Finding Paradise at Mango Drift: Embracing the Slow Life on Likoma Island
I arrived in the slow lane-literally.
After a 30-hour boat trip from the mainland, my body had adjusted to the gentle rhythm of moving at just 8 knots per hour on the MV Ilala . And honestly, I felt fantastic, especially after a night of sleeping under the stars. The change in gears was a welcomed change. My destination? Mango Drift, a place that came highly recommended by a fellow traveler I met just before he boarded the ferry back to the mainland.
As we parted ways, he left me with these words: “The beach chalets are basic but perfect. You’ll feel like you’re on a tropical island. The food is great, and everyone eats together on the beach every night. Oh, and don’t miss out on the free kayaking and snorkeling gear. Dude, you’re going to love it!” With that, he waved goodbye, and I set off to find this slice of paradise.
The Journey to Mango Drift
Armed with Google Maps and a spring in my step despite the newly aded weight of tent, I began the hour-long walk across Likoma Island, eager to check into Mango Drift. The path led me through small villages and winding trails, and with each step, I felt the stress of travel melt away. By the time I reached the hostel/ hotel, I was more than ready to embrace the laid-back island life.
When I arrived, I discovered that the dorm room I had booked was completely empty-just me and a big, spacious room all to myself. It felt like a luxury after weeks of cramming everything into my 50l backpack. I spread out, did some much-needed laundry, and finally allowed myself to breathe. The guy wasn’t wrong-this place is the ultimate in relaxation.
First Impressions of Mango Drift
Mango Drift is everything you want in a beachside retreat: stunning views, hammocks swaying gently in the breeze, and bean bags scattered across the sand. It’s the kind of place where you can lose yourself in a book for hours or simply do nothing at all. And then there are the sunsets-wow. Watching the sun dip below the horizon over the water is a rare sight in Malawi, where the lake often dominates the eastern landscape. Here, it’s a nightly spectacle, and it never disappoints.
After a refreshing shower, I settled into the evening routine-a “mystery dinner party” where guests and staff alike gather on the beach, sharing a meal by candlelight. The sense of community here is palpable, and it’s a wonderful way to end the day. And if that wasn’t enough, they even set up a projector on the beach for a movie night under the stars. I found myself perched on a beanbag, completely at peaceeve if Jason Bourne is on a rampage.
Exploring the Island
The next day, I decided to take a walk to St. Peter’s Cathedral, a 45-minute stroll from Mango Drift. The path led me again through tiny villages, where I was greeted with warm smiles and friendly waves. One boy, in particular, stopped me to ask where I was from. When I told him, he grinned and said, “The capital of England is London.” Then he challenged me: “Name a country, and I’ll tell you its capital.”
This is my favorite game, so I took him up on the offer. And, to my surprise, this kid-who had never left his small island in the middle of Lake Malawi-absolutely thrashed me. He knew them all, and I couldn’t help but laugh at my defeat. My spirits were soon lifted, though, as I reached St. Peter’s and caught the end of a church service. The singing and dancing were infectious, a joyful reminder of the vibrant culture that thrives here.
Conclusion: Why I Love Likoma Island
Likoma Island, and Mango Drift in particular, has a way of getting under your skin. It’s not just the beauty of the place-it’s the people, the pace, and the little moments of connection that make it special. Whether it’s sharing a meal on the beach, watching a movie under the stars, or getting schooled by a local kid in world capitals, this place has a magic that’s hard to find elsewhere. And yes, I absolutely loved it.
