Likoma Island Beach Holidays

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Likoma Island Beach Holidays

Off the eastern shore of the Lake is Likoma Island, a small piece of Malawian territory in Mozambican waters. The University Mission to Central Africa (David Livingstone’s mission) set up its headquarters on Likoma in the 1880s in part to try to fight the slave trade that used routes across Lake Malawi. Because of this history, Likoma was retained by Malawi when the Lake was divided politically after World War II and the waters around it became Mozambican.

The island has a few bustling local communities and some lovely beaches. Given its small size, it is easy to explore on foot. Nearby is another tiny island, Chizumulu, also Malawian territory.

Why visit Likoma Island

• Bird watching
• Walking on the white sandy beaches
• Island tours
• Snorkeling
• Diving

When to go

The winter months of June, July, and August bring bright sunshine, lush landscapes, and lower temperatures. Pack a jacket for chilly night drives in game parks and frosty mornings around the campfire.

Come September and October, temperatures rise, the land dries out and game-viewing opportunities abound as animals cluster around water sources. After a few days in the arid bush, refresh on the shores of Lake Malawi by sailing, snorkeling or just sipping a cocktail on the beach.

How to get to Likoma Island

Access to Likoma is currently by boat or aircraft. The airstrip has been upgraded in recent years though most visitors still arrive courtesy of the venerable llala ferry. There are also now a number of boats that offer straight transfers between Nkhata Bay and Likoma.

Where to stay at Likoma Island

Accommodation on Likoma is limited but includes one of Malawi’s top luxury lodges, kaya Mawa Named by Conde Nast Traveller as one of the top 10 most romantic lodges in the world, Kaya Mawa is a stunning, multi-award-winning, responsibly and sustainably run property and one of the best beach lodges in Africa. All manner of lake activities are on offer (including scuba diving) and, for most people, Kaya Mawa is reason enough in itself to visit Likoma.