Khamalanga Rest House PO Box 10, Dedza Tel: +286 999 339 103

Kukuza Cottage Salima

Mimiza Cottage PO Box 504, Salima Tel: +286 1 262 301; 999 256 375

Nezzer Lodge Salima Tel: +265 1 262 488

Raza Hotel PO Box 493, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 750 400; 755 400; 999 822 400 Email: lakesidemalawi@yahoo.com

Renaissance Lodge PO Box 52, Likuni Tel: +265 999 782326 Email: renaissance@renaissancelodge.net

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PO Box 20016, Lilongwe Tel: +265 995 645 696

Tiwili Lodge Box 4, Lilongwe Tel: +286 1 766 799

Tiyanjane Lodge Box 11, Lilongwe Tel: +286 999 318 702; 999 041 580

Vas Cottage Box 1886, Lilongwe Tel: +286 1 727 709

Xanalu Portuguese House Area 4, Lilongwe Tel: +286 999 960 395

Ot her services Andrews Car Hire Shire Building, Off Paul Kagame Road PO Box 30306, Lilongwe 3 Tel: +265 1 755 186; 888 824 962; 888 833 127; 888 899 268

Andrews Car Hire offers a variety of vehicles for hire including Nissan Sunny, Toyota Camry, the 10-seater Nissan Patrol and Toyota Land Cruiser, as well as a 16-seater minibus and a 25-seater minibus.

CENTRAL REGION

Buchanan’s Restaurant Area 12, Four Seasons, PO Box 31203 Tel: +265 177 2859 Email: buchanans@africa-online.net Email: info@buchanansgrill.com Buchanans Restaurant is situated in Lilongwe, Area 12 along Presidential Way, and very close to City Centre. It combines an outstanding restaurant and bar in beautiful outdoor surroundings.

The restaurant is within the Fourseasons Lifestyle Centre. The restaurant is owned by John & Barbara Gray since 2010. They have been in Malawi since 1978, mostly involved in farming but have always had a passion for hospitality, good food and entertainment.

Apex Rent-a-Car PO Box 1132, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 754 610/2/5 Fax: +265 1 751 430 Cell: +265 9 950 707 www.apexrentacarmw.com

Apex Rent-a-Car is recognised as one of Malawi’s premier rental car companies. It has been providing quality rental cars for satisfied clients such as government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and embassies. Apex Rent-a-Car has a large fleet, ranging from 4x4 vehicles to executive saloons, but specialises in luxury 4x4 rental vehicles for off-road destinations including beaches, mountains and game reserves.

Avis Malawi Lilongwe Car Hire, Off Chilambula Rd, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 756105 www.avis.co.uk/CarHire/Africa/Malawi

Causerie Restaurant PO Box 30168, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 773828 Cell: +265 888 644905 Email: busharat_ahmed@yahoo.co.uk

Avis Malawi is the nation’s leading car rental company, with over 75 vehicles. It operates five branches in Malawi at Chileka International Airport, Blantyre; Blantyre Downtown; Kamuzu International Airport, Lilongwe; Lilongwe Downtown; and Sunbird Capital Hotel, Lilongwe.

The Avis Malawi fleet comprises a range of models including Toyota Corolla, Toyota Prado, VW Polo, VW Tiguan and 30-seat vehicles such as the Toyota Coaster. Avis Malawi is part of the worldwide Avis network, with over 5,000 outlets in 160 countries. Avis Malawi maintains a high standard of service, using internationally trained sales agents, chauffeurs and staff.

Operated under the same management since 1968, the Causerie Restaurant is situated on Robert Mugabe Crescent in Lilongwe. It offers lunch and dinner all year except Sundays and public holidays. Open Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 2 pm and 6.30 pm to 10 pm. Specialises in steaks, seafood, Indian and European cuisine.

Barefoot Safaris

Countrywide Car Hire

P/Bag 357, Lilongwe 10 km from Mchinji Roundabout Tel: +265 993 87 90 57 Email: ken@barefoot-safaris.co.za Email: enquiries@barefoot-safaris.co.za www.barefoot-safaris.co.za Barefoot Safari Lodge and Camping Ground is situated 10 km from the centre of Malawi’s capital. The lodge is set in sixteen acres of lush landscaped gardens and boasts five 2/3 person chalets, one family chalet and five walk-in tents along with plenty of space for guests to pitch their own tents. Barefoot Safaris also offer complete, tailor-made services throughout southern Africa including logistics, sightseeing and accommodation both in its lodge and third party properties. Its dedicated team has 22 years’ experience of designing safaris that suits all budgets.

Ground Floor, Plantation House PO Box 975, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 822 434/845/232 Cell: +265 88 883 5414; 99 9510951 Email: sales@countrywide-carhiremw.com www.countrywide-carhiremw.com Countrywide Car hire offers reliable, comfortable, brand-new vehicles serviced by its dealers.

It can also provide driver/chauffeur services. The company was set up in response to the need for a reliable and affordable fleet of vehicles for hire in Malawi. In 2007 Countrywide Car Hire was reregistered as Countrywide Car Hire (2007) Ltd and restructured to suit the ever-changing market. Countrywide Car Hire is part of the Countrywide Group of Companies. It offers a wide range of vehicles to cater for every need, from a city excursion to game reserve visits.

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CENTRAL REGION

Ot her services

Crossroads Car Hire Mchinji Roundabout Crossroads Complex, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 750 333

Crossroads Car Hire is a locally established family owned business and part of the ZST Investments Ltd group of companies. The company is based at Crossroads Hotel, Lilongwe, and operates a fleet of new vehicles.

Malawian Style Tel: +265 111 746 449 Email: info@malawianstyle.com www.malawianstyle.com

Offers services across Malawi, Zambia and Mozambique. Packages range from value for money scheduled departures to the most exclusive, luxury getaways. Experience true Africa, with great adventure, luxury and culture. The company has first hand experience of the routes, accommodation and activities and are passionate about using that knowledge to offer added value. Guests booking a two week stay will get two nights at Zomba Cottage for free.

Mamma Mia PO Box 30311, Lilongwe Tel: +265 (0)1 758 362 Fax: +265 (0)1 758 363 Email: mcs@malawi.net

Mamma Mia in the Old Town Mall is Lilongwe’s fanciest Italian restaurant, favoured by the expatriate community. Reservations strongly advised at the weekend. Serves Italian pizza, pasta and much more.

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Kuti Wildlife Reserve

Noble China

Off Salima Rd, about 1 km from Kaphatenga turnoff Tel: +265 997 334 683 Email: info@kuti-malawi.org www.kuti-malawi.org

Area 3, off Coloby Road near Lilongwe Hotel Tel: +265 (0) 750 075; 888 204 388

Just an hour from Lilongwe and half an hour from the shores of Lake Malawi lies a little known wildlife reserve called Kuti. This bush retreat is home to all sorts of wildlife like zebra, impala, sable and giraffe, and can be explored by car, bike or on foot. Kuti is run by a non-profit trust which protects the reserve for the benefit of both people and wildlife. There is a range of accommodation options available, including bush villas, A-frames and a campsite.

Located directly opposite the Lilongwe Hotel, China Noble Restaurant offers a wide range of cuisine to suit all tastes. Favourite dishes include beef kebabs with cumin, crispy chicken fillet, braised duck in spicy brown sauce and deep-fried spring rolls plus a selection of vegetarian dishes.

Lilongwe Golf Club

Safari by Ulendo

PO Box 160, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 754 162 Fax: +265 1 753 118 Cell: +265 8 379 412 Email: golf_club_llw@sdnp.org.mw

441 Chilanga Drive, Area 10, PO Box 30728, Capital City, Lilongwe 3 Tel: +265 179 4555, Fax: +265 179 5666 Email: admin@ulendo.net www.ulendo.net

Lilongwe Golf Club is the country’s only 18-hole course and home to the TNM Malawi Open sponsored by Telekom Networks Malawi. Dating back to 1930, it is a par 72, 6,225 metre course. The club is installing underground irrigation in an effort to improve the year-round playability of the fairways, which can suffer in the dry season, and is renovating the clubhouse.

Widely regarded as Malawi’s premier tour operator and travel service provider, the Ulendo group of companies has grown steady since it was established as a small marketing agent and inbound tour operator in 1998. Its team of travel professionals will plan any itinerary to meet budget and preferred style of travel while catering for special interests. The Ulendo group has an intimate knowledge of the region’s reserves and lodges and liaises with top airlines, hotels, lodges and safari operators. Guests can be sure they have a professional team supporting them throughout their stay in Malawi, Zambia or Mozambique.

Ot her services Siku Car Hire

Aro Wheels

Greyvillia Road, Next To Speedy’s PO Box 51111, Limbe, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 847 122/174; 1 840 174 Fax: +265 1 847 099, Cell: +265 88 821 074 Email: siku@sikumw.com www.sikucarhire.com

Limbe, Blantyre Email: arowheels@aromotogroup.com Tel: +286 1 845 152; 840 101

Siku Car Services is one of the longest established car hire companies in Malawi. Its head office is in Blantyre. The company offers high-quality services with a range of vehicles from luxury saloons to 4x4s to buses to trucks. The fleet includes such brand-names as Isuzu; Land-Rover; Mercedes-Benz; and Toyota (Camry, Coaster, Corolla, Hilux, Land Cruiser, Pajero). Most of its vehicles are new with facilities such as radio, CD player and air conditioning.

CENTRAL REGION

Best Car Hire Mpico Building off Paul Kagame Rd, Old Town Tel: +286 1 751 097/0888 875 117/0888 352 094

Bongani Car Hire Tel: +286 111 925 520; 999 556 651; 888 334 035; 888 556 651; 999 512 029 Email: bonganicarhire@malawi.net

Sputnik Car Hire Kassam House, Kagame Road, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 758 253 Tel: +265 999 950 354; 888 950 354 Fax: +265 1 758-256, Cell: +265 999 967 771 Email: sputnik@sdnp.org.mw, sputnikcarhire@outlook.com www.sputnik-car-hire.mw Sputnik Car Hire, based in Lilongwe, offers a range of executive saloon cars with air conditioning available as well as minibuses (from 15 to 29 seats) and 4x4 vehicles. All vehicles can be self-drive or chauffeur-driven by arrangement. The company provides a fast and simple online booking system for car hire.

