Nkwichi Lodge

On the shores of Lake Niassa in Mozambique, within the Manda Wilderness Game Reserve.

Hidden amongst the pristine forest and with white sand reaching right up to the verandas, Nkwichi Lodge is made up of 6 secluded chalets, as well as 2 houses for the ultimate private retreat. All are totally unique, with canopied beds made from old tree trunks, baths hewn from rock, and waterfall showers rigged up on overhanging branches – but if this isn’t close enough to nature for you, you can sleep beside the lapping waves on one of the heavenly star-beds.

Like all the staff at Nkwichi, the chefs take great pride in what they do, using fresh produce from surrounding farms for delicious moveable-feasts. These can be enjoyed wherever you feel like, but the deck on the water is a particularly romantic location.

Nkwichi Lodge is all about barefoot luxury, so you’ll spend most of your days snorkelling and canoeing amongst the lake’s fluorescent fish, before sloping back to your hammock for a siesta. As for the guides, they’ll be only too happy to show you the best look-out points, and are brimming with knowledge on the reserve’s flora and fauna. But it’s not just the surroundings that will make your stay unforgettable; it’s the local people who are known for their friendliness. Have a cycle to the nearby villages, and be sure to stop in at the historic St. Peter’s church where you can hear the choir sing.