Utaka Cichlid Safari: Day-by-day

The only luxury lodge in Majete, Mkulumadzi is very much a part of this wildlife reserve’s conservation success story This elegant contemporary-styled lodge is part of highly respected Robin Pope Safaris’ portfolio and was built in 2011, at a time when NGO African Parks were transforming Majete into the wildlife-rich reserve that it is today.

It’s consistently offered great service, beautiful accommodation and friendly staff, along with excellent eco credentials. The eight rooms are stylish and vast, with a lounge area, minibar, dressing area, writing desk and Evening Breeze aircon above the beds, and expansive terraces overlooking the Mkulumadzi River.

If you’re in Room 6, keep an eye out for a little bush baby who likes to sleep in the thatch – he was born there and feels it’s his home. You might also encounter two bull elephants who are almost resident here too, along with a family of warthogs. They all clearly have good taste.

"The accommodation was luxurious and spacious."

MRS J fromFROM SCOTLAND

Arrived 29 Aug 2024, 4 nights

The main lounge, bar and dining area is relaxed and meals are extremely good, with light lunches and imaginative dinners – you won’t go hungry. Activities include walking, game drives and boating and check out the new African Parks' Heritage Centre for an insight into the reserve’s history. See our full report on Mkulumadzi Lodge

Kuthengo is a small very comfortable camp overlooking the Shire River Kuthengo lies in a secluded spot miles from other camps on the floodplains of the Shire River. Its setting is fabulous, sheltered under huge fever trees and baobabs. There are only four tented rooms here, all open plan and huge with light wood furnishings and décor of grey and white.

There’s Evening Breeze aircon over the beds, a standalone stone bath and outdoor showers. But despite the cool interiors, the views are what makes these rooms, looking out to hippos mooching in and out of the river and even coming quite close to the tents to graze.

In comparison to the rooms, the lounge and dining tents, similarly furnished, seem quite small and cosy. Meals are varied, with hearty breakfasts and lunches and elegant dinners, and the nearby swimming pool provides some relief from the heat.

"Had an amazing time at Kuthengo Camp!"

SamanthafromBrazil

Arrived 20 Nov 2023, 2 nights

The guides here are excellent and will take you on game drives and walks, but don’t miss the early morning boat trip to Lake Malombe for sunrise. You’ll pass villages and fishermen, offering a glimpse of local life as well as wildlife. See our full report on Kuthengo Camp

Pumulani is a luxury beach lodge located high on a hill on the west side of Nankumba Peninsula, towards the southern end of Lake Malawi. It is within the Lake Malawi National Park so is a great spot for walking, snorkeling or simply relaxing.

"the place is really beautiful and perfect to rest"

SamanthafromBrazil

Arrived 22 Nov 2023, 2 nights

Pumulani is a relaxed, comfortable beach lodge and is a great spot to end a trip after a safari in either Zambia or Malawi. The staff here are friendly and the service and food good. It appeals to guests who wish to just relax and unwind, or those who prefer to be kept more active. Please note, however, that with all the steps here it is not suitable for the elderly or guests with walking disabilities. See our full report on Pumulani