Budget Car Hire Lilongwe Hotel Tel: +286 1 757 021/756 333 ext. 197; 888 337 414; 888 832 028 Email: budgetcarhire@globemw.net

Creamy Inn PO Box 575, Lilongwe Lilongwe Shopping Mall, Next to PEP stores at the GAME Complex Tel: +265 1 755 181; 999 127 777

SS Rent-a-Car

20 Glyn Jones Road, PO Box 2282, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 822 836/822 882/821 597 Fax: +265 1 825 074 Kamuzu Procession Road, PO Box 997, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 751 478/750 112, Fax: +265 1 751 529 Email: info@ssrentacar.com. www.ssrentacar.com With over 30 years’ experience, SS Rent-a-Car is Malawi’s longest established car rental company. Its fleet ranges from the small to the executive, from 4x4s to utility vehicles and trucks, with Mercedes and BMW in the executive range. Most saloons, 4x4s and off-roaders are from Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi and Honda. The company also has 16-seat and 26-seat buses as well as motorbikes. SS Rent-a-Car operates a fully equipped garage to ensure the highest level of service and maintenance of its fleet. A 24 -hour back-up service is always on call.

Ulendo Explorer Tel: +265 1794 555/666 Email: lilongwe@ulendo.net www.ulendo.net/explorer

As part of the Ulendo Travel Group, Explorer offers both self-drive and chauffeur driven vehicles ranging from Sedan cars to 4WD and specialised safari vehicles. 24 hrs back up together with detailed personal briefing and pre loaded GPS gives Explorer the edge in both quality of vehicle and service. Ulendo Explorer offers self-drive as well as guided tours in Malawi exploring wildlife and beaches as well as cultural highlights for private and corporate travellers.

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CENTRAL REGION

Ot her services

Daree Rent a Car Area 4, Sacranie House, off Paul Kagame Rd, Old Town Tel: +265 1 755 667; 999 393 167

Galitos PO Box 575, Lilongwe Lilongwe Shopping Mall, Next to PEP stores at the GAME Complex Tel: +265 1 755 181; 999 127 777

Green Gold Restaurant & Take Away Dedza

Sino Garden Hotel & Restaurant P/Bag A27, Lilongwe, Area 9 Tel: +265 888 999 808; 1 922 168

Skywave Car Rentals Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 759 196; 999 958 152; 999 313 172; 999 345 558; 888 958 152

Star Rent A Car PO Box 525, Lilongwe

Hertz

Status Car Hire

Chileka Airport, Blantyre; KIA Lilongwe Email: hertz@malawi.net Tel: +265 111 692 494; 1 701 412

Area 4, Betta House, off Paul Kagame Rd Tel: +265 1 753 050; 999 957 532; 999 958 192; 999 958 193

J&K Car Hire Bhagwanji Building, Mzimba Rd, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 756 591; 759 564; 999 950 496; 957 099; 888 824 988 Email: jkcarhire@globemw.net jj@globemw.net

Steers PO Box A27, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1922 168, Cell: +265 899 9808

Tree Tops Restaurant Salima

J B Car Hire Off Mzimba Rd, Old Town, Lilongwe

Madison Car Hire Livingstone Treet, Bhana House, Room 5 Tel: +265 1 832 300 Email: info@madisonmw.com Tel: +265 888 864 707; 999 922 668

Nkhotakota Lay Training Centre PO Box 83, Nkhotakota

Pizza Inn PO Box 575, Lilongwe Tel: +265 0175 51 81

Planet Car Hire Tithokoze House, Murray Rd, Old Town, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 753 121/124; 999 958 168; 999 957 531; 888 511 572

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Zoom Car Hire off Moir Crescent Rd Kristwick, Ginnery Corner, Blantyre; Mai Aisha Trust Building, opp Crossroads, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 874 889/09; 888 827 280; 888 842 835; 1 750 892/1

Accommodation Chitimba Campsite

Kaka Motel

PO Box 63, Chitimba Rumphi District Tel: +265 888 387116 Email: camp@chitimba.com www.chitimba.com

PO Box 530, Mzuzu Tel: +265 1 320 074 Fax: +265 1 330 352

Chitimba Camp, on the northern shore of Lake Malawi, is a lodge and campsite set on a beautiful golden sandy beach among banana palms and papaya trees with views of the Livingstonia and Nyika mountains. The main focus is a large thatched bar, restaurant and lounge. There are five beach huts, four rooms with toilet and shower and a dormitory with six beds. There is space for 80 tents and a separate toilet and shower block. The camp is visited mostly by overland trucks and backpackers. It is the first stop in Malawi heading south and the last heading north.

Flame Tree Lodge Private Bag 150, Chintheche Tel: +265 1 994 023; 1 357 276 Email: flametreemalawi@gmail.com Email: tony@flametreemalawi.com www.flametreemalawi.com

NORTHERN REGION

Kaka Motel, about 4 km from Mzuzu city centre, provides accommodation for the costconscious traveller with well equipped semi-detached chalets set in a shady garden. Other facilities include a restaurant, bars, camping facilities, ample parking, satellite TV, a coffee house and a swimming pool. Kaka Motel is a perfect base for exploring Mzuzu.

Kande Beach Campsite Private Bag 22, Kande Tel: +265 826 3500 Cell: +265 986 3500 Email: reservations@kandebeach.com www.kandebeach.com

Flame Tree Lodge is situated on a shaded, grassy promontory about 2 km south of Chintheche.

It has beautiful white sandy beaches with views of Lake Malawi on two sides. Accommodation is in six double en-suite chalets and a self-contained cottage sleeping six in two bedrooms. A conference room/hall is available for up to 30 people. Facilities include bar, restaurant and camping with hot showers and kitchen. Flame Tree is a quiet, family-friendly lodge.

Kande Beach, on the shore of Lake Malawi, is an ideal place to unwind and relax.

Accommodation consists of camping, 10 dorm beds, five single cabins, 12 beach chalets, eight en-suite chalets, two stone cottages with private front garden with access to the beach, one large en-suite family room and two standard rooms. The Kande Beach Bar has a relaxed atmosphere but can also cater for big party nights. Facilities include sailing, windsurfing, water sports equipment hire, on-site dive centre, pool table, mini soccer, table tennis, darts and board games.

Beach games can also be organised.

Hakuna Matata Campsite

Kande Horse & The Stables Guest House

PO Box 25, Chitimba 2650 Chitimba, Rumphi Tel: +265 881 262 338/7 Email: hakunamatata.chitimba@gmail.com www.hakunamatata-chitimba.com

The Stables, P. Bag 22, Kande, Nkhata Bay S. Tel: +265 888 500 416, Tel: +265 881 479 357 Email: info@kandehorse.com www.kandehorse.com

Hakuna Matata Campsite is on the beautiful Chitimba Bay beach just below the magnificent Nyika mountains. Directly above the campsite is the town of Livingstonia, reached via a mountain road with 22 hairpin bends. The campsite has two-bed and four-bed rooms in a brick building as well as camping plots under the trees. It also has a beach bar with lake view, washing facilities, a beach volleyball court, a pitch-and-putt course and a children’s playground.

Set in the Brachystegia forest 4 km from the shore of Lake Malawi. Offering 1, 2 or 3 hour rides through the forest, farmland villages, they end on the golden beaches for an unforgettable experience with a bareback swim in the lake with the horses. Suited for all levels of riders including supervised children’s rides. The Stables Guest House offers luxury farmhouse accommodation and home cooked meals, and all inclusive riding packages. For a longer experience guests can join from 1 week to 3 months getting involved in all aspects of stable life.

llala Crest Lodge

Luwawa Forest Lodge

Chimaliro Road, Past St John’s Hospital PO Box 869, Mzuzu Tel: +265 1 311 834; Fax: +265 1 311 349 Cell: 088 889 4196 Email: ilalacrestlodge@africa-online.net

Luwawa Forest Lodge, International Guest House & Outdoor Activity Centre Private Bag 43, Mzimba Tel: +265 134 2333; 199 1106/1266 Email: luwawa@malawi.net www.luwawaforestlodge.com

Ilala Crest Lodge is about 150 metres after St John’s Hospital and offers excellent accommodation in Mzuzu. All 13 rooms are self-contained, carpeted or tiled, with five-channel cable TV. Workshop facilities for up to 20 people. The lodge is ideal for guests looking for a long stay in a quiet environment. Ilala Crest Lodge also runs the 12-room Ilala Bay Lodge at Nkhata Bay, a lakeside resort offering top quality hotel accommodation services. It has a bar, a restaurant and conference facilities for up to 40 delegates.

Luwawa Forest Lodge lies in the South Viphya Forest Reserve in the Viphya Mountains of northern Malawi, 5,200 ft above sea level, in a fresh and malaria-free climate. The lodge has a perfect forest setting overlooking Luwawa Dam, which is well stocked with wide-mouthed bream. Fishing in season is permitted. Hiking and mountain biking are popular at Luwawa and the lodge offers a range of activities to suit the whole family. The comfortable and spacious family accommodation, full catering and bar facilities make it ideal for a relaxing or active family holiday. Winner of the 2008 Ministerial Tourism award for sustainable tourism practices.

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NORTHERN REGION

Accommodation

Maji Zuwa Lodge

Mimosa Court Hotel

PO Box 135, Chilumba Tel: +265 993 841 390; Email: matt@majizuwa.com www.majizuwa.com

Box 875 Mzuzu Off Orton Chirwa Road, Behind FMB Bank Tel: +265 1 312 608 Email: mimosacourthotel@gmail.com

Maji Zuwa, meaning ‘water and sun,’ is a social entrepreneurship venture encompassing a guesthouse lodge, conference centre and non-profit community-based NGO located in Sangilo Village, Chilumba, on the northern beach shores of Lake Malawi. Maji Zuwa hosts travellers who are looking for more than just a typical stop-over, whether for relaxation in the tranquil environment to enjoy some of the best views of the lake, or the chance to be immersed in partnership projects within the community. The rooms are clean, simple, and affordable with options ranging from selfcontained, to self catering, inexpensive dorms, and camping sites which overlook the water.

This quaint small hotel, nestled in the heart of Mzuzu, is known for its standards of excellence and cleanliness. It has twin superior rooms, executive double rooms and deluxe suites to match preference and budget. There is a conference room that can be booked hourly or for the day. In addition to the in-house Sombrero Restaurant and Jacaranda Bar, the hotel provides outside catering services and is credited with starting the take-away restaurant business in Mzuzu.

