Malawi
Charismatic Malawi
Valleys and hill make this a unique Southern African destination. You will often be mistaken for visiting a tropical beachside country, but it is, in fact, Malawi. It’s an enchanting country that not only captivates you with its natural splendours but also its charming people.
https://de.pinterest.com/pin/238057530275715716/ – Image 01 (Chambo)
Malawi sources almost all its fresh fish from Lake Malawi. Chambo and mpasa are the most common, variations of bream and salmon. Maize is also a staple food in Malawi, so much so that locals consider it their life source. From it, a doughy starch called nsima is made to accompany other dishes as a side. Located in Senga Bay, Red Zebra Café dishes out ordinary dishes with an extraordinary taste – think of grilled chambo and leafy stews served with nsima. For a continental twist with the freshly sourced products, visit Koko Bean in Lilongwe. Everything from eggy breakfasts to light wraps is served and are ideal to take the entire family too.
http://www.zafiri.com/mount-mulanje-malawi/ – Image 02 (Mount Mulanje)
Perhaps the highlight of your trip and many others is watching life on Lake Malawi – and there is no better spot to do so then from Lake Malawi National Park. Islands in between, golden sands and a sight that stretches on forever, you are bound to mistaken your trip as one to a beach. This landlocked country, prides itself on its start, Lake Malawi. Before the sun rises, you’ll hear a scuffling in the sleep villages dotted along the lake. Ready to catch their next meal or sale, you’ll watch a flurry of dugout canoes going into the vastness. And while you admire the villagers’ livelihood, you can try your hand at one of the water activities provided by agencies in the area. Think water skiing, sailing or even snorkelling in these clear waters.
https://malawi2012.wordpress.com/2012/07/18/ – Image 03 (Lujeri Tea Estate)
South of Lilongwe, lies the Mulanje district – known as the tea region of Malawi. Famous for Mount Mulanje, hire a four-wheel drive and drive to the region for a day trip. Driving around the massif at the bottom is not nearly as fearless as it is hiking the bare mountain. You’ll be kept company with elusive klipspringers and curious birds. Once you’re done trekking, find yourself at the Lujeri Tea Estate. This estate produces an impressive number of leaves and stretches over 3000 hectares. Do book a factory tour and learn about the tea-making process. Stay the night in the colonial style guest lodge on site.
https://www.festicket.com/festival/lake-stars-2017/ – Image 04 (Lake of Stars)
The most notable music festival in Malawi is the Lake of Stars Music Festival. Drawing acts from the rest of Africa, Europe and North America. This three-day festival usually takes place in September annually over three days and although the location changes it is always around Lake Malawi. Proceeds go towards charity, but it really is a top-class festival of music, dance and art. Book early, find accommodation although camping on site is recommended as you can dance the entire night away under the African sun. While enjoying the soothing suns with the frolicking waters of Lake Malawi nearby, you’ll notice many vendors selling crafts to clothing. Traditional dress in Malawi is influenced by the different tribes. Commonly, though, women wear a chitenje. It is a sarong, with detailed patterns and this, is often worn with a tunic or blouse and a headwrap.
http://pericleanmcm2011.blogspot.co.za/2011/07/chitenge-challenge-reminder.html – Image 05 (Chitenje)
Even if your trip was based solely on life on Lake Malawi, do appreciate all that the country offers. You’ll find along your journey through Malawi an air of charisma, from its shy but curious klipspringers, laughing tea farmers and simple fishermen.
