Vietnam

Vietnam

Custom Tours & Vietnam Travel Programs

Vietnam is hugely diverse so we recommend a complete North-to-South itinerary to experience all of the political, cultural and social distinctions. By touring Vietnam historically, from French occupation, to liberation with Ho Chi Minh, to the Vietnam/American War, you can get a glimpse of the Vietnamese people and understand their culture.

Northern Vietnam

Despite a still-prevalent communist ideology, Hanoi is a fascinating place. Today it’s a vibrant city whose people embrace a thriving entrepreneurial spirit. While in Hanoi, try a day trip or an overnight cruise to Halong Bay, and visit the unique Hill Tribes of Sapa. We recommend the Victoria train and lodge as the most comfortable way to travel.

Central Vietnam

After Hanoi, head into central Vietnam, a worthwhile stop for cooler weather. Enjoy the marble mountains of Da Nang, or in Hue, see Imperial City and Thien Mu Pagoda. Goldenfish Travels offers many choices in central Vietnam.

Southern Vietnam & the Mekong Delta

Afterwards, head to Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City). See the war museum and if you’re brave enough, the Cu Chi tunnels are impressive if not horrific. Wherever you go, you can’t escape the history. Every person has a memory of a relative or friend lost in war, and to be uninformed about those stories and the vast history would mean missing an important aspect of Vietnamese culture.

We also offer eco lodges and Mekong river day jaunts which provide an up-close look at Vietnam’s vast greenery.

Contemporary Art and Culture Tour Vietnam

SAMPLE ART TOUR

In the past five years, the art scene in Ho Chi Minh City has experienced growth that has placed it amongst some of the region’s most active emerging art scenes.

Although the number of contemporary art spaces is still modest, their operations reach out to a greater audience and are contributing to a better understanding of contemporary art in the country, nurturing local talent, and cooperating with foreign institutions from around the world.

Climate

Ho Chi Minh City has quite a homogenous temperature, always warm enough to wear short sleeves, shorts and sandals. But winter, from November to the end of March, is the best time to avoid the heat and humidity, with average temperatures between 28 to 30 degrees Celsius.

Transportation

To get around, there are plenty of buses with regular time schedules, but there are also taxis everywhere. Best Yet, book a licensed driver with Golden Fish Travels.

Where to see contemporary art

HCMC Fine Arts Museum The Fine Arts Museum is worth a visit for its beautiful French colonial architecture, and the exhibition rooms show the development of art through the ages in Vietnam.

Galerie Quynh  One of the most well known in the city, Galerie Quynh was founded in 2004 and represents Vietnamese emerging and established artists, as well as foreign artists.

San Art The most active nonprofit, artist-run initiative in Vietnam, San Art was founded by some of the most well known Vietnamese artists.

Vietnam Tours and Travel Packages

  • Essential Vietnam — 10 days Saigon, Danang & Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, Halong Bay
  • Central Vietnam City extensions — Nha Trang, Dalat
  • North Vietnam Hill tribe Extensions — Sapa and the northern highlands

All Vietnam tours can be extended into Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand for a complete coordinated Southeast Asia Grand tour package. For a full itinerary of Vietnam tours or to ask about our other travel options in Vietnam and other travel in Asia, please contact us by phone or email.

Ladakh

Ladakh

Custom Guided Tours for Travel to Ladakh

Ladakh is known as the land of high passes because of the mountains surrounding it. Though currently threatened by an increasing number of visitors, Ladakh is worth the visit. With its spectacularly jagged mountain views and the colorful gompas (Buddhist monasteries), Ladakh is a unique, often forgotten region of north India.

When to Visit

Because travel in Ladakh requires driving through treacherous high passes, you’ll want to plan a tour here during the spring and summer months, as from October to May (and sometimes longer) heavy snow can close off these passes completely.

What to See

Leh Palace is always first on the list of places to see in Ladakh, as the rooftop views are absolutely breathtaking, and the cozy interior houses exhibition spaces and a small, beautiful prayer room. It takes a trek to get to Leh Palace, but it’s worth the trip.

As can be expected from a mountainous region like Ladakh, there are some spectacular mountains to see and equally jaw-dropping ravines and gorges. Yapola Gorge is a must-see while in Ladakh, as the soaring rocky sides and exhilarating hiking spots are sure to get your blood pumping. While there, stop in nearby Hanupatta for tea and noodles heading back.