Matunkha Safari Lodge Matunkha Development Trust Private Bag 62, Rumphi Email: eco-tourism@matunkha.com www.matunkha.nl

PO Box 413 Mzuzu Tel: +265 119 30 876; 111 931 456 Email: monilodge@yahoo.com www.monilodge.com

Matunkha Safari Lodge offers quality accommodation in quiet surroundings. The lodge has selfcontained rondavels, bedrooms with shared facilities and a well shaded campsite. Electricity and hot water are available. The Matunkha Restaurant offers both local and international cuisine.

The lodge sources local products in order to support the local economy and produces milk from its own cows and goats. A wireless internet connection is available.

Only five minutes’ drive from Mzuzu city centre, Moni Lodge is situated in Lunyangwa, a quiet residential neighbourhood enriched by the Lunyangwa catchment area, where the mountain view, dam and forestry ecosystems combine. The lodge offers exceptionally fine accommodation set in beautiful gardens with self-catering, twin and double-bedded rooms, all en-suite with satellite TV, indoor and outdoor facilities, conference and restaurant services, high-speed internet connections, undercover barbecue, sturdy thatched gazebo and comfortable garden furniture.

Mayoka Beach Lodge

Mushroom Farm

PO Box 229, Nkhata Bay Tel: +265 999 268 595; 199 4025 Email: mayokavillage@yahoo.co.uk www.mayokavillagebeachlodge.com

PO Box 10, Chitimba Tel: +265 999 652 485 Cell: +265 888 591 564 Email: mick@themushroomfarmmalawi.com www.themushroomfarmmalawi.com

Mayoka Beach Lodge lies on a shady slope on the edge of Lake Malawi. Local building materials have been used to create environmentally sensitive accommodation that blends with the lush foliage of the area. The gardens are a haven for wildlife, especially birds. Each of the fully furnished chalets is individual in shape, size and style. There are singles, doubles, twins, triples and a quadruple chalet. Every chalet has its own private balcony with a fine lake view and a peaceful and secluded atmosphere. There is ready access to the bar and restaurant.

Mushroom Farm is a beautiful bush campsite (altitude 1,100 metres) located near the historical mission town of Livingstonia. It offers clifftop rooms/campsites with spectacular views across the Rift Valley, Lake Malawi and Tanzania. Mushroom Farm is a friendly and comfortable place to stay for international travellers, locals and expatriates.

Mikoma Lodge

Mzoozoozoo Lodge

PO Box 57, Karonga Tel: +265 992 97 60 39

Cell: +265 888 864 493

Mikoma Beach Lodge is located on one of the most beautiful and luxurious beaches of Lake Malawi, where Malawian hospitality can be experienced at its best.

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Moni Lodge

Mzoozoozoo Lodge is the main backpackers’ residence in Mzuzu. It features a dormitory, a double room, a caravan and a garden where guests can pitch a tent. Facilities include electricity, mosquito net and hot water as well as drinking water, baggage storage and a parking area. The lodge has a restaurant and bar. Breakfast is available. There is usually a good atmosphere in the evenings.

Accommodation Ngara Resort Box 230, Nyungwe Tel: +265 8 168 150; 8 194 609

Situated just off the main road north, Ngara Resort has a beachfront location on Lake Malawi.

It offers camping and chalet facilities as well as a restaurant and bar.

NORTHERN REGION

Sunbird Mzuzu Hotel PO Box 23, Mzuzu Tel: +265 1 310 622 Email: mzuzuhotel@sunbirdmalawi.com Mzuzu Hotel is located at the gateway to Malawi’s most beautiful national park, Nyika. The hotel has 60 air conditioned rooms comprising 32 superior rooms, four suites and 24 standard rooms. All rooms are en-suite with DStv, telephone dialling facilities, minibar, tea and coffee facilities and views over the beautiful gardens or golf course. There are two conference rooms with a maximum capacity of 120 delegates, depending on the seating arrangement. Services include room service, laundry, DHL offices, hair salon, bar, coffee shop, free car parking, Air Malawi office, babysitting and a business centre.

Njaya Lodge

Wakwenda Retreat

PO Box 223, Nkhata Bay Tel: +265 997 409 Email: info@njayalodge.com www.njayalodge.com

P Bag 127, Likoma Tel: +265 111 744 048

Njaya Lodge offers a range of rustic accommodation overlooking Lake Malawi. Choose between a garden chalet, beach cottage or rooms in the villa or beach house. All the chalets overlook Chikale beach, an enchanting sandy cove shaded by mango and wild fig trees. Njaya Lodge opened in 1993 and has become an established part of the community as well as a catalyst for local and international charity initiatives.

Wakwenda Retreat is on Chizumulu Island, 12 km north-west of Likoma Island. It is the only lodge on the island with accommodation consisting of two double rooms, a dormitory for backpackers and a camping area on the beach. Wooden decks have been constructed on the granite boulders to provide views over the bay. There is also an open-air bar from which you can watch the beautiful sunset.

Sambani Lodge

Zulunkhuni River Lodge

PO Box 89, Chintheche Tel: +265 888 713 857 Email: info@experiencemalawi.com www.sambanilodge.com

Sambani Lodge is a beautiful property on the shore of Lake Malawi offering executive chalets, double rooms and single rooms. There is a wide range of home-style facilities, from spacious suites (with kitchenette) to resort-style amenities like a hot tub and a heated swimming pool, open all year round. Complimentary facilities include Wi-Fi, hot coffee and popcorn throughout the day and DVD movies. The lodge is a paradise for relaxing, swimming and activities.

PO Box 16, Ruarwe Village Nkhata Bay District Tel: +265 999 071 914; 998 577 888 Email: zulunkhuni@yahoo.co.uk www.lake-paradise.com Zulunkhuni River Lodge is 60 km north of Nkhata Bay, near the fishing village of Ruarwe.

Situated in one of the least developed areas on the coast of Lake Malawi, with steep forest ledges and waterfalls, the lodge is accessible only by foot or boat. Zulunkhuni is an ecolodge and accommodation is in the unspoilt Malawian jungle, overlooking the lake.

Sangilo Sanctuary Lodge PO Box 45, Chilumba, Karonga District Tel: +265 999 395 203; 888 392 611 Email: sangilo.sanctuary@yahoo.co.uk Email: sanctuary@sangilo.net www.sangilo.net Nestled in a secluded cove on the Sangilo peninsula, the Sanctuary offers an idyllic escape on Lake Malawi. Opened in December 2004, it is recognised for good food, a friendly bar and beautiful scenery. The tastefully furnished clifftop chalets (some en-suite) provide a unique view over the peninsula to Chilumba island and across Lake Malawi to the Livingstonia mountain range in Tanzania. Campers have a comfortable site with shower and toilet block in secure surroundings.

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NORTHERN REGION

Accommodation

Beach Chamber Motel

Kupenja Lodge

Box 293, Karonga

PO Box 115, Nkhata Bay Tel: +265 888 506 792

Cairo Resthouse PO Box 30 Tel: +265 995 111 072

Chatonda Lodge PO Box 443 Mzuzu Tel: +265 111 938 605; 013 10 957 Email: chatondalodge@gmail.com

LISAP Guesthouse PO Box 279, Ekwendeni

London Lodge PO Box 67, Chintheche Tel: +265 1 357 291

Lusangazi Lodge

Chibanja City Resthouse PO Box 920, Mzuzu Tel: +265 1 331 361; 1 320 083

PO Box 531 Lusangazi Tel: +265 995 620 222

Lwesha Resthouse

Country Accommodation & Annexe

PO Box 195, Karonga Tel: +265 8 525 081; 9 132 666

Box 200, Rumphi

Dziwa zako Resthouse P/bag 49 Mzuzu Tel: +265 888 769 354

Gapa Resthouse

PO Box 106, Chitimba Tel: +265 8 677 609; 9 950 782

Mphatso Motel

Box 198, Mzimba Tel: +265 1 342332

Karonga Road Opp. Matabwa Market PO Box 895, Mzuzu Tel: +265 01 311 624/205 Fax: +265 1 311 624

Green Valley Lodge

Mphiri Guesthouse

PO Box 185 Mzuzu Tel: +265 1 311 361

PO Box 107, Karonga Tel: +265 111 930 099

Jenda Lodge

Mphiri Lodge

PO Box 170, Champhira Tel: +265 9 916 923; 999 916 925

Kapata Lodge PO Box 73, Karonga

Kaya Papaya Restaurant PO Box 211, Nkhatabay Tel: +265 995 636 585

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Mbuta Lodge

PO Box 763 Mzuzu Tel: +265 111 930 099

Mundikhumbengi Lodge PO Box 184, Mzuzu

Nkhumano Resthouse PO Box 114, Chilumba Tel: +265 945 70 55; 8 899 114

Ot her services Nyachenda Motel Box 751 Mzuzu Tel: +265 999 431 239

Pasfic Lodge PO Box 91, Karonga

Pastoral Training Centre

NORTHERN REGION

Aqua Africa PO Box 209, Nkhata Bay Tel: +265 (0)999 921 418 Email: divemalawi@gmail.com Email: info@aquaafrica.co.uk www.aquaafrica.co.uk Aqua Africa Scuba Diving School is located in Nkhata Bay, on the shores of Lake Malawi. No experience is necessary with a full range of PADI courses on offer. Beginners can choose from a half-day Discover Scuba Diving experience, to a full four-day Open Water course. Aqua Africa also offers refresher and advanced courses, as well as a variety of speciality dives. En-suite accommodation is available to suit all budgets and every room has a balcony with lake views.

The Dive Deck restaurant offers a wide range of meals and treats, complemented by delicious drinks and an amazing view.

