Tongole Wilderness Lodge, Nkhotakota
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Tongole Wilderness Lodge only opened for business in May 2011, but is already getting rave reviews from visitors and operators alike. It has been described as “one of the top 5 most beautiful lodges in all Africa” on a recent fam trip.
It is set in the stunningly beautiful 1,800km² Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, the third largest protected area in Malawi. Tongole is the first luxury lodge in the area, attracting those who seek an exceptional wilderness experience in one of Africa’s truly unspoilt wildlife areas.
The lodge has just 4 luxurious, thatched riverside suites, each with a large sunken bath and raised wooden decks providing delightful views down onto the Bua River. With a focus on ethical and responsible practices, Tongole’s objectives include transforming disadvantaged local communities and benefiting biodiversity conservation.
Tongole Wilderness Lodge nestles deep within the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, a hidden and little-known gem just a quick hop away from the shores of Lake Malawi. Flanked by a spectacular rugged landscape and hugging the banks of the beautiful Bua River, the lodge offers a unique and unforgettable experience..
Access to the Lodge is either by vehicle or chartered aircraft. It is only 160 km from Lilongwe Airport (an easy 3hr drive) with a 25 km game drive through the Reserve at the end. There are plans to establish an airstrip within the actual Reserve, however, for now aircraft fly into Illovo Estate’s private airfield at Dwangwa (½ hr flight from Lilongwe) where guests will then be met and driven to Tongole (1½ hrs).
Accommodation
Tongole Wilderness Lodge has been hand-built by a local workforce and masterfully combines a luxurious level of finish with traditional style and extensive use of local materials. The lodge caters for up to 8 guests, consisting of 4 luxurious, thatched riverside suites, each with large sunken baths and spectacular raised wooden decks overlooking the Bua River.
Specific Resources
Image Bank
Rates
Fam trips
www.tongole.com
Download the Info sheet
Activities
Tongole Wilderness Lodge is made for adventure: guests enjoy complete freedom to choose how they spend their time. Trek through the bush, canoe down the Bua River or drive through the vast Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve. Actitivies include Bush Walks, fishing, fly-camping, river trips, game drives and cultural interactions.
