The level of Lake Malawi is 480m above the sea level. The highest point in the Lake Malawi National Park is Nkunguni Peak with a height of 1140m. Malawi is in a summer rainfall area with the peak in January and February. Later it becomes warm and calm with occasional rain. In winter, temperatures are mild due to the island's tropical location. Strong south-east trade winds occur. Spring is again hot and dry, calm and hazy.
The tropical Mumbo and Domwe Islands are situated within Lake Malawi National Park near the southern end of Lake Malawi. The islands are located a few kilometres from the reception area and nearest point of road access at Cape Maclear.
Access to Mumbo Island and Domwe Island
By road:
You can get to the islands by road transfer from the main centres in Malawi such as Lilongwe and Blantyre, from nearby lodges as Mvuu Lodge and from the nearest airfield at Club Makokola. The reception is on the beach at Cape Maclear. Self-drivers take the M3 towards Monkey Bay. Approximately 5km short of Monkey Bay turn left at the One Stop shop onto the dirt road to the Lake Malawi National Park.
This turn-off is well signposted, and 4x4 vehicles are not required. Follow the road for approximately 25km to the gate to the National Park. Do not enter the gate, but at the gate turn right towards the lake. Follow the road as it doubles back past the cottages and into the village. The reception is on your left, opposite the big Baobab Tree. It is well signposted, and secure parking is available.
By air:
Private air charters fly from Lilongwe/Blantyre to the lakeshore airstrip at Club Makokola, followed by a road transfer for the remaining 50km to Cape Maclear. The flying time from Lilongwe/Blantyre to Club Makokola is 40 minutes, and the driving time from there to Cape Maclear is 1 hour.
Public transport:
A great way for some cultural exposure, and cheap but slow and steady. There is an extensive bus and minibus taxi network in Malawi, with many vehicles moving each day between all towns. Allow a full day to get from Lilongwe or Blantyre to Cape Maclear, with the route almost always going via Monkey Bay.
By boat or yacht:
It is possible to travel to Cape Maclear by boat or yacht charter from, for example Senga Bay or Likoma Island.
