BLOG: A world of wonder at Pumulani Lodge, by Robin Pope Safaris

In this blog from Robin Pope Safaris, we hear from Kascha, the manager at Pumulani Lodge. With the lake unusually high right now with most of their beach currently submerged, we get a detailed update on what’s happening at the lodge, written in her own words. And for an added touch of inspiration, we look into what stargazing is like at Pumulani.

“The vast body of water sparkles like a jewel in the sun – reminding us of the treasure of life and how it should be embraced whole-heartedly! Off the main road a beautiful beach, crystal clear waters, and a world of wonder has been waiting for our guests.

As the season is changing, we are experiencing a different side of Pumulani. With a significant part of the beach back (due to cyclone Freddy which resulted in unusually high waters we had lost most of our beach), it is becoming a “family camping” spot – basking in the sun, relaxing, playing and celebrating life…

Although the bush has lost some of its colour, the experiences here definitely have not.

Several mornings have been started with some yoga – to embrace a holistic experience. Exploring the fishing villages locally and at Cape McClear – where the culture and the kids have touched the hearts of the guests. Walks up the mountain where the view takes your breath away, and some action-packed afternoons of water skiing, wake- boarding and fun tubing – where you could hear the squeals of laughter in a distance…

Setting out on a snorkeling trip – where the feeling of “summer, sun and lake” has created magical experiences on the water. The breeze through your hair, sparkling sun on the water and the fish eagles swooping over the water is a part the magic of Lake Malawi. As you pass by Cape Maclear and the other fishing villages it tells you part of the story of the life and culture of the people living by the Lake.

The Pel’s Fish Owl has been at the main area of the lodge – intriguing us with its unique call – what a beautiful sighting! A pair of Garter snakes have taken to greeting us along the way into the main area, and 2 twig snakes can be found in the foliage at the boat yard.

It has been a season to unwind, where guest take the opportunity to relax at the pool, enjoy the down time from their usual busy life and embrace the ‘restfulness’ Pumulani offers. The warmth from the Pumulani Team serving our guests with a smile and ensuring that the kids go away happy, and parents rested and to give each guest having a memorable stay…

The days here are completed with a brush stoke of colors as the sun sets over the lake, while guests gather and relax round the fire to share their stories and get to know one another.”

The beauty of the African sky at Pumulani

Once in a blue moon, quite literally, the night sky graces us with a celestial spectacle…

A “blue moon” is not, as the name might suggest, a moon that actually turns blue but rather, it’s the term for the second full moon that occurs within the same month. Two full moons in one month are a rare occurrence and a treat for stargazers. The recent blue moon at Pumulani Lodge in Malawi was no exception.

Set on an elevated rocky outcrop that overlooks Lake Malawi, Robin Pope Safaris’ state-of-the-art telescope allows guests to observe the moon’s craters and lunar landscapes in breathtaking detail while the moon casts it’s radiant glow over the Lake. The powerful telescope, expertly guided by Godfrey offers an unobstructed view of the night’s sky.

Once the sun sets and darkness falls, the knowledgeable guides switch to the expansive unpolluted sky, pointing out constellations like Orion or the Southern Cross, phases of the moon, and sharing tales of the stars. As one takes in the wonders of the African sky, it’s impossible not to be humbled by the sheer beauty and mystery it holds. In these moments, one can’t help but feel a profound connection to the universe, a sense of being a part of something much larger and grander than our everyday lives.

Find out more about the Robin Pope Safari lodges via the following links: Mkulumadzi Lodge, Kuthengo Camp, Pumulani Lodge