Africa Geographic Logo

safari experts, since 1991

Mumbo island escape - Lake Malawi

MALAWI

Our safari consultants speak English, Spanish, Catalan and Afrikaans
Hi, hoi, hola, hallo
UNIQUE HANDCRAFTED SAFARIS

Safari experiences that you will not find with any other travel company. We know Africa best and will get you to the right place & time to enjoy the greatest shows on Earth!

Mumbo Island on Lake Malawi is just what the doctor ordered - UNINHABITED and far from the stresses of everyday life. But not too far - there are easy flight connections from South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and even Tanzania!

This heavenly tropical island on the expansive waters of Lake Malawi enforces a non-motorised water sports policy - ideal for the outdoor lover who is seeking a truly relaxing piece of paradise in its most natural state.

Did someone say Robinson Crusoe?

Escape to an uninhabited island paradise in Lake Malawi to unwind and detox

Overview

Length: 6 days / 5 nights - tell us if you need more time in paradise!
Group Size: Flexible - up to 14 guests
Location: Mumbo Island, Lake Malawi, Malawi
Departure Dates: To suit you

from US$ 1,530 per person sharing (6 days)

Prices and dates

Per person sharing

Jan to Jun 2024

US$1,530

Jul to Dec 2024

US$1,665

INCLUDES:
- Meet & greet & Lilongwe Airport
- Road transfer from Lilongwe Airport to Burley House
- 1 night accommodation at Burley House including:
- Dinner, bed & breakfast
- Taxes & tourism levies
- Road transfer from Burley House to Cape Maclear - lunch on this day is for your own account.
- Return boat transfer from Cape Maclear to Mumbo Island
- 4 nights accommodation in an Island Chalet at Mumbo Island including:
- National Park Fees & taxes
- Three meals per day, tea & coffee
- Kayak and snorkelling gear rental
- Road transfer from Cape Maclear to Lilongwe

EXCLUDES:
- International flights & departure taxes
- Excess weight charges
- Visas
- Travel and medical insurance
- Bar drinks
- SCUBA diving
- Sailing
- Wellness therapies
- Items of a personal nature
- Gratuities

Mumbo Island lies about 10km northwest of Cape Maclear in the south of Lake Malawi at the southernmost extreme of the African Rift Valley.

The island is ideal for couples, families and friends. For the sporty, there is kayaking, snorkelling, swimming, scuba diving and walks in the stunning island forest. Or flop into a shady hammock and chill. You decide! On the island, your time is your own – let the gentle rhythms of the lake and island restore your sense of peace.


Mumbo Island Camp, made from local materials, is perched high on rocks overlooking the water while blending into the lush foliage to create a Robinson Crusoe feel.

The reed chalets and walk-in tents are situated on the tiny islet of “Jumbo”, which is easily reached by a wooden bridge from Mumbo’s main beach. The dining area, bar, lounge and family tent are all tucked into the forest on the main island.

Chalets are set as far apart from one another as possible to guarantee privacy, and each chalet has mosquito nets, en suite bathroom, deck with a hammock, and a spectacular view over the turquoise waters of Lake Malawi. Bed linens are 100% cotton, grass mats and cane furniture are made locally, the water bottles and glasses are recycled wine bottles, and the kikoi throws are sourced from Kenya.


Best time to visit: Please note that Mumbo closes for the rainy season - from mid-January until the end of February.

From March to May, expect the occasional downpour, but it is generally warm and calm on the lake. The vegetation is lush and green, the air is clear, and fluffy cumulonimbus clouds make fantastic sunsets. Considering all of these factors, this is a highly recommended time to visit.

June to August is technically winter, but thanks to Mumbo’s tropical location, the mild temperatures still make it a very agreeable time of year. However, occasional southeast trade winds can occur.

September to November is hot, dry, calm and hazy. However, the heat can be easily offset with a swim or a snorkel safari in the lake, so it is still a good time to visit.

December is spring on the island, bringing the occasional rain shower. It is a very good time to visit as the heat is not as intense, the bush is alive with song and blossoming flowers, and the trees are clad in fresh, green leaves.

Ready to plan your safari?

Check out our safaris that involve coastal or inland beaches

Click here to be inspired

Why us

Why us

We live here, in Africa, and have been doing this since 1991. Travel in Africa is about knowing when and where to go, and with whom. A few weeks too early / late or a few kilometers off course and you could miss the greatest show on Earth. And wouldn’t that be a pity?

Trust and safety

Trust & Safety

We are members of:
African Travel & Tourism Association (ATTA)
Southern African Tourism Services Association (SATSA)
✔️ Have Integrity ✔️ Are Legitimate
✔️ Are Audited ✔️ Are Insured

We are insured by Sutcliffe & Co (UK)

See what travellers say about us

Make a difference

Make a difference

Africa Geographic is about TRAVEL and CONSERVATION – for those who want their safaris and donations to make a real difference – in Africa.

Our MANIFESTO explains how you can help us do good.