After participating on the Malawi stand at the WTM in London, some key buzz words have taken on huge priority within the tourism sector. These being .... sustainability, environmental impact, community development, social responsibility, waste management and local community co-operation. We are very happy to say that Danforth can tick all those boxes! Being on site at grass roots level, bordering Chembe village and the Lake Malawi National park, the concept of sustainability is tangible; we are right here; we can directly see, touch, feel and monitor the progress!

We are delighted to announce that at the recent World Responsible Tourism Day at WTM, Robin Pope Safaris (Zambia and Malawi) was awarded joint Overall Winner of the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards plus winner in the Poverty Reduction category as well. A great achievement for us as there were over 1000 nominations!
Quoting the judges on our awards, '20 years of commitment to grass roots sustainable community development, like the successful Kawaza Village Tourism Project in Zambia, have distinguished Robin Pope Safaris as a pioneer in responsible tourism. Their contribution to local livelihoods in South Luangwa through education and business development has established an inspiring model that even now is being rolled out to Malawi, with the promise of similar laudable effect.'

We have just said goodbye to the Edwards family from the UK who managed to rack up an impressive tick list during their three day safari at Mkulumadzi, Majete. Apart from the usuals, special sightings included: the elusive black rhino, nocturnal suni antelope, big herds of sable, Lichtenstein's Hartebeest, Nyala, porcupine, bushpig, starred robin, lilac backed sunbird and African Finfoot! Well done to Braston and Sam their guides.

Whilst most of the region is sweltering at the hottest time of the year, we have beautiful calm mornings, perfect to get out and see the incredible array of fish and do the odd bit of watersports, and a lovely breeze in the afternoons keeping the temperature down. We have just taken delivery of our latest shipment of over 45 different types of wines from South Africa, including wines from the Waterford, Springfield Life from Stone and Saronsberg estates. Our favourite, just because of the name, being The Chocolate Block! Meanwhile in Lilongwe work is progressing swiftly on our new boutique hotel, Kaya Lero (meaning 'maybe today' in the local dialect), which will be up and running by the middle of March. Kaya Lero will have nine rooms, a beautiful garden, pool, a restaurant open to the public and wine bar with over 60 wines to chose from. The perfect stop over in Lilongwe for the more discerning traveller.

Despite cloudy skies conveying the promise of rain and light showers at the beginning of October, the temperatures in Liwonde continue to soar and days are becoming increasingly hot. Elephant sightings at the river remain consistent as herds make their way to the river's edge to quench their thirst before midday heat. Gameviewing Highlights: A herd of 250 elephants was seen in late October, grazing on sable plain. 6 sightings of black rhino over the course of last month in the sanctuary… Black rhino mock charged a vehicle during a game drive into the sanctuary. In its way lay a sable bull who was forced to get up abruptly to avoid the rhino. Guests at Mvuu Camp and Mvuu Lodge were able to see Titus the lion at skimmer bank. Over 12 guests managed to see the lion stalk and hunt down a kudu.
Photos: Frank Weitzer

Lake Malawi & Malawi Gin go hand in hand. After a wonderful day of relaxing at Pumulani 'place of rest' or doing many of our activities we have to offer, end your day sipping a cold MGT whilst watching the sun go down, either on the dhow, our private beach or soaking in the infinity pool. Wherever you choose it will be delicious & the best way to watch the day come to an end!

The Mvuu starbeds platform sleeps 2-4 people and provides the option for guests to sleep out under the stars in the heart of Liwonde National Park. Located 4kms north of the lodge, with a 180 degree view of the park's floodplains, river and riverine thickets, the starbeds provide an excellent game viewing opportunity and 'back to nature' experience. Enjoy a romantic dinner as you dine over breathtaking views, and as the horizon darkens, relax and enjoy a star lit night in the wilderness. We recommend one night on the starbeds in conjunction with your stay at Mvuu Lodge.