Welcome to Pumulani Lodge in Lake Malawi National Park

AboutPumulani Lodge

Luxury accommodation, friendly personal service and stunning views over Lake Malawi combine to make Pumulani Lodge in Malawi the perfect African beach lodge.

Enquire now

Key facts of Pumulani Lodge

Open 16 March - 9 January
Accommodation Ten luxury villas 
Policy All ages are welcome
Airstrip  Makokola Retreat
Download factsheet
Pumulani Lodge

Slideshow Items

  • Villas with a view at Pumulani Lodge
    Villas with a view at Pumulani Lodge
  • Paddleboarding on Lake Malawi only at Pulumani Lodge
    Paddleboarding on Lake Malawi only at Pulumani Lodge
  • Comfortable lounge area in your villa
    Comfortable lounge area in your villa
  • Kayaking on Lake Malawi
    Kayaking on Lake Malawi
  • Villas at Pumulani Lodge have incredible views.
    Villas at Pumulani Lodge have incredible views.
  • pumulani-lodge-pumulani-lodge-robin-pope-safaris
    Pool side at Pumulani Lodge
    Pool side at Pumulani Lodge
  • Birds Eye View of Pulumani Lodge
    Birds Eye View of Pulumani Lodge
  • Pool time at Pumulani Lodge
    Pool time at Pumulani Lodge

Discover Pumulani Lodge

Description
Facilities
Experiences
Wildlife
Gallery
Description

Situated on the west side of the Nankumba Peninsula on the Southern end of Lake Malawi you can find Pumulani subtly nestled in the lush hills amongst the trees and craggy outcrops. The ten villas provide the ultimate in space, design, comfort and privacy.

Guests can relax on the sandy beach or enjoy an elevated view of the lake from the stylish infinity pool. For those seeking some activity we offer waterskiing, sailing, kayaking, walks in the hills, and snorkeling and diving. Under water activities never fail to amaze as the diversity of fish life is very surprising and experts say that this lake is home to more native fish species than any other in the world. Pumulani offers the perfect mix for a memorable holiday. Enjoy being active or simply relax in the beautiful and tranquil scenery.

The lodge is set on a hill, giving the most spectacular views over the Lake Malawi. Please note the many steps and walkways from the main area to the villas and beach area. The lodge is less suitable for people with mobility issues.

 

Read more about Lake Malawi National Park

Slideshow Items

  • Gorgeous views from your villas at Pumulani Lodge
    Gorgeous views from your villas at Pumulani Lodge
  • Main area at Pumulani Lodge
    Main area at Pumulani Lodge
  • Romantic dinners at Pumulani Lodge
    Romantic dinners at Pumulani Lodge
  • Friendly staff at Pumulani Lodge
    Friendly staff at Pumulani Lodge
  • The lush hills of Lake Malawi National Park
    The lush hills of Lake Malawi National Park
  • No need to take the stairs when we have a trusty tuk tuk
    No need to take the stairs when we have a trusty tuk tuk
  • Indulgent bath tub at Pumulani Lodge
    Indulgent bath tub at Pumulani Lodge
  • Snorkelling in the calm cool waters of Lake Malawi
    Snorkelling in the calm cool waters of Lake Malawi
  • Pool with a view at Pumulani Lodge
    Pool with a view at Pumulani Lodge
  • Pumulani Lodge
    Pumulani Lodge
  • Pumulani Lodge
    Pumulani Lodge
  • Pumulani Lodge
    Pumulani Lodge
  • Pumulani Lodge
    Pumulani Lodge
Facilities
En suite
Air conditioning Unit & Ceiling fan
2 infinity pools
1 family villa
1 honeymoon villa
State of the art telescope for stargazing
Limited WiFi
Limited cellphone reception
Laundry service

 

Each villa has a large bedroom, which opens out onto a private deck where early risers can enjoy the morning’s first rays. The bathrooms are well equipped with a bathtub, double shower and double sink, and the spacious lounge area offers further comfort for those wishing to relax in the room. Each villa has fans as well as air conditioning in the bedroom and all the windows can be closed making it perfectly safe for young families or first-time travellers to Africa. The family villa is the closest to the beach and all activities are easily organized from this point. The honeymoon villa is secluded in the forest for the utmost privacy and even boasts an outdoor shower.

Slideshow Items

  • Villas with a view at Pumulani Lodge
    Villas with a view at Pumulani Lodge
  • Enjoy your villa at Pumulani Lodge
    Enjoy your villa at Pumulani Lodge
  • Gorgeous views from your villas at Pumulani Lodge
    Gorgeous views from your villas at Pumulani Lodge
  • Beautiful villas at Pumulani Lodge
    Beautiful villas at Pumulani Lodge
  • Pumulani Lodge villa on Lake Malawi
    Pumulani Lodge villa on Lake Malawi
  • Comfortable lounge area in your villa
    Comfortable lounge area in your villa
  • The lush hills of Lake Malawi National Park
    The lush hills of Lake Malawi National Park
  • Comfortable villas for families too
    Comfortable villas for families too
  • Dusk time views at Pumulani Lodge
    Dusk time views at Pumulani Lodge
  • Delicious food at Pumulani Lodge accompanied by beautiful views.
    Delicious food at Pumulani Lodge accompanied by beautiful views.
Experiences
Exhilarating activities on Lake Malawi

Sailing

For the more experienced sailors we have a dhingy which is great fun to nip around the lake in.

1 / 10
Boating at Pumulani Lodge
Boating at Pumulani Lodge

Boating

Our speedboat can whisk you around the lake with various water activities such as water-skiing, wakeboarding and tubing. Or an exhilarating drive to secluded spots where you can jump out the boat and snorkel or dive taking in the clouds of tropical fish that inhabit the water.

2 / 10

Dhow Cruise

Indulge in a sunset cruise on Lake Malawi in our hand crafted dhow, the only one of it's kind on Lake Malawi.

3 / 10
Bird walk at Pumulani Lodge
Bird walk at Pumulani Lodge

Land excursions

Take a guided walk from the lodge up into the hills enjoying the views and beauty as well as the wonderful birdlife. Coming down from the hills to the lake shore a kayak will meet you there for a gentle paddle back.

4 / 10
Biking at Pumulani Lodge
Biking at Pumulani Lodge

Cycling

Cycle down the hill from the lodge through the village and around the point where the kayaks will meet you for your paddle back.

5 / 10
Cultural tours at Pumulani Lodge
Cultural tours at Pumulani Lodge

Village Tours

Take a guided walk through the village seeing and having the local traditions and rituals explained.

6 / 10
Stargazing at Pumulani Lodge
Stargazing at Pumulani Lodge

Stargazing

Revel in the joys of the night sky with our incredible star gazer, it will revolutionize the way you look at the stars.

7 / 10
Kayaking on Lake Malawi

Kayaking

Kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the nearby beaches and coves at your own pace. We also have double kayaks for those wanting a bit of company.

8 / 10
Paddleboarding on Lake Malawi only at Pulumani Lodge

Paddle Boarding

Once you have mastered the balancing act, paddleboarding is a lot of fun for all ages. They are also great for SUP yoga!

9 / 10
Snorkelling at Pumulani Lodge

Snorkelling

Enjoy the underwater paradise that awaits you when you are on a snorkelling excursion.

10 / 10
Wildlife

Lake Malawi has 2,000 species of fish which are mainly endemic. It is the home of more species of fish than any other lake in the world, including over 1000 species of cichlids. Cichlids are bright and beautifully coloured fish, with the clear fresh water of the Lake, it makes for some truly exceptional snorkelling and diving experiences.

Though not your typical safari setting, because Pumulani is set within Lake Malawi National Park, there is game and birding opportunities. Commonly sighted are rock hyrax, vervet monkeys, yellow baboon; while bushbuck, duikers and spotted-necked otters are sometimes seen during hikes or boat trips further into the National Park. To date a total of 120 bird species have been seen. The national bird, African Fish Eagle, is a major highlight over the Lake. Though rare, Pel’s fishing owl and Narina Trogon have also been seen here.

Slideshow Items

  • Pumulani Lodge
    Pumulani Lodge
  • Pumulani Lodge
    Pumulani Lodge
  • Pumulani Lodge
    Pumulani Lodge
  • Pumulani Lodge
    Pumulani Lodge
Gallery
Pool time at Pumulani Lodge
Relaxing villas at Pumulani Lodge
Main area at Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge villa on Lake Malawi
Romantic dinners at Pumulani Lodge
Beautiful villas at Pumulani Lodge
Al Fresco dining at Pumulani Lodge
Exhilarating activities on Lake Malawi
Romantic beach dinners on Lake Malawi
Birds Eye View of Pulumani Lodge
Villas at Pumulani Lodge have incredible views.
Great hospitality on Lake Malawi
Paddle boarding on Lake Malawi
Understated luxury at Pumulani Lodge
Snorkelling in the calm cool waters of Lake Malawi
Pumulani Lodge on Lake Malawi
Delicious food at Pumulani Lodge accompanied by beautiful views.
Comfortable lounge area in your villa
Paddle boarding and other activities on offer at Pumulani Lodge
Scuba shack with all the gear you need to enjoy Lake Malawi
Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge
Lake views from the pool at Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani Lodge, an exclusive getaway

Rates and Seasonal Highlights

Our rates are inclusive of accommodation, activities, meals and bar and are charged per person per night by season. Park entry costs are extra. For guests staying more than 7 nights at RPS properties, there are long stay discounts available. There is no supplement charged for single travelers unless there are more than 3 singles. Children’s rates are available as well as a complimentary stay for a second child under 16 years. Note: Rates may vary for residents or regional travellers. All rates are subject to change without notice.

 

The different seasons offer us incredible diversity in terms of landscapes, wildlife sightings and experiences. We have put together some of these highlights for you to consider as you plan your African adventure with us. Be inspired!

jan
feb
mar
apr
may
jun
jul
aug
sep
oct
nov
dec
January
Lower rates | Stunning lush scenery | No crowds
  • Closes Jan 9. Emerald season: 320 / 370 USD pppn.
  • This is a great time for bird watching.
  • Rainfall is high during January and Pumulani closes from the 9th to do some maintenance and deep cleaning.
February
Pumulani Lodge is closed this time of year so we can do some 'spring' cleaning and maintenance.
March
Lower rates | Stunning lush scenery | No crowds
  • Reopens March 16. Emerald season: 320 / 370 USD pppn.
  • Birding is prolific and smaller mammals such as rock hyraxes can be seen.
  • It is still the height of the rainy season so rainfall is frequent and temperatures and humidity are still high.
April
Lower rates | Stunning lush scenery | No crowds
  • Emerald season: 320 / 370 USD pppn.
  • The decrease in rain means clearer days for snorkelling, getting up close to the underwater treasures of Lake Malawi - cichlids.
  • The rainy season is coming to an end and humidity starts to fall. Temperatures are pleasant throughout the day,
May
Lower rates | Beautiful scenery
  • Shoulder season: 320 / 370 USD pppn.
  • Birding is fantastic with fish eagles in particular being a very common sight.
  • The end of summer is approaching, the temperatures are cooler particularly at night and the humidity decreases but there are still some sporadic showers.
June
Lower rates | Beautiful scenery
  • Shoulder season: 320 / 370 USD pppn. ​
  • The birding continues to impress with a huge variety of birds as well as rock hyraxes.
  • Winter has arrived but the days continue to be sunny and clear. Temperatures are also pleasant.
July
Beautiful scenery | Pleasant Weather
  • Peak season: 425 / 500 USD pppn. ​
  • Despite the cooler temperatures, it is still warm enough to snorkel and scuba dive to see the 100s of species of fish in Lake Malawi.
  • This is one of the coldest months of the year but the days are sunny with the occasional drizzle (chiperoni).
August
Beautiful scenery | Pleasant Weather
  • Peak season: 425 / 500 USD pppn. ​
  • There are several different species of birds that can be seen such as wading birds, kingfishers, hornbills, nightjars, kestrels, swallow-tailed bee-eaters, and many other species of birds
  • Winter is coming to an end and the temperatures slowly rise and the days are sunny and clear.
September
Beautiful scenery | Pleasant Weather
  • Peak season: 425 / 500 USD pppn. ​
  • Though the water levels of the Lake continue to fall, cichlids, catfish and many other freshwater fish can be seen.
  • Temperatures begin to rise this time of the year and there can be the occasional shower.
October
Beautiful scenery | Great beach weather
  • Shoulder season: 320 / 370 USD pppn. ​
  • Pied kingfishers are prolific on the beach as are cormorants and fish eagles.
  • The hottest time of the year with temperatures high and humidity starting to rise.
November
Beautiful scenery | Great beach weather
  • Emerald season: 320 / 370 USD pppn. ​
  • November signifies the arrival of migratory birds.
  • Temperatures are still very high in November and humidity begins to rise. There is often showers towards the end of the month.
December
Lower rates | Stunning lush scenery | No crowds
  • Emerald season: 320 / 370 USD pppn.
  • A fantastic time for birding with several migratory birds and more.
  • The rainy season is in full swing with frequent afternoon showers and spectacular thunderstorms. Temperatures remain high and humidity too.

Safarisfeaturing Pumulani Lodge

View all Safaris
View all Safaris
This was our second visit to Pumulani. We just love the huge spaces, empty beach, lunch under the trees, and the chance just to relax in comfort. The staff are all amazing and so helpful. We swam in the lake (if you're really fussy take beach shoes!) and enjoyed the wonderfully maintained pools. Thanks so much for all your wonderful care and hospitality and we look forward to visiting you again soon.
Vanessa H about Pumulani Lodge
This is a beautiful, beautiful place. The lake is sparkling and the rooms are giant, clean and modern. The staff is incredibly helpful. The sunset could not be topped. Delicious food. Everyone was very accommodating to our needs as a big group of family and friends. I highly recommend Pumulani!
arb111105 about Pumulani Lodge
Pumulani wow what an amazing place, this was our final stop on a wonderful African holiday. The team made us feel welcome and the service they provided was exemplary, our villa was very spacious and provided a beautiful view of the lake. We enjoyed sunset ... and boat ride to Cape McLear. I would highly recommend Pumulani simply sensational.
Tracey W about Pumulani Lodge
First impressions, simply WOW!!! From the arrival to departure nothing but great service, attentive friendly staff, delicious food, and beautiful scenery that encompasses stunning beaches and luxury accommodation. There was no doubt that Pumulani fulfilled the essence of Robin Popes' ability to put their guest's needs at the top of their priority list.
Jamieson-Fisher about Pumulani Lodge
My family spent an amazing five nights at Pumulani. The place is simply stunning, it’s in a gorgeous location offering fabulous views across the lake and providing incredible sunsets. The accommodation is top class and the service was faultless. The team were so attentive, helpful and flexible with brilliant attention to detail. I will forever treasure our evening discussions about life and having the chance to learn something about his amazing life experiences.
Nigel S about Pumulani Lodge

We are thrilled to help you plan your perfect safari holiday

Check availability of Pumulani Lodge