Mango Drift

Top choice in Malawi


Far from backpacker hardship, this affordable island idyll is one of Malawi's most luxurious hostels. Its stone chalets are the closest you'll come to boutique this side of US$100, with hibiscus petals scattered on snow-white linen, wicker furniture, sundown verandas and loungers on the sand. The shared toilets and shower block are no less immaculate.

Chill out in the bar, grab a book from the exchange, scuba dive or just flop on the golden beach shaded by mango trees. You just arrived in heaven.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Malawi attractions

1. Cathedral of St Peter

1.85 MILES

Likoma's huge Anglican cathedral (1911), said to be the same size as Winchester Cathedral, should not be missed. Its stained-glass windows, crumbling…

2. Market

1.93 MILES

About 100m east of the landmark cathedral, the island market's shops and stalls sell everything from food supplies to multicoloured chitenje fabric.

3. Cóbuè Church

4.87 MILES

A big surprise in Cóbuè is the settlement's oversized Catholic church. A victim of the civil war, it was a derelict ruin for over 20 years but has been…