Ilala Ferry
Monkey Bay, Lake Malawi Tel: + 39 051 234 974
malawi-travel.com
For more than 50 years the 620-ton MV Ilala has traveled the length of majestic Lake Malawi giving adventurous backpackers and lake communities a vital link to the resorts and villages along its pristine shore. It’s not the Queen Mary of course: accommodation is cheap and rustic and even the first class cabins on the covered top deck need a serious overhaul, but food is decent, beer is cheap, and sipping a sundowner on deck while chatting to the locals and watching the scenery go by is a dreamlike way of experiencing one of the world’s most beautiful watercourses. A word of warning: this is Africa baby and ferry schedules are not always reliable- don’t bank on leaving or arriving on time.
Average visitor score:
no score yet
Reviews of Ilala Ferry
A trip on the Ilala is a must for any serious traveller to Malawi. The time that I spent on the ferry is unforgetable and priceless. But the highlight of the trip was getting of at the two islands. A tip though: if you travel during the rainy season and you are staying on the deck, be sure to have a decent tent or bivvy with you. And for some reason, the northbound trip is better than the southbound one. More people, more supplies, more beer! Thanks to Ilala and her crew for making my visit to Malawi the best ever!!
MartinK, South Africa 21/8/2008
My score:
my lists
nearest experiences
Lugenda Wilderness Camp
The first lodge in Mozambique’s Lugenda Reserve, this is basic…
Mumbo Island
Ever fantasized about being marooned on a desert island…
Lake Of Stars Festival
These days it seems there are as many music festivals out there…
