Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 01-262706; s/d MK9750/13,000; )
Set in Edenic gardens crowded with
flowers, this series of chalets overlooking a narrow gorge may be one of the prettiest
lodges in the country. Rooms don't disappoint either with heavy drapes, downlights and
step-through mozzie nets. It's impossibly romantic for couples, the restaurant (MK1400
for meals) too; with postcard views of locals fishing below in the gorge.
Getting There & Away
Mua is about 50km south of Salima on the road to Balaka. The Mua Mission is about 1km
from the main road and is clearly signposted.
Monkey Bay
Hidden behind the Cape Maclear headland, sultry Monkey Bay is enchantingly slow; lan-
guid locals, a petrol station and a couple of shops are all that you'll find here. Backpacker
country it is, with a couple of magic traveller joints on the beach, and conveniently it's
also where the
Ilala
ferry stops at the quaint harbour. Fish, snorkel or hammock flop -
whatever you do, you may need to recalibrate that calendar. There's a Peoples Supermar-
ket near the harbour and one FMB ATM which
sometimes
works, so stock up on funds be-
fore arriving.
Sleeping
Mufasa Rustic Camp $
(
CAMPGROUND, CABANAS
0993-080057; campsite per person MK850, s/d MK5250/6750, dm MK2250;
)
So-
mething of a traveller's magnet, Mufasa has its own sheltered beach bookended by
smooth boulders, and is only 400m from the main harbour. Rooms are basic bamboo af-
fairs, but the bar is much more appealing with lounging cushions, wicker swing chairs and
a very relaxed vibe.
Come dusk expect communal fires and bonhomie. The owners can arrange snorkel and
boat trips for around (MK3500). There's also a rowing boat you can use (MK2500). Be
careful though of swimming over to the reedy inlet next to the camp's main beach - a
traveller was recently mauled by a croc here. Note: if there are reeds, mudbanks or a
stream or river flowing into the lake, there may well be crocs too.
