Family Adventure at Lake Niassa

Senga Bay: Lakeside Bliss & Cultural Gems

Today was a day of simple pleasures and cultural immersion in Senga Bay. After several days of travel and settling in, it felt good to slow down, explore the local scene, and just soak in the beauty of Lake Niassa, or as it's known here, Lake Malawi. The kids were especially excited, and Fatima and I were happy to see them engaging with a different way of life.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Senga Bay, Malawi - a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences.

Our day began with breakfast at the Dhow Restaurant. The morning air was fresh, carrying the scent of the lake and the promise of a warm day. The restaurant had a relaxed, open-air vibe, and we settled into a table overlooking the water. I ordered a local favorite – mandazi (a type of fried bread) with tea. The kids opted for something a little more familiar, toast and fruit. Fatima, ever the adventurous one, tried a fish dish that came highly recommended. It was a simple, hearty meal that set the tone for the day.


Discover exquisite dining at Dhow Restaurant in Maputo - where culinary artistry meets vibrant local culture.

After breakfast, we decided to take a stroll along the beach. Senga Bay is known for its long sandy beach, and it was bustling with activity. Fishermen were preparing their nets, women were washing clothes in the lake, and children were playing in the shallows. It was a vibrant scene, a snapshot of daily life in Malawi. Nelson and Sheila were fascinated by the fishing boats, and I found myself explaining the different techniques used by the local fishermen. Fatima enjoyed watching the women, commenting on their colorful dresses and the rhythmic way they worked.

We walked towards the northern part of the bay, where the main fishing village is located. The air was filled with the distinct smell of fish, a reminder of the lake's importance to the local economy. We watched as the fishermen brought in their morning catch, a variety of fish that I couldn't quite identify. The fish were quickly auctioned off, and the whole process was a flurry of activity and bartering. It was a fascinating glimpse into a world far removed from our life in Edmonton.

Life in Senga Bay revolves around the lake, a constant reminder of nature's bounty and the community's dependence on its resources.

Next on our list was a visit to Atelier Dabanga, a local craft store. I had read about it online, and it seemed like a good place to find some unique souvenirs. It was a short drive from Senga Bay, but well worth the trip. The store was a treasure trove of handcrafted jewelry, art, and fashion accessories. Each piece reflected the rich culture of Mozambique, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design. Fatima was immediately drawn to a beautiful necklace made from local beads, while Sheila picked out a colorful bracelet. Nelson, surprisingly, was interested in a small wooden carving of an elephant. I ended up buying a few small items as gifts for friends back home. The warm and inviting ambiance of the store made it more than just a shopping trip; it was a cultural experience.


Explore the artistic charm of Atelier Dabanga, where handcrafted jewelry meets the vibrant culture of Mozambique in a stunning shopping experience.

For lunch, we headed to Restaurante O Farol. The restaurant was known for its seafood, and we were eager to try it. We ordered grilled chambo, a local fish, and it was absolutely delicious. The fish was fresh and flavorful, cooked to perfection. The kids enjoyed it too, which was a relief. The restaurant had a lovely view of the lake, and we savored our meal while watching the boats sail by.


Experience authentic Mozambican cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Restaurante O Farol in Catembe.

After lunch, we decided to take a break and relax by the lake. We found a shady spot under a large tree and spread out a blanket. The kids played in the sand, building castles and splashing in the water. Fatima and I sat back and enjoyed the peace and quiet. It was a perfect moment, the kind that makes all the travel worthwhile.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we made our way to Sílvia Restaurant for dinner. This place came highly recommended for its traditional Mozambican cuisine. I was excited to try some authentic dishes, and Sílvia's did not disappoint. We started with peri-peri chicken, a spicy dish that is a staple in Mozambican cuisine. The kids loved it, surprisingly, and even asked for more. For the main course, I tried matapa, a dish made from cassava leaves, peanuts, and coconut milk. It was rich and flavorful, a true taste of Mozambique. Fatima opted for a seafood curry, which she declared was the best she had ever had. The restaurant had a warm, inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly.


Experience authentic Mozambican cuisine at Sílvia Restaurant in Namialo - where every dish tells a story.

As we ate, we watched the sunset over the lake. The sky was ablaze with color, a stunning display of nature's beauty. It was a perfect end to a perfect day. As we walked back to our guesthouse, hand in hand, I felt a sense of contentment. Senga Bay had exceeded my expectations. It was a place of simple beauty, warm people, and rich culture. I was grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family.

Before heading back to the guesthouse, we stopped by a local vendor selling roasted corn on the cob. It was a simple treat, but it tasted amazing. The kids devoured theirs in minutes, their faces smeared with butter and corn kernels. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with local flavors and experiences.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Bazaruto Archipelago National Marine Park. I am really looking forward to seeing the diverse marine life and pristine beaches. We’ll be having breakfast at Roaz do Indico, lunch at Solange, and dinner at Lake Malawi. I’m also hoping to check out Ngaite's Bar for a relaxing evening. The kids are excited about the boat trip, and I'm sure it will be another memorable day.

As I sit here writing this, I can hear the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore. The air is cool and still, and the stars are out in full force. It's a peaceful night, a reminder of the simple beauty of life. I'm grateful for this journey, for the opportunity to reconnect with my roots and share my heritage with my children. Mozambique is a special place, and I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings.

Thinking about our plans for tomorrow, I realize how much I'm looking forward to experiencing the Bazaruto Archipelago. I've heard so much about its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. It will be a fantastic opportunity to introduce the kids to the wonders of the Indian Ocean. Fatima is particularly excited about the prospect of snorkeling and seeing the colorful fish up close.

The thought of dinner at Lake Malawi Restaurant also excites me. I'm curious to see what kind of cuisine they offer and whether it incorporates local ingredients. I'm always eager to try new dishes and flavors, especially when they reflect the culinary traditions of the region.

But for now, it's time to rest and recharge. Tomorrow will be another day of adventure, discovery, and family bonding. I can't wait to see what Mozambique has in store for us.

Before drifting off to sleep, I reflect on a few things I forgot to pack. Insect repellent would have been useful this evening as the mosquitoes were quite persistent. A waterproof backpack would also have been handy during our beach walks today, to keep our belongings safe from splashes and sand. I’ll make sure to pick these up tomorrow before we head out to the archipelago. Good night from Senga Bay!