Chintheche & Northern Lakeshore

About Chintheche & Northern Lakeshore

The northern lakeshore between Nkhata Bay and Nkhotakota stretches for over 100 kilometres along some of Lake Malawi's most pristine and least-developed beaches. Chintheche, a small village roughly halfway along this stretch, is the hub of a string of beautiful lakeside lodges and resorts set on golden sandy beaches backed by tropical vegetation.

This stretch of coast is quieter and less commercialised than the popular southern lakeshore or Cape Maclear. The beaches are long, wide, and often deserted. The water is crystal clear, warm, and perfect for swimming. The area attracts a mix of visitors — families on holiday, honeymooners seeking seclusion, and backpackers enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

The nearby Kande Beach is famous for horse riding along the lakeshore, while the more remote stretches towards Bandawe offer complete solitude. The area is also a good base for visits to Nkhotakota town, one of the oldest towns in Malawi and a former centre of the slave trade.

Best Time to Visit

Year-round. May to October is the dry season with pleasant weather and clear skies. The lake is warmest from October to April. July to September can be windy. The area sees far fewer tourists than the southern lakeshore, so it rarely feels crowded.

Activities

Experiences at Chintheche & Northern Lakeshore

Beach & Swimming

All day

Free

Kande Beach Horse Riding

1-2 hours

USD 25-50 per ride

Kayaking

2-4 hours

MWK 5,000-15,000

Nkhotakota Old Town Visit

Half day

MWK 3,000-5,000 (guide tip)

Snorkelling

1-3 hours

Free (own gear) or MWK 3,000-5,000 rental

Where to Stay

Accommodation at Chintheche & Northern Lakeshore

Chintheche Inn

Lodge

USD 50-100 per night

A well-established lakeside lodge with comfortable chalets on a beautiful stretch of beach. Features a restaurant, bar, and water sports. …

Flame Tree Lodge

Budget

USD 15-40 per person per night

A small, friendly lodge on the lakeshore offering simple, comfortable rooms and camping. Home-cooked meals, a relaxed atmosphere, and good …

Kande Beach Resort

Mid-Range

USD 15-60 per person per night

A popular resort known for its horse riding and beachfront location. Offers a range of accommodation from budget dorms to …

Makuzi Beach Lodge

Lodge

USD 60-130 per night

A boutique lakeside lodge in a secluded bay with just a handful of chalets set among tropical gardens. Private beach, …

Getting There

The northern lakeshore is accessed from the M5 highway between Nkhata Bay and Nkhotakota. Chintheche is approximately 40 km south of Nkhata Bay and 4-5 hours from Lilongwe. Minibuses and matolas run along the M5, but having your own transport makes accessing the more remote lodges easier. Some lodges arrange transfers.

Practical Tips

Know before you go

Bring Cash

No ATMs along the northern lakeshore. Bring enough Kwacha from Nkhata Bay, Mzuzu, or Lilongwe for your entire stay including tips and activities.

Own Transport Helpful

While minibuses run along the M5, having your own vehicle makes it much easier to access lodges that are set back from the main road on sandy side tracks. Some lodges can arrange pick-ups from the main road.