Nkhotakota is a town in Central Malawi with a population of just over 20,000, on the shore of Lake Malawi. The town itself is quite basic, with a few basic hotels that cater predominantly to the domestic market. However, there are several lake-side resorts catering to the foreign tourist market.

The town itself is quite sedate, with a typical African market and several drinking holes. One of the most popular with local expats is the Sungu Hotel, situated close to the market. The tree under which David Livingstone conducted a meeting in an attempt to end the slave trade can be seen outside St Annes Hospital.

Get in

Nkhotakota is situated about 190km from Lilongwe, which has an international airport. From the airport one may hire a vehicle and drive to Nkhotakota via Salima.

Another way to get to Nkhotakota is making use of the Ilala ferry from Monkey Bay or Nkhata Bay.

Get around

In Nkhotakota, make use of bicycle taxis or the local Matolas. There are also normal taxis, or contact one of the Lodges to pick you up.

See

• Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve
• Hot Springs
• Hippo Pools

Do

• Walk the historic route of the slave traders with a local guide
• Visit Nkhotakota Pottery
• Kayak on the Lake from Fish Eagle Bay Lodge
• Walk along the beach and meet interesting locals
• Play golf at the Kassasa Club in Dwangwa

Buy

Craft from the locals or clothes from the market

Eat

Sitima Inn, where the Ilala ferry stops, and where slaves used to be kept before being shipped off

Sleep

• Fish Eagle Bay Lodge, about 9km south of Nkhotakota (access from the Sani Trading Centre), ☏ +265 888853962. It offers en-suite chalets as well as kayaking and a self catering option. $35. 
• Kwathu
• 1 Nkhotakota Pottery Lodge (located 10km from Nkhotakota town), ☏ +265 999 38 01 05, info@nkhotakota-pottery-lodge.com. Check-in: 16h, check-out: 12h. Offers accommodation in addition to a pottery workshop, which can be used by visitors for a fee. ~ 50 $. (updated Jul 2016)
• Nkhotakota Safari Lodge
• Sitima Inn
• Stone Terrace Lodge