Nkhata Bay is at the most northerly point on Lake Malawi reached by David Livingstone during his expeditions through Africa over 150 years ago. Its small sheltered harbour is a focus for the Lake’s fishing industry but it is also becoming increasingly important as a tourist centre. As a vibrant port town in the north of Malawi, it is often referred to as the gateway to the islands. It has a wonderful craft market and a bustling (almost Caribbean) feel to the town. With plenty of small shops and a bank / ATM as well as internet cafes, restaurants and bars, and a highly reputed and long established dive school, Nkhata Bay, despite its size, has a lot on offer. Just a 3 minutes drive away from the town centre is a beautiful sand beach, Chikale, where there is a choice of simple lodges.
There is a variety of accommodation on offer at Nkhata Bay, most in the form of camping sites and small lodges. Safari Cottage offers self catering accommodation comprising 3 bedrooms, kitchen, living room, dining room and a verandah overlooking Lake Malawi.
The famous Ilala Lake ferry stops in Nkhata Bay as part of its weekly schedule up and down Lake Malawi. The Ilala can be used to access Likoma Island and there are also now an increasing number of smaller boats offering access to Likoma.
