Kaya Mawa

Likoma Island is found toward the northeastern part of Lake Malawi, within the territorial waters of Mozambique but part of Malawi, and linked to the rest of the country by a steamer service. The island is quite hilly in places, mostly dry and sandy since it lies in the rain shadow of the Mozambique shore. Baobabs are a common feature of the landscape but big trees are generally scarce. The population is over five thousand people, scattered in little villages throughout the Island.

Kaya Mawa is set on a rocky promontory on the southern tip of the Island. The name means 'maybe tomorrow' and is the perfect phrase for this wonderful retreat. It has been sensitively refurbished and a new central lounge and dining area has been built with lighter colours and contemporary style. It is a perfect location for beach dinners or a relaxing lunch, with comfortable sofas with huge cushions, so you can listen to the water lap the shore whilst having a G&T.

There are 11 rooms in total, each individually designed and built in sympathy with the rocks on the island and often built around the boulders themselves. There are four standard rooms, three premium rooms and four houses tucked away on the beach. Totally separate is the Ndomo Point House which is a private self-contained property.

At Kaya Mawa, full board is included; the food is excellent with a range of choices, served by cheerful and friendly staff. Most of the soft furnishings are handcrafted on the island by Katundu designs which is based on Likoma Island and employs 26 ladies, single mothers and adult orphans, from the local orphan programme.

Lake Malawi is renowned for some of the best freshwater snorkelling and diving in the world and being an island Likoma is a perfect spot. As well as water activities, there are plenty of other lovely excursions to enjoy here during your stay.

OUR RATING: First Class