The lake is one of the deepest in the world and plunges to a depth of 696 metres (2300 feet). Around 500 species of fish occur in the lake of which about 350 are cichlids, the vast majority of which are endemic.
Visitors often snorkel amongst the multitude of fish and then retire to one of the lodges along the shoreline to enjoy the sun and a cool drink.
The Liwonde National Park at the southern tip of the lake is big game country and elephant, buffalo and hippo are common. The broad Shire River is home to a thriving population of hippo and crocodile, and boasts some of the best bird watching in Malawi.
To the north, intrepid horse-riders and hikers can enjoy the quiet and open space of the high altitude grasslands of the Nyika Plateau, a seldom visited gem. Be it bush or “beach” Hartley’s will find the warm heart of Malawi for you.