Make Malawi Your COVID-19 Detox

Are you lusting after an adventure? Anywhere preferably far away from your COVID “cocoon?”

Malawi could be the answer.

Landlocked by Zambia, Tanzania, and Mozambique, it is often overlooked by tourists. Although a trip here could be in the distant future due to COVID outbreaks and travel bans, it is a refreshing and unique destination for your post-pandemic bucket list.

Malawi offers its visitors an experience that will shake up one’s attitudes, fitness levels and tastes in vacation styles. After the physical and mental confines of a nearly two-year pandemic, the lush landscapes, friendly people and fun activities will make you feel like a new person.

I was fortunate enough to visit Malawi during an overland tour in 2014. I have been to many countries since, but Malawi has stayed with me, and I continue to consider it one of my travel highlights and a must for all travellers seeking an escape to somewhere a little different.

Meet the warm people of Malawi

Malawi is known as the ‘warm heart of Africa’ and for a good reason. I can assure you that visits to the villages are a highlight of any Malawian experience. Children rush to hug and play with you. Their smiles as you enter their village is an image that will stay with you always. Do keep in mind, though, many tours take you to the villages as a spectator. Research local tour companies that enable you to experience village life proactively. Volunteer at the local school instead of disrupting classes or help out with the many agricultural jobs that provide four-fifths of the population with their income. No matter what occupation you have a go at, it will encourage you to appreciate what others must do to support themselves and their families, earning a fraction of your income.

Zikomo! The word for ‘thank you’ in Chewa — the official language of Malawi. It is one of the most useful words to learn before you communicate with the locals. Although many Malawians have at least a basic knowledge of English, it is much appreciated when you make an effort to speak their language. One of the local guides told me that he would not have been as willing to show me as much as he did of his village if I had not gone to such lengths to learn his language. After learning a language so different from your own, you may develop a love of languages. As a speaker and teacher of two languages other than English, I promise you this opens up many opportunities, great and small.

Experience the deep impact of Lake Malawi

Malawi means ‘flames of fire’ in the Chewa language, named after the shimmering effect of Lake Malawi in the sun. Accounting for one-fifth of the country’s area, it is the engine of the nation. Most of the population depends on agriculture for their livelihoods, and Lake Malawi is the primary water source for many farms.

Lake Malawi is the second deepest lake in Africa and home to the greatest number of fish species globally. The lake will be the centrepiece of your adventure in Malawi because the beaches, wildlife, villages and associated activities are linked to the lake. Tourists can explore the lake by boat, overland truck, and on foot; one can even go horse riding on the beach and proceed into the lake. Ensure you bring your bathing suit with you! It was an incredible experience.

Get your African wildlife fix and help the animals

Most people visit Africa with seeing wildlife in mind. Malawi’s wildlife viewing opportunities are not perceived as plentiful as the famous game parks in Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa. However, Malawi is actually home to an abundance of wildlife in one of its nine National Parks, especially the largest — Liwonde National Park, home to cheetahs, black rhinos, lions and many more examples of sought after African fauna.

As a tourist, you can positively impact the future of Malawi’s flora and fauna. Responsible tourism provides much-needed funds for development initiatives and the conservation of wildlife. Before you book a safari or a tour of one of the lush national parks, ensure you choose a reputable local company. This ensures funds go to those who need it and companies that care for the wildlife.

Soak up the magic of the lakeside campsites

The beaches that surround Lake Malawi offer campsites in the nearby villages and contact with locals. Two trendy beach areas are Chitimba and Kande Beach campsites.

Chitimba Beach Campsite is picturesque with its thatched roof bar and surrounding accommodation. It offers a simple overnight stay and is a favourite among overland trucks.

On the other hand, Kande Beach offers a bundle of fun along the shores of Lake Malawi. The water in this area is safe for swimming, and various activities are available, including water sports, boat trips, snorkelling even horse riding in the lake! The Kande Beach Bar is famous and offers a range of beverages — ideal for a relaxing sundowner.

Hike to Livingstonia

During the confines of lockdown, many of us were limited to our neighbourhoods. I can’t tell you how many times I have walked past the same parks, shops, buildings even cafes where I buy my daily cappuccinos. As a result of a somewhat decline in movement, many individuals would admit to putting on a few extra pounds, declining fitness levels or even the unwillingness to go outside their ‘cocoons.’

A 16-kilometre hike to Livingstonia is your cure for such maladies. The hike takes between 8 to 12 hours and can be done as a one-or-two day trip. During your hike, you may encounter an array of flora and fauna. Watch out for the zebras and monkeys, among other species of wildlife. There is also a welcome opportunity to cool down at the Manchewe Falls.

Livingstonia is a historical missionary village founded in 1875 by David Livingstone and Scottish missionaries. It lies 900m above Lake Malawi. The views span out towards Tanzania. While exploring the village, you should visit the historic Stone House, Museum of Livingstonia and perhaps stay overnight at one of the guesthouses.

Observe a lifestyle so different to our own

Malawi is one of the poorest countries in the world. However, one sees that families live (seemingly) happily together in close quarters even with the minimum of commodities. The Malawian diet and entertainment options are also far from fancy. If you open your eyes, you can observe that happiness does not have to come from material things rather the company of the ones you love.

I think many of us agree that before the restrictions caused by COVID-19, we took everything for granted: the availability of the people in our lives, the ability to travel and indeed our everyday lifestyle. Suddenly, we did not have access to the entertainment options, favourite holiday destinations, shops; even getting our hands on important commodities like toilet paper was a challenge!

As a post-pandemic detox option, Malawi will reinforce what you have learned from the pandemic and rejuvenate your soul and energise you for new adventures.