Mango Drift is situated on the west side of Likoma Island, facing Chizimulu Island. We have a long stretch of beach which has our huts and dorm strung out along it, as well as a bar under a huge mango tree and a bathroom block at one end with hot showers! Most people upon arriving like to chill out in our bar lounge or on the beach, have a meal from our menu, take a swim in the pool-like water of the lake or even head straight out to explore.

There are beautiful sights to see all around the island, as well as great interaction with the local community. The must-see sight of the island is the landmark St Peters Cathedral near Mbamba town, over 100 years old and bigger than Winchester! Even if you’re not the cathedral type, it never fails to leave people awestruck. Hopefully Vincent the verger will be there to give you the grand tour – always entertaining!

Up on the north point of the island is a forest reserve, near to some beautiful beaches which makes for a great half day walk from Mango. Or you can head across the island to Mbamba town and see the small cobbled market where locals get their daily supplies. A good spot to have lunch is the Hunger Clinic at the bottom of the town road, where you can get local fare at really good prices!

If you find yourself here on a weekend, you might be lucky enough to catch the local dancing groups as they compete with visiting dancers from Chizimulu Island. This is a very serious affair for the dancers and they show off their moves very proudly to all who come to watch and don’t mind if you join in either!

For those water babies out there, join our PADI instructors at Likoma Island Divers, and dive into the most ecologically diverse fresh water environment in the world. Likoma Island Divers is a registered PADI centre (www.likomaislanddivers.com), with courses to suit every level- from those first bubbles up to the professional ranks of Divemaster.

Mango Drift is undergoing some general improvements, so there is much good in store and a lot has happened already. We can now boast the most exquisite toilet and shower block of any backpackers lodge in Malawi! In addition, our two en-suite chalets will be finished by the end of 2010.