Mumbo Island is located in the south of Lake Malawi and is a pristine and otherwise deserted tropical island floating on the expansive waters of the Lake Malawi National Park. With a maze of massive underwater boulders, innumerable species of colourful cichlid fish and calm, clear water, the National Park offers what many consider the best freshwater snorkeling and scuba diving in the world.

Unlike most other island destinations in the region, Mumbo Island has never been populated and is still in it’s natural state.



This, together with the focus on non-motorised watersports, makes Mumbo ideal for the active outdoors enthusiast. The island’s only mammals – Spotted-neck Otters - are remarkably playful and regularly join guests for a snorkel or swim.

There is much to do, but the remoteness and tranquillity of the island offer many opportunities for quiet contemplation of this unique and stunning piece of nature. The clean, protected waters around the island allow all guests, irrespective of fitness or experience, to enjoy sea kayaking, snorkeling, swimming and scuba diving. At the same time the remoteness and tranquillity means that there is no shortage of relaxation opportunities. All itineraries are suitable for anyone who is in good health, and all activities are optional.


As far as the non-aquatic wildlife is concerned, the island lends itself more to a focus on observing the little creatures as opposed to the Big Five. The island is noteworthy for the high occurrence of rainbow skinks and large water monitors in particular. Snakes identified include the variegated bush snake and African rock python (both non-venomous!). Bird life is dominated by the ubiquitous Fish Eagles, but enthusiasts will be rewarded with sightings of the shyer and less common forest birds that inhabit the bush around the tents.


Mumbo Island Camp, accommodating fourteen guests, features tastefully furnished tents with shaded decks, hammocks, hot bucket showers and ‘eco-loos’, complemented by a dining area with bar and a watersport gazebo. The whole camp is built of timber, thatch and canvas, and is perched on high rocks overlooking the water, blending with the lush foliage to create a ‘Robinson Crusoe’ atmosphere of rustic charm. The island is located within an exclusive concession area, guaranteeing privacy in tropical island paradise.

Freedom and quality island time - together with a good dose of healthy outdoor fun - is what visits to Mumbo Island are all about. The only fixed items on the schedule are meals, and guests are otherwise free to choose between activity, exploration and leisure. Highly recommended are pre-breakfast swims which redefine the term “refreshing”; and sunset circumnavigations of the island by kayak.

Malawi experiences a tropical Climate with dry seasons during the months of May to November and rainy season with low rainfall during the other months particularly December to March. Daily temperatures ranging from 29deg C in January to 21 deg C in July.