From the moment you fly onto Likoma Island in your tiny, five-seater Cessna, you’ll be entranced by the laidback rhythm of island life. And then you’ll reach Kaya Mawa, tucked away on a cotton-candy beach overlooking the lake, and life just gets better and better. One of those fabulous lodges that has effortlessly-relaxed, beach-chic style down to a T, Kaya is truly a slice of heaven. Think immaculately decorated rooms built into the granite rocks, chilled-out water activities, and gourmet food, all mixed with incredible views and even better cocktails. In the local Nyanja language, Kaya Mawa actually means ‘Maybe Tomorrow’ – and relaxation is most certainly the order of the day here.
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The 12 stone-and-teak-framed cottages are dotted around the rocks and look out over the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi. Each is immaculately decorated, with dashes of pastel blue and pink (in keeping with the beach theme, of course), polished concrete floors, big beds, sunken bathtubs and obligatory loo with a view. All are a little bit quirky – some are built into the rocks, some are accessed by wooden walkways and some are larger than others – but all are heavenly. We highly recommend diving straight into the lake from your private terrace and swimming to the beach for a signature Eggs Benedict at breakfast!
Unwinding in an uber-chic, beach setting, complete with lapping waves and crinkly sand – yet you’re not even at the coast!
When the sun drops below the horizon, make sure you’re at the viewpoint with an ice-cold Chenin Blanc for the ultimate sundowner. The steps will be worth it...
Kaya is not about all-out glamour or superstar amenities – it’s relaxed, laidback and totally one of a kind.
Kaya Mawa is owned by Green Safaris which is committed to protecting Africa's pristine ecosystems, wildlife, and communities through sustainable tourism. Guests directly contribute to conservation efforts, empowering both wildlife and people. The Green Safaris Conservation Foundation supports various projects focusing on education, sustainability, conservation, and community development. Guests are invited to join hands in nurturing positive change, fostering a deeper connection with Africa's natural heritage.
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12 nights from $7.1K per person
14 nights from $6.8K per person
8 nights from $4.1K per person
12 nights from $4.4K per person
8 nights from $3K per person
10 nights from $4.7K per person
Kaya Mawa can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Malawi trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Malawi trips featuring Kaya Mawa or get advice and suggestions from one of our Malawi specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Kaya Mawa start from around $610, or US$610, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
Dotted with hidden beaches and dreamy coves, the lake is the perfect fly & flop destination.
