What makes a good hostel in Africa? If it were just the fact that it was clean and the prices fair, we would have been content with our stay at the Mufasa Lodge in Lilongwe, Malawi. Add on hot showers, friendly staff, Wifi internet, and a fun lounge bar in the back, and you have the best hostel we’ve seen so far.

After more than 30 hostels in 100 days on the road in Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda - the Mufasa Lodge stood in a league of its own. Starting at fifteen US dollars a night for a dorm bed, it’s the best value in the city.

Kamuzu Procession Road, PO Box 7 Lumbadzi, SS Rent a Car Building, Lilongwe, Malawi

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Malawi is a fantastic country. I especially enjoyed my time in Nkhata Bay at Njaya Backpackers.

That said though, anything along the coast is generally pretty wonderful. Very, very relaxing after the constant tourist crush of Arusha, Dar, and Tanzania as a whole. It is a magical country, with a beautiful lake, and wonderful, friendly people.

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Kande Beach combines a gorgeous powdery sand beach with a variety of accommodation from camping and dorm beds to ensuite chalets. There is tons to do such as tours of Tonga, the local village, scuba diving and horse riding through the forest, then along the beaches and finishing with bareback swimming in the water. The locals are lovely, welcoming and some of the kindest people you'll meet. The bar is great for parties or just a quiet drink, and there is internet access available. Its heavenly and really is the warm heart of Africa.

www.kandebeach.com/index.htm
+2658263500

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A music festival in a beautiful setting by the shores of Lake Malawi. It's probably the only place in Africa you'll be able to hear dubstep and kwasa kwasa at the same time...

There's not a drop of mud in sight and it's all for charity so you feel good doing it. The rumour that Madonna will be there this year is probably not true though.

www.lakeofstars.org

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When shooting in Africa I always find it helpful to take a Gold reflector with me. Africans have great skin tones and by using a gold reflector you can really bring out the detail.

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This is a little island with a small eco-lodge. There are only sex tents each with ensuite 'compost' loo and bucket shower looking over the lake. There is no one else living on the island except the birds... kayaking, strolling, sun bathing and generally doing very little is what it's all about. If you are looking for a totally un-commercialized beach holiday somewhere different - this is it.

Mumbo Island (all meals and accommodation) or Domwe Island (if you want to go camping and do your own thing).
www.kayakafrica.net

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Cycling or walking around the island and visiting the cathedral... chatting with the locals in a totally relaxed, beautiful and safe environment. Mass tourism has not hit and the locals are chilled and friendly. The kids will hang out with you and follow you everywhere just because they are curious and interested. The lake is cobalt blue and perfect for swimming...

Cathc the ilala ferry once a week to get there or fly in on a very little plane with Nyassa Air. Stay at Mango Drift backpackers or Kaya Mawa for quirky barefoot luxury.

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A family run resort by Lake Malawi. Located at Sani, Nkhota-kota - the chalets boast a beautiful view to the amazing Lake Malawi. Each chalet is fully furnished, and fully complemented by a kitchen and en suite shower/toilet.

They also benefit from environmentally friendly solar power which works day and night, providing those essential hot showers and access to all your electrical needs! A real great place to relax and have a good time.

kwathu.com

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This is a pottery set on the shores of Lake malawi in a beautiful, peaceful location. The owners have worked together with local people to create a wonderful environment, where you can learn about pottery, have a go at making your own ceramics or just chill out and enjoy the location. More structured 2-3 week courses are also on offer, and you can arrange to have your pottery shipped home at the end!

www.dedzapottery.com/courses.html Nkhotakota is about 200km north of Malawi's capital, Lilongwe.

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