Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
sonry and sheer scale are a testament to the zeal of its creators' religious conviction.
Climb the tower for spectacular views. If you're lucky you might meet the charming old
verger who'll happily give you a tour, and you're welcome to join in the vibrant service
on Sunday morning. Nearby, the
market place
contains a few shops and stalls. The
Ilala
ferry stops at a beach about 1km to the south.
LIKOMA MISSIONARIES & THE CATHEDRAL OF
ST PETER
European involvement on Likoma Island began in 1882 when members of Universities Mission to Central Africa
(UMCA) chose the island as a protective base from attacks from the warlike Ngoni and Yao peoples.
Between 1903 and 1905 the huge cathedral was built and dedicated to St Peter - appropriately a fisherman.
Today it remains one of Malawi's most remarkable buildings. The cathedral measures over 100m long by 25m
wide and has stained-glass windows and elaborate choir stalls carved from soapstone. The crucifix above the altar
was carved from wood from the tree where Livingstone's heart was buried in Zambia, and the altar itself sits on
what used to be the old slave market back when Likoma was a stopping-off point on the slave route from the in-
terior to the coast.
Activities
Swimming
is a must on Likoma and is best on the long stretches of beach in the south.
The tropical fish population has been unaffected by the mainland's overfishing, and the
snorkelling
is excellent. Kaya Mawa arranges three-day open-water PADI
scuba-diving
courses (US$315) run by Josh and Kevin. The island's compact but diverse area is also
perfect for
walking
or
mountain biking
- you can bring bikes across on the ferry or hire
them from Mango Drift for US$10 per day.
Sleeping & Eating
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
Kaya Mawa $$$
( 0999-318359;
www.kayamawa.com
; per person chalets full board US$375-435;
)
Remember Scaramanga's pad in
The Man with the Golden Gun
? Kaya Mawa, set
on an amber-coloured beach lapped by turquoise water, is the ultimate location to live out
your inner Bond. A place to chase away crow's feet, its cliffside chalets, cleverly moulded