PO Box 145, Nkhata Bay Tel: +265 1 352 231

Pine Tree Lodge Box 1294 Mzuzu · Email: ptreemzuzu@hotmail.com Tel: +265 999 938 721; 995 634 395

Sabonabona Lodge PO Box 20155, Mzuzu Tel: +265 111 93 18 35

Seneka Sunrise Lodge Chilumba

Sungawana Resthouse

Aquanuts Divers

PO Box 726, Mzuzu

PO Box 22 Kande, Nkhata Bay District Tel: +265 (0)991 922 242; 881 606 078 Email: info@aquanutsdivers.com www.aquanutsdivers.com

Tumbikani Yehova Guest house PO Box 33, Mzimba

Viyere Resthouse PO Box 2063, Mzuzu

Aquanuts Dive School is located at Kande Beach Campsite. With its spectacular sunrises, unspoilt scenery and crystal-clear water, Lake Malawi is one of the world’s most popular locations for freshwater scuba diving. Both beginners and qualified divers are welcome to experience freshwater diving at its best. The owner-run dive school offers a professional scuba diving service with the emphasis on enjoyment, safe diving practice and environmental awareness. Easily accessible dive sites, an on-site training pool and the hazard-free dive environment make it an ideal training location.

Floja Foundation PO Box 170 Nyungwe Karonga Tel: +265 884 333 023 www.flojamalawi.nl

Charity caring for orphans and other vulnerable children in Malawi. There is a beautiful camping spot next to the lake with shower and toilet facilities.

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SOUTHERN REGION

Accommodation

African Parks Majete PO Box 232, Chikwawa-Majete Tel: +265 999 521 741 Email: thawale@african-parks.org www.african-parks.org The 700 sq km Majete Wildlife Reserve is located in the Lower Shire Valley, part of Africa’s Great Rift Valley. It became a protected area in 1955. In the 1980s and 1990s poachers and a lack of resources caused widespread damage to the park; but in 2003 the Government of Malawi entered into a 25-year public-private partnership with African Parks for the rehabilitation, development and management of Majete. A total of 2,559 animals from 13 species have been reintroduced including rhino, leopard, lion, rhino, buffalo, sable antelope, zebra, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest and eland.

The African Parks Network The Oval Office Park, Cnr Sloan and Meadowbrook, Centurion House, Bryanston 2021. South Africa Tel: +27 11 465 0050, Fax: 2786 662 4992 Email: shamad@african-parks.org African Parks Network is an African solution to Africa’s conservation challenges. It is the first private park management institution in Africa to take on long-term responsibility for managing protected areas in partnership with governments. Its approach combines world-class conservation practice with business expertise. The network covers parks in Zambia, Malawi, Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.

Chilembwe Road PO Box 2702, Blantyre Tel: +265 999 919 235 Email: pakhan31@gmail.com

Big Brother Lodge is located in the heart of Blantyre, close to banks, restaurants and shops.

Blantyre Lodge Near Wenela Bus Depot PO Box 1116, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 834 460 Email: kjtrans@globemw.net

A large hotel situated near the bus station with good-value rooms.

Annie’s Lodge

Cape Mac Lodge

PO Box 297, Zomba Tel: +265 152 7002; 195 1636; Tel: +215 000 156 Fax: +265 152 7807 Email: reservations@annieslodge.com www.annieslodge.com

Cape Maclear PO Box 2269, Blantyre Tel: +265 9 621 279 Email: rogerl@africa-online.net www.capemaclodge.com

Annie’s Lodge was established in 1986 in Area 2 of Lilongwe. Its head office is now in Zomba.

A family-run business, it has expanded over the years and now operates two lodges in Lilongwe, one in Zomba and one in the Nyambadwe suburb of Blantyre.

Cape Mac Lodge is on the lakefront with picturesque views of Lake Malawi and its island.

The lodge has 12 air conditioned rooms with spacious en-suite bathrooms, fans, patio, safe and electric kettle for early morning coffee. Laundry and babysitting are available on request.

The lodge offers a range of facilities including a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, Hobie cat sailing, canoeing, windsurfing, table tennis and volleyball. Froggies Restaurant offers a touch of French cuisine and is one of the best in Cape Maclear.

Bangwe Motel

Casa Mia Lodge

PO Box 90583, Bangwe Tel: +265 88 860 1495

Kabula Hill, Blantyre Tel: +265 111 915 559 Email: casamia@africa-online.net www.blantyreaccommodation.com

Located on the outskirts of Limbe on the Robert Mugabe Highway.

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Big Brother Lodge

Located in Blantyre, the award-winning Casa Mia Lodge & Restaurant is close to the city centre and many other hotels, banks and shopping areas. The lodge has eight superior and two deluxe air conditioned rooms with en-suite facilities, minibar, tea and coffee facilities, satellite TV and Wi-Fi.

Accommodation

SOUTHERN REGION

CCAP Likhubula House

Chilembwe Lodge

Likhubula House is an ideal base for exploring the paths and peaks of Mulanje Mountain. It has inspired fresh thinking, risk taking and team building since the 1960s. There is a meeting and catering space for groups of up to 40 plus a pavilion for open-air meetings by the reservoir pool.

The youth centre has dormitory accommodation for 40 people with leaders’ accommodation nearby. There are five chalets for families and tourists. Walks and activities are available.

Income from this business is recycled for the benefit of the youth centre and its programmes for local orphans and vulnerable children.

Located a few hundred metres from the centre of Blantyre, but away from the noise and traffic, Chilembwe Lodge has 34 self-contained rooms with telephone, TV, fridge, fans and flasks. The restaurant is open from 6.30 am to 2.30 pm for breakfast and lunch and from 6 pm to 10 pm for dinner. It offers a reasonably priced à la carte menu, while room rates include breakfast.

Likhubula-Mulanje, PO Box 111, Mulanje Tel: +265 1 980 611 Email: likhubula@malawi.net www.ccapblantyresynod.weebly.com www.ccap-likhubula-mulanje.html

Cedar Place

PO Box 30653, Chichiri, Blantyre Tel: +265 824 688/649 Fax: +265 1 821 976 Email: chilembwelodge@clcom.net

Conforzi Lake House

Namiwawa PO Box 5866, Limbe Tel: +265 1 832 955 Email: bookings@cedarplace.mw www.cedarplace.mw

Southern Lake Shore, Mangochi Area Glyn Jones Road, PO Box 2279, Blantyre Tel/Fax: +265 182 3709, Tel: +265 183 5356 Cell: +265 888 202 420 Email: jamboafrica@africa-online.net www.jambo-africa.com/Packages/ conforzi/conforzi.html

Set against the backdrop of Michiru Mountain and located in the heart of Blantyre city, Cedar Place has 30 apartments, comprising deluxe apartments, executive apartments and family apartments, each with bedroom, kitchen/dining room and en-suite bathroom. It offers luxury serviced apartment accommodation, complete with all modern amenities, with additional travel and culinary services.

Conforzi Lake House is a self catering lake shore unit comprising of one main house and a smaller cottage situated approximately 10 km north of Club Makokola and it is one of the older houses on the lake. It is built on a large plot and has been in the Conforzi family from 1958.The house was extensively refurbished a few years ago. It has a beautifully manicured beach overlooking Boa Dzulu Island. The beauty of the garden consists of ancient baobabs and other huge trees under which one can sit and admire the beautiful view and soak in the lake atmosphere.

Chichiri Lodge PO Box 30310, Chichiri, Blantyre 3 Tel: +265 1 871 548 Fax: +265 1 871 548 Cell: +265 8 866 893 Email: nyasho5@yahoo.com

Chichiri Lodge consists of 19 well furnished self-contained units, each with digital TV and overhead or upright fans. A secure spacious lounge is available for guests and there is a restaurant with a wide choice of fare. The multipurpose hall has a capacity of 100 people and is ideal for conferences, weddings and meetings. It is fully equipped with multimedia equipment.

The lodge has a laundry and internet facilities. Wi-Fi will be available soon. The lodge is located between Limbe and Blantyre on the Chipembere Highway close to Independence Arch.

Danforth Yachting (Lodge & Yacht Charters) Lodge and Yacht Charters, Cape Maclear Lake Malawi Tel: +265 99 996 0077/0770 Email: info@danforthyachting.com www.danforthyachting.com Danforth Yachting is an owner-run lakeside lodge and yacht charter operation based at Cape Maclear on the shore of Lake Malawi. The lodge sleeps 16 guests. Bordering Lake Malawi National Park and surrounded by islands, this is one of the most beautiful spots on the lake. Its motto of ‘all-round excellence’ extends to every facet of the business. Danforth offers superb cuisine, a wide variety of water sports and activities and a PADI scuba diving centre as well as featuring the only live-aboard catamaran yacht for charter on Lake Malawi.

Dorvic Hotel Zalewa Road, PO Box 2195, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 830 854/864/862/809/852 Fax: +265 1 830 807, Cell: +265 8 785 313 Email: reservations@dorvichotelmw.com www.dorvichotelmw.com Dorvic Hotel offers 36 rooms including four suites, two family rooms and 30 superior rooms.

All rooms are soundproofed and air conditioned with unique finishing, satellite TV and minibar.

Dorvic has two elegant bars, one inside the hotel and the other by the pool. The modern swimming pool is segmented to accommodate both beginners and advanced swimmers and is ideal for hosting all sorts of summer functions. The hotel also has extensive conference facilities including two large conference rooms with seating for up to 150 delegates for full and half-day conferences, seminars, presentations, gala dinners, award evenings and cocktail parties.

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SOUTHERN REGION

Accommodation

Fat Monkeys Cape Maclear, Chembe Tel: +265 9 948 501; 1 599 133 Email: fatmonkeys@africa-online.net

Popular with backpackers, Fat Monkeys is located in the centre of Chembe, a traditional fishing village beside Lake Malawi. There are four types of accommodation, consisting of basic double bedrooms; en-suite double bedrooms; family bungalows with kitchen and en-suite bathroom; and a campsite. Each bedroom is decorated with beautiful Malawian art and has spectacular views of the lake. The bar and restaurant are renowned for great meals and service. Activities such as boat trips, kayaking and scuba diving can be arranged. Wi-Fi is available.

Hippo View Lodge Liwonde, PO Box 53011, Limbe Tel: +265 1 542 118/542 822/542 221/542 255 Fax +265 1 542 116 Email: gm@hippoviewlodge.com Email: info@hippoviewlodge.com www.hippoviewlodge.com Hippo View Lodge has 81 comfortable en-suite rooms including two suites, 11 deluxe rooms and 68 superior rooms, all overlooking the Shire River and the beautifully maintained gardens.

The rooms have been designed for comfort with personal service provided by a dedicated staff.

All rooms come with satellite TV (five channels) and telephone extensions. The lodge is 30 to 60 minutes from Lilongwe National Park and a 20-minute boat ride from the game park. Other facilities include room service on request, laundry and dry cleaning, car hire by arrangement, covered car parking and children’s playground.

