Lodges/Hotels

Domwe Island in Lake Malawi National Park, Mangochi

Domwe Island

Basic Information about Domwe Island

Name Domwe Island
Location Lake Malawi National Park, Mangochi
Phone +265 (0) 827 854 294
Email letsgo@kayakafrica.co.za

Domwe island managed by Kayak Africa is the largest unpopulated island in Lake Malawi.

With a circumference of 11km and rising 400km above lake level, it stands as a notable landmark.

The Ilala gap separates it from the mainland, which due to fluctuating lake levels, has been dry several times.

This allowed several mammals to migrate to Domwe Island, making it the only island in Lake Malawi with a significant mammal population.

The Camp

The camp accommodates a maximum number of ten guests.

Larger groups can be accommodated when a single person books the whole island.

The camp features shared toilets, bathrooms and showers with no en-suite features.

It operates off-grid, with no electricity in the tents, though there is a centrally-located solar-powered charging station for cellphones.

Embracing a “castaway adventure” theme, the camp offers a minimalistic and simple experience, providing all essential amenities.

Payments on the island are cashless, with all chargeable items recorded on tab to be settled at the reception on the mainland beach at Cape Maclear, where secure parking is available for self-drive guests.

Accommodation – Fully furnished safari tents

The camp includes three fully furnished safari tents, each equipped with two beds.

Additional mattresses can be hired if necessary.

Basic Tent Sites

These consist of wooden decks with thatched roofs, large enough for two regular size dome tents.

Guests can either bring their own tents or rent from Kayak Africa.

Mattresses and beddings are also available for hire.

Boat Transfers

Domwe Island is located 5km from the Kayak Africa reception at Cape Maclear.

The boat transfer schedule is as follows:

Morning

  • Departure from Domwe Island to reception at 10:00
  • Departure from reception to Domwe Island at 10:30

Afternoon

  • Departure Domwe Island for reception at 14:30
  • Departure reception for Domwe Island at 15:00

Getting to Domwe Island