The stunning lake that's one of the world's deepest in Africa's 'friendliest country'

Kande Beach on Lake Malawi. (Image: Getty)

Africa is home to many beautiful places, from the beaches of Zanzibar to the safari parks of South Africa. But beyond these well-known spots, the continent also has lesser-known gems that seem to be undiscovered by tourists. 

One of these is found in Malawi, a country often referred to as "Africa’s friendliest nation". Lake Malawi, one of the deepest lakes in the world, stretches over 350 miles between Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania. 

Lake Malawi is famous for it's crystal-clear waters. (Image: Getty)

It is the third largest and second deepest lake in Africa, with crystal-clear waters and plenty of marine life. 

The lake is home to more species of fish than any other freshwater lake on Earth, and as a result is considered a natural wonder and an essential part of Malawi.

It covers one-fifth of the country’s land and has a very important role in the lives of Malawians, providing food, water, and transport for local communities. 

Despite its size, more than 80% of its water is lost through evaporation, making conservation efforts crucial.

The lake’s depth reaches 2,316 feet, making it one of the deepest lakes in the world. 

Unlike many other large lakes, its waters never fully mix, creating distinct layers that support its marine life.

The colourful cichlid fish in Lake Malawi. (Image: Getty)

The lake is particularly famous for its cichlids, a colorful fish species found nowhere else in the world. 

Because of this biodiversity, a section of the lake is protected by Lake Malawi National Park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tourists visiting the lake can explore remote islands, sandy beaches, and fishing villages. 

The area is popular for snorkeling, scuba diving, and boat trips, and gives visitors the chance to see rare fish species and crystal-clear waters. 

The lake’s southern shore is particularly beautiful, with beautiful plants and mountain views.

One of the most famous destinations along the lake is Nkhata Bay, a town with a sheltered port and floating jetties.

A beach on the southern shore of Lake Malawi. (Image: Getty)

As far as transport on the lake is concerned, the Ilala ferry, originally built in Glasgow, Scotland, has been operating on Lake Malawi since 1951, transporting passengers and goods across the water.

The climate around the lake varies throughout the year. The rainy season, from December to April, brings lush green landscapes and warm, humid weather. 

The dry season, from May to July, is cooler and ideal for exploring the region. From August to December, temperatures rise, making it a perfect time for water activities.

Nonetheless, Lake Malawi has been at the centre of a border dispute between Malawi and Tanzania for decades.

The jetty between Mumbo and Jumbo islands on Lake Malawi. (Image: Getty)

While Tanzania claims the border runs through the middle of the lake, Malawi insists that the entire lake, apart from Mozambique’s portion, belongs to them. 

The dispute has resurfaced in recent years due to oil exploration projects in the area.

Aside from the lake, Malawi itself remains a hidden gem on Africa’s tourism scene. While it does not receive as many visitors as some of its neighbours, those who do make the journey often describe it as one of the most welcoming places on the continent. 

Malawi is known as the Warm Heart of Africa and is widely regarded as the "friendliest" country on the world's second largest continent.