Fisherman’s Rest

Shire Valley Escarpment, Mirale PO Box 1654, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 980 179 Cell: +265 888 836 753; 207 753 Email: enquiries@fishermansrest.net www.fishermansrest.net Fisherman’s Rest offers enchanting accommodation in a 50-acre nature reserve. The property offers breathtaking views over the Great Rift Valley. Day trips and tours are available to the Lake of Stars, the national parks and wildlife reserves in Malawi. Each holiday is tailored to individual budgets. Fisherman’s Rest also encourages individuals and groups to get involved in community projects during their stay. There are projects in schools, clinics, prisons, orphanages, churches and villages. Fisherman’s Rest is an ideal venue for conferences, workshops and retreats.

Game Haven Lodge Thyolo Road PO Box 5443, Limbe Tel: +265 999 971 286/7/8 Email: info@gamehavenmw.com www.gamehavenmw.com

Exceptional up-close viewing of magnificent game and birdlife. Verdant lawns at Nswala Malo lounge bar at Lake Bvumbwe. Barbecue, fishing, mountain biking, game drives and nature walks. Children’s playground, international standard nine-hole, multiple tee box golf course at Mbawa Country Club. International cuisine at Ambrosia Restaurant and luxury accommodation at Game Haven Lodge, Bvumbwe.

Gecko Lounge

Hotel Masongola

Cape Maclear Tel: +265 999 787322 Email: bookgeckoloung@gmail.com www.geckolounge.net

PO Box 98, Zomba Tel:+265 1 524 688 Fax:+265 1 524 142 Email: hotelmasongola@clcom.net www.hotelmasongola.com

Gecko Lounge has two beachfront, en-suite, self-catering chalets with private verandas and fine views. Each room comes with basic kitchen facilities (small fridge), hot water, mosquito nets, fans, towels, a double bed and bunk beds. The chalets sleep up to four people and are ideal for couples, families or small groups. In addition there are two en-suite rooms with mosquito nets, fans, towels, safe box, a double bed and bunk beds that can sleep up to four people. The Reed Room sleeps up to eight, and is often used for couples, families and groups that require a more cost-effective alternative. It is divided into three sections with reed walls and Malawian fabric curtains.

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The foundations of Hotel Masongola, formerly a government hostel, were laid by Captain Haimes in 1886 on 1,000 acres of land on the scenic slopes of Zomba Mountain which he bought from Chief Malemia. Today, the hotel has 51 rooms, two flats, a front office, a restaurant and bar, a kitchen, a launderette and staff accommodation.

Accommodation Hotel Victoria Victoria Avenue, Blantyre PO Box 31124, Blantyre 3 Tel: +265 1 823 500

Located in the centre of Blantyre, the Hotel Victoria has 50 luxurious air conditioned bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. There are 18 twin bedrooms, 10 suites, 21 double rooms and one luxury suite. Each room has digital satellite TV, safe and other features. The hotel also has a restaurant and conference facilities for up to 70 delegates.

House Five Guesthouse

SOUTHERN REGION

Kara O’Mula Country Lodge Mulanje-Boma, PO Box 80095, Mulanje Tel: +265 1 466 515/516 Email: jkatangwe@karaomula.com www.karaomula.com Kara O’Mula Country Lodge is located at the foot of the Mulanje Mountain. The main structure is a 1905 renovated colonial building that was the residence of the district commissioner. It is 12 km from the Likhubula Falls and the Dziwe la Nkhalamba natural pool. The lodge has 27 rooms ranging from single to double to family rooms. Seven of these are corridor rooms within the colonial building. The rest are more spacious chalets spread out in various locations within a few metres of each other with vantage views of the Mulanje Mountain, the surrounding tea estates, the Thyolo Highlands and mountains across the border with Mozambique.

Leslie Lodge

Kabula Hill Road, Kabula, Blantyre Tel: +265 212 953 053 Email: housefive@africa-online.net www.housefivemw.com

2 Leslie Road, Mount Pleasant Blantyre (Cnr Mahatma Gandhi Road, opposite Petroda Filling Station) Tel: +265 999 828 929/824 317, 1 871 671 Fax +265 187 5676 Email: finch@africa-online.net www.leslielodge.com

House Five is on Kabula Hill in Blantyre, overlooking Mbayani. It has nine rooms, three of which are in the main house, with spacious rooms, all en-suite with showers. All rooms are equipped with fans, a safe, tea and coffee facilities, wireless internet and TV. In the garden are two long-stay cottages with all facilities including a kitchenette. The property contains a further three cottages, two of which face the pool, with TV, wireless internet, kettle, safe and cupboards.

House Five is a bed-and-breakfast establishment, but light snacks are available on request.

Leslie Lodge is a nine-room bed-and-breakfast establishment with a ‘home from home’ atmosphere in the quiet suburb of Mount Pleasant, Blantyre, a short distance from the town centre, hospital and medical college. The hosts are Ray and Lynne Finch. There is Wi-Fi throughout the complex and all rooms are light and spacious with a self-catering kitchen, garden and patio. Evening meals are available to order. Each room has a built-in safe, fridge, mosquito protection, satellite TV, air conditioning and heating. Credit/debit cards are accepted.

Kabula Lodge

Likhubula Forest Lodge

Off Michiru Rd, Kabula Tel: +265 1 821216 Email: kabulalodge@africa-online.net www.kabulalodge.co.mw

Likhubula-Mulanje PO Box 267 Mulanje Tel: +265 1 467 737 Email: likhubula@africa-online.net

Accommodation includes highly decorated self-contained suites, furnished with a queen-sized double bed and single bed, while other rooms have a furnished kitchen and en-suite bathroom.

Standard rooms have two single beds with study tables, wardrobe, sharing bathrooms with hot and cold showers, and two large furnished kitchens for those who prefer self-catering. Most of the rooms have views over the mountains and of Blantyre.

X Likhubula Forest Lodge has a beautiful location at the foot of Mulanje Mountain. It offers the perfect stopover or weekend away for those who wish to explore the forest and discover the beautiful rock pools and waterfalls. There is accommodation in the main lodge and camping site. The lodge has five bedrooms, of which two are en-suite. One of the en-suite rooms is in a separate annexe.

Kanjedza Lodge

The Makokola Retreat

PO Box 5623, Limbe Tel: +265 1 842 500 Fax: +265 1 870 105 Email: kanjedza@gmail.com Email: reservations@kanjedzalodge.com www.kanjedzalodge.com

Mangochi Tel: +265 1 580 244/445/469 Email: enquiries@makokola.com www.makokola.com

Kanjedza Lodge offers a range of modern accommodation in a quiet and peaceful environment with the latest amenities and facilities at affordable rates. Ideally located for conferences, it is close to Limbe market and Limbe’s business centre.

The Makokola Retreat is a hand-built villa that blends ‘ethno chic’ with all that is traditional in Malawi. Its many comforts are accentuated by locally sourced wooden beams and traditional artwork beneath a thatched roof. Rooms are just a few steps from the beach, yet designed with seclusion in mind. Within the grounds, pathways lead to accommodation consisting of villas, beach rooms and family rooms nestled in natural gardens to provide a haven of rest and relaxation.

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SOUTHERN REGION

Accommodation

Malawi Sun Hotel

Mo & Mic Lodge

Robins Road, Kabula Next to Air Malawi Offices, Robins Road Tel: +265 1 830 069; 824 808; 822 969 Fax: +265 1 830 718 Email: info@malawisunhotel.com www.malawisunhotel.com

11 Majete Road, Namiwawa PO Box E430, Blantyre Tel +265 995 600 213; 884 551 366; 111 608 064. Fax +265 830 324 Email: momiclodge@yahoo.com www.momiclodgemw.com

Located in the cool hills of Kabula, just five minutes’ walk from Blantyre’s central business district, the Malawi Sun offers the best of Malawian accommodation. The luxurious rooms have fine views and come with air conditioning, DStv and Wi-Fi. Room service is available. The hotel also has five conference rooms that can be customised for any needs. The Aamari Restaurant offers Continental, Indian, Chinese, Portuguese and Malawian cuisine. There is also the Deep End Grill and a food court. The Malawi Sun is the perfect place for business, work or leisure.

Mo & Mic Lodge, only a five-minute drive from the city centre, provides a welcome haven for business, leisure and family guests. It has seven rooms comprising one family room and six en-suite bedrooms with double and king beds. Services include tea-making facilities in the rooms, bar fridges, DStv and Wi-Fi throughout the lodge. Momic has a conference room which takes 30 people. In addition to the rooms, there is a lounge where guests can relax and watch TV.

Mulanje Motel

Mvuu Lodge and Camp

Mulanje-Boma PO Box 203, Mulanje Tel: +265 1 466 245 Cell: +265 8 827 563 Email: hmweziwina@malawi.net

Wilderness Safaris Tel: +265 1 771 393 Fax: +265 1 771 397 Email: m1@wilderness.mw www.wilderness-safaris.com

Under the same ownership as Limbani Lodge, the Mulanje Motel has 12 rooms with communal toilets and bathrooms and one self-contained room. There is an excellent bar selling Malawian lager at competitive prices. The bar and its pool table are a popular spot for the local community. The cosy restaurant serves both Malawian and English dishes at reasonable prices.

The motel also has conference facilities.

Mvuu Lodger is the sole lodge in Liwonde National Park and offers boat trips and games drives both during the day and at night. Walks with qualified scouts are also offered. Birdlife is prolific within the park and regarded as one of the finest birding spots in Africa. Just downstream, the 28-bed Mvuu Camp is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the same bush experience in a comfortable, but somewhat less exclusive atmosphere. Dinner is often served in the open boma or on the banks of the river. Accommodation is offered in en-suite chalets.

Mkulumadzi Lodge

Nanchengwa Lodge

c/o Robin Pope Safaris Tel: +265 (0) 1 794 491; 1 795 483 Email: info@robinpopesafaris.net www.mkulumadzi.com

Mangochi Tel: +265 (0)999 274 696; 888 474 079; 888 747 620 Email: ryan@nanchengwa.com

X Mkulumadzi Lodge is located in Majete Wildlife Reserve, one of Malawi’s largest protected areas and soon to be a Big Five game park. The lodge has a feeling of exclusivity and privacy and its luxurious chalets blend in with the surrounding vegetation. All chalets have magnificent private views of the Shire River.

