Set back from the shore of Lake Malawi in Central Malawi is an important service and trading centre, the town of Salima. Close to the junction of the M14 road to Lilongwe and the lakeshore highway (M5), the town is 10 miles (16 km) inland from Senga Bay. This is a very busy little town with an interesting market and all the usual services.
To the east of Salima town is Senga Bay. This beautiful bay is the closest point on Lake Malawi to the country’s capital, just one and a half hours’ drive due east from Lilongwe. A broad stretch of sandy beach is host to a range of hotels, extending from the luxurious to small lodges and campsites. The two Serendib properties, Blue Waters by Serendib and Kambiri Beach by Serendib are amongst the most popular in Senga Bay, with plenty of facilities and activities for its guests. Off shore on its own deserted island in the Marelli Archipelago (part of the Lake Malawi National Park) is the wonderful Blue Zebra Highland Lodge.
Round the northern headland of Senga Bay lies Leopard Bay, which is home to more accommodation options. Partly sited on the wooded headland separating the bays is Safari Beach Lodge, a charming lodge that has gained an excellent reputation over many years. Further north, alongside the next headland, is currently the area’s newest, Kumbali Lake Retreat – a rustic eco lodge run by the same owners as the highly regarded Kumbali Country Lodge in Lilongwe. In the heart of Leopard Bay, an exciting new development, and a first for Malawi, the 5 star luxury Malo Resort is being built. It is due to open in late 2021 and, in the meantime, offers investment opportunities.
