Domwe Island is the largest unpopulated island in Lake Malawi, with a circumference of 11km and a highest point 400m above lake level. It is separated from the mainland by the narrow Illala Gap which, due to fluctuations in lake level over the times, has been dry on several occasions.

The island is part of the Lake Malawi National Park. Unlike all other Lake Malawi Islands, Domwe is well populated with mammals.

Domwe Island Camp is basic yet exclusive. It lies behind a small beach on the Island’s west side. The camp is run on a self-catering basis, with guests making use of the kitchen facilities to prepare their own meals with option of fully catered. Here you a choice of staying in a fully equipped safari tent, with bedding, towels and a hammock on its shady deck, or you camp on a thatched raised tent deck. The kitchen has two full-time staff members, and is fully stocked with fridges, pots and pans, crockery and cutlery.

Accommodation at Domwe Island consists of three-furnished safari tents with beddings, towels and a hammock on a shady deck and two tents sites on a thatched raised deck, complemented by a dining area with bar and water sport gazebo.

The fully-furnished safari tents

There are three fully-furnished safari tents in the camp. Each tent has two beds, and an additional two mattresses can be hired for each tent.

The basic tent sites

These consist of wooden decks with a thatch roof. Each deck is large enough for two regular-sized dome tents. You can bring your own tent or hire one of ours. Mattresses and bedding can also be hired.

Guests on Domwe Island can enjoy kayaking, diving and snorkelling in lake Malawi. You can also take a walk around the island to see some of the wonderful bird and reptile life that they are home to, or simply laze on the patio soaking up the breath-taking views of the Lake Malawi.

Getting to the island

There are two options – by boat or by kayak. If you kayak out but still require a boat to carry your food and gear, then the boat fee will be payable.