Cape Maclear

Sunset at Cape Macclear (Malawi) - Sunset at Cape Maclear|300px

Cape Maclear (aka Chembe) is a small fishing village on Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi) in Malawi. It has one dirt road leading into (and straight out of) town.Along this road and there are a few hostels, some dive shops, a handful of vendors selling curios and fruit and a few cafes. The pace of life here is... very... slow.

Mumbo Island is about 4 km offshore, inside Cape Maclear National Park, to the southern end of Lake Malawi.

The camp, which is set around a small cove on the eastern shore, comprises just six rooms. The island is famous for its freshwater diving, kayaking and hammocks.

This old hippy hangout has been transformed into a very cool little lodge, but still retains the same laid back atmosphere.

Cape Maclear Halal Travel Guide

Cape Maclear is a fishing village of about 10,000. The fishermen live in the center of the town, while either end of the village caters to tourists. In order to get from Steven's Guest House, for example, to Fat Monkeys, you must go through the town. Thit is not a problem - in fact, it's a great way to see how the average Malawian lives. It can just be a bit surprising when the road opens up, and you see a village.

How to travel to Cape Maclear

From the bus station in Lilongwe, take a shuttle van to Monkey Bay for a few bucks. Flag down a pick-up that will take you the rest of the way into Cape Maclear, for just a few more dollars. (If you get stuck, you can always stay in Monkey Bay.)Although the trip is fairly short, you should budget the entire day.

How to get around in Cape Maclear

The drive to Cape Maclear from Monkey Bay is through beautiful sunlit forest, preserved Lake Malawi National Park, which extends into the Lake, including nine islands, and offers shelter to some of the most spectacular fish in Africa.

Cape Maclear is very small. A short stroll will get you wherever you need to go.

What to see in Cape Maclear

• There is a beautiful beach to take in.
• The missionary graves on the north end of town. These are the final resting places of the first missionaries to the area, who died in 1875.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Cape Maclear

Otter Point, Cape Maclear (Malawi) - Otter Point

Frankly, doing as little as feasible is the whole point of Cape Maclear, but there are actual activities, in case you get bored.

• Gecko Lounge | ☎ +265 999 787322 - A great place to view the Malawian sunsets is the Gecko Lounge Veranda deck (food and bar). Private chalets and double rooms available.
• Kayak Africa - ☎ +27 21 783 1955 +27 21 706 9771 - Runs day trips from Cape Maclear. Since the Lake is pretty calm, boat trips can be rewarding. Kayak Africa is the only PADI registered club in Cape Maclear. It offers scuba diving day excursions as well as certification courses: contact Rob at Kayak Africa!

• Hiking - an easy 80-minutes trail starts near the Missionary Graves and takes you up to a viewing point above the village. There are other harder walks, which are not so easily marked, for these it is worthwhile finding a guide in town or at the Lake Malawi National Park. Alternatively, get a beach boy to take you up and tell you some stories.
• A large catamaran provides sunset cruises and daytrips. The boat is beautiful, and a ride on it is lots of fun. There is no toilet on the boat, and if you're drinking during a trip, you might feel uncomfortable.
• Pete's Aqualand at Fat Monkeys Lodge is another outfit offering day trips on the lake from Cape Maclear.
• Danforth Lodge at Cape Maclear to the south of Lake Malawi. This 4-room lodge offers a reasonably high standard of lodging and a wide range of activities including diving and sailing in a superb 12-m catamaran.

• Mgoza Lodge - Chembe | in the town centre - A lovely plave to spend a couple of days in spacious and well decorated rooms; a fully stocked and a good kitchen makes your stay as pleasant as feasible. You host is always available with tips to make your stay even nicer; the lodge is at the beach and you will be able to do kayaking and scuba diving or go to the island to spend a nice quiet afternoon.

• Chembe Village Project Centre | housed at Tuckaways Lodge ☎ +265 99 340 5681 - The first Project Centre in Chembe Village offers visits to local projects, hands on help, volunteer programs and a way to connect tourism to the heart of the village.

• Dive Centre Chembe Village, Cape Maclear Situated at Tuckaways, next to Gecko Lounge ☎ +265888879999 Opening Hours: 8AM - 5PM Dive Centre is Cape Maclear's only PADI-Registered Dive Resort, offering PADI scuba-diving courses and casual dives in the Lake Malawi National Park. The park is home to over 850 endemic species of Cichlids, and you can expect to see millions of them, as well as large catfish and blue crabs on typical dives. Visa & Paypal accepted.

Shopping in Cape Maclear

Dugouts on Lake Malawi - Dugout canoes on Lake Malawi

Curio vendors hawk their wares along the road, and prices are reasonable. Especially interesting are the hand-carved backgammon and mancala boards.

Beach boys stroll the beaches, selling anything they think you will buy, from canoe trips, to handmade reed cars, to Chocolates cakes made by their moms, to handmade jewelry. While these beach boys arrange interesting goods at reasonable prices and they can become aggressive; beware. Past visitors recommend asking for a beach boy called Simon, who is very helpful and offers reasonable prices.

One of the highlights of Cape Maclear is the surprisingly large number of dive shops.

Halal Restaurants & Food in Cape Maclear

There are several small Malawian restaurants along the primary street. If you want a great, reasonably priced seafood dinner ($2 or so for a big Chambo fillet), try any of them. A reservation is a good idea, not because the restaurant is likely to be crowded, but rather, so the owner knows he's going to have some business.

Be sure to eat some of the chips (french fries) the boys sell along the primary street. They'll fry them fresh, and they make a great Snacks. If you order them regular, be prepared for "soggy" fries. If you want them crispy, order them "brown." For lunch, grab some chips, buy some bread and tomatoes, and have tomato sandwiches and chips.

Don't forget to arrange with one of the beach boys for an evening fish dinner on the beach. It's a lot of fun. Be careful, though—they're likely to come back and ask for more money, for any number of reasons. Be firm but respectful.

For restaurants try:

• Gecko Lounge - Fresh fish from the lake, variety of Western dishes & daily specials.

• Fat Monkeys is an open-air restaurant with a cool beach-vibe on the south end of the village. They have Asian-styled food (try the pizza) and sometimes play host to lively parties at night.

• Cape Mac Lodge & Froggies Restaurant @online.net Cape Maclear ☎ +265 999621279 contact us Josiane and Roger, a French couple, built this lodge and serve food with the French touch.

Gecko Lounge - monthly events, dance floor, veranda viewing deck, DJs, live music, fruit cocktails, wide variety of drinks, shots & shooters - found towards the northern part of the village.

Fat Monkeysis another place to go for drinks.

If you want a quiet night, buy some soft drinks on the quiet side of the village and watch the moon rise over the Lake.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Cape Maclear

Cape Maclear - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Cape Maclear, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Cape Maclear. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Cape Maclear and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Cape Maclear. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Cape Maclear. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Cape Maclear: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Cape Maclear.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Cape Maclear: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Cape Maclear, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Cape Maclear.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Cape Maclear, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Cape Maclear, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Cape Maclear and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Cape Maclear, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Cape Maclear, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Cape Maclear without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Cape Maclear is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Cape Maclear.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Cape Maclear is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Cape Maclear, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Cape Maclear Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Cape Maclear

eHalal Group Cape Maclear is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Cape Maclear. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Cape Maclear.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Cape Maclear ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Cape Maclear. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Cape Maclear, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Cape Maclear are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Ramadan 2024 Celebration in Cape Maclear

Ramadan 2025 in Cape Maclear

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels/Resorts

• Domwe Island 5 kilometers off Cape Maclear Take a boat from Kayak Africa's reception ☎ +265 99 994 2661 Check-in: 10:00 / Check-out: 10:00 US$25-50 Domwe Island is an entirely off grid, sustainably run camp on a pristine island 5 kilometers off Cape Maclear. It is run by Kayak Africa and you can rent a kayak or boat to get there, camp or stay in a fully-equipped tent, self-cater or hire a chef. Great Muslim Friendly place for families and outdoor enthusiasts - or just those who love a quiet beach and a stunning location.

• Stevens' Guest House +265 1301 US$3/night. Among the quirkiest options for lodging, offering simple, affordable rooms, including a bathroom, mosquito net, and double bed! Mr. Steven is a gruff, elderly Malawian man who must have presaged Cape Maclear as a relaxing, hedonistic destination decades ago.

• Gaia House | @ouse.com ☎ +265 9 374 631 Dormitory US$10/night, twin rooms $30/night , family room $50/night, camping $3.5/night Gaia House offers dormitory lodging, double and twin rooms, as well as a family room for 4 people. Limited camping is available. All rooms at Gaia House share public toilets and shower areas. The restaurant serves good food (homemade bread and cakes!) with nightly specials. Ideal for people who want to relax in a hammock or on the beach. Internet (wireless) available.

Malambe Camp, +265 9 258 959 ([malambe@]) Malambe camp offers camping lodging as well as lodging in bamboo huts right on the lake front. There is also a large dorm available. There is a great and a kitchen for guests to use. There are boat trips to Otter Point and Thumbe Island and have snorkeling equipment for hire. Wednesday can also arrange airport transfers.

• Fat Monkeys | Fat@online.net - ☎ +265 1599133 - There are various types of lodging available: standard double rooms, en-suite double rooms, lake view family chalets and camping. Rates start from US$20 per room per day; US$5 for camping. Situated on the beach with an excellent bar, very friendly staff and good good quality food. Activities such as boat trips, kayaking and scuba diving can be arranged by Fat Monkeys (or by the beach boys). Fat Monkeys has long been popular with backpackers. FatMonkeys is a Skyband wireless Internet hotspot.

• Tuckaways | ☎ +265 993405681 Offers 5 beautiful chalets overlooking Lake Malawi US$50/chalet. Each chalet sleeps 2 people and has a private verandah. Turn down service each evening and morning tea/coffee service to your verandah every morning offers a nice personal touch. A family room is also available and tucked back in the garden (not lake side). All rooms share public toilets and showers (men's and ladies') - the bathrooms are very nice, big and clean. Kayaks, boat trips, community project involvement are all available from recpetion.

• Gecko Lounge | ☎ +265 9787322 Family sized, self contained en suite lakeside chalets US$80 ($40pp) double & then can sleep a further two people in the bunk bed for $10 pp & there are two further Double rooms with en-suite called Baobab & Acacia @$60 per room plus there is $10pp per day for an en-suite 11 bed dorm as well Gecko Lounge has a lively bar & quality restaurant as well as Wi-fi internet access & laptop hire, book exchange, speedboat, hammocks, braii areas. Diving can be organised from here (as long as people have their open water PADI etc) and there are Kayaks and snorkel Gear for hire as well.

• Cape Mac Lodge | @online.net - ☎ +265 9621279 Rate: includes dinner, bed and breakfast US$67.50 pppn (twin/double), $91.50 pppn (single) Next to Fat Monkeys it offers elegantly decorated rooms (with lofts) for singles, couples or families. Some of the things that set this place apart from the others is 1) the French cuizine (truly looked after by a real, live French woman with years of experience in Africa) and 2) a small in-ground swimmingpool just perfect for lounging with a drink in your hand from the well stocked restaurant. Book through [ Jambo Africa

• Chembe Eagles Nest | ☎ +265 995 475 688, +265 999 966 507 +265 9960-707 US$60-75/night Accommodation in chalets shaded by lush gardens, right on Cape Maclear's only private beach. Classy meals and lovely café. Sailing, sundowner cruises and other water activities available. Secluded lake-side camping also offered.

• Mgoza Lodge | ☎ +265 995-632105 Around US$60/night A casual lodge with chalets with lake views and a friendly vibe. Watersports equipment, kayaks and boat trips are available nearby.

• Danforth Yachting | ☎ +265 996-0077 +265 996-0707 Around US$150/night including activities
• Mumbo Island - Cape Maclear -13.993, 34.756 Take A boat from Kayak Africa's reception at Cape Maclear ☎ +265 99 994 2661 US$275 Check-in: 10AM / Check-out: 10AM Run on strict eco principles and is entirely off grid, it has only 7 tents, which are set into the bush on the tiny heart-shaped uninhabited islet attached to the island by a wooden bridge. Waters around the island are bilharzia-free and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Mumbo is fully catered.

Medical Issues in Cape Maclear

Remember that Malawi suffers from malaria and in this part of Malawi there is a high risk all year round. Talk to your doctor before you go, wear insect repellent and cover your skin while it's dark, and sleep under a mosquito net.

Some parts of the lake are contaminated with flatworms, which can cause schistosomiasis (bilharzia). The parasites enter your body through the skin, so just getting your feet wet could make you sick. However, you are not guaranteed to acquire it, even if you swim daily.Among the symptoms (which might not appear for months after exposure) is painless, bloody urine. Other symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, fatigue. Bilharzia is easily treated, but convincing a Western doctor that you have bilharzia can be tough; explain that you've been to Malawi and ask for a test. As a precaution, you should inquire with your travel doctor or pharmacist about treatment tablets, a single oral dose of the drug praziquantel, after potential exposure. Treatment is readily available at many pharmacies for a small cost in Malawi.

Don't drink the water from the taps: it comes straight from the lake.

Telecommunications in Cape Maclear

Cape Maclear is blanketed by a Skyband hotspot. You are now able to browse the Internet at lightning fast speeds from any one of the lodges on the bay. Access is controlled by the purchase of access cards at a very reasonable price. For more information on the service and locations in Malawi log on to com their website.

More Muslim friendly Destinations from Cape Maclear

Cape Maclear has a reputation for being a sort of traveler's black hole.In other words, once you get there, you won't want to leave.

If you want more beach time, you might try Senga Bay, Monkey Bay, or Nkhata Bay.

• Zomba - if you've gotten a little bit sunburnt, you can head south to the former capital of Malawi, and a beautiful, wooded mountain-town that feels very little like Africa.
• Lake Malawi National Park

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