Bua River Lodge is located two kilometres inside the eastern boundary of Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve in Malawi. The reserve, covering 1,800 square kilometres is the third largest protected area in Malawi and one of the least known. Largely miombo woodland, the reserve falls from around 1,000 m. above sea level to just 600 meters in the east. It is bisected by the perennial Bua River, the second largest in the country, on whose banks Bua River Lodge is located.

The reserve is very much a wilderness area. Apart from the main M18 road, which runs through the reserve, only one motorable track exists that approximately parallels the southern bank of the Bua River. North of the river, there are no tracks at all.

There is a considerable diversity of wildlife, including a healthy elephant population, buffalo, lion and leopard, as well as roan, sable, zebra and many smaller mammals. Over 200 species of birds are listed, including Palm Nut Vulture and Black Stork. It is likely that Pel’s Fishing Owl also occurs.

Bua River Lodge offers high quality tented accommodation at moderate prices. Initially six units are being constructed, consisting of purpose made canvas safari tents, pitched on extensive wooden decks, shaded by thatched roofs. The accommodation comprises two luxury tents 6.5 x 4.5 metres, on 10 x 6 metre decks, one twin bedded, one with a queen size bed; two standard tents, 4.5 x 3.5 metres, one double one twin; and two economy tents, 3.5 x 3.2 metres. The luxury and standard tents have open-air en-suite facilities, with waterless toilet, wash basins and hot showers. The economy units use the ablution block in the camp site.

The camp site itself is serviced with hot showers and flushing toilets, a shaded deck with eating area, a barbecue, dishwashing facilities and a laundry area.

The main building, housing the restaurant, bar, reading and reception area, will be thatched and will have three deck levels, plus a viewing deck giving views along the river.

The lodge intends to preserve the wilderness feel of the location, each accommodation unit being well separated from the others, bringing a sense of solitude. Each unit faces the Bua River. The luxury tents are built on an island in the river, reached by a suspension footbridge. Lighting is primarily with paraffin lanterns although small solar powered LED lamps will be used to provide illumination in the bathrooms.

Given the nature of the terrain and the density of the vegetation, vehicle-based wildlife viewing is generally unrewarding. Walking safaris are offered, with a trained and armed game ranger. Walks will be tailored to the wishes of the guests, varying from short strolls along the river to all-day hikes and, eventually, overnight safaris with fly camps.

Activity weekends including bird watching and photography will be offered in 2010.

We consider community outreach as a key component of our operation. However, as far as is possible, we intend to assist local communities on a business to business basis. Apart from providing employment and training – all current personnel are from surrounding villages, we purchase food items locally and will provide assistance in producing the quality we require. We will also provide assistance in marketing local arts and crafts.

Central Malawi Accommodation

Lilongwe	Salima and Senga Bay
	Nkhotakota
	Dwangwa
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	Ntchisi Forest Reserve
Dzalanyama Forest Reserve
	Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve
Dedza