Senga Bay | Malawi Tourism

About Senga Bay

Senga Bay is a popular lakeside resort area on the central western shore of Lake Malawi, easily accessible from Lilongwe and serving as many visitors' first taste of the lake. Located near the town of Salima, Senga Bay offers a relaxed beach atmosphere with warm waters, sandy beaches, and a range of accommodation from luxury resorts to simple beach camps.

The bay is sheltered and calm, making it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and sailing. The nearby Lizard Island is a popular snorkelling spot, and local fishermen will take visitors to more remote beaches and islands. The sunsets over the lake from Senga Bay are legendary.

Being the closest lakeshore point to Lilongwe (about 2 hours by road), Senga Bay is a favourite weekend getaway for residents of the capital and a convenient first or last stop on a Malawian itinerary. The area around Salima also offers cultural experiences including visits to fishing villages and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

Year-round. May to October is the dry season with pleasant weather. September to November is hottest. The rainy season (December to April) brings warm temperatures and occasional afternoon storms. The lake is warmest from October to April.

Activities

Experiences at Senga Bay

Beach Swimming

All day

Free

Fishing Village Visit

1-2 hours

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

Lizard Island Snorkelling

2-3 hours

MWK 10,000-20,000 (boat trip)

Salima Market

1-2 hours

Free

Sunset Kayaking

1-2 hours

MWK 5,000-10,000

Where to Stay

Accommodation at Senga Bay

Carolina Lakeside Resort

Mid-Range

USD 40-90 per night

One of the more established resorts at Senga Bay, offering comfortable rooms and chalets on the lakeshore. Features a restaurant, …

Cool Runnings

Budget

USD 8-30 per person per night

A relaxed backpacker and mid-range lodge on the beach with dorms, private rooms, and camping. Popular bar with regular events …

Livingstonia Beach Hotel

Hotel

USD 50-120 per night

A large lakeside hotel with a range of room types, conference facilities, a restaurant, and bar. Set in spacious grounds …

Steps Campsite

Budget

USD 5-10 per person per night

A simple waterfront campsite with basic facilities. Bring your own tent and supplies. The location right on the lake is …

Getting There

Senga Bay is approximately 2 hours from Lilongwe by road via Salima. Take the M14 to Salima, then follow signs to Senga Bay (about 20 km from Salima town). Regular minibuses run from Lilongwe to Salima, and local transport connects Salima to Senga Bay. Some resorts offer transfers from Lilongwe.

Practical Tips

Know before you go

Convenient Stopover

Senga Bay is the closest lakeshore point to Lilongwe (about 2 hours). It makes an ideal first or last night on the lake, or a weekend getaway from the capital.

Bilharzia Caution

As with all Lake Malawi lakeshore areas, bilharzia risk exists, particularly in shallow, weedy areas. Swimming from resort beaches and rocky areas carries lower risk. Consider prophylactic treatment after swimming.