Pumulani
With a sandy beach on the lakeshore of Lake Malawi close to Cape Maclear, Pumulani Lodge climbs up the hillside overlooking the lake, its rooms blending into the surrounding vegetation. The stunning views from the lodge’s main building and swimming pool make the climb worthwhile (for the less energetic, there is a buggy to take guest between the lodge and the beach). Children of all ages are welcome.
Accommodation & Facilities
Pumulani Lodge has ten spacious villas, including a family villa, each with a large lounge and separate bedroom (the family villa has two bedrooms), and en-suite facilities. All rooms have decks with umbrellas and most have views across Lake Malawi. The family villa is the closest to the beach and is specifically designed and positioned under the hillside on the lake shore allowing children to play on the lawn under the mango trees in complete safety. It has a master bedroom and adjoining children’s room sleeping four comfortably. There is space for an extra child’s bed (two extra beds at a squeeze.) The villa has a large family bathroom with double basins, showers and a bath and a separate loo. The spacious living room has a kitchen area and there are two child proof balconies.
Breakfast and evening meals are taken in the spacious dining room which has stunning views down to the lake below, whilst lunch can be taken either at the main dining area or in the shady grounds of the beach restaurant. There are bars both on the beach and at the main area. There are two swimming pools, one by the main building and another right by the beach.
Eating & Sleeping
Children can have separate meal times and the chefs are happy to prepare any foods that children enjoy (e.g. lasagna, spaghetti bolognaise, sandwiches, fish fingers etc.) and will discuss children’s dietary preferences with parents on arrival. Specific dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice. The experienced team here are happy to look after the children in the villa or supervise them during activities leaving mum and dad to relax on the beach or go for a walk in the hills. A trained member of staff is available for babysitting (after hours) at a rate of US$5 /hour. This should be prearranged.
Activities
While swimming in the lake from the lakeshore is not recommended, there are many watersports available at Pumulani including waterskiing and wakeboarding, trips out on the lodge’s wooden dhow, snorkelling and kayaking. Diving can be arranged locally. Guided bird walks and local village visits can also be arranged during your stay.
Specifically for children ….
• Go out in the speed boats, tubing, learn to water ski, wake board, kayak and snorkel. There is age appropriate kit for all.
• Spend time in the swimming pool or playing beach ball.
• There are several fishing rods available and the rocky shoreline is a wonderful spot to test your skills.
• Wander around the property with one of the guides showing them the many birds and fantastically coloured skinks and igamas.
• Baking with the chef.
• Arts and crafts.