Finally, no Ladakhi tour would be complete without visiting a gompa, and the fabulous monastery complex of Old Diskit is the perfect choice. Nestled into a mountain and accessible by a mass of tight, hairpin turns, Diskit Gompa is a trek, but the views make the trip worth it. Be sure to check the visiting hours beforehand, as most of the monasteries close early and for lunch, depending on where you go and the time of year. You don’t want to make the trek up the mountain for nothing.

Climate

Only an hour and a half flight away from Delhi, you are transported to a new world, bounded by the world’s two mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalayan and the Karakoram, which vary in altitude from 9,000 to over 25,000 feet. While most of Ladakh is high altitude desert, the climate changes quickly in the mountains, even within a span of only a few hours, from Lake Pangong to the summit. The day may start out sunny and warm and suddenly change to blizzard conditions that last only a few minutes, with enough snow to throw snowballs and sip a hot drink at one of the stations.

A recommended approach to experiencing this country is to select a tour according to the terrain. Following are the categories from which to select and then email us for a complete itinerary or custom created tour:

  • Indus River – the colorful mountain landscape and rugged terrain makes for a memorable drive alongside the river.
  • Lake Region – This region is home to some of the most beautiful lakes you’ve ever seen, Pangong and the Tsomoriri lakes. You won’t want to miss driving, biking, or taking a taxi to this region.
  • Monastery Region – Much of the land in Ladakh is considered holy, and there are still active monks in many parts of the country. As a result, monasteries are common, and a wonder to behold.
  • Adventure Tours – If you’re seeking a more rugged, active experience, adventure tourism is popular, including activities like Jeep safaris, mountain biking and trekking, and expeditions to various attractions and structures.

Call or email us for a full itinerary and details.

India

India

India Tour Package – Custom Guided Tours

Be it a stimulating North India tour package, soothing South India tour package or both combined, India is indeed incredible. Land of dichotomy, whiffs of Colonial past, high tech present surpassing most countries, modern transcendentalists, ancient Gods and sacred cows.

We decided to offer India to our Asia destinations as we have very special travel partners within India, with whom we specialize in the highest quality of guiding for corporate and leisure travel, small groups or individuals custom made to suit. Affordably! They know where you’re going and we know how to get you there!

India Tour Package The life-style and culture of India

Politically, India can be described as a democratic fluid anarchy (just like its drivers) with communism and regional loyalties which prevail in the state of Kerala.

Today there is a very fine line between the sacred and the political as regards to the cow. Political parties offer farmers a stipend to paint the horns of their cows the color of the party. They stroll the streets, thus adorned with the absolute knowledge that they are indeed something honored, respected and protected, oblivious to the fact that they have also become yet another symbol.

The sacred/political cows are also affectionately called, “brake inspectors” as they randomly, at will, cross the highway in front of your vehicle.

If a vehicle hits a cow, then the vehicle must be sold as it most certainly brought bad luck upon its owner. However, the same vehicle, through contact with the sacred cow, inevitably brings good luck to whomsoever buys it. The Indian mind working in all complexity, paradox, and fairness. Never mind the dead cow.

As for the crows, they are so daring as take packs of sugar right off your breakfast table.

We can create a custom India tour package tailored to your needs, desires or interest or we can provide you with a recommended tour of India to include the most visited places and landmarks for which the country has become popular. Whatever your needs give us call to discuss your requirements with our professional, friendly and experienced travel team.

Add Extensions to India Tours

Then, after a hectic cultural extravaganza, why not spend a week or two at an Ayurvedic Clinic in Southern India.

Extensions can be added to Ladakh, Sri Lanka, or the Maldives.

Ayurvedic treatments can also be arranged in each location.

GOLDEN FISH TRAVELS is a USA based Asia travel agent, specializing in India tourism, India travel and India tour packages. For travel to India we offer India tours as follows.

Himachal Pradesh /Kinnaur District

Himachal Pradesh /Kinnaur District

Himachal Pradesh /Kinnaur District

Himachal Pradesh is one destination that is overlooked quite often, but a tour of this area is definitely worth the research. One top spot on a trip here is the Kinnaur Kailash (locally known as Kinner Kailash), which is a mountain in the Kinnaur district of the Indian state Himachal Pradesh. The Kinnaur Kailash has a height of 6,500 meters and is considered sacred by both Hindu and Buddhist Kinnauris. It is one of the mythical abodes of Lord Shiva, often confused with the Kailash in Tibet. One can undertake the holy pilgrimage of Kinner Kailash from this place and return to Kalpa in 7-8 days or travel onward north through Manali or traverse to Spiti or overland to Ladakh. There are no direct flights from Delhi but you can enter via Delhi to Srinagar airport/Shimla with a drive which takes you into the Sangla Valley of Kinnaur.

