Monkey Bay

Monkey Bay is at the southern end of Lake Malawi (Lake Nyasa), in the Southern Region of Malawi. It is a small port town, home to large monkey population and gateway to Cape Maclear and the world heritage listed Lake Malawi National Park.

Get in
The M/S Ilala is still calling at Monkey Bay port on its way to Karonga. The much more modern M/S Mtendere has been mothballed.

There is daily "AXA" bus from Lilongwe bus terminal, starting at 08:00, arriving to Monkey Bay around 14:00.

Do
The best thing to do on the lake and in Monkey Bay is kayak to the surrounding rocky outcrops and small islands and snorkel to see the amazing fish. Take a snorkel and goggles along - the water is so calm that fins are unnecessary. Kayaks can be hired for the day from Venice Beach backpackers for around US$10.

You can also board the MV Mangunda in Monkey Bay. The ship is available for sunset "booze cruises," daytrips to Cape Maclear and the islands, or extended trips to Liwonde National Park.

Sleep

 * Hakuna Matata Backpackers, near the bus stop, a friendly, South African-run place, K350 single, K500 double (and very simple accommodations from K150), meals at moderate prices. On the entertainment side, a lively bar with two pool tables, darts and juke box. The meeting place for travellers in Malawi.
 * Hakuna Matata Backpackers, near the bus stop, a friendly, South African-run place, K350 single, K500 double (and very simple accommodations from K150), meals at moderate prices. On the entertainment side, a lively bar with two pool tables, darts and juke box. The meeting place for travellers in Malawi.
 * Hakuna Matata Backpackers, near the bus stop, a friendly, South African-run place, K350 single, K500 double (and very simple accommodations from K150), meals at moderate prices. On the entertainment side, a lively bar with two pool tables, darts and juke box. The meeting place for travellers in Malawi.


 * Tropex, the resort's plant nursery just outside the main gate, is a great place to pick up your own sapplings and start your own tropical forest. Day visitors are able to use the facilities, including the lovely pool. Prices are K400 per adult per day, children are K200 each. Meals are acceptable, though the portions a bit small for the price.
 * Andrews Holiday Resort, /445/469/244/447, 09-971-012/0161594372 / 09-941-264 / 08-824-962.
 * Andrews Holiday Resort, /445/469/244/447, 09-971-012/0161594372 / 09-941-264 / 08-824-962.
 * Andrews Holiday Resort, /445/469/244/447, 09-971-012/0161594372 / 09-941-264 / 08-824-962.