Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sunbird Nkopola Lodge $$$
( 01-580444;
www.sunbirdmalawi.com/nkopola
; s/d/family incl breakfast US$145/175/
220; )
Located about 18km north of Mangochi, accommodation here ranges
from an excellent campsite to large rooms for families. Rooms are clean - family rooms
have bunk beds for kids - and well equipped, and most open out onto private patios with
views of the beach.
The most atmospheric rooms are the originals, shaded by tamarind and strangler fig
trees, set up on the hill. The campsite is separate with its own clean hot showers and toi-
lets, as well as a smattering of chalets with a bathroom. On-site facilities include a swim-
ming pool, volleyball court and even a bird sanctuary. Staff can organise a range of excur-
sions around the area. There's also an ATM here.
LODGE
Club Makokola $$$
( 01-580244/5, 01-580469;
www.clubmak.com
; s/d/family incl breakfast US$120/186/
351; )
With its spa, golf course, squash and tennis courts, Club Mak exudes
charm from the instant you pass down its drive lined with pink and orange bougainvillea.
Aside from the myriad facilities perfect for keeping the kids busy, the hotel sits on a mani-
cured, golden stretch of sand.
Ponder the lake view from the thatched poolside restaurant, before wandering the trop-
ical gardens scattered with well-placed
rondavels.
Decor within rooms is understated eth-
nic chic, and includes hand-carved tables and wooden lamps, Malawian art and painted
ceramic sinks. Mak also has its own airstrip!
RESORT
Mangochi
Mangochi makes a good overnight stop if you're on the way to Liwonde, and lies near the
southern end of Lake Malawi, strung out between the main lakeshore road and the Shire
River. It's not immediately captivating until you head to the river down the shaded
boulevard, where the scene is a little more pleasing to the eye. The town was once an im-
portant slave market, and then an administrative centre in colonial days, when it was
known as Fort Johnston. Facilities include several shops, supermarkets, a post office and
National and Standard Banks with ATMs.