Located on the Southern Lake shore, halfway between Mangochi and Monkey Bay, the lodge has three en-suite rooms and three beach houses set in leafy surroundings. Camping is available and the restaurant serves good home-style meals.

Mgoza Lodge Cape Maclear Tel: +265 995632105 Email: Kay@mgozalodge.com Email: alan@mgozalodge.com www.mgozalodge.com

Mgoza Lodge is the perfect place to relax, with its shady gardens and swimming pool looking out over the lake. Mgoza Lodge has seven double en-suite chalets, a dormitory that sleeps eight; three A-frame thatched huts on the beach and a family room that consists of two en-suite chalets joined together.

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Niyasu Guest Lodge Sanjika/Chilomoni, PO Box 3240, Blantyre Tel: +265 999 481 599 Email: niyasulodge@gmail.com Email: mpha.wawanya@gmail.com www.niyasulodge.net Niyasu Guest Lodge has spacious rooms, all equipped with internet connection and TV. There are nine superior en-suite rooms. The cosy guest bar opens onto a balcony offering sunset views and a cooling breeze from Michiru Mountain. A shuttle service from the airport and coach terminals, together with specific guest travel requirements, are available on request.

Accommodation Norman Carr Cottage Mangochi Tel: +265 999207506 Cell: +265 888355357 Email: taffy@africa-online.net www.normancarrcottage.com Norman Carr Cottage is on the southern shore of Lake Malawi, in the sheltered bay of Namakoma, 15 km south of Monkey Bay. It consists of six executive suites and a two-bedroom family cottage. The executive suites are beach-facing. Each of the large and airy rooms is furnished with a four-poster king-sized bed and features an outdoor shower. The cottage is at the back of the property among the mango trees. It consists of two bedrooms, both with double beds. The rooms are not en-suite but share an open-air shower and separate toilet.

Nsanje Discovery Lodge Nsanje-Boma PO Box 10, Nsanje Email: discoverylodgensanje@yahoo.com

SOUTHERN REGION

Pedro’s Grill & Lodge PO Box 1699, Blantyre, Sunnyside Tel: +265 1 833 430 Tel/Fax: +265 1 822 544 Cell: +265 888 842 670 Email: pedros@africa-online.net www.pedroslodge.com

Pedro’s Grill & Lodge is a conversion of a luxury residence in the Sunnyside area of Blantyre.

Proprietors Lena and Jean Pierre have many years of experience as international restaurant and accommodation hosts. There are eight self contained rooms with telephone and TV. All windows are mosquito screened. Wi-Fi internet access and top up cards are available. The property stands in luxurious gardens with safe parking. The beautifully decorated restaurant offers a varied menu and there is a cosy bar with a selection of drinks. At the end of the day, guests can cool off in the attractive pool or enjoy a drink in the patio bar.

Protea Hotel Ryalls 2 Hannover Avenue, PO Box 21, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 820 955 Fax: +265 1 827 000 Email: ryalls@proteamalawi.com www.proteahotels.com/ryalls

Nsanje Discovery Lodge has 26 rooms with a choice of en-suite or shared bathrooms. The lodge is located in the Lower Shire and there is a wall around the whole property. A wide range of amenities can be found in the town of Nsanje.

Situated in Blantyre’s central business district, Protea Hotels Ryalls is perfectly located for business travellers and holidaymakers. The hotel’s spacious accommodation consists of 120 air conditioned and en-suite rooms with satellite TV as well as wireless internet access. Guests can relax in the newly renovated pool or work up a sweat in the new fitness centre. Wining and dining facilities are available in the hotel and in town. The hotel is also an ideal venue for conferencing and banquets, offering world-class facilities for up to 120 delegates in various seating configurations. There is a business centre plus other commercial facilities.

Nyala Lodge

Pumulani Lodge

Lengwe National Park, Lower Shire Valley, Chikwawa, PO Box 2279, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 429 201, +265 111 945 383 Email: nyalalodge@africa-online.net www.jambo-africa.com/lengwe.html

Tel:+265 1 770 540/60 Email: info@robinpopesfaris.net www.pumulani.com

Nyala Lodge offers comfortable accommodation for both families and individuals on a visit to Lengwe National Park. The lodge offers views to the nearby water hole and bush where many animals come to drink. There are en-suite chalets with hot water, mosquito nets and overhead fans and/or air conditioning, sleeping two to four people. Nyala Lodge has a well stocked bar and the restaurant offers delicious meals served on the deck overlooking the bush where many animals graze nearby. There is a small swimming pool. The campsite has ablutions and barbecue facilities and tents can be rented from the lodge.

Pumulani is an exclusive beach lodge within Lake Malawi National Park. The lodge has 10 individually designed villas spread out along the hillside overlooking the lake. Each villa has a large bedroom, a spacious living area and a private deck with lake view. Guests can relax on the sandy beach or at the infinity pool. Activities include water-skiing, sailing, diving, wakeboarding, kayaking, snorkelling, fishing and birdwatching. At sunset, there are scenic cruises in a traditional wooden dhow. The lodge is part of Robin Pope Safaris, one of the finest safari companies in Africa.

Nyambadwe Lodge

Serendib Suites & Conference Centre

Nyambadwe PO Box 30310, Chichiri, Blantyre 3 Tel: +265 1 835 551 Fax: +265 1 871 548 Cell: +265 8 866 893 Email: nyasho5@yahoo.com Located in the exclusive Nyambadwe, this luxurious and homely lodge offers bed and breakfast at affordable rates. It has 20 well furnished and self-contained rooms. There is ample secure parking and camping facilities are available. The restaurant offers a wide range of meals prepared to customer’s taste and there is a common lounge with digital satellite TV. Conference facilities with a seating capacity of 25 are available, complete with flip boards and a digital video projector.

Namiwawa PO Box 5370, Limbe Tel: +265 111 910 444 Fax: +265 212 400 400/401 Email: serendib@globemw.net Situated in the heart of the city, in Namiwawa off Chilomoni road, just a five-minute drive from the central business area and 15 minutes from Chileka International Airport. Spacious, modern and comfortable en-suite rooms offering remote control satellite, colour TV, direct-dial telephone, tea/coffee facilities, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, in-room safe and room service.

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SOUTHERN REGION

Accommodation

Shire Lodge

Sun ‘n’ Sand Hotel

Liwonde Tel: +265 1542 277 Email: shirelodge@globemw.net

PO Box 333, Mangochi Tel: +265 01 594 545 / 550 Fax: +255 01 594 473 Email: info@sunnsandmw.com www.sunnsandmw.com

Shire Lodge is located in Liwonde Township in Machinga on the bank of the Shire River.

Coming from Blantyre, descend towards the Liwonde Bridge over the Shire River and then turn right a few metres from the bridge.

Sun ‘n’ Sand Holiday Resort is located on 700 metres of golden sandy beach on the shore of Lake Malawi. The resort has a variety of rooms, including 13 VIP rooms, 101 superior rooms and 11 self-catering family chalets as well as a campsite with 25 spacious two-person tents under a thatched roof. The resort has one of the best conference facilities in Malawi, able to accommodate groups of all sizes, from a small meeting to a major conference with breakaway events. The resort has a main restaurant and two bars. Activities include boating, speedboats, water-skiing, massages, excursions, snorkelling and parasailing.

Sunbird Ku Chawe

Sungeni Cottage

Zomba Plateau Tel: +265 1 514 211 Email: kuchawe@sunbirdmalawi.com www.sunbirdmalawi.com

Southern Lake Shore, Mangochi Area Glyn Jones Road, PO Box 2279, Blantyre Tel/Fax: +265 182 3709, Tel: +265 183 5356 Cell: +265 888 202 420 Email: jamboafrica@africa-online.net www.jambo-africa.com/bookings/sungenicottage.html

Sunbird Ku Chawe sits on the edge of the Zomba Plateau, which rises to nearly 2,200 metres.

Around this rim are some of the most wonderful views in Africa. The inn has 32 well appointed rooms comprising 22 deluxe studios and 10 superior rooms. All rooms are en-suite with satellite TV, telephone, minibar, fireplace and power points. The inn also has a business centre, laundry, babysitting services and free car parking. The conference centre has two rooms with a total capacity of 50 delegates to accommodate various requirements.

Sungeni Cottage is a self-catering four-bedroom lakeshore unit, with separate lounge dining room and bar. Situated about 2 km north of the turn-off to Palm Beach Lodge and another 1 km from the main junction after turning right. It has a family-friendly swimming pool with a baby section and a beach. There is also a beach-front entertainment shaded platform near the swimming pool with a wonderful view of the lake. Guests can have their meals and sundowners here, or just relax and read a book.

Sunbird Mount Soche

Thumbi View Lodge

Head Offices, PO Box 376, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 820 588, Fax: +265 1 820 124 Email: mountsocheres@sunbirdmalawi.com www.sunbirdmalawi.com Sunbird Mount Soche is strategically positioned in the city of Blantyre and set among lush tropical gardens overlooking the city to the north and Ndirande Mountain to the south. There are 132 rooms comprising eight suites, 31 superior rooms and 93 standard rooms. There are two conference rooms. The hotel has the largest conference facilities in Blantyre. The main hall has a capacity of 350 delegates and there are two boardrooms for 10 and 15 people. Other facilities include Wi-Fi, designated non-smoking rooms, a modern business centre, a babysitting service (by prior arrangement), an airline office, hospitality bars and a swimming pool.

Sunbird Nkopola Lodge Mangochi, PO Box 14 Mangochi Tel: 01 580 444 Email: nkopola@sunbirdmalawi.com www.sunbirdmalawi.com Located 24 km north of Mangochi district headquarters, Sunbird Nkopola Lodge stands on the southern lakeshore near the friendly fishing village of Chipoka, with spectacular views over the lake. Accommodation consist of air conditioned en-suite rooms with digital satellite TV, international direct dialling, Wi-Fi and 220 volt power points. There are 20 standard rooms, 32 superior rooms (16 superior rondavels and 14 superior beachfront rooms) and three family rooms. Next to the lodge is a campsite with eight self-contained chalets and seven tents.

