BLOG: The lake of stars awaits at Pumulani, by Robin Pope Safaris

In this blog from Robin Pope Safaris, we hear from Jenn over at Pumulani Lodge as she and her partner Mike, along with the rest of the Pumulani team, prepare for a fantastic season ahead. With the lodge looking at its finest, ready for guests to arrive, over to Jenn:

“It’s great to be back at Pumulani and see all the familiar sights of the lake that I am so fond of. It is of course also great to see the smiling faces of the Pumulani team who are always ready to welcome with a warmth that indicates why Malawi is the Warm Heart of Africa.

Amongst the familiar favourites that I enjoy seeing when coming back is the pair of Wire-tailed swallows that have been here since Mike and I started with Robin Pope Safaris exactly a year ago. They are still around and doing what they do best – catching insects and enjoying the view as much as I do.

As Pumulani opens its doors for the 2023 season there is a buzz amongst the team as the excitement of having guests again sets in. The team has been working hard getting the lodge ready for the season and a lot of work has been specifically done on the deck around the top pool. Cyclone Freddy unfortunately dealt us with a hand where we found ourselves delayed in getting this done before opening.

With all the major work on the deck now complete, its back open for guests to sip cocktails and enjoy the views!

With the increased rains in Malawi this season, water has risen on the lake to levels that neither Mike nor myself have ever seen before! While this has had some cons to it (such as us having to do a rescue mission on our beach pool pump), the higher waters of the lake have also brought the birds of prey closer to the lodge and you can see them flying around trying to catch some lunch! What a treat this has been!

I have enjoyed my time here at Pumulani, as its one of the most beautiful places that I have ever had the privilege to work. It’s easy to see why Lake Malawi is known as the Lake of stars, when you look over the lake as dusk settles you see the fishing boat lights coming to life. It is truly a magnificent sight that is never taken lightly! At this time you can see Godfrey getting his telescope ready for star gazing! I still don’t know who is more excited, him or the guests!

This part of the day is my favourite time of the day to sit around the fire, listen to it crackle, watch the stars, and reflect on the day with the guests.”

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