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Likoma Island

This is a island region

Likoma Island is the larger of two inhabited islands in Lake Malawi, the smaller being the nearby Chizumulu island which together make up the Likoma District and which belong to Malawi but lie in Mozambique water.  There is one main lodge on the island, Kaya Mawa and only a couple of cars, making it a peaceful place to relax and walk around.

Likoma was colonised by European missionairies and is home to an extraorindary feat of African architecture in the shape of Likoma Cathedral, which is actually modelled on the Winchester Cathedral in England.  This massive building is the heart of the community in the large village of Likoma. 

There a several miles of paths and trails around the island which you can explore on foot, by bicycle or paddle round on a kayak or boat.  The island is close to Mozambique shores from which there is an ancient history through the slave trade days when it was used as a crossing point to get to the coast.

 

Highlights

  • Peaceful remote island getaway
  • Beautiful shorelines and sunsets
  • Interesting history & cathedral
  • Great snorkelling,diving and boating

Situation

In Mozambique waters to the north east of Lake Malawi.

Activities

Swimming, kayaking, snorkelling, diving, sailing, cyclying, walking, village visits.

Health

No compulsary vaccinations required.

Best times to go

Likoma is the driest part of Malawi and also one of the hottest. January/February/March: Hot days with rain often on the afternoon. The whole island becomes very lush and green and the views are fantastic. The rain dampens down the dust and puts out the fires of the late dry season and provides sparkling air and wonderful vistas of the forested shores of nearby Mozambique. April/May: Dry warm days and pleasant cool nights with light breezes. June/July/August: Dry with warm days and cool nights and occasional strong winds. September/October: Hot to very hot days with warm nights. November/December: Hot to very hot days-warn nights, perhaps some early light rain.

Getting there

45 mins flight from Lilongwe (Malawi's capital) or overnight on the 'Ilala' Lake Malawi's passanger ship which takes an overnight passage once a week to Likoma from the south and central lake shore villages.

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