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Cape Maclear Tel: +265 997 463054; 998 599005 Email: info@thumbiviewlodge.com www.thumbiviewlodge.com

Thumb View Lodge is located on Lake Malawi with views over Thumb Island, which offers firstrate snorkelling and diving. All dorms, twins and double rooms are spacious and en-suite. There is a professional diving team at the lodge for excursions and courses.

Villa 33 Chilomoni Ring Rd, Namiwawa Tel: +265 999 960 231 Email: reservations@thevilla.mw www.thevilla.mw

Villa 33 is the perfect location for business and independent travellers who need short to medium-term accommodation in Blantyre. The lodge is set in 1.7 acres of tropical gardens in the quiet suburb of Namiwawa within easy reach of the town centre. There are five en-suite rooms, two one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, all stylishly and individually decorated. Accommodation is on a bed-and-breakfast basis with both Continental and cooked-to-order breakfast menus available.

Accommodation Venice Beach Backpackers PO Box 179, Monkey Bay, Cape Maclear Tel: +265 999 31 9453 Email: venice@venicebeachbackpackers.com www.venicebeachbackpackers.com

SOUTHERN REGION

Kameza Lodge Kameza, Blantyre PO Box 2522, Tel: +265 1 915 863; 27 21 783 1955 Email: kamezalodge@yahoo.com

Khulubvi Lodge Venice Beach Backpackers is a traveller’s lodge situated on a sandy beach in a quaint fishing village on the southern shore of Lake Malawi. It offers good accommodation and comfortable hammocks to laze around in on warm days.

PO Box 95, Chileka Tel: +265 999 209 846

Legacy Lodge PO Box 206, Lunzu Tel: +265 1613 710; 1986 323 Email: legacylodgemw@gmail.com

Alcon Cottages Cape Maclear Turn Off PO Box 31887 Tel: +265 999 95 10301 Email: alcon@africa-online.net

Lodge Mungo No 1 Mungo Chisuse Rd Mount Pleasant PO Box 30500, Blantyre Tel: +265 111 984 184 Email: lodgemungo@globemax4g.com

Alem Ethiopian Restaurant Victoria Avenue PO Box 2481, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 822 529

Masuku Cottage Zomba P/Bag 3537 Zomba Tel: 08888 43961

Betania Lodge Mwanza Boma PO Box 250 Mwanza Tel: +265 999 928 296

Blue Elephant Restaurant Ginnery Corner, 265 Blantyre Tel: +265 1 915 559 Email: casamia@afraica-online.net

Blue Lagoon Lodge Chigumula Newlands Tel: +265 1 657243

Chenjes Nest Guesthouse

Matechanga Motel PO Box 14 Chikwawa Tel: +265 888 230 800

Milestone Lodge PO Box 164, Chileka Tel: +265 111 989617; 88 4331132 Email: milestonelodge1@gmail.com

Motel Paradise Zalewa Road PO Box 12 Blantyre Tel: +265 1 823 338 Email: edwin@yahoo.com

PO Box 5234, Chigumula

Comfort Inn Bed & Breakfast Near Independance Arch, Chichiri PO Box 30968, Blantyre

Mpingwe Lodge Mpingwe PO Box 5345, Limbe Tel: +265 1 64 0814

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SOUTHERN REGION

Accommodation

Mufasa Backpackers

Peter’s Lodge

Monkey Bay PO Box 7 Lumbadzi Tel: +265 999 0710665 Email: malawi@mufasabackpackers.com

PO Box 20, Zomba Tel: +265 950 046; 995671 596

Mulanje View Motel

Rob & Wills

Mulanje-Boma PO Box 75

Chitakale-Mulanje PO Box 248 Mulanje Tel: +265 888 847 341

Mwanza Hotel

Royal Palm Hotel

Mwanza Boma PO Box 174 Mwanza Email: patrickbanda@gmail

Ndindeya Motel PO Box 527 Zomba Tel: +265 1 525 558

Ng’ona Lodge Chikwawa- Majete PO Box 43 Blantyre Tel: +265 999 216 399

Blantyre PO Box 53011 Limbe Tel: +265 21 297 5610

Ruby’s Guesthouse Namiwawa PO Box 3486, Blantyre Tel: +265 99 191 0466

Satemwa Ulendo Lodge Thyolo-Boma PO Box 5 Thyolo

Oriental Lodge Chilembwe Road, Blantyre PO Box 2702, Blantyre Tel: +2651 833 815

Palm Beach Leisure Resort

Thuchira Tourist Lodge Thuchira-Phalombe PO Box 4 Phalombe Tel: +265 88 110 3353 Email: thuchiralodge@gmail.com

PO Box 46, Mangochi

Pat & Ashley Town Lodge Zalewa Road PO Box 529, Blantyre

Top Lodge Namiwawa PO Box 30627, Blantyre Tel: +265 111 910 872 Email: reservation@toplodge.net www.toplodge.net

Village Green Garden lodge Link Namiwawa Rd, Namiwawa Tel: +265 21 295 42 75 Email: yasmin@portfolio.mwº

Zonse Ndi Chauta Motel Chinamwali PO Box 512, Zomba Tel: +265 999 72 7751

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Ot her services Africa Wild Truck Mulanje Tel: +265 99 594 1542 Email: info@africawildtruck.com www.africawildtruck.com

Africa Wild Truck is a tour operator based in Malawi that has a big passion for travelling. since 2005, it has provided adventure and responsible tourism on less travelled routes in Tanzania, Kenya, Malawi, Zambia, Mozambique and Botswana. As well as the classsic expedition of Africa Wild Truck, with space for photography lovers Africa Wild Truck offers photographic workshops of reportage, wildlife photographic workshops and art safaris.

Jambo Africa Glyn Jones Road, PO Box 2279, Blantyre Tel/Fax: +265 182 3709, Tel: +265 183 5356 Cell: +265 888 202 420 Email: jamboafrica@africa-online.net info@jambo-africa.com www.jambo-africa.com Jambo Africa is one of the leading safari operators in Malawi. With many years’ experience combined with an intimate knowledge of the country, Jambo Africa can tailor exciting packages both in Malawi and elsewhere. Jambo-Africa’s wide range of services includes all kinds of vehicle hire, from saloons to 4x4 SUVs, twin cabs and various sizes of buses. For camping enthusiasts, 4x4s come fully equipped for camping and include fridge, rooftop tent, chairs, tables, gas lighting, cooking equipment, full insurance cover and unlimited mileage. Special rates for group bookings and long-term hire.

SOUTHERN REGION

Kayak Africa Cape Maclear Tel: +265 999 942 661 Central reservations: Tel: +27 (0)21 783 1955 (Cape Town, SA) Email: letsgo@kayakafrica.co.za www.kayakafrica.com Kayak Africa is the founder and operator of camps on Mumbo Island and Domwe Island in Lake Malawi National Park. The company also specialises in sea kayak and small boat safaris on Lake Malawi, and bike kayak safaris around southern Malawi. Mumbo and Domwe are deserted tropical islands in a pristine natural state with a thick covering of miombo woodland forest.

The waters around the islands are clean and calm, allowing all guests, irrespective of fitness or experience, to enjoy sea kayaking, snorkelling and scuba diving. The camps sleep 14 guests in furnished safari tents and are operated in an impeccably green and eco-friendly way.

Kwacha Dawn Safari Namiwawa PO Box 219, Blantyre Tel: +265 888 822 892; 999 932 100; 1 910 881 Email: kwachadawn@africa-online.net www.kwachadawnmw.com Kwacha Dawn Safari is one of the best safari car hire firms in the country, offering a familyfriendly service that allows customers to appreciate the beauty and hospitality of Malawi. The company provides well serviced and maintained vehicles to suit customers’ tastes and needs as well as giving priority to their safety and comfort. The overall aim is to provide customers with the full Malawian experience.

L’Hostaria Christwick PO Box 30768, Blantyre 3 Tel: +265 1 636 025 Email: hostaria@africa-online.net

L’Hostaria is famous for its authentic Italian cuisine and good service. The restaurant has ample space for hosting special parties.

Jungle Pepper Chichiri Shopping Mall PO Box 30624, Blantyre 3 Tel: +265 888 826 229 www.junglepepperpizza.com

Jungle Pepper Pizza has been run by two Portuguese sisters, Carla and Helga, since 1997.

Their new shop, now located in Chichiri Shopping Mall, offers made-to-order food, clean atmosphere, friendly service and plenty of available seating both inside and outside. Open seven days a week.

M’bawa Country Club Thyolo Road Tel: +265 999 971 287 Email: info@gamehavenmw.com www.gamehavenmw.com The M’bawa Country Club is located at the Game Haven Lodge. Membership at Mbawa Country Club provides access to a first class golf course, a brand new clubhouse complete with a sports bar, access to Lake Bvumbwe, a swimming pool, Mwana Park a children's playground, a discount on certain facilities. Guests can also taking a drive or walk through the game park.

From the clubhouse veranda and patio enjoy sundowners as the sun sets over the Mbawa trees and game park, watch the wildlife enjoying the golf course.

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SOUTHERN REGION

Ot her services

The Responsible Safari Co Mandala, Blantyre Tel: +265 111 602 407; 999 306 631 Email:info@responsiblesafaricompany.com www.responsiblesafaricompany.com The Responsible Safari Co is a destination management company specialising in experiential travel to Malawi, working primarily within the educational, corporate and leisure markets and offering specialised planning and on-the-ground logistical support for school expeditions, university field trips, charity and adventure challenges, CSR groups and independent travellers.

Sunrise Ground Tours Plot MC348, Blantyre PO Box 814, Blantyre Tel: +265 111 914 304/530 Email: info@sunrisetoursmalawi.com www.sunrisetoursmalawi.com Sunrise Ground Tours (SGT) is a tour operator that can tailor-make any package, including kayaking on Lake Malawi, walking and hiking adventure safaris, sailing, snorkelling and diving, wildlife safaris and birdlife tours. Services include accommodation and car hire reservations, ground transfers, visa assistance, meet and greet services, conferencing and incentive travel management and destination marketing.