Himachal Pradesh is the place to go for memorable nature experiences, and there are many spots perfect for exploring and appreciating the beauty of the area. For example, the Sangla Valley is said to be one of the most beautiful places in the country, and is sure to be remembered fondly. With its vast views and colorful landscape, the Sangla Valley is a must-see while visiting Himachal Pradesh.

While much of the Himalayas offer greater heights, the terrain there is high desert with no greenery except sparse trees planted by the local peoples. In Kinnaur and Sangla Valley, specifically, the terrain is surrounded by magnificent peaks with lush orchards of cherry, apricot, and apple trees in the foothills. Many of the views are reminiscent of Japan as one hikes along, although the entire range has a splendor like no other. The route follows the Sutlej river in Sangla valley. While there, stop in Kalpa, a beautiful village located in the backdrop of Kinner Kailash Mountain range.

What to Do:

Begin in Sangla, then to Chitkul, Nako Lake and end in Kalpa. Kullu, Manali and the north region can be an extension as well as a trip to Ladakh. We offer 6 day itineraries, as well as 2-3 weeks and 56 day itineraries to traverse the Himalayas.

Wildlife Sanctuaries: There are three wildlife sanctuaries worth seeing on your tour, namely Lipa-Asrang Sanctuary, Rakcham-Chitkul Sanctuary, and Rupi-Bhaba Sanctuary. All house wide varieties of wildlife, and species like yak, ibex, leopard, red fox, ghoral, musk deer, blue sheep, brown bear, and Himalayan black bear can be found here.

Reckong Peo: To get a panoramic view of Kinner Kailash, you must visit Recong Peo, the district headquarter of Kinnaur, which is 260 kilometers from Shimla.

Chandika Temple: This temple, located in the village of Kothi, is dedicated to goddess Chandika. She is worshipped with great reverence among the locals. It is believed that she was the daughter of demon devta Banasur who presided over Kinnaur.

Chitkul: This is the highest village of Baspa Valley with a few especially easy 2 hour hikes.

Please contact us with your travel dates, specific requests and we will prepare a custom itinerary for you, complete with affordable guide and driver. We offer custom tours and travel packages for Himachal Pradesh and aim to provide the best tour experience possible.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka

Custom Guided Tours for Travel to Sri Lanka

A Colonial Past Amidst Pure Nature

For astounding views, opt for the highlands of Nuwara Eliya and Ella, preferably in the spring; the climate in the hills of the Tea Plantations is one of the most pleasant in this region where the last traditions of the British colonial past still linger, ready to be experienced by all who travel here.

Ella is a small village high in the mountains and is surrounded by pure nature. Here you may enjoy a refreshing swim in one of the numerous waterfalls, or hike and wander through tea estates to experience numerous changing views.

All in all, the highland area of Sri Lanka is among the sweetest locations imaginable in which to enjoy springtime. Sri Lanka as a whole is wonderfully diverse region, with astounding nature views and a unique culture.

What to See

Sri Lanka is home to a number of ancient temples and ruins, all of which are a pleasure to visit. Make time to see the city ruins and rock fortress of Sigiriya, or discover the Temple of the Tooth, a Buddhist temple in the city of Kandy. After that, see the temple complex of the Dambulla cave temple, which is home to an array of ancient art and historic and religious relics.

If you like hiking, don’t miss out on a trip to Adam’s Peak or the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary. Both are prime spots for hiking and nature viewing, with chances to see the native wildlife up close. If animals are what you long to see, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is another wonderful experience. It serves as a sanctuary for both adult and baby elephants, to protect them from illegal poaching and hunting.

Towns, Spas & Gemstones

Get a glimpse of the daily life of Sri Lanka and head back down to Kandy and Colombo. While there, stop at the numerous herb and spice gardens and discover the Ayurvedic remedies. Visit the abundance of shops selling precious stones of the highest quality.

Be sure to take a day to go south and visit some of the most amazing beaches in the world including Unawatuna, a horseshoe shaped beach attached to one of Sri Lanka’s most enjoyable small villages. Hikkaduwa Beach is another favorite, reflecting the region’s sunny disposition with its pleasant climate and friendly locals.

