Malawi

Stretching almost the full length of the country, Lake Malawi is the main drawcard that attracts travelers here. The shimmering freshwater lake, the third largest in Africa, is a beach paradise: regardless of it being landlocked. Its balmy waters, private sandy coves and year round warm weather are the perfect ingredients for a beach-bum holiday. Below its glassy surface, which is perfect for activities like sailing, kayaking and fishing, swim over 400 species of colouful cichlid fish - most of them endemic to the lake. Good visibility, combined with deep sections, are excellent motivators for scuba diving and snorkelling. Wtih only a few resorts operating along the lake shore and within Malawi itself, one can expect few crowds and an exclusive experience, without the masses of people and rush. The laid-back vibe and friendly local people, encourage travelers to take their time and soak in the surrounding at a slow pace. Beyond the lake, towards the south, one will discover scenic wildlife reserves like Majete and Liwonde, the green tea plantations of Thyolo, the lush forests of Zomba and the highest peak: Mount Mulanje. Toward the north, the remote Nyika Plateau, of rolling hills dotted with antelope species, and the unpretentious and pretty Nkhotokota Wildlife Reserve, are also worth a trip. With both bush and beach options, Malawi definitely lends itself toward combining the two. If your pocket allows, then an itinerary that includes both the north and south of the country, over several days, would be the way to go.