Bua River Lodge
Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, Nkhotakota Malawi
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5.0
#2 of 6 lodges in NkhotakotaLocation
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Bua River Lodge is located within Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve which sits beneath the Chipata Mountain. This is one of Malawi's last unexploited wildernesses, where a vast network of rivers weaves its way through wooded hills, nourishing the dense miombo forests that make up this unique ecosystem. Bua River Lodge is the ideal place to enjoy ‘forest bathing’ by offering a selection of safari tents chalets built right among the trees and along the river. The river attracts many animals including elephants, buffalo, waterbuck, monkeys and crocodiles, as well as an abundance of birds from the small malachi kingfisher to the majestic fish eagle. So come and relax around the campfire or go on guided game walks to learn more of the flora and fauna found in the Reserve. Alternatively learn to cook a local dish, visit the local historical sites, delve into the bustling market place or simply relax and unwind by the river. We pride ourselves in the food we serve and can cater for most diets, just let our staff know at the time of booking any requirements you have. We offer a fusion of Malawian, South African and European with homemade cakes and biscuits available during the day. Our staff are looking forward to making your trip special. It's truly a place to leave your troubles behind and find the wilderness on your doorstep.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free breakfast
Hiking
Canoeing offsite
Airport transportation
Mosquito net
Outdoor fireplace
Clothes dryer
Car park
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast in the room
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Walking tours
Outdoor furniture
Sun deck
Sun terrace
First aid kit
Laundry service
Room features
Desk
Dining area
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Seating area
Sofa
Clothes rack
Walk-in shower
Private bathrooms
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Family
Quirky Hotels
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans
Hotel links
Location
Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, Nkhotakota Malawi
Getting there
Lilongwe Intl Airport
113.4 km•
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Detailed Reviews
Property's Favourite Review
Bua Lodge is such a special place. The location has sweeping views of the river, in a pristine woodland.
So amazing to sleep next to the roar of the river and wake up to see elephants have walked through the camp in the night. We were lucky enough to spend the afternoon watching the elephants graze along the lodge deck! So many crocodiles, monkeys and birds to enjoy too.
The staff, including the managers, were very accommodating and making vegetarian home made food was no problem at all. The food was absolutely delicious. We highly recommend doing the nature walk with the expert guides. Highly highly recommended!
So amazing to sleep next to the roar of the river and wake up to see elephants have walked through the camp in the night. We were lucky enough to spend the afternoon watching the elephants graze along the lodge deck! So many crocodiles, monkeys and birds to enjoy too.
The staff, including the managers, were very accommodating and making vegetarian home made food was no problem at all. The food was absolutely delicious. We highly recommend doing the nature walk with the expert guides. Highly highly recommended!
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Date of stay: June 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from , Owner at Bua River Lodge
Responded 13 Jun 2023
Thank you so much for staying with us. It was so nice having you. Please be safe and hope to see you again. Another guest that left as a friend.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I stayed at Bua for 3 nights in June 2021, in the midst of the Covid pandemic. Due to the pandemic, I was the only guest and I was so appreciative that they stayed open for my visit! I didn't see much in the way of wildlife, but it was not for lack of trying by my wonderful guide! I did hikes each morning and short sundowner walks in the afternoon and really had a great experience overall. The outdoor shower was especially great, with hot water from a wood stove every day!
My only complaint would be how chilly it got in the evening and that they didn't do a turndown service while I was at dinner to close up the tent to keep in some of the warmth or have hot water bottles for the bed like other lodges I've stayed at.
My only complaint would be how chilly it got in the evening and that they didn't do a turndown service while I was at dinner to close up the tent to keep in some of the warmth or have hot water bottles for the bed like other lodges I've stayed at.
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Date of stay: June 2021
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip:Â Rooms right on the river are probably a bit colder at night!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Michelle Burrow, Owner at Bua River Lodge
Responded 28 Feb 2022
Dear Katie, Many thanks for leaving a review and giving feedback. We always appreciate it when people take the time. Please accept my apologies it has taken so long to respond. The staff are delighted that they made your stay so memorable, even if the elephants were being elusive. Thank you for giving the feedback on the hot water bottles and turndown service. As this was during covid we were aiming to keep our contact with your personal space to a minimum, however, we appreciate we could have checked with you for your own level of comfort around this. There should have been additional blankets in your room, though the hot water bottle is a lovely idea that we will look into, so we appreciate the recommend. I hope your onward travels were safe and thank you again.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I stayed at Bua River Lodge for two nights and it is a beautiful place in a beautiful wildlife reserve. Truly quiet and peaceful. The lodge is very nice and we had an outdoor fire each night. The chalets are very comfortable with well appointed outdoor bathrooms and showers and the food and service is excellent with a very nice wine selection. Mike and Dalene are great hosts and went out of their way to ensure my stay was enjoyable. Even showing me some of the historical sights in Nkotakota and taking me part-way to my next destination. Very nice experience!
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Date of stay: December 2022Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from , Owner at Bua River Lodge
Responded 08 Jan 2023
How nice to have met you. We really enjoyed having you here and hope to see you again with some family and friends. Have a great journey to your next destination.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This was not our first stay at Bua River Lodge over the years but it was our best! There has obviously been a lot of money spent on the upgrade and all the attention to little details have certainly paid off. Our beautiful private deck overlooking the Bua River was amazing and our Safari style bedroom was very clean and comfortable and we loved the al fresco style en suite. We saw a lot more game than previous visits and the new hide was well worth the drive. We saw zebra, waterbuck, impala, sable, warthog and more. A shout out to our hosts Delene and Mike, who along with the rest of the wonderful team, have put in so much work to make this place a real gem! Well worth a visit.
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Mike and Dalene Bua, General Manager at Bua River Lodge
Responded 26 Sept 2023
Thank you for visiting us. It was only a pleasure to host you guys. Specially because Bua is known to you. We are looking forward to your next visit.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
It was out first time in Nkhotakota game reserve. We had a fantastic experience. The park is very beautiful, it's not just my opinion: the elephants love it too, they are thriving (almost doubled their population in 7 years. )
The Bua river lodge is truly a fine place. It is very comfortable: nice, clean, cotton bedding, huge mosquito nets, large covered deck (doubling the size of the tented chalet) where you can sit for hours, immersed in the beauty of the river. As the lodge is inside the park, you can't move on your own but you have a radio to call and they'll bring you what you want or accompany you where you like. The staff goes out of his way to please the guests and the chef is very interested to hear your comments. We were glad that all the dishes would include fresh vegetables, given the fuel and road situation around here, it's impressive logistic.
The visit is totally worth braving the bad M5, once inside the reserve, the roads are excellent and the game drives are very interesting. We were warned we might not see much but we saw plenty and we'd go again, even when the bush thickens and the viewing becomes harder. We want to see the river swell and that is a guaranteed sighting right from the lodge.
The Bua river lodge is truly a fine place. It is very comfortable: nice, clean, cotton bedding, huge mosquito nets, large covered deck (doubling the size of the tented chalet) where you can sit for hours, immersed in the beauty of the river. As the lodge is inside the park, you can't move on your own but you have a radio to call and they'll bring you what you want or accompany you where you like. The staff goes out of his way to please the guests and the chef is very interested to hear your comments. We were glad that all the dishes would include fresh vegetables, given the fuel and road situation around here, it's impressive logistic.
The visit is totally worth braving the bad M5, once inside the reserve, the roads are excellent and the game drives are very interesting. We were warned we might not see much but we saw plenty and we'd go again, even when the bush thickens and the viewing becomes harder. We want to see the river swell and that is a guaranteed sighting right from the lodge.
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Date of stay: November 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
If you are looking for peace and quiet away from the techie world then I can highly recommend Bua River Lodge. My accommodation was a luxury tent on the island in the middle of the Bua river and although only about 150m from the lodge I felt like I was immersed in the bush. Early mornings sat on my deck looking out at the dried river bed with its pools of water and drinking coffee brought over from the lodge was just soul healing. The beds are so comfortable, the tents are immaculately clean, and there is something magical about showering off the day’s dust under the stars before falling asleep to the sounds of the bush.
Set menus are provided in the lodge each day and the food is plentiful and homely; some great fish from the lake and vegetarian offerings too. The staff are just the best, so friendly and kind, and nothing is too much for them. I had some great conversations as they escorted me to my tent or reception (when I needed to use WiFi) and we had some great laughs.
I can highly recommend the game drive and the early morning nature walk. The guides, from the lodge and escorted by African Park rangers, are so knowledgeable about the animals and plants and I learnt and saw so much - seeing elephant was a highlight but learning how to catch ant lions or drink water from a snake vine were equally spellbinding.
I will certainly make my way back to Bua River Lodge.
Set menus are provided in the lodge each day and the food is plentiful and homely; some great fish from the lake and vegetarian offerings too. The staff are just the best, so friendly and kind, and nothing is too much for them. I had some great conversations as they escorted me to my tent or reception (when I needed to use WiFi) and we had some great laughs.
I can highly recommend the game drive and the early morning nature walk. The guides, from the lodge and escorted by African Park rangers, are so knowledgeable about the animals and plants and I learnt and saw so much - seeing elephant was a highlight but learning how to catch ant lions or drink water from a snake vine were equally spellbinding.
I will certainly make my way back to Bua River Lodge.
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Date of stay: October 2024Trip type: Travelled solo
Room Tip:Â The tents have solar lights and battery power for charging devices if you must.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
+1
The tents are amazing, the mattress and pillows are very comfortable with newly renovated bathrooms, hot water, food is plentiful and well prepared. The service is excellent and safety protocols are instilled by staff. The height is a wonderful location to spot animals, but elephants are often found right on the property. Lots of monkeys too. From my tent I was able to see crocodile and water buck across the Bua river. It is very calming to fall asleep to the sound of the river. The sundown provides excellent scenery. Thanks to Mike, Deline, Clifford and Martin for a Fantastic Safari experience!!
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Date of stay: April 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip:Â Make sure to bring a proper camera for wild life photos. Cell phones are not sufficient.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from , Owner at Bua River Lodge
Responded 21 May 2023
Thank you for choosing Bua as one of your Safari destinations. It was so nice having you here. We are glad you enjoyed your stay with us. Our moto still stand: You come in as guests and leave as friends. Safe travels!!!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
When we arrived we immediately had a very warm welcome from Mike & Dileen. Our tent was nice, equiped with its own private bathroom, hidden in the green surroundings of the Park. Just a note for future guests: there is no electricity in the tents, but you will be provided with a solar light at night and you can charge your phone at the main lodge at all times.
The lodge is situated in the midst of nature, close to the river, which makes a beautiful view.
Also the food was absolutely delicious, one of the best we had in Malawi!
Above all that the staff is really friendly and always ready to help.
African Parks just brought in new animals, so in a few years chances of seeing animals are higher.
A real recommendation!
The lodge is situated in the midst of nature, close to the river, which makes a beautiful view.
Also the food was absolutely delicious, one of the best we had in Malawi!
Above all that the staff is really friendly and always ready to help.
African Parks just brought in new animals, so in a few years chances of seeing animals are higher.
A real recommendation!
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Date of stay: September 2022Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from , Owner at Bua River Lodge
Responded 06 Sept 2022
Thank you so much for visiting Bua River Lodge and to take time to leave your review. It was a pleasure hosting you guys. The Bua slogan is you arrived as guests and depart as friends. Thanks again for choosing Bua River Lodge. Regards Mike and Dalene
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Extremely beautiful location, with great food and very friendly management. The beds were very comfortable and room had a great outdoor bathroom.
The wildlife is rich and we saw many elephants, the staff always took good care of us and made our safety their main priority
Shai our guide for a tour of the local wildlife was very helpful/sociable and was able to answer all our questions about the wildlife, and even taught us how to brush our teeth with a local plant! He made our stay even more fun by sharing local stories with us around a campfire. He was extremely professional and kind.
Would recommend this place to anyone.
The wildlife is rich and we saw many elephants, the staff always took good care of us and made our safety their main priority
Shai our guide for a tour of the local wildlife was very helpful/sociable and was able to answer all our questions about the wildlife, and even taught us how to brush our teeth with a local plant! He made our stay even more fun by sharing local stories with us around a campfire. He was extremely professional and kind.
Would recommend this place to anyone.
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Date of stay: July 2023
Value
Rooms
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from , Owner at Bua River Lodge
Responded 23 Aug 2023
Thank you. It was such a lovely time spend with you. Management and staff really appreciate your friendliness and appreciation. Looking forward to a second visit.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mike and Dalene are the most attentive and helpful hosts who will go out of their way to enhance your experience in any way they possibly can. The lodge is truly in the wild; the river is beautiful and there is private and communal space to sit back and enjoy the view and the peace. The accommodation is rustic but spacious and clean with very comfortable beds and good mosquito nets. The outdoor bathroom was a novelty we all enjoyed. Not the place for game spotting though; although we saw elephants, waterbuck, monkeys and a few birds, generally animals were scarce.
We were the only guests (couple + 12 year old) but I think it would be good for bigger groups
We were the only guests (couple + 12 year old) but I think it would be good for bigger groups
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Date of stay: April 2022
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Michelle Burrow, Owner at Bua River Lodge
Responded 13 Jul 2022
Thank you for your feedback and kind words. We will share them with the team who will be so pleased they made your stay one to remember. Due to the unique forest aspect of Nkhotakota and its size, it can be tough sometimes to catch a glimpse of the animals around us, though we are glad you got to see the ones you did. African parks has just started to bring in more animals so we are hopeful that there will be more and more to see each year. Safe travels and all the best for 2022. Best wishes
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Good day....
Apologies for the delay in getting back to you. We have just got access back to tripadvisor following new ownership of the Lodge.
I'm unable to give the exact details in this response field, however, you can contact us via our website or facebook - both are the name of the lodge and have all the necessary details listed.
Part of the charm of the place is its remoteness, though we will aim to get back to you the same day where feasible.
Hope this helps.
Best wishes,
Donna and Stephen
You can't.
It is quite a drive to the park gates from the main road and then another few kilometres inside the park. Ask about a car/taxi to the gate and then arrange the lodge to collect you from the park gate.
Yes, we do. $10 per person per night. There are hot showers, a braai area and a basic kitchen for food preparation and dish washing. No electricity
01130EchallonAnnick asked a question Dec 2017
Saint-Germain-de-Joux, France421 contributions119 helpful votesDo you have internet facilities or Wifi at the lodge?
unfortunately we do not have WiFi, or mobile phone signal.
"The only issue is the lack of wifi. Sure they will fix that. I appreciate it’s not the end of the world but we were working so needed it."Read full review
"Make sure to bring a proper camera for wild life photos. Cell phones are not sufficient."Read full review
LOCATION
MalawiCentral RegionNkhotakota
NUMBER OF ROOMS
7
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Bua River Lodge
What are some of the property amenities at Bua River Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge.
Which room amenities are available at Bua River Lodge?
Top room amenities include a desk, a dining area, and a mosquito net.
What food & drink options are available at Bua River Lodge?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Bua River Lodge?
Yes, free parking and a parking garage are available to guests.
Does Bua River Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Bua River Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are any cleaning services offered at Bua River Lodge?
Yes, laundry service and a clothes dryer are offered to guests.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Bua River Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Afrikaans.
Does Bua River Lodge have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the river view available here.