I spent ten unforgettable days in Malawi while my husband worked at a hospital in the capital city of Lilongwe. During our time, we ventured to one of the country’s crown jewels Lake Malawi and stayed at the Blue Zebra Island Lodge set on Nankoma Island within Lake Malawi National Park. The sleepy island lodge is a haven of nature trails and water activities—perfect for relaxing and soaking in the rich scenery. A UNESCO World Heritage Site for its biodiversity, Lake Malawi is a must-see while in the country and the Blue Zebra Island Lodge is one of the best places to experience its beauty.
Stretching over 350 miles along the East African Rift, Lake Malawi is a natural wonder renowned for its biodiversity. It borders Mozambique and Tanzania and ranks among the largest freshwater lakes in the world by volume and depth. The lake is home to more species of freshwater fish than any other lake in the world, some of which are only found here. The most famous is the beautiful cichlid—otherwise known as the “blue zebra” for its bright blue scales and black stripes—for which the lodge is named. Lake Malawi is vital to the region’s ecosystem and economy, and an unforgettable destination for travelers.
After a two-and-a-half hour drive from Lilongwe, through rural villages and expansive countryside, we took a short boat ride to the lodge. We arrived at Blue Zebra just in time to watch the sunset over Lake Malawi with a gin & tonic in hand—a breathtaking spectacle and the perfect welcome.
Accommodations at the Blue Zebra range from cozy lake safari tents to spacious chalets and even a family cottage. The vibe is relaxed and private with a focus on connecting with nature—you feel as though you’ve wandered into an untouched jungle with charming thatched-roof canvas bungalows. Locally inspired meals, inclusive with your stay, are served in an open-air dining area overlooking the water. And the staff go above and beyond to make you feel at home.
Explore the area’s rich ecosystems both on land and beneath the surface. We enjoyed kayaking around the island, exploring its nature trails, and cooling off in the infinity pool. With more than three hundred bird species on the island, Nankoma Island is a bird lovers paradise. Take a guided birdwatching walk to see rare species and gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s incredible biodiversity.
It’s worth noting that Malawi is a developing nation. If one is unfamiliar with the country, having a trusted local driver to navigate the roads and occasional checkpoints can be extremely useful. While Malawi may not be as convenient to travel as more developed destinations, it makes up for it with its authenticity and hospitality. The people of Malawi are some of the kindest I’ve encountered—there’s a reason it’s called “The Warm Heart of Africa.” If you’re craving an off-the-beaten-path experience filled with raw beauty, cultural richness, and genuine warmth, Malawi is worth exploring.
