The Flow Trail–
An Aquatic Journey Through Malawi's Wild Waters
So you’re one of those people who really loves water—not just the lake, but the rivers, the islands, the fish, the birds, and everything in between. Whether it’s snorkelling with cichlids, casting a line at sunset, or drifting quietly on a river safari, Malawi delivers.
And we’ve taken it one step further: weather and lake conditions permitting, we’ll connect your journey by boat. From island to island, river to lakeshore, you’ll travel on the water, not around it.
This is a route for explorers, nature lovers, and anyone who feels more alive with a bit of spray on their skin.
Scroll down to see where The Flow Trail will take you.
Salima -
Day 1 - 2
As soon as you land, we’ll pick you up and head straight to the water—your journey begins with a 2-hour drive to Kumbali Lake Retreat, our secluded lakeside hideaway. You’ll get a chance to explore Lilongwe later in the trip, but for now, it’s all about easing into lake life.
We’ll welcome you with a sundowner boat cruise feeding the fish eagle—the perfect introduction to Lake Malawi’s calm beauty, while your freshly prepared dinner awaits back at the lodge.
That night, rest up in your private chalet, and wake up at your own pace the next day. Whether you choose a morning hike up the hill, a visit to the nearby fishing villages, or just a slow start with your feet in the water, the lake is yours to enjoy
Kumbali Lake Retreat is a secluded hideaway nestled on the hillside above Lake Malawi, offering sweeping views, total privacy, and a deep sense of tranquillity. With no roads passing through and no other properties nearby, it’s the kind of place where you feel completely off the grid, yet still fully looked after.
The accommodation consists of charming thatched chalets, built from local materials and set apart for maximum privacy. Each unit has a private veranda, perfect for sunrise coffee or sunset views over the lake.
The retreat is within walking distance of a local fishing village, offering a chance to engage with the lakeside community and get a glimpse of daily life on the water. With birdlife, monkeys, and peaceful surroundings, Kumbali Lake Retreat is ideal for those looking to unplug and connect with nature—whether it’s a quiet read in the shade or a refreshing swim in the lake.
Blue Zebra
Day 2 - 4
After a slow morning at the lake and a relaxing lunch, we set off on a 30-minute boat ride across the sparkling waters to the Marelli Islands—home to the stunning Blue Zebra Island Lodge.
Tucked within the Lake Malawi National Park, this island paradise is as scenic as it gets. Surrounded by crystal-clear water and teeming with life both above and below the surface, it’s a haven for nature lovers and water enthusiasts alike.
At Blue Zebra, you can choose your pace:
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Explore nature trails and spot island wildlife,
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Try birding, kayaking, or snorkelling,
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Or treat yourself to a spa session with a view.
Staying at Blue Zebra Island Lodge feels like stepping into a private island dream. Tucked away in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi National Park, this hidden gem offers a rare mix of seclusion, comfort, and laid-back luxury.
Whether you're in a thatched safari tent right by the lake or a spacious family chalet perched above the water, every room is designed to help you disconnect and unwind. You’ll wake up to the sounds of birds and lapping waves, and end your days watching the sun melt into the lake from your private deck.
But what really makes Blue Zebra special is the hospitality. The team here are warm, attentive, and seem to know what you need before you even ask. The meals are outstanding—fresh fish, colourful salads, and creative dishes made from local ingredients, all served with a view you’ll never get tired of.
With only a handful of rooms and no crowds, it’s a place where you can truly slow down, explore, and savour the magic of island life.
The Makokola Retreat
Day 4 - 6
Today, we continue along The Flow Trail with another unique lake journey. We’ll be leaving Nankoma Island and—weather permitting—making a scenic boat transfer to The Makokola Retreat. If the lake is calm, the ride should take about 2 hours or less, offering another chance to enjoy the water and stunning views.
Just hand your bags to your guide, who will travel by car and make sure everything stays dry and ready for your arrival.
If lake conditions aren’t ideal, we’ll switch to a road transfer instead, which takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. It’s still a beautiful drive, and if you’re interested, we can add a stop at the Kungoni Centre of Culture and Art at Mua Mission for a visit to the Chamare Museum—a worthwhile detour into Malawi’s rich cultural heritage
We’ve chosen this lodge specifically for The Flow Trail itinerary because it offers one of the widest ranges of activities on the lake..
The Makokola Retreat is a beautifully crafted lakeside escape, where local design meets laid-back luxury. Rooms are tucked into lush gardens or right on the beach, offering a mix of privacy, comfort, and authentic Malawian charm.
The standout Sunset Villa features two levels, a private infinity pool, and sweeping lake views—ideal for couples or families with older kids. The Lake Suites are perfect for adults seeking peace and exclusivity, with their own infinity pool and bar area. For a more family-friendly option, the Superior Beach Rooms offer spacious, updated interiors just steps from the water.
Wherever you stay, expect warm hospitality, delicious locally inspired meals, and a setting that invites you to fully unwind by the lake.
