Overview of Blue Zebra Island Lodge
Set on Nankoma Island in Lake Malawi, the captivating Blue Zebra Island Lodge offers a unique escape within the Marelli Archipelago, part of the Lake Malawi National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Contrary to the terrestrial zebras, the lodge’s name draws inspiration from the vibrant Blue Zebra Cichlid; a striped, blue-hued fish endemic mostly to Lake Malawi.
Amid the island’s lush greenery, the lodge provides enticing barefoot luxury with safari tents and secluded chalets along a palm-lined beach. The island’s wild and distinctly African ambiance is reminiscent of both lakeside jungle and nearby bushveld, creating a unique atmosphere. The calm lake waters provide an idyllic backdrop for various activities, including boat rides, water sports, snorkelling, and swimming.
Blue Zebra Island Lodge caters to families, groups of friends, and couples seeking an African island retreat. Ideal for combining with a safari, it pairs seamlessly with stays in Malawi’s Liwonde National Park or Zambia’s South Luangwa. While the lodge welcomes visitors year-round, the best time falls between May and October. For those considering a safari combination, choosing the dry season from July to October enhances the overall wildlife viewing experience in adjacent safari destinations.
Highlights & Activities
What's on offer whilst on this itinerary?
Rooms at Blue Zebra Island Lodge
Unwind and relax, in your own private luxury
Executive Chalet
For those seeking more space, seclusion and sweeping views of the lake, the lodge has two Executive Chalets—Kingfisher and Cormorant. With a focus on luxury, the chalets accommodate up to two adults. Cormorant features a sofa bed for children under 12 and the option to add a single bed.
Executive Family Chalet
Accommodating up to two adults and three children or four adults, Blue Zebra’s Executive Family Chalets offer spacious safari-style accommodation. With two bedrooms, one twin and one double, separated by a lounge leading to a large balcony overlooking Lake Malawi, these chalets create an ideal setting for families.
Superior Family Cottage
The Superior Family Cottage stands out as an expansive and open-planned retreat, featuring a lounge, dining area, and two en-suite bedrooms with queen beds. There is the option to add single beds to accommodate six guests, making it a perfect choice for larger families. A furnished balcony offers lake and jungle views and an opportunity for birdwatching, enhancing the overall experience of this lakeside haven.
Lake Safari Tent
The Blue Zebra’s Lake Safari Tents offer an intimate and comfortable stay, featuring touches of traditional decor. With three central tents, named Heron, Darter, and Hornbill, and one secluded tent, Bulbul, each has a different level of proximity to the communal area. The tents, designed for up to two adults, are adorned with wooden furnishings and glossed flooring, capturing the essence of barefoot luxury.
General Facilities
Tranquillity and adventure await you at Blue Zebra with an array of facilities to ensure your stay is comfortable and filled with memorable moments. Take in breathtaking views of Lake Malawi as you unwind by the infinity pool or rejuvenate mind and body at the Island Spa nestled under a sprawling fig tree.
Explore the island by kayak or on foot through the nature trails, trying out birdwatching or snorkelling. For the more adventurous, seasonal scuba diving is also available. As the sun sets, sip on a refreshing MGT (Malawi gin & tonic) as you cruise the lake waters on a sunset cruise.
The Island Spa offers a serene setting for various treatments, manicures, and pedicures, ensuring your complete relaxation and indulgence. The Fig Tree Bar invites you to enjoy refreshing cocktails and mocktails, while the Bee-Eater Restaurant presents a delightful daily menu for a satisfying culinary experience. Whether you seek relaxation or thrilling activities, Blue Zebra provides a diverse range of experiences for every guest.
Dining
A daily set menu, creatively curated by a team of local chefs, showcases international cuisine with a Malawian twist. Embrace the leisurely pace of island life as you enjoy full breakfasts, two-course lunches, and three-course dinners. Daily afternoon tea adds an extra touch of elegance at the poolside around four o’clock.
The Fig-Tree Bar, situated by the pool, offers a selection of refreshing cocktails and mocktails, complemented by a range of local and imported drinks, including South African wines. Meanwhile, the Bee-Eater Restaurant, an open-air haven named after the African bee-eater, offers panoramic views of the garden, pool, and lake.
Should you have special dietary preferences or requests, advance notice ensures the team can cater to your unique needs. Whether sipping cocktails by the pool or savouring inspired dishes at the restaurant, the dining experiences at Blue Zebra promise a tasteful journey complemented by a serene African island ambiance.
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