Club Makokola

Club Makokola, often affectionately known as 'The Mak', is synonymous with high-end tourism in Malawi. Located on one of the longest and most beautiful stretches of sandy beach on the southern lakeshore, this area has an excellent blend of relaxation and world-class service. The resort architecture is often inspired by colonial styles, with thatched roofs that blend harmoniously into manicured tropical gardens. The atmosphere here is exclusive yet remains quintessentially Malawian and friendly. Visitors can enjoy a wide array of activities, from golfing on a professional 9-hole course to various water sports like water skiing and parasailing. The resort even features its own private airstrip, making it exceptionally accessible for international travelers. A unique highlight is the on-site aviation museum, which chronicles the history of flight in the region. Excursions on the historic Ilala ferry can also be arranged from here. Dining options combine international culinary standards with fresh local delicacies. Access is typically via the town of Mangochi, about a 3-hour drive from Blantyre. While it is a year-round destination, the months from May to August offer the most comfortable temperatures. Club Makokola is the handy spot for honeymooners or travelers looking for a few days of luxury and peace after a safari. The palm-lined pathways and the view of the endless blue horizon create a truly paradisiacal setting.

Nearby cities

Lilongwe

Lilongwe is the sprawling capital of Malawi and the country's political heart.

Blantyre

Blantyre is Malawi's second-largest city and the country's economic powerhouse.

Mzuzu

Mzuzu is the capital of Malawi's Northern Region and serves as the primary service hub for the northern highlands and Lake Malawi.

Zomba

Zomba was Malawi's capital until 1975 and is today a major educational center located at the foot of the spectacular Zomba Plateau.

Kasungu

Kasungu is a significant town in central Malawi, known as the birthplace of the nation's founder, Hastings Kamuzu Banda, and a center for…

Mangochi

Mangochi is a picturesque town at the southern end of Lake Malawi, strategically located on the banks of the Shire River.

Salima

Salima serves as the gateway to Senga Bay on Lake Malawi, famous for its golden beaches and local fishing culture.

Liwonde

Liwonde is a strategic town located on the Shire River, known as the primary gateway to the famous Liwonde National Park.

Nkhotakota

Nkhotakota is a historic town on the shores of Lake Malawi, known as one of Africa's oldest market settlements and a former center of the…

Nsanje

Nsanje is Malawi's southernmost town, situated in a low-lying, hot plain on the Shire River near the border with Mozambique.

Mzimba

A vibrant cultural hub in Northern Malawi, known as the ancestral home of the Ngoni and Tumbuka people.

Rumphi

Rumphi is a charming town in northern Malawi, serving as the primary service center for the Nyika Plateau and the Livingstonia mission area.

Mulanje

Home to the majestic Mount Mulanje and lush tea plantations at the foot of the mountain massif.

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Kongwe Mission

Kongwe Mission was established in the early 20th century.

Chikwawa Mission

Chikwawa Mission in the lower Shire Valley was established in the late 19th century.

History & landmarks

Blantyre Old Town Hall

The Old Town Hall in Blantyre is a prominent colonial building.

Cape Maclear Missionary Graves

These graves at Cape Maclear belong to the first members of the Livingstonia Mission.

Mua Mission

Founded in 1902, Mua Mission houses the Kungoni Centre of Culture.

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Dedza-Salima Escarpment

The Dedza-Salima Escarpment marks the transition from the central highlands to the shores of Lake Malawi.

Nature

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Phirilongwe Hill

Phirilongwe Hill is a prominent elevation located west of Mangochi.

Lake Malombe

Lake Malombe is a widening of the Shire River south of Lake Malawi.

Domwe Island Reserve

Domwe is the largest uninhabited island in Lake Malawi.

Mumbo Island Reserve

Mumbo Island is an isolated nature paradise in Lake Malawi.

More places

Malindi Mission Church

Malindi Mission was established in the late 19th century.

Victoria Memorial Tower

This clock tower in Mangochi was erected in memory of Queen Victoria.

Namizimu Highlands

The Namizimu Highlands are situated east of Mangochi.

Monkey Bay Shipyard

The hub of Malawian lake shipping, where vessels are maintained, repaired, and prepared for transport across the lake.

Monkey Bay Naval Base

Monkey Bay is the primary base for the Malawi Navy.

Lake Malawi National Park

This underwater national park protects hundreds of endemic cichlid fish species.

Mangochi Mountain

Mangochi Mountain is an isolated massif south of Lake Malawi.

Livingstonia Cairn

This cairn at Cape Maclear marks the site of the original Livingstonia Mission.