At around 570 kilometres in length and 75 kilometres wide, Lake Niassa (also known as Lake Malawi) is the third largest lake in Africa. Teeming with fish, this lake has supplied the inhabitants of Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania with food since time immemorial. The underwater world with is many unique endemic fish species is a feast for visitors' eyes.
The sparkling surface of Lake Niassa gave reason for David Livingstone to refer to it as 'the lake of stars'. The real stars live under the surface of the lake however, where no less than 1500 different species of tropical fish are found. Lake Niassa has more unique endemic fish species than any other lake in the world, which makes it a classic example of specialised evolution and thus reason enough for UNESCO to add Lake Niassa to its list of World Heritage sites. It's also interesting to know that the beautifully coloured cichlids, which are favoured by many aquarium enthusiasts, originate from this lake.
The large variety of fish species and the crystal clear waters make Lake Niassa an attractive and inspiring place to dive and gain your first diving qualification. There is also plenty to keep experienced divers entertained, as well the opportunity to try your hand at snorkelling, kayaking or sailing.
Manda Wilderness Reserve
Covering a protected area of merely 600 km2 at the edge of Lake Niassa, Manda Wilderness Reserve has a large variety of landscapes, which is home to a game population that is recovering from the civil war and roughly 300 bird species. The local people and the government set up this reserve in order to preserve the game and the nature. Enjoy walks across beaches, savannahs and wooded hills that are beautiful as they are deserted, or venture into the water on a canoe safari. The revenue from tourism is used to help the local population.
If you want to travel from Lake Niassa to the north coast of Mozambique you need only hop in a plane. However, an overland safari is an adventurous alternative that will take you through authentic unspoilt inland villages, where you will find Africa at its most stunning! You may have to improvise now and then on your travels, but the breathtakingly captivating landscape and friendly people you meet will more than make up for any inconveniences.
