Mgoza Lodge

I stayed at Mgoza lodge for four nights. I was able to both fall asleep and wake up to the waves on the lake shore because our room was right by the lake. The food tasted really great, and they had new specials each night. Their beach was rough with larger sand grains, broken glass, and missing stairs, but I didn't let that stop me from going swimming each day. I also really enjoyed how there were tour guides there ready to take you out. Ants were also everywhere, but the grassy courtyard that was shaded by several large trees was a great place to relax and get out of the hot sun. The owner Alan was really friendly and helpful too.

29th October was more like taking too long to come for my family. When it came, the whole family was excited and we kicked off and crossed the boarder Mwami at about mid day...from Zambia Chipata after driving from South Luangwa . We drove up to Lilongwe where we had lunch before proceeding to the cape. We arrived late evening at Mgoza Lodge. We were welcomed and the family was shocked to hear the noise made by the waves from the lake ...they all dashed to have the look at the lake but there was little to watch as it was dark only a few lights could determine how far the water cover. We had our evening meal and the staff were so friendly and later went to bed When morning came, i was surprised that, everyone was up by 05 am all were running on the nice sand of the lake shore ... Mgoza was so nice to stay and mostly when we took the boat ride to watch the fish eagle catch fish which we fed them and also saw,the fish eat bread..it was such a memorable event. The trip was a success only that when my family demanded to visit Mangochi town , I forgot to carry Malawi Kwacha instead i carried USD. No one within town accepted my US dollars including all the shop dealers as well as shopping mails in Mangochi town...they all refused If you are planing a trip to cape Maclear, remember to have your money changed to Malawi Kwacha to lessen the pressure in case you want to use cash. Thanks to Mr Moses Phiri, the owner of MOZE TOURS travel AGENT, for organising and recommending Mgoza Lodge. It was so nice that even on our trip He could call us and check with us if all was well as we enjoyed our 4 days holiday. Looking forward to making another trip to Malawi in 2024.

We had truly been looking forward to this trip to Lake Malawi, but the cottage we stayed in was just so extremely dirty, the floors had not been cleaned and in particular the kitchen (one of the reasons we opted for the cottage) was just disgustingly dirty. As if they had put the cutlery back in the drawer after eating without washing it. The pots and other utensils were sticky from grease. Cutting knife fell apart, noodles stuck on the water cooker and the whole fridge smelled of fish. We were not even offered a discount whatsoever, just a meagre sorry.

Perfect setting for our visit to Cape Maclear in thr heartbof the village and the shore of the lake. Idyllic, charming accommodation with comfortable beds. The food was really great and came with friendly prompt service. Good value for money.

We live in Malawi and sadly only get to Cape Mac once a year or twice - when the triathlon is on ... and anytime we go we don't try out other places anymore as we just love so many things about Mgoza. They are consistent - pre covid, during and after. Our most recent trip was last weekend and we feel it just gets better everytime. We have always loved their food - best menu, value for money, flavour, speed of service without a doubt compared to any of the places on the bay... and now they have added THE BEST CHEESECAKE in the whole of MALAWI! wow. And this from someone who could take or leave a cheesecake... it really is amazing. The rooms can be described as a little dark by some but honestly - who wants to spend time in their room when right next to the beach... other than to sleep when you then need it to be dark. The rooms are clean, and incorporated tree in the bathroom we had ensuite is unique. A unique selling point for us is also the gorgeous tree covered garden that the rooms come out onto. There are no other places you can stay, in the price bracket you pay for like Mgoza, that offer you this. The garden and little pool, just set back from the beach, but next to it, allow you to relax while appreciating the lake and not getting too hot, and giving you privacy from everyone on the beach. They have also just finished a lovely new dining area - beautifully simple, light and cool and airy also overlooking the beach. They work with the tour guides to offer a nice experience to guests - a pamphlet showing tours you can do - but not being hassled. They also do their part to try promote clean up of waste in the area. Finally but far from least - the great ENERGY of the staff is great here. Welcomed with big smiles by bar tenders and chefs we felt we could ask for anything and it came, but at the same time not over fussed on. We walked along the bay one afternoon looking for a drink...possible meal to have at another place, for some variety and to support other businesses and either the other places were closed, or open but with no one around to help you or half asleep, or one place we went to had drinks but no menu or even snacks for someone looking for something to nibble on (which was surprising given how ppl complain business is quiet after Covid). Mgoza - your team really set the bar - you have stayed open and hustling for business all the way through and not fallen sleepy, if anything - added more! We don't leave many reviews but really felt you deserved to hear the praise and want everyone who may be looking for somewhere to stay to choose to stay with you. Thank you, well done and keep it up.

Great Lodge in a perfect setting next to the lake. Friendly staff, great food, & just the best place in Cape Maclear. Nice rooms, hot showers, great bar, restaurant, good loungers. Private parking for you car. All round good value for money.