Bombay Palace Restaurant Hannover Avenue, Blantyre PO Box 1519 Blantyre Email: eleshkotecha@hotmail.com

Caesar Palace PO Box 2702, Blantyre

Café Rouge Chichiri Shopping Mall PO Box 503 Limbe, Tel: 01 878 795 Shoprite Complex, PO Box 5035 Tel: +265 187 8795

California Dreams Lunzu PO Box 1909, Blantyre Email: californiadreams@yahoo.com

Chez Maky Restaurant Kabula Hill P/Bag 246, Blantyre Tel: +265 999 203 029 Email: chezmakymw@gmail.com

Chicken Cottage Chichiri Shopping Mall. PO Box 51183, Blantyre Tel: +265 212 727 272, Cell: +265 999 927 386; +265 212 927386 Email: c.cottage@hotmail.com

Food & Refreshments Centre HHI. PO Box 812, Blantyre

Haest Restaurant & Resthouse Muloza PO Box 3, Phalombe

Hong Kong Restaurant PO Box 719, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 820 85

Kapenga Restaurant PO Box 5863 Limbe Tel: +265 888 5621 55

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Ot her services Kips Restaurants PO Box 788, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 835 247 Email: kipsmw@gmail.com

Krazy Foods Restaurants PO Box 2702 Blantyre Tel: +265 1 833 815

Lujeri Lodge Lujeri Tea Estate-Mulanje PO Box 133, Mulanje

Mwai wa Abambo PO Box 275, Mangochi Tel: +265 1 594 749

Njamba Club House & Take Away Chitawira PO 30766, Blantyre Tel: +265 999 512 584

Red Pepper Restaurant & Bar Yanakus-Limbe PO Box 5828 Limbe

Siku Car Hire Limbe PO Box 51111, Limbe Email: siku@sikumw.com

SS Rent A Car Gyn Jones Rd, Blantyre PO Box 2282, Blantyre Email: info@ssrentacar.com

Steers and Debonaires

SOUTHERN REGION

Tasty Bites PO Box 855, Zomba Tel: +265 212 936 490 Email: imtiazfatima01@yahoo.com

Temptations Coffee Shop PO Box 166, Blantyre Tel: +265 888 827 981

Terrapin Station (Doogles) Lodge Next to Wenela Bus Station, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 602 710 Email: doogles@africa-online.net www.doogles.com

TJs Restaurant & Bar Mount Pleasant, PO Box 191 Tel: +265 999 951 207 Email: tariqjussab@yahoo.com

Tulsi Veg Delight Gyn Jones Rd, Blantyre PO Box 2992 Chichiri Tel: +265 212 919 705

TM Accommodation & Travelling Mangochi

Zinenani Highfield PO Box 1295, Blantyre Tel: +265 152 6106

Zitherepano Restaurant Mangochi PO Box 241, Mangochi Tel: +265 999 868666

PO Box 3549, Blantyre Tel: +265 111 610 611

Studio de France Namiwawa,Chilomoni Ring Rd Tel: +265 1 669 626 Email: hostfrance@globemw.net www.hostellerie-de-france.com

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USEFUL CONTACTS USEFUL ADDRESSES Malawi Department of Tourism

AIRLINES

Malawi Consulate General – South Africa

BELGIUM Embassy of the Republic of Malawi to the Kingdom of Belgium and Mission to the European Communities Ground Floor, 46 Avenue Hermann-Debroux, B-1160 Brussels Tel: +32 2 231 09 80 Fax: +32 2 231 10 66 Telex: 24128 Mabel B Email: embassy.malawi@skynet.be

MOZAMBIQUE High Commission of the Republic of Malawi to Mozambique No. 75 Kenneth Kaunda Avenue PO Box 4148, Maputo Tel: +258 21 492 676 Fax: +258 21 490 224 Telex: 6 300 MWEB MO Telegram: MALAWIAN, MAPUTO Email: malawimoz@virconn.com

4 Dodge Street, Woodmead 2157, PO Box 3881, Rivonia 2128 Johannesburg Tel: +27 11234 8577/8; 11803 4919 Email: malawicons@mweb.co.za

FEDERATIVE REPUBLIC OF BRAZIL Embassy of the Republic of Malawi to the Federative Republic of Brazil SHIS Q1 15 Conjonto 03 Casa 01 Lago Sul, CEP: 71635-230, Brasilia – DF Email: malawiembassybrazil@bol.com.br

REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA High Commission of the Republic of Malawi to the Republic of South Africa 770 Government Avenue Arcadia 0083, Pretoria, PO Box 11172, Hatfield 0082, Pretoria Tel: +27 12 430 9900, 342 0146/1759 Fax: +27 12 342 0147 Email: tourism@malawi.consulate.co.za

Tourism House off Convention Drive, City Centre, Private Bag 326, Lilongwe 3, Malawi Tel: +265 1 775 499; 772 702 Fax: +265 1 775 4943 Email: info@visitmalawi.mw

Department of National Parks & Wildlife PO Box 30331, Lilongwe 3 Tel: +265 1 759 831 Fax: +265 1 759 832 Email: dnpw@malawi.net

Lake of Stars Email: festival@lakeofstars.org www.lakeofstars.org

Malawi Institute of Tourism PO Box 2673, Blantyre Tel: +265 1 621 866 Fax: +265 1 621 923 Email: mit@malawi.net www.mitmalawi.com

Malawi Tourism Council PO Box 1044, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 770 010 Tel/Fax: +265 1 770 131 Cell: +265 888 865 250 Email: mta@malawi.net www.malawi-tourism-association.org.mw

Malawi Tourism Marketing Consortium c/o Geo Group & Associates 4 Christian Fields, London SW16 3JZ, UK Tel: + 44 115 982 1903 Fax: + 44 115 981 9418 Email: enquiries@malawitourism.com www.malawitourism.com

Tourism Association of Mount Mulanje c/o Infomulanje PO Box 200, Mulanje Tel: +265 1 466 466 Email: infomulanje@sdnp.org.mw

Travel Agents Association of Malawi c/o Bon Voyage Tours PO Box 31134, Lilongwe Tel: +265 1 774 780 Fax: +265 1 773 260 Email: bonvoyage@malawi.net

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MALAWI MISSIONS ABROAD

PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA Embassy of the Republic of Malawi 500 Dongwai Street Diplomatic Office Building, No. 23 Dongzhimenwai Street Chaoyang Distric, Beijing: 100600 Tel: +86 1 0646 81380 Fax: +86 1 0665 91124 Email: beijing@mw-embassy.cn ARAB REPUBLIC OF EGYPT Embassy of the Republic of Malawi to the Arab Republic of Egypt Villa 44 Road, 254 Digla, Maadi, Cairo Tel/Fax: +202 25 177 598 Email: malawi@link.com.eg FEDERAL DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA Embassy of the Republic of Malawi to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Woreda 23, Kebele 13, House No. 1021, PO Box 2316, Addis Ababa Tel: +251 9114 02899 Fax: +251 1166 20299 Email: malemb@ethionet.et FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY Embassy of the Republic of Malawi to the Federal Republic of Germany WestfalischeStresse 86 10709, Berlin Tel: +49 0 30 8431 540 Fax: +49 30 8431 5430 Telex: 886989 MABN D Email: malawiberlin@aol.com JAPAN Embassy of the Republic of Malawi to Japan Takanawa Kaisei Bldg 7th Floor 3-4-1 Takanawa Minato-ku Tokyo 108-0074 Tel: +81 03 3449 3010/47 Fax: +81 03 3449 3220 Email: malawi@luck.ocn.ne.jp, malawi@mxl.ttcn.ne.jp www.malawiembassy.org INDIA High Commission of the Republic of Malawi to India F-63, Poorvi Marg, Vasant Vihar New Delhi-110057 Tel: +91 11 4607 8800 Fax: +91 111 4607 8810/12 Email: malawindia@airtelbroadband.in

UNITED REPUBLIC OF TANZANIA High Commission of the Republic of Malawi to the United Republic of Tanzania Ohio/Sokoine Drive 1st Floor, Zambia House, PO Box 7617, Dar-es-Salaam Tel: +255 748 481740 Fax: +255 2221 36951/24623 Email: mhc@cats-net.com UNITED KINGDOM High Commission of the Republic of Malawi to the United Kingdom 36 John Street, Holborn, London WC1N 2AT Tel: +207 421 6010 Fax: +207 831 9273 Email: malawihighcommission@btconnect.com www.malawihighcommission.co.uk THE UNITED NATIONS Permanent Mission of the Republic of Malawi to the United Nations 866 United Nations Plaza Suite 486 New York, NY 10017 United States of America Tel: +1 212 317 8738/8718 Fax: +1 212 317 8729 Telex: 421807 Email: malawinewyork@aol.com, malawiU@aol.com UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Embassy of the Republic of Malawi to the United States of America Marshall B. Coyne, Building 1156 15th Street, NW Suite No. 320 Washington DC 2006 Tel: +1 202 721 0270 Fax: +1 202 721 0288 Telex: 64348 Telegrams: MALAWIEMB Email: malawidc@aol.com REPUBLIC OF ZAMBIA High Commission of the Republic of Malawi to the Republic of Zambia 31 Bishop’s Road, PO Box 50425 Kabulonga, Lusaka Telegram: KWACHA, ZAMBIA Tel: +260 1 265 768/69 Fax: +260 211 265 765 Telex: 41840 Email: mhcomm@iwayafrica.com REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE Embassy of the Republic of Malawi to the Republic of Zimbabwe 9-11 Duthie Road Alexandra Park PO Box 321 Harare Tel: +263 4 798 584-7 Fax: +263 4 799 006 Email: malahigh@africaonline.co.zw

Malawian Airlines Routes from Lilongwe and Blantyre to Dar es Salaam, Harare, Johannesburg, Karonga, Kusaka, Mzuzu and Nairobi. Domestic flights between Blantyre and Lilongwe twice a day. www.airmalawi.com

Ethiopian Airlines Operates daily flights into Blantyre and Lilongwe www.ethiopianairlines.com

Kenya Airways Daily flights into Blantyre and Lilongwe. www.kenya-airways.com

South African Airways Between Johannesburg and Blantyre on Wednesday and Saturday; Johannesburg and Lilongwe on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. www.flysaa.com

Malawi Department of Tourism Ministry of Information, Tourism and Culture Tourism House Off Convention Drive Private Bag 326, Lilongwe 3

2 0 1 5 - 1 6 DES T INAT ION

Tel: +265 1 775 499; 772 702 Fax: +265 1 775 4943 Email: info@visitmalawi.mw malawitourism

@malawitourism

www.visitmalawi.mw

THE OFFICIAL MALAWI T OUR I SM DIREC T ORY