BLOG: The Allure of Lake Malawi, by Robin Pope Safaris

In this blog from Robin Pope Safaris, we learn why what was once a Zambia-only tour operating company, soon became so much more when they ventured over the border to discover the jewel in Malawi’s crown: Lake Malawi. Read the blog below in their own words:

After operating in the Zambian wilderness for over 2 decades, we decided it was time to expand and include more of Southern Africa. It was in the mid-2000s when we set our sights on Malawi, which at the time was relatively unknown on the safari scene, but the beautiful Lake Malawi had always been in the limelight.. and for good reason too! In 2008, Pumulani Lodge, the brightest star on Lake Malawi opened it’s ‘doors’ and the rest is history! But what makes Lake Malawi so remarkable?

The Lake of Stars…

Malawi is dominated by this magnificent body of water, 365 miles long and 52 miles wide hence sometimes referred to as the calendar lake! It is part of the Great Rift Valley and was visited by explorer David Livingstone, who aptly dubbed Lake Malawi: “The Lake of Stars”! This is because during the day the light dances across the deep blue water and once the sun has set the stars twinkle brightly both in the sky and on the lake as the fishermen light up their hurricane lamps for their night on the lake. Pumulani makes the most of these phenomenal views as the lodge sits elevated in the pristine hills of Lake Malawi National Park.

More than just a pretty picture…

This vast body of freshwater fringed by beaches of golden sand is not only scenic but it also provides endless water sport opportunities at Pumulani Lodge for those looking for something beyond sun, sand and swimming. The clarity of the fresh water and the great abundance of marine life make it ideal for snorkelling and diving, while the absence of strong currents ensures it is wonderful for sailing, kayaking, water skiing and an array of other water sports. The steep hills of Lake Malawi National Park, carpeted with lush vegetation that tumble down into the deep blue water of the lake are fantastic for nature walks where one can enjoy some impressive birding as well as appreciate the gorgeous views across the lake. After dark, fall in love with the wonders of the African sky with a spot of stargazing using our state-of-the-art telescope.

Underwater Treasures

Lake Malawi is the 3rd largest body of water in Africa and is teeming with life including over 400 species of cichlid, a lot of which are endemic. Most of this astounding underwater diversity is protected within the Lake Malawi National Park which is a World Heritage site and one of the first in the world set aside for the protection of freshwater fish. Snorkelling trips are always a must when visiting Pumulani so you can witness first hand just how special this underwater paradise really is.

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