Overview

Dubbed “The Warm Heart of Africa” due to the legendary welcome extended to all who visit, Malawi is a small country with a big heart and an even bigger range of incredible tourist activities! Lake Malawi’s vast size, its warm freshwater and its gorgeous surrounding beaches make it a mecca for those seeking a year-round location to swim, scuba dive, snorkel, water ski, sail, kayak, parasail or simply potter about in boats.

Lake Malawi’s northern shore is much less developed than the southern shore, and as a result, is less populated. But the lake is still a gem of a place and quite rightly maintains its top spot on the country’s list of most popular attractions. In the north, the water is quite extraordinarily deep at around 700 metres (2300 feet), plunging well below sea level. This reflects the enormity of the natural faulting of the Great Rift Valley, which is the origin of the Lake. This vast inland sea of clear water is perfect for a swim amongst brightly coloured fish, a spot of fishing, a chance to enjoy your favourite water sport or a luxury cruise.

The tropical waters of the lake are teeming with hundreds of fish species, including the colourful cichlids, and as a result snorkelling or scuba diving is very popular. Look out for the base of the lake which has the appearance of a moonscape, with large craters measuring up to 2 metres (6.5 feet) in diameter. These unusual structures are made by the dominant male Malawi cichlids and serve as their rather grand courtship arenas.

Ideal Destination For

  • Adventure
  • Beach
  • Solo Travel
  • Sport

Northern Lake Malawi Activities