Lake Malawi

Eastern Border , Malawi

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Lake Malawi, also known as Lake Nyasa, is located along the eastern border of Malawi, spanning the Central, Northern, and Southern regions. It is Africa's third largest and second deepest lake, stretching about 560-580 kilometers in length and up to 75 kilometers wide, with a maximum depth of around 700 meters.

The lake forms part of the East African Rift system and shares its shoreline with Mozambique and Tanzania. Known for its remarkable biodiversity, particularly over 700 species of cichlid fish, Lake Malawi supports a rich aquatic ecosystem. It plays a vital role in local livelihoods through fishing and agriculture and has important hydrological features such as the Shire River outlet flowing into the Zambezi.

The lake’s clear waters, diverse habitats, and scenic shores with rocky boulders and sandy bays create a landscape of outstanding natural beauty. Climate change and environmental pressures have raised concerns about its future ecological health. Lake Malawi National Park, located at its southern end, protects part of this unique freshwater environment.