Overlooking the mountainous coastline of Mozambique, Kaya Mawa is an enchanting lakeside lodge set on the tiny island of Likoma. Just off the eastern shore of Lake Malawi and fringed by pale gold sandy beaches, crescent moon bays and crystal clear waters, Likoma is a sun-soaked desert island paradise with a fascinating twist. The location of Livingstone’s historic missionary headquarters in the 1880s, it is home to a vast and ponderously impressive Edwardian cathedral. Hand-built in conjunction with the local community on the island, the lodge lies on a picturesque granite headland. It is hidden among mango and baobab trees, its stone, teak and thatch architecture is an inspired fusion of traditional and five star sophistication that combines rustic chic with subtle indulgence. Woven into the natural surroundings, 10 villas and a family house have enormous raised four-poster beds, sunken rock baths and private terraces with direct access to the lake, while 50 metres offshore, a honeymoon cottage lays claim to an idyllic little island reached only by boat for ultimate privacy. Kaya Mawa is potentially entirely self-contained. However, for those who wish to venture further afield, the silky, transparent waters of the lake provide excellent snorkelling and diving with more than 600 species of tropical freshwater fish as well as turtles and otters. Birdwatching and mountain biking around the island are alternatives, plus motorised water sports, fishing trips, kitesurfing and sailing expeditions to nearby deserted islands and the magnificent beaches.






