The third largest lake in Africa and the ninth largest in the world, Lake Nyassa, also known as Lake Malawi, is situated between the countries of Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania. It is the most southerly lake in the Great Rift Valley system, and features an abundance of wildlife with more tropical fish species than any other lake on earth. There are over 1000 different species of fish, the majority that have yet to be identified. In particular, the lake is famous for its cichlids; over 30% of the cichlid species can be found here.

Lake Nyassa stretches 75km at its widest, and around 560km in length, and is over 700 metres deep. Lake water at the bottom is nearly stagnant, and is home to the larvae of the "lake fly", which during breeding season, rise up to the surface of the lake and congregate in thick clouds number in the millions, creating what appears from afar to be pillars of smoke rising into the sky.

The lake has been also historically been referred to as Livingstone's Lake.

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The buses stop at Monkey bay but it's worth taking a taxi r hitching up to Cape McClear - so much more pretty!

Last edited on Jun 9, 09 3:14 PM.
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D. G.

Oct 12, 2008

Lake Malawi is like an oasis in a country that has been devastated by droughts and floods in recent years. This is the perfect spot to stop, cool down and chill out on any longer journey across east Africa. Relax on the beach, mingle with locals, rent a sailboat and enjoy the scenery. There are some great wood carvings being sold by families who live in the villages along the lake. Grab the local Kuche Kuche beer instead of the Carlsberg!

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Sarah D.

Jan 14, 2009

Stunning place, amazing people, beautiful fish!
Whether you want to dive, snorkel, Kayak or just read a book on the bech Lake Malawi is astounding and Cape McClear is the place to be.
The fish are unique and as colourful as the fish in the red sea but far more curious.

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