FAQs

Is the water safe for swimming?

Yes, the water in Lake Malawi is generally safe for swimming. It is one of the cleanest and most beautiful freshwater lakes in the world, and visitors regularly enjoy swimming in its clear, warm waters. However, it’s important to note that Lake Malawi does have bilharzia, a parasitic disease transmitted through contact with infected freshwater. While this is not a widespread issue, we recommend taking preventive treatment. Bilharzia treatment is readily available in local pharmacies at an affordable price. We encourage all guests to take a dose of this medication as a precaution, and you can visit any pharmacy in town where the staff will help you determine the correct dosage based on your body weight. It’s a simple, easy treatment to protect yourself. Just ask for it at the pharmacy, and they will give you instructions.

Additionally, please remember that swimming in the lake after dark is not allowed for safety reasons.

Best time to visit?

The best time to visit Lake Malawi and Gecko Lounge is from April to September, right after the rainy season, when the weather is still cool and pleasant. The climate is perfect for outdoor activities, and the lake is calm and inviting.

If you don’t mind the heat, October onwards is also a wonderful time to visit. The temperatures rise, and the arrival of the rains transforms the landscape into a lush, green paradise. It’s a beautiful time to experience the vibrant nature and local life.

Accessibility options

Gecko Lounge is accessible by public transportation and private vehicles. For those traveling by bus, it is important to get on a bus early (by 6 AM) to Monkey Bay, where you can take a motorcycle taxi to Cape Maclear. Public transportation may require some changes depending on where you’re coming from. The road to Cape Maclear has improved, and it is now easier to access by car from the major cities like Blantyre, Lilongwe, and the north.

Internet reliability

While we do our best to provide reliable internet access, it’s important to note that we are located in a village in a developing country, and power and internet outages can occasionally occur. We cannot always guarantee continuous internet access, but when it is available, the connection is generally good. We ask for your understanding and patience in this regard, as we continue to work with local services to improve connectivity.

Cancellation and Refund Policies

• Cancellations made more than 14 days before arrival will receive a full refund or credit note.

• Cancellations made 7-14 days before arrival will incur a 50% cancellation fee.

• Cancellations made less than 7 days before arrival or no-shows will forfeit the deposit.

Payment Options

• A deposit of 50% of the total booking value is required to secure your reservation. The balance is payable upon arrival.

• Payment can be made via the following options:

  • Cash

  • Bank transfer

  • Mobile payment

  • Credit/debit card

  • PayPal