Find hotels in Monkey Bay from £32

Top reasons to visit Monkey Bay

• Stunning Beaches: Monkey Bay boasts beautiful beaches along Lake Malawi, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like snorkelling, kayaking, and trekking amidst picturesque landscapes.
• Wildlife Exploration: Discover local wildlife on safari tours and explore the nearby Manda Wilderness.
• Charming Accommodation: Stay in delightful lakefront lodges that offer both comfort and adventure.
• Day Trips: Take advantage of day trips to explore the vibrant surroundings and nearby attractions.

Find great hotels in and around Monkey Bay

In Monkey Bay, you can discover a delightful array of lodges that cater to both relaxation and adventure. With enchanting lakefront cottages like Mbondo Cottage at Namaso Bay, as well as shared lounges and inviting bar areas, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the lovely pool and take advantage of pet-friendly options, making it an ideal retreat for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

• Mgoza Lodge: Located 9.7km from Monkey Bay, Mgoza Lodge offers a budget-friendly retreat with a guest rating of 8.4. This charming lodge is perfect for those seeking a pet-friendly beach getaway, featuring direct access to the sandy shores. With amenities such as food and water bowls for your furry friends, Mgoza Lodge ensures a comfortable stay for you and your pets. Ideal for families and animal lovers alike, it provides a relaxed atmosphere where you can unwind and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.
• Nkhudzi Beach Lodge: Nkhudzi Beach Lodge, situated 12.9km from Monkey Bay, boasts a guest rating of 8.0 and is an excellent choice for beach enthusiasts. This budget-friendly