Family Adventure at Lake Niassa

Finding Paradise on Likoma Island

Today was a day of pure discovery and relaxation on Likoma Island. From the moment I woke up, I knew it would be special. The air was fresh, carrying the scent of the lake and the promise of adventure. I was eager to explore this hidden gem with my family, and Likoma certainly didn't disappoint.


Experience the serene beauty of Likoma Island, a tropical paradise in Lake Malawi with stunning beaches, rich culture, and vibrant wildlife.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Na-nila. The kids were excited to try some local fruits, and Fatima and I enjoyed some strong Mozambican coffee. It’s amazing how a good breakfast can set the tone for the entire day. The atmosphere was so peaceful, with the gentle sounds of the lake providing a soothing soundtrack. It reminded me of simpler times back in Chibuto, where mornings were always a cherished part of the day. After breakfast, we decided to explore the island a bit.


Discover authentic Mozambican flavors at Na-nila in Lichinga - where culinary tradition meets modern hospitality.

We started with a visit to St. Peter's Cathedral. I had heard so much about it, and seeing it in person was truly breathtaking. It's hard to believe such a grand structure exists on this small island. The architecture was stunning, and the history behind it was fascinating. Sheila and Nelson were in awe of the stained glass windows, and Fatima, with her artistic eye, was particularly impressed by the intricate details in the stonework. I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride, knowing that this magnificent cathedral stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Mozambique and its people. I made sure to explain to the children the significance of this place, connecting them to their heritage in a tangible way. We even climbed the clock tower to get a panoramic view of the island, which was absolutely stunning.

The magic of Likoma lies not just in its scenic beauty, but in the warmth and authenticity of its people.

For lunch, we headed to Malawa Restaurant, a local spot known for its fresh seafood. We ordered grilled fish and some traditional Mozambican dishes. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. What made the experience even better was the friendly service and the lively atmosphere. We chatted with some of the locals, learning about their lives and their connection to the island. Nelson, always curious, asked a barrage of questions about fishing techniques, and the locals were more than happy to share their knowledge. It was a wonderful cultural exchange, and I felt a deep sense of connection to this community. Fatima enjoyed the relaxed pace of the restaurant, a welcome change from her demanding job back in Edmonton. She appreciated the opportunity to simply enjoy the moment and savor the flavors of home. I even managed to teach Sheila a few words in Changana, much to her delight and amusement.


Experience flavorful dishes and relaxing poolside dining at Malawa Restaurant in Maputo - where local meets international cuisine.

After lunch, we decided to spend the afternoon at one of Likoma's beautiful beaches. The sand was soft and white, and the water was crystal clear. The kids splashed around in the shallows, building sandcastles and chasing the waves. Fatima and I relaxed under the shade of a baobab tree, enjoying the stunning views of the lake. It was the perfect way to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the island. I took some photos of the family, capturing these precious moments that I know we’ll cherish forever. As I looked at my children playing so freely and happily, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. This trip was exactly what we needed – a chance to reconnect with each other and with our roots.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Lago's Bar for a pre-dinner drink. The bar had a lively atmosphere, with music playing and people chatting and laughing. We ordered some local beers and enjoyed the stunning sunset over the lake. The colors were incredible, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment, and we all felt a sense of peace and contentment. I raised my glass to Fatima, thanking her for suggesting this trip. It was turning out to be even more wonderful than I had imagined. Nelson and Sheila enjoyed some juice, feeling very grown up, sitting at the bar with us. I shared a story about my own childhood in Chibuto, reminiscing about the simple joys of life back then. It was a reminder of how far we've come, and how important it is to stay connected to our past.


Discover the lively atmosphere and local flavors at Lago's Bar in Tete, where relaxation and enjoyment await every visitor.

For dinner, we chose Sunset Shack, a restaurant right on the beach. The setting was perfect, with the sound of the waves providing a soothing backdrop. We ordered a variety of dishes, including grilled fish, seafood curry, and some local vegetables. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. The kids especially loved the seafood curry, and even Sheila, who can be a bit picky, ate her entire plate. Fatima and I enjoyed a bottle of Mozambican wine, savoring the flavors and the moment. After dinner, we took a walk along the beach, enjoying the cool night air and the starlit sky. The stars seemed brighter here than they do in Edmonton, and we spent some time identifying constellations. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience coastal dining like never before at Sunset Shack in Ponta do Ouro – where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking sunset views.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped by a local market. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to take back home. The market was bustling with activity, with vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce. I bought a beautiful wooden carving of a baobab tree, a reminder of our time on Likoma Island. Fatima found some colorful fabrics that she plans to use for a quilting project, and the kids picked out some small trinkets to remember their trip. Supporting the local economy felt good, and I knew that our purchases would make a difference in the lives of these hardworking people.

As I reflect on today, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share this experience with my family. Likoma Island is a truly special place, and I feel so fortunate to have discovered its magic. The beauty of the island is captivating, but it’s the warmth and authenticity of its people that truly makes it unforgettable. Tomorrow, we're off to Senga Bay [If statement: DayNumber = TravelDuration, merge in “Trip end”], and I'm excited to see what adventures await us there. For now, though, I'm content to drift off to sleep, dreaming of the gentle waves and the starlit skies of Likoma Island. I am also very excited to visit Dhow Restaurant tomorrow for breakfast and try out the local cuisine.

I am also looking forward to visiting Atelier Dabanga to buy some local souvenirs. I want to find something that reminds me of this wonderful trip. I plan to buy a few small items for my friends and family back in Edmonton. I know they will appreciate the thought and the unique gifts. I also want to buy something for myself, a special memento that I can cherish for years to come. Perhaps a beautiful piece of fabric, a handcrafted carving, or a piece of local art. I want something that captures the essence of Likoma Island and the memories we made here. I also want to learn more about the local culture and traditions. I want to understand the history of the island and the way of life of its people. I want to visit the local villages and meet the residents. I want to hear their stories and learn about their customs. I want to experience the true spirit of Likoma Island, not just as a tourist, but as a guest and a friend. I want to leave a positive impact on the island, supporting the local economy and respecting the environment. I want to be a responsible traveler, mindful of the needs of the community and the preservation of its natural beauty. I want to inspire others to visit Likoma Island, but also to travel with respect and awareness. I believe that travel can be a powerful force for good, connecting people and cultures and promoting understanding and empathy. I want to be a part of that movement, sharing my experiences and encouraging others to explore the world with open hearts and minds. This trip to Likoma Island has been more than just a vacation; it has been a journey of discovery, connection, and transformation. I am grateful for every moment and every experience, and I know that the memories we made here will stay with us forever.