About Mumbo Island

Mumbo Island is a pristine and deserted tropical island and the undisputed jewel of the Lake Malawi National Park. Mumbo Island has never been inhabited and is still in its natural state with a thick covering of miombo woodland and ancient fig and baobab trees.

The island is 10km offshore of Cape Maclear. Visitors must first get to Kayak Africa’s reception on the mainland beach at Cape Maclear, from whence twice-daily boat transfers ferry guests to the island and back.

The island is about one square kilometre in extent and is completely undeveloped apart from the tiny camp at the main beach. A network of walking trails allows visitors to explore the forest and access other small beaches and coves.

The waters around the island are clear and calm, perfect for all guests – irrespective of fitness or experience – to enjoy swimming, sea kayaking, snorkelling and SCUBA diving. The waters are regularly tested for bilharzia and have always come up clean!

The whole island is part of the Lake Malawi National Park and falls within Kayak Africa’s exclusive concession area, guaranteeing privacy in paradise.

The Camp

Barefoot luxury is the theme at Mumbo Island Camp – there is everything that you need and nothing that you don’t. The tiny camp blends in with the African bush to create a Robinson Crusoe atmosphere of rustic charm.

The camp is located around a deep, protected cove and large beach. The beach has shady loungers and hammocks for those who prefer to relax with a good book, and a watersport deck with kayaks and snorkelling gear for guests who are keen on some fun in the sun. Guides are available for those who may wish to explore further afield.

Camp Details in Brief:

  • Maximum number of guests is fourteen, although larger groups are possible when it is just one party booking the whole island.
  • Camp accommodation consists of five double/twin Island Chalets perched on high rocks overlooking the water; plus one four-bed Forest Chalet tucked into the forest behind the beach. The Forest Chalet does not have a lake view but is safe for small children and is also closer to the dining room making it convenient for older guests as well.
  • All chalets are fully-furnished with mosquito netting and have en-suite bathrooms.
  • The camp is off-grid and there is no electricity in the chalets. Each chalet has portable solar lamps and there is a centrally-located solar-powered charging station for cellphones.
  • Communal and social areas comprise the dining room and bar and a lounge tucked up against a giant baobab tree.
  • Food preparation takes place in a fully equipped and serviced kitchen behind the dining room (see below for more on meal options).
VIEW GALLERY

Food and Drink

Meal options:

  • Self-catered: you bring all the food and cook yourself. You will need to bring everything including cooking oil, herbs and spices and so on. There is no charge for this option and camp staff take care of the cleaning.
  • Self-catered with chef hire: you bring all the food and a Kayak Africa chef prepares and cooks for you. The chef must be pre-booked.
  • Fully catered: with this option you don’t have to do anything except pre-book! A catering team will provide three meals per day plus a morning tea/coffee tray. Certain special dietary requirements can be accommodated, some of which may attract a surcharge.

Drinks:

  • The bar offers a variety of beers, spirits, wines and soft drinks. No cash is required while on the islands – all chargeable items are put on a tab which is settled back at reception.
  • Guests are welcome to bring their own drinks and make use of the island’s cooling facilities. There is no corkage or similar charge.

Water:

  • Water is drawn straight from the lake at the island and is 100% safe to drink. Bottled water is available for sale from the bar.

Services

Island Style…. this best describes the vibe to which we are trying to contribute. Chilled. Your time is your own. Staff and guides are available at any time to assist with any matter, but we try to keep intrusions on your peace and tranquillity to a minimum.

In terms of daily routines the chalets are self-service. Long-stay guests can request a bedding change, and a hot bucket shower can be organised at any time. Chat to the staff at breakfast time if you are keen on a guided kayak excursion or forest walk.

On the islands Mother Nature provides the Wow! while we try to unobtrusively not let her down.

Boat Transfers

Mumbo Island is 10km from Kayak Africa reception at Cape Maclear. Boat transfers between reception and the island run according to the Boat Transfer Schedule:

  • Mornings:
    • Depart Mumbo Island for Reception 09h30
  • Afternoons:
    • Depart Reception for Mumbo Island 15h00

Boat transfer times will be determined at the time of booking and will be included in the invoice.