Even a brief tour of Sri Lanka exquisitely satisfies the urge to travel and experience new worlds.

GOLDEN FISH TRAVELS is a United States-based Asia travel agent, specializing in Sri Lanka tourism, Sri Lanka travel and Sri Lanka tours. For travel to Sri Lanka we offer Sri Lanka tours as follows:

Sri Lanka Tours and Travel Packages

  • Highlights Of Sri Lanka — 8 days
  • Kandalama, Polonnaruwa, Kandy , Nuwara Eliya, Horton Plains, Colombo
  • Ayurvedic Spas and clinics.
  • Trip extensions to the Beach cities in the South.
  • We also serve as booking agents for the very best Ayurvedic Holistic Health Resort in Sri Lanka.

Timeless Transformation

The Ayurveda Holistic Health Resort, set In peaceful and exquisite Sri Lanka, offers two and three week programs, all healthfully priced.

We take care of everything!

Contact us by phone or email for details about our custom tours and travel packages.

Kenya & Tanzania

Kenya & Tanzania

East Africa Custom Safaris

Kenya & Tanzania

Nairobi, Kenya is East Africa’s most popular destination, and known for their welcome attitude toward visitors. There’s a lot to see and do in this part of the world, so we recommend planning enough activities at least a week for any of our Kenya and Tanzania tours.

The Serengeti and Maasai Mara are home to the Great Migration, the last of its kind on Earth. Be on the lookout for the Big Five: elephants, rhinos, buffalos, lions and leopards! This unique event can be viewed by hot-air balloon, private plane, and/or a genuine land safari. These nature-spotting excursions are perfect not just for catching an up-close glimpse of the country’s wildlife, but for the stunning panoramic views as well. Composed mostly of flat grassland, the Serengeti is a wide expanse of unique scenery and memorable moments.

If you haven’t had enough of Kenya yet, be sure to explore Meru National Park and Samburu National Park as well. Home to northern Kenya’s biggest and least seasonal river, this area is an oasis for humans and animals alike, and as a result, the wildlife is plentiful. Dozens of different species of plains animals gather here to drink and cool off in the shade of the duom palm forest and thick acacia. These parks are beyond gorgeous, and comparably unspoiled and unvisited. Here you can see zebras, snakes, elephants, and more than 427 species of birds.

To finish up the Kenyan experience, visit Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya. Known for its large herds of elephants and magnificent view of Mount Kilimanjaro across the border in Tanzania, Amboseli National Park is truly majestic. Unrivaled for its panoramic views, there’s no better way to finish a tour of Kenya than with a trek up Observation Hill, where you can see for miles in every direction. Lake Amboseli, for which the park is named, is dry outside the rainy season, and in this region you can spot giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and hundreds of species of birds.

Next, cross the border into Tanzania where safari options abound. Also take advantage of the chance to visit the colorful markets, shops, and villages nearby, and maybe try some new or local foods. Tanzania is also home to the Ngorongoro Crater, perfect for hiking, camping, and seeing lion and hyena roaming free, closer than you’ve ever seen them! The Ngorongoro Crater rim stands at 2,400 meters above sea level, and the views from both the rim and the crater floor are unforgettable.

Selected Custom Tours

Classic Tanzania – 12 days

Nairobi , Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park , Mnemba Island

Kenya and Tanzania Migration – 11 days

Nairobi, Amboseli National Park, Maasai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park

Classic Kenya – 10 days

Nairobi, Meru National Park, Samburu National Park, Maasai Mara National Park

Kenya and Tanzania Migration – 11 days

Nairobi, Amboseli National Park, Maasai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park

African island Extensions – Seychelles

Rwanda

Rwanda

Track Wild Gorillas In Rwanda

We invite you to join us in one of the greatest adventures of a lifetime: gorilla tracking in Rwanda. Rwanda offers some of the best primate viewing in the world. Chimpanzees and mountain gorillas live free where Dian Fossey did over 20 years research in the Volcanoes National Park. These primates are pretty well accustomed to humans, so finding them is almost guaranteed. Small group tracks are available, among any of the five gorilla groups here. We obtain permits and organize the track and accommodation, right in the forest.

The Volcanoes National Park is the only place in Rwanda where gorillas can be tracked, and is the ideal place to start during your visit. After your gorilla track, consider visiting the Nyungwe Forest National Park and Lake Kivu, both of which offer diverse wildlife and gorgeous views. These regions are the ideal place to finish off your Rwandan adventure, and to take some truly spectacular photos. Also consider Akagera National Park, which will offer you a true wildlife experience. Here you can see elephants, lion, buffalo, topi, zebra, antelope, monkeys, bushbuck, impala and countless more wildlife species. There are also over 500 bird species here.

All gorilla tracks require some hiking, some of which can be strenuous, depending on how long it takes to find the gorilla groups. You should plan to start your excursion early in the day to maximize the time you can spend in the forest. Remember to wear or carry warm clothing, as the climate is often rather cool in the forests of Rwanda.  

Our guide is Michael, who also guided Bill Gates.

Tracks range from an easy 2 hour journey to as long as 10 hours, depending on the day, weather conditions, and other factors. However, tracks usually average about 4-6 hours, and you will be accompanied by porters, guides, and patrols. You can sit within about 7 feet to observe the gorillas with all their lack of self consciousness and genuine peacefulness.

Please call us to arrange your gorilla trek.

Tracking Permits

Obtaining a gorilla tracking permit in Rwanda costs around 1500 USD for non-nationals, which should be paid for and obtained well in advance, at least a few weeks before your Rwanda tour has been scheduled.

Botswana

Botswana

Tour Zambia, the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls

Safari opportunities abound in Zambia, whether you stay near the river or venture farther out into the wide expanse of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. When you schedule a custom guided tour of Zambia, you’re sure to find countless wonders and encounter unique people and places. Contact us at Goldenfish Travels today to see what we have to offer. Listed below are some of the must-see destinations, but there is much more to discover here, too.

South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa has been dubbed by experts as one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, and for good reason. With its concentration of animals around the Luangwa River, South Luangwa is one of the best national parks in the world. We highly recommend including Luangwa as part of your Zambia tour, and here’s why. The Luangwa River is what gives life to this region, providing water and shelter for dozens of species or birds and other wildlife. South Luangwa is where the original “walking safari” got its start, and is the best way to experience the scenery and diverse habitats throughout. The park’s changing seasons only add to its charm, as it changes from dry, bare land to a lush vegetative paradise. At Souther Luangwa National Park, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

Lower Zambezi

After the National Park, be sure to explore the Zambezi River in all its manifestations both Upper and Lower. If you want to see fish eagles, buffalo, and herds of elephants, Lower Zambezi National Park is the place to visit. The Zambezi River houses hippo and crocodiles as well, providing a wildlife experience like no other. This massive wildlife sanctuary encompasses both sides of the river, which passes by the striking cliffs of Mupata Gorge with their distinctive red hue. Lower Zambezi is a haven for wildlife of all kinds, and efforts to continue its conservation are always being made.

Victoria Falls

Also take time to visit Victoria Falls for a day or so (from the Zambia and Zimbabwe side), before heading into the more rustic and remote regions of Zambia. These regions provide the first-time and return visitor with almost infinite explorations. Wildlife and birds are most abundant in this pristine and peaceful country, and the Falls are one of the most popular attractions on the entire continent. Often considered one of the seven wonders of the world, Victoria Falls is unparallelled in grandeur and splendor, and the view from both the base and top of the falls is undeniably spectacular.

Extensions available to Namibia are recommended, and can be added as part of your custom tour or travel package.

South Africa

South Africa

South Africa Travel

South Africa promises visitors an experience of a lifetime.

South Africa has a wide assortment of habitats including deserts, mountains, escarpments, plateaus, grasslands, bush, wetlands, and subtropical forests. Within these habitats is a wide variety of game including two sets of “Big Five” – lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo on land, as well as 900 species of birds including the largest bird, the ostrich, and the heaviest flying bird, the Kori Bustard. Offshore you can find whales, sharks, dolphins, marlin and tuna. With such a diverse collection of animal life, there is something to please everyone when you travel in South Africa.

The world-renowned Kruger National Park, one of the country’s most valuable tourism assets, is more than 300 km long and two million hectares in size. Certainly a must-see on any South African trip, this park alone is home to 147 mammal species, more than 400 bird species, and numerous reptiles, amphibians, and insects. In addition to the Kruger National Park, there are numerous other national and private game reserves in all nine provinces, all of which offer unique opportunities for viewing wildlife up close.

Golden Fish Travel can take you to less crowded reserves through Africa with abundant wildlife as well as arrange times according to migration scheduled. We and our guides know exactly where to find the leopards, or view a kill by the cheetah, or hundreds of elephant herds in the deltas. Our guides live and breathe the terrain every day and know it intimately. You can have an ordinary sundowner with 50 other tourists, or a quiet, intimate view of wild life at dusk.

But South Africa is not just known for its animals. It is also ranked first in the world for its floral kingdom. The unique Cape Floral Kingdom is one of only six Plant Kingdoms covering the world. For reference, there is a greater variety of naturally occurring species of flowers just around Cape Town than there are in the whole of North America or Europe. Mkambati in the Eastern Cape, a small area of three thousand hectares, contains a larger variety of plants than can be found in the whole of Great Britain.

Likewise, the South African fossil record dating back three to four million years sheds invaluable light on humankind’s origins. It also has some of mankind’s oldest art with paintings by the San people that are thousands of years old and found across the country. Over 70,000 years old, they predate the Lascaux cave paintings in France by 30,000 years.

Other Attractions

If you’ve had your fill of wildlife, rejoin the modern world. South Africa’s food has Dutch, Malay, French Huguenot, British and African  influences, making it incredibly diverse, delicious, and most importantly, memorable. For a quality drinking experience, South Africa’s fifteen different wine routes offer visitors the opportunity to visit beautiful wine estates, some which date back more than 300 years, to do cellar tours and to taste a variety of excellent wines.

With more than 400 golf courses and its excellent weather conditions, South Africa is a golfer’s paradise. Durban Country Club, Leopard Creek, Phalaborwa, Sun City, the Links at Fancourt and Pezula have consistently been ranked among the top courses in the world.

Several of the many luxury game lodges and hotels in South Africa are annually included in the top 10 hotels in the world. In 2004 Singita Game Reserve, Londolozi Private Game Reserve, Bushman’s Kloof Wilderness Reserve, Mala Mala Game Reserve, and Phinda Private Game Reserve shared this honour.

Goldenfish offers custom tours and travel packages for trips to South Africa. For more details and full itineraries, call or email us.

Malawi

Malawi

Malawi Custom Guided Tours

Visiting Malawi? Why not see its natural beauty up close by joining a safari group? Safaris are one of the best ways to explore Malawi’s finest wildlife viewing areas and wilderness bio systems, while interacting with the friendliest people in all of Africa, the Malawians. On safari in Malawi you can see crocodiles, antelope, and warthog up close and in their natural habitats, drinking water or fighting for survival in the wilderness. Malawi is quickly becoming one of the top safari destinations, and worth the experience. Liwonde National Park is the most popular and most well known, and guests here are guaranteed the experience of a lifetime, and a chance to learn more about the Malawi people.

If safaris aren’t your top choice, combination wilderness lodges, guesthouses, and small, intimate inns in private areas are also available near the national parks and forest reserves of Malawi.

We have taken three of the best destinations in Malawi and linked them by charter aircraft:

Domwe Island

First on the list and the most popular for tourists is Domwe Island. This island, which is part of Lake Malawi National Park, is astounding in its untouched, natural beauty, and the island has much to offer in the way of mammals and its pristine environment. The largest unpopulated island on Lake Malawi, Domwe Island is separated from the mainland only by the narrow Ilala Gap. A visit to this island is an adventure, with camping options available, and a choice to take either boat or kayak to reach it. You can also explore the surrounding Lake Malawi by diving or snorkeling, which offers a chance to see what unique creatures exist just offshore.

Mumbo Island

After you’ve finished exploring Domwe Island, head over to Mumbo, a pristine and deserted island that is also part of Lake Malawi National Park. The island hosts countless species of colorful fish and crystal clear waters, along with a maze of huge underwater boulders, making it one of the best freshwater diving spots in the world. Camping is also offered here, and the campsites boast incredibly green, sustainable practices to keep the island as undisturbed as possible.

Kaya Mawa

“Kaya Mawa” means “maybe tomorrow,” which is the perfect motto for any vacation. When you’re not camping in tents or snorkeling on Domwe or Mumbo Island, relax at the beautiful Kaya Mawa Luxury resort, right along the coast of Lake Malawi.  From the construction and the staff to integration within the local community, there is literally nowhere else like it. This island also offers plenty of perfect snorkeling and diving conditions, as well as hiking and explorations options, if you prefer to stay dry. Relax on the beach or go bird watching at Kaya Mawa, and enjoy your Malawi visit to the fullest.