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Lake Malawi National Park, Nankoma Island Malawi
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Traveller (344)
Room & Suite (79)
Pool & Beach (66)

About

#1 of 1 lodge in Nankoma Island
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value

A WILD ISLAND PARADISE: the exclusive Blue Zebra Island Lodge is situated on Nankoma Island within Lake Malawi National Park (UNESCO World Heritage site). Unobtrusive and eco-friendly, operating on solar power.

Offering a unique and sustainable travel experience, Blue Zebra is a conservation driven lodge working with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife in Malawi to protect three islands making up the Marelli group: Nankoma, Maleri, and Nakantenga. These uninhabited islands are home to a vast array of fresh water fish, including some of the most rare and colourful in the world. They support diverse flora and fauna and are a bird watcher's paradise.

Accommodation: a unique set-up with 9 en-suite safari-style tented chalets, 1 forest-set Pitta Cottage, and 1 Superior Family Cottage overlooking Lake Malawi. Secluded executive chalets boast stunning views from private balconies, some with lake access. The chalets are set in an unspoiled environment, immersed in nature.

Facilities: spa, infinity pool, cocktail bar, restaurant, games room, meetings room, curio shop.

Activities: nature trails, birding, kayaking, snorkeling, water-sports, sunset cruise.

Just a 2 hour drive from Lilongwe, this is a great combination with Zambian Safaris as well as various wildlife parks in Malawi.

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Property amenities
Free parking
Paid wifi
Pool with view
Free breakfast
Beach
Badminton
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Conference facilities
Pool / beach towels
Plunge pool
Poolside bar
Restaurant
Kids' meals
Outdoor dining area
Boating
Canoeing
Hiking
Snorkelling
Water sport equipment rentals
Darts
Spa
Head massage
Manicure
Massage
Pedicure
Gift shop
Mosquito net
Outdoor fireplace
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
First aid kit
Laundry service
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Room features
Bathrobes
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Safe
Bottled water
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic

Location

Lake Malawi National Park, Nankoma Island Malawi
Getting there
Lilongwe Intl Airport90 kmSee all flights
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239Reviews6Q+A54Room tips
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Ndifanji N wrote a review 03 Dec
Lilongwe, Malawi14 contributions6 helpful votes
From the private sunset boat cruise , to the private candlelight dinner setup and the amazing desserts . Nothing beats the sound of birds singing and the waves 🌊 screaming goodmorning. It’s not poetry; it’s my Blue zebra experience. One night is simply not enough
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: One night is simply not enough
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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.
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Aleksandar C wrote a review 01 Dec
1 contribution
We stayed at family cottage which is beautifully furnished and specious. The whole place is set in extraordinary wonderful nature and feels very cozy. The food is surprisingly excellent. Very good stuff is giving the place warmth and piece of mind.
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Date of stay: October 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip 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.
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Paal N wrote a review Nov 2023
1 contribution
A beautiful island. The chalets are clean and delicate. Spectacular view everywhere on the island. Fantastic service and food. A big relaxing pool close to the bar. Kayaking around the island is a must Really recommend this place
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Date of stay: October 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip 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.
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Maynard M wrote a review Nov 2023
1 contribution
+1
The rooms are exceptional, Customer care is top notch, very friendly service providers. Natural giving environment. We really enjoyed our vacation. However, i would recommend you add some other foods on the menu.. sometimes you should be able to offer buffet type of meals.
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Date of stay: August 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: If its your first time boat riding.. at least prepare yourself.
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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.
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Ravi Gandham wrote a review Sept 2023
New Delhi, India4 contributions1 helpful vote
We are happy to have spent the weekend at Blue Zebra 🐠 island in Lake Malawi 🇲🇼. It was an enchanting experience and all three of our family members had a wonderful quality family time. We had an exclusive cottage for three of us, it's discreet, tucked in the midst of the rocks and the lake and the nearest second cottage was nearly 100 meters away, ensuring absolute privacy. The food was awesome, thanks to the chef for treating us different international cuisine for every lunch and dinner. The 3 days 2 nights flew just like that, with early morning treks to the hill top, followed by swimming, kayaking and relaxing at the bar. The staff were friendly and helpful. The boat ride from the mainland to the island is smooth and comfortable. In short , we had a splendid family time and experience.
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Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: To reach the boat point, one needs to travel from Salima / Senga bay to the Whistlers cottage...
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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.
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Nicky H wrote a review Jul 2023
8 contributions1 helpful vote
Thank you so much for a wonderful stay, I loved it so much I came back 3 times whilst working in Lilongwe. The perfect weekend break with very comfy beds, delicious food, great swimming and the most amazing sunsets.
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Date of stay: June 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with friends
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.
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Pk2 wrote a review Jul 2023
3 contributions1 helpful vote
I had an incredible stay at Blue Zebra and this began with the most amazing customer service from Jen who organised and managed to get me booked in last minute while taking j to consideration all of my dietary requirements, which can be a difficult thing in Malawi with various resorts. I was welcomed personally and was given a full itenary of what I could do and access while on the island, I was constantly given great service form all of the staff on the island. The water sports staff were very caring and responsible, the restaurant staff with the exquisite food served at dinner, lunch and breakfast. The accommodation was comfy and kept me in touch with nature and soothing sounds of Lake Malawi which resulted in a well needed restfull retreat. Beautiful nature trail and birding by Adamson and wonderful views Kayaking which are included. Boat transfer back included in price which allows you to capture the wonderful sunset. Looking Looking forward to my next visit. Thankyou Jen and the team!
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Date of stay: May 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip 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.
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Sam wrote a review Jun 2023
Sri Kembangan, Malaysia1 contribution
+1
I planned this journey on my own, craving a day of alone time with nature and my thoughts. They provided a punctual start when the boat to take me offshore was already awaiting my arrival from Lilongwe at approximately 17:00. I witnessed the most unreal sunset on my way to the destination. Upon arrival, the host and friendly staff warmly welcomed and briefed me on the various important details to get me through my stay. There was a list of activities to choose from, of which I booked for the following day. Tired and hungry from the drive, I was presented with a three-course dinner menu, to be served at my convenience. I was shown to my room and freshened up before dinner. My room was neat and well-presented. The food tasted great and the portions sufficed! As planned, the following morning at 05:30 a tour guide accompanied me on a “nature walk” around the entire island, sightseeing and exploring the life around me. The island is home to hundreds of different birds which can be spotted during the approximate one and a half hour walk around. When I got back to the main area, I had a quick but necessary hot breakfast. At 10:00, I jumped on Mwera (boat) and went snorkelling, studying the most amazing and unique species of fish I have ever seen! Exhausted from all the activity I indulged in, I ordered a naughty cocktail from the bar and lay by the pool, reading my favourite novel. I spent the rest of my afternoon doing nothing but relaxing and meditating. Time went by unrealistically quick, when a member of staff asked if I was ready for my lunch to be served. Again, the food was top-tier. My day came to an abrupt end, when I realised it was time to get packing and head back to shore. My time on the island exceeded my expectations, it was a tranquil and exciting experience. I will definitely go back again, preferably with a friend.
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Date of stay: June 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip 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.
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josophine c wrote a review Jun 2023
1 contribution
+1
I had an amazing stay at Blue Zebra. From the moment I arrived to the moment I left the island, I was treated like royalty. Such friendly people with big smiles all the time, it was heart warming. The room was stunning and very comfortable, and relaxing. The food is to die for! I was staffed through out the whole trip. Drinks by the bar were also top notch, especially their cocktails! Just all round 10/10. definitely coming back, and bringing more people with me. A lot more people need to experience this amazing experience as I did. Thank you Blue Zebra!!!
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Date of stay: June 2023Trip 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.
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sally057 wrote a review May 2023
east sussex6 contributions2 helpful votes
Another wonderful stay at Blue Zebra!! I keep returning and I'm never disappointed. Gorgeous accommodation, delicious food and the staff are so welcoming and friendly!! I will definitely return next time I'm I Malawi!! Thank you everyone at Blue Zebra.
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Date of stay: May 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with friends
Room Tip: Might be good if people don't leave their towels on the loungers by the pool but share the use.
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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.
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LOCATION
MalawiLake Malawi National ParkNankoma Island
NUMBER OF ROOMS
11
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BLUE ZEBRA ISLAND LODGE - Reviews & Price Comparison (Nankoma Island, Malawi) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Blue Zebra Island Lodge
What are some of the property amenities at Blue Zebra Island Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a spa.
What food & drink options are available at Blue Zebra Island Lodge?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a poolside bar during their stay.
Is parking available at Blue Zebra Island Lodge?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Blue Zebra Island Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a plunge pool during their stay.
Is Blue Zebra Island Lodge located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.5 km away from the centre of Nankoma Island.
Does Blue Zebra Island Lodge have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the lake view available here.