Set in the relatively unknown and untouched Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, Tongole is a sanctuary for luxury in the wild. Whilst the animals here are not as thriving as the other parks they have a very healthy population of elephant which increased thanks to the record breaking translocation by African Parks. Tongole focus on gentle walks, birding and canoeing. It is a must-visit for keen birders who want to sit with their binoculars and tick off over 300 species!
TONGOLE WILDERNESS RETREAT
FAST FACTS
Location
Nkhotakota
Rooms
4 Riverside rooms and 1 family cottage
Good for
Birding (with over 300 species to be spotted)
Children Welcome
Yes (minimum age 6 years)
Open
All Year
Ideal Length of Stay
3 Nights
Fans
No
Wi-Fi
Yes (at reception area)
KEY FEATURES
The retreat is the epitome of luxury with a large swimming pool, star deck, brilliant food and incredible rooms. With large open fronted chalets, you can have uninterrupted views of the river, the wildlife and also the stars! The rooms have a gate that shuts at night for your safety but the large cozy double beds still look out at the night sky. The huge bathrooms have walk in showers and a bath big enough for two. The ultimate romance destination, whisk your partner away for a wilderness retreat, have a picnic on the Bua River and share a bottle of bubbles looking at the stars- in the huge bubble bath, of course!
Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve was taken over by African Parks in 2015. Following the success in other areas of Malawi they fenced the reserve, hired rangers and reduced the poaching epidemic. Because of the success in Liownde and Majete they moved 500 elephants from the parks to Nkhotakota in a record-breaking translocation. They had great success and moved 2000 other animals to the reserve. The population is now thriving and after some initial fear of humans they have happily settled in and there are regular sightings of the herds!
Relax in style and escape from hectic daily life, surrounded by unfiltered nature. With no light pollution, the stars here are incredible! Knowledgeable guides can point out all the constellations on their large telescope. With only 3 lodges within the park, you can be sure you won’t run into another soul whilst staying here. Just kick back and immerse yourself in the blissful natural surroundings. We recommend making use of the canoes to gently meander down river, take a picnic for a real treat.