Liwonde
Day 6 - 8
The Flow Trail continues—this time along one of Malawi’s most scenic natural corridors. Weather permitting, today’s transfer takes you on a remarkable boat journey from The Makokola Retreat to Mvuu Camp in Liwonde National Park.
We’ll head to the southern tip of Lake Malawi, where the Shire River begins its winding course. You’ll cruise through Lake Malombe, then back into the Shire River, skimming past riverbanks that gradually shift into the wild boundaries of Liwonde National Park.
If lake or river conditions don’t allow for boat travel, no worries—a 3-hour scenic car journey will get you there just as comfortably.
You’ll be dropped right at Mvuu Camp, a lodge perfectly positioned on the riverbank. The highlight here is the river safari—spotting hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and birdlife from the water—but you’ll also get to switch gears with some classic land-based game drives as well.
It’s still all about water, but now the wildlife gets bigger and the experience deeper.
Mvuu Camp offers a laid-back, immersive safari experience right on the banks of the Shire River in Liwonde National Park. It’s the more relaxed sister to Mvuu Lodge, but still delivers comfort, charm, and unbeatable wildlife access.
Accommodation is in a mix of spacious stone-and-canvas chalets and family-friendly tented units, each with ensuite bathrooms and views that bring you close to nature—sometimes quite literally, with elephants or antelope wandering nearby.
The camp’s central thatched dining and lounge area overlooks the river and is shaded by towering baobab trees, offering a front-row seat to passing hippos, birds, and other wildlife. Evenings are often spent around the campfire or in the open-air boma, under star-filled skies.
Simple, warm, and well run, Mvuu Camp is perfect for those who want to feel part of the landscape, with just the right amount of comfort to keep it easy and enjoyable.
Lilongwe
Day 8 - 9
After a final riverside breakfast, we leave Liwonde behind and make the 4-hour road journey to Lilongwe, where you’ll stay at Kumbali Country Lodge—a peaceful retreat on the edge of the city, surrounded by farmland and bush.
This stop offers the perfect mix of comfort and flexibility. You can explore the capital’s markets, galleries, or craft centres, take a game drive in the lodge’s private reserve, or join a tour of the working banana farm. Whether you want to wind down or fit in a bit more discovery, Kumbali is a comfortable base to prepare for your flight to Likoma Island the following day.
Set on a peaceful estate just outside Lilongwe, Kumbali Country Lodge is a welcoming retreat surrounded by nature and farmland. It’s the perfect blend of comfort, space, and character, offering a quiet base with easy access to the city—but far enough away to feel like a proper escape.
Accommodation is in spacious, en-suite rooms, each with comfortable beds, locally crafted furniture, and private verandas overlooking the gardens. The lodge is set within lush grounds, with walking trails, birdlife, and even a private game reserve right on the doorstep.
There’s a thatched restaurant and bar, a swimming pool, and plenty of cosy corners to relax with a book or a sundowner.
Likoma Island
Day 9 - 12
This morning, a short 1-hour flight takes you across the country and over the lake to the beautiful and remote Likoma Island—an absolute must-see on any water-themed journey. From the air, you’ll get your first glimpse of turquoise shallows, rocky bays, and the island’s iconic cathedral rising above the trees.
As you land at Likoma’s airstrip, friendly staff from Pure Likoma will be waiting to welcome you. From there, it’s just a short transfer to your lodge where you’ll settle in for the final three nights of your trip.
This is your time to unplug, slow down, and soak in the island’s peaceful rhythm—whether it's in a hammock, a kayak, or beneath the stars. A perfect way to wind down your holiday on the shores of one of Africa’s great lakes.
Pure Likoma is a beautifully designed, eco-conscious lodge that captures the essence of island life with style and simplicity. Tucked among baobab trees and granite boulders on a quiet stretch of shoreline, it feels like your own private slice of Lake Malawi.
Each open-fronted chalet is positioned for maximum privacy and views, with the lake just steps away from your bed. The design is earthy and minimal, blending natural materials with just the right amount of comfort—think driftwood furniture, soft linens, and gentle breezes instead of air con.
Further to this itinerary
On Day 12, you’ll fly back to Lilongwe from Likoma Island to begin your outward journey. If your international flight departs later, we can arrange for you to stay another night at Kumbali Country Lodge to relax and regroup before heading home.
If you're not quite ready to end the adventure, we can also extend your itinerary with additional safari, hiking, or bush experiences—just let us know what you'd like, and we’ll tailor the rest to fit.
This itinerary is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups of up to 8 people. For larger groups, we may adjust the accommodation options to ensure everyone is comfortably accommodated and well taken care of.
Think of this itinerary as a starting point—it’s flexible and fully customisable. If you have specific interests, travel dates, or would like to adjust the pace or route, just reach out to us at expeditions@kumbali.com and we’ll build a trip that fits your style.
And if you're looking to extend your adventure, we can also arrange a journey into South Luangwa National Park in Zambia—just across the border—for a world-class safari experience to complete your time in this part of Africa.