Blue Zebra Island Lodge enjoys a fabulous location on Nankoma Island, part of the tiny Marelli archipelago of islands on Lake Malawi. It’s the only lodge on the island and has some lovely walking trails – 2.5kms – in length, as well as private beach access.
Simple and rustic in design, Blue Zebra offers a lovely space to relax after a safari or a walking holiday in Malawi. Access is easy – a 2 hour drive from Lilongwe followed by a 10 minute boat transfer.
Given the lodge’s location, in a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its large numbers of cichlid, there is no fishing allowed within 100 metres of the island, allowing for absolutely fantastic snorkelling and diving. The lodge is a paradise for watersports enthusiasts, too, with kayaking, water skiing, and tubing all possible. Other popular activities include sundowner cruises and trips to nearby islands.
Accommodation
Blue Zebra is a small lodge, with just 12 tented rooms. Of these, four are luxury chalets, which feature spacious interiors and accommodate up to two adults and two children in a king-size bed and sleeper sofa. There are five additional safari chalets, situated apart from the main lodge on a high hill overlooking the lake, with separate dining area. These accommodate four (two adults, two children).
The Fish Eagle, Cormorant and King Fisher Suites offer additional space, including second bedrooms and private living areas, and a private location closer to the lake; one, the King Fisher suite, has its own private beach.
All of the rooms – not just the safari tents! – have a touch of the savannah about them, with canvas exteriors (set against stone floors and thatch roof), and a muted colour scheme of browns and khaki – not as colourful as many of Lake Malawi’s retreats, but we feel this adds to Blue Zebra’s rustic charm!
Facilities
Watersports centre located on the beach
Dive school
Large infinity pool with sundeck and loungers
Restaurant/Bar
Activities
Snorkelling (equipment provide free of charge)
Diving
Kayaking
Sunset cruise
Walking
Birdwatching
Child Policy
Children of all ages accommodated.
All of Blue Zebra’s rooms can accommodate children on sleeper beds. The larger suites offer separate bedrooms, and so are ideal for families with older children.
