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Top reasons to visit Monkey Bay

• Stunning Beaches: Monkey Bay boasts pristine beaches along Lake Malawi, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in activities like snorkelling, kayaking, and trekking to explore the vibrant wildlife and landscapes.
• Unique Day Trips: Take exciting day trips to nearby Nkhata Bay and Manda Wilderness for a mix of adventure and tranquillity.
• Rich Wildlife: Experience the diverse flora and fauna in nearby national parks, showcasing Malawi's natural beauty.
• Comfortable Accommodations: Enjoy a range of charming lodges and cottages, including lakefront options for a memorable stay.

Find great hotels in and around Monkey Bay

Discover the ideal accommodation for your getaway in Monkey Bay, Malawi. This charming destination offers a variety of lodges, including lakefront cottages and holiday rentals, perfect for those seeking adventure, beach fun, or a round of golf. Popular options such as Mbondo Cottage, Nkopola Beach Resort, and Fat Monkeys Lodge ensure a memorable stay for all types of travellers.

• Mgoza Lodge: Nestled just 9.7km from Monkey Bay, Mgoza Lodge offers a budget-friendly retreat with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This lodge is ideal for those seeking a beachside escape where pets are welcome. Guests can enjoy direct access to the serene beach, making it a great spot for sunbathing and relaxation. The property features essential amenities for pet owners, including food and water bowls, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your furry friends.
• Nkhudzi Beach Lodge: Located 12.9km from Monkey Bay, Nkhudzi Beach Lodge is another budget-friendly option that provides a delightful beach experience. With a guest rating of 8.0, the lodge boasts direct beach access, making it convenient for beach lovers to unwind by the water. The relaxed vibe here allows visitors to soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings, offering a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a laid-back holiday.
• Norman Carr Cottage: Situated right in Monkey Bay, Norman Carr Cottage stands out with its 3-star rating, catering to adventurers and beach enthusiasts alike. This lodge is known for its range of adventure sports, including kayaking and waterskiing available onsite, as well as hiking and rock climbing in the nearby area. Guests can enjoy direct beach access while engaging in various recreational activities, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to combine relaxation with adventure.

Where to stay near Monkey Bay

Monkey Bay, nestled on the shores of Lake Malawi, offers a serene retreat for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Explore tranquil bays and pristine beaches while soaking in the stunning scenery. Nearby, the Manda Wilderness presents a unique opportunity for adventure and relaxation. This peaceful getaway is perfect for those seeking to unwind and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Malawi's Southern Region.

• Cape Maclear: A charming coastal city located 9.7km from Monkey Bay, Cape Maclear is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Renowned for its stunning scenery, this destination offers a range of activities such as camping, shopping, and enjoying the beautiful beach and nearby national park. The visitor experience here peaks during March to April and July, making it a popular spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and community life. With its welcoming atmosphere and picturesque landscapes, Cape Maclear is ideal for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation.
• Mangochi: Situated 38.6km from Monkey Bay, Mangochi is a vibrant city that draws adventurers and nature lovers with its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Popular among visitors during March to April and December, Mangochi boasts excellent hiking trails and access to the stunning beaches nearby. With its rich natural surroundings and proximity to national parks, it's a perfect base for exploring the area's diverse wildlife and landscapes. The city's laid-back vibe and abundance of adventure opportunities make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the great outdoors.
• Chembe: A quaint village located just 9.7km from Monkey Bay, Chembe is known for its beautiful beaches and tranquil lakes, making it a fantastic spot for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors flock here for activities such as scuba diving and kayaking, especially during the peak months of July to August and October. With its small-town charm and welcoming community, Chembe offers an authentic experience of local culture and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring the village or enjoying the waters, Chembe promises a memorable getaway filled with adventure and relaxation.

Things to do in Monkey Bay

Shopping

In Monkey Bay, browse local shops for unique souvenirs and crafts. For a broader shopping experience, if you're up for a drive, head to Mangochi Town, about 19.3km away, where you'll find bustling markets and a range of stores offering traditional Malawian products.

Recreation

At the tranquil Sunbird Lodge, immerse yourself in relaxation with yoga sessions and spa treatments overlooking Lake Malawi. For a rejuvenating experience, explore the nearby Senga Bay, where you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and peaceful walks along the sandy shores, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Adventure

In Monkey Bay, explore the stunning waters of Lake Malawi through kayaking and snorkelling, discovering vibrant marine life. Venture to nearby Cape Maclear for hiking trails that offer breathtaking views, and immerse yourself in local culture with traditional fishing experiences.

Nightlife

Monkey Bay offers a laid-back nightlife, with the chance to sip local beers at the friendly Monkey Bay Lodge. For a vibrant atmosphere, visit the nearby beach bar, where you can enjoy live music and mingle with locals. It’s a relaxed way to soak up the Malawi evening vibes.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Monkey Bay

To save money on your trip to Monkey Bay, consider visiting during the cheaper months of July, August, and November. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance can secure better rates, especially if you keep an eye on last-minute deals on sites like Expedia. Mondays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Wednesdays tend to be pricier. For transportation, use local buses or consider strolling around to enjoy the scenery. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal can lead to further savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Monkey Bay are July to August and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Monkey Bay is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Monkey Bay is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Monkey Bay is Wednesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To discover the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Monkey Bay hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Monkey Bay

Monkey Bay offers a fantastic destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with breathtaking scenery and a variety of attractions. Explore the stunning beaches, visit nearby national parks, and discover landmarks that showcase the beauty of Lake Malawi. Don't miss the chance to venture to Nkhata Bay, as it’s a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure in this picturesque region.

• Lake Malawi National Park: Located a mere 4.8km from Monkey Bay, this national park offers stunning outdoor scenery and a sense of adventure. With its diverse ecosystems, you can enjoy hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views of the lake, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
• Monkey Bay Beach: Just 11.3km away, Monkey Bay Beach is ideal for soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquil beach vibes. The sandy shores and clear waters provide a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for swimming or simply unwinding by the lake.
• Museum and Aquarium: Also 11.3km from Monkey Bay, this landmark provides an engaging look into the region's natural history. With a focus on local aquatic life, it’s a recreational spot where you can learn more about the unique biodiversity of Lake Malawi.

Best time to go to Monkey Bay

The best time to visit Monkey Bay is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. November is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
February	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	76.6°F (24.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
April	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	73.2°F (22.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	70.5°F (21.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
July	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	76.6°F (24.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	80.1°F (26.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
November	81.1°F (27.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Monkey Bay

Flying into Monkey Bay, Malawi, can be done through two major airports. Lilongwe (LLW-Kamuzu Intl.) is approximately 127.1km away, with notable hotels like Latitude 13 Degrees, President Hotel, and Sunbird Capital Hotel, all offering various transportation services to the airport. Alternatively, Monkey Bay (MYZ) is conveniently located just 644m from the town itself, with excellent lodging options such as Norman Carr Cottage, Mgoza Lodge, and Nkhudzi Beach Lodge, providing shuttle services for easy access. Both airports offer a range of amenities to ensure a smooth arrival for visitors.