Malawi Tourism: North Malawi Accommodation: Likoma Island: Kaya Mawa

One of the most isolated and beautiful destinations in Malawi is Likoma Island, in the northern region of Lake Malawi. With breathtaking views of the mountains and wilderness of Mozambique, Likoma remains almost untouched since its discovery by Scottish missionaries at the end of the nineteenth century. Beyond the Baobab Plains, at the southern tip of the island, lies a cresent shaped beach of fine golden sand surounded by mango trees. This is Kaya Mawa lodge.

Kaya Mawa, meaning ‘maybe tomorrow’ provides seculded luxury in traditional surroundings . Built entirely by hand, in partnership with the local community, this eco-friendly lodge offers an intimate collection of just seven thatched cottages and a private honeymoon island. Each cottage has its own hand-crafted, four poster mahogany bed, bathroom with sunken double-tub and hot-water shower. The main beach is private, with a thatch-roofed bar and hammocks and rope-beds scattered around.

As well as safaris on traditional dhow sailing craft and dug-out canoes, the beach is home to several imported boats: laser, windsurfer and there is water-skiing and wake-boarding, all with instruction available. Fishing rods are also available. Lake Malawi is the premier freshwater diving experience in the world, boasting 80% of the world’s tropical freshwater fish, and Likoma and Chizumulu Islands are widely regarded as having the best dive sites in the lake, serviced by our fully operational PADI dive school.

A 360° image of the Kaya Mawa bar can be viewed on