Looking for a luxury Lake Malawi holiday? Allow us to introduce you to Kaya Mawa. One of our all-time favourite ‘beach’ getaways isn’t on the ocean at all—it’s tucked away on the shores of Lake Malawi. Welcome to Kaya Mawa, a breathtaking luxury retreat on the white sandy beaches of Likoma Island, where barefoot luxury meets the natural beauty of Africa’s third-largest lake.
A Malawian Gem: The Meaning of Kaya Mawa
Meaning ‘maybe tomorrow’ in Chichewa/Nyanja, Kaya Mawa embodies a philosophy of relaxation and effortless indulgence.
This stunning Malawi holiday destination is all about unwinding, whether that means stargazing over a candlelit dinner, indulging in a massage at the lakeside spa, or exploring the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi.
Every moment here is designed to immerse you in tranquility and natural beauty.
Lake Malawi: The Warm Heart of Africa
Fondly known as the Warm Heart of Africa, Malawi is celebrated for its friendly people and endless sunshine. Lake Malawi is one of the world’s deepest lakes and home to an incredible 400 species of cichlid fish, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Luxury Accommodation on Lake Malawi
Built by local hands with sustainability at its core, Kaya Mawa holds the distinction of being Malawi’s first resort to run entirely on renewable energy. It seamlessly blends ethical trade, community empowerment, and eco-conscious luxury, offering guests a meaningful and unforgettable stay.
The resort features 11 exquisite houses and rooms, each uniquely designed to harmonise with the landscape. Whether nestled among the bay’s rugged rocks or resting along the sandy shore, these stunning accommodations boast white-washed or stone interiors that open onto sweeping views of Lake Malawi’s turquoise waters. Some suites even feature private decks, plunge pools, terraces, or courtyards, elevating your lakeside retreat to unparalleled levels of comfort.
Activities at Kaya Mawa
For those who love exploring the water, Kaya Mawa offers a range of thrilling activities:
- Kayaking and paddleboarding: Nothing beats gliding across the glassy surface of the lake, paddling along the pristine shoreline. Marvel at the vibrant fish darting beneath you as you soak in the untouched beauty of Likoma Island.
- Snorkelling and underwater adventures: It’s easy to dive into the warm, clear waters and encounter the lake’s famous colourful cichlids. No need to bring your own gear—every house and room comes complete with snorkelling essentials!
- Sailing on Lake Malawi: Set sail aboard one of the resort’s Taz or Topaz sailboats and enjoy the perfect sailing conditions, no tides or currents, just a gentle breeze and glass flat water.
- Beachside picnics and sundowner sessions: Who doesn’t love to bask in the sun and enjoy a gourmet picnic crafted by Kaya Mawa’s award-winning kitchen team. Think freshly grilled fish, homemade bread, crisp salads, and a chilled South African wine, Mozambican beer, or Malawian craft gin cocktail. Kaya Mawa is also famous for its sundowner set ups as you savour the last rays of the sun before an evening under the stars.
Plan Your Escape to Kaya Mawa
Kaya Mawa combines effortlessly with a Zambia or South Africa safari. It’s ideal for romantic escapes (and of course honeymoons), family adventures, or an unforgettable trip with your favourite group of friends.
Here, it’s about blending luxury, relaxation and adventure. This year, our favourite Malawian retreat is open from 1 April 2025 – 3 January 2026, offering an extraordinary experience on the shores of Lake Malawi.
We’d love to start planning your dream Malawi holiday. Then you can see just how Kaya Mawa redefines the idea of a perfect beach escape— in a landlocked country!
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