Lake Malawi

The 29,600km² body of water known as Lake Malawi in Malawi and Lake Nyasa in its other two countries (Tanzania and Mozambique) is possibly the most scenic lake in Africa. Its flat, fresh, 585km long and contained between tall Rift Valley mountains. Though the Malawian shores are more popular with travellers, the Tanzanian shores - where they are accessible, which is infrequent - may be more attractive; particularly Matemba Beach in the northeast.

The lake was known universally as Lake Nyasa both during and before colonialism, but the former Nyasaland Protectorate renamed both the country and the lake to give credence to associations between the current Malawi government and the legendary Maravi Empire. The other countries bordering the lake paid no attention to this ostentatious and unilateral act, and the lake retained its traditional name in both Tanzania and Mozambique.

Lake Nyasa lies at around 500m above sea level, and its climate is often extremely hot. The cool winds (sometimes gales) that blow in off the water help to cool things down a bit, especially at night. The lake is also a hotspot for cerebral malaria, so be extremely careful to take your pills diligently both during and after your stay in the area, and contact a doctor as soon as possible if symptoms develop.

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