Highlighted in Lonely Planet’s top ten Best in Travel list for 2022, Malawi is a must-add to your 2023 itinerary. And where better to start your journey than a remote escape to wild Nankoma Island?
Blue Zebra Island Lodge is the only lodge located on Nankoma Island, offering a unique and sustainable travel experience. Listed in TripSavvy’s 8 most adventurous things to do in Malawi and TravelPulse’s top 5 lodges to help find your Malawi, this is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation in a tranquil setting, inspired by nature.
Nankoma Island forms part of the Marelli Archipelago and falls under the protection of Lake Malawi National Park – the world’s first freshwater national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Three islands make up the group: Nankoma (65 hectares and home to Blue Zebra Island Lodge), Maleri (168 hectares) and Nakatenga (18 hectares).
All fall under a concession granted to Blue Zebra Island Lodge that works with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife in Malawi to conserve the islands’ fauna, flora and diverse ecosystems.
Top 5 experiences at Blue Zebra Island Lodge
Snorkel and sunset cruise: The blue zebra is a stunning fish, popularly seen when snorkeling around the islands, with a spectacular metallic shine reflected by sunlight. Famed for its vivid and vibrant colours, the islands are also home to unique cichlid species not found anywhere else in the lake.
Lake Malawi is the third deepest lake in the world and is inhabited by the largest assembly of fish species of any lake on earth: over 875 species of cichlids, most of them endemic. End your day with a Malawi gin and tonic as the lake swallows the sun causing a spectacular array, which is different each day.
Nature trails: Walk among mighty baobab and ancient fig trees, exploring the 2.4km trail that loops the island and multiple diversions, with breath-taking viewpoints.
Birdwatching: There are over 350 species of birds sighted on Nankoma, with a growing list. Attracting birdwatches from around the world, the African Pitta (referred to as the Holy Grail of African birding) has been spotted nesting on Nankoma Island since 2019. Lake Malawi is also said to have the highest concentration of African fish eagles on the continent.
Their cry is heard frequently echoing across the skies. Malawi is renowned as a birdwatcher’s paradise. The country boasts over 650 different species of birds, 10% of which are native species non-existent anywhere else in the world.
Kayaking: Paddle the full loop of Nankoma Island in about an hour. For the brave, venture all three islands. If you’re lucky, you may spot the elusive otters that frequent the islands.
Ultimate relaxation: Lounge at the infinity pool and sip cocktails with views across Lake Malawi, unwind at the island spa, or rock gently in a hammock in the baobab garden and enjoy tranquility away from the crowds.
Where to stay
The lodge has a Superior Family Cottage, Pitta Cottage, and nine ensuite safari-style tented chalets.
Executive Chalets are popular due to its secluded locations scattered around the island, boasting exquisite views from private balconies overlooking the lake. Ddscribed by Will McGough of TravelPulse as “opened-aired, nature-engulfed luxury tents one expects to find on the Serengeti or Masai Mara, only with a focus on the lake and the life it supports”.
Named after African birds, you can choose the chalet with the character most suited to you. For those who prefer to be more central, Lake Safari Tents are quaint and ideally positioned near the popular pool area, restaurant and Nankoma Beach.
Getting There
SAA flies to Blantyre and Lilongwe from Johannesburg three times a week. From there, book a car and make your way from Blantyre (4.5 hours) or Lilongwe (2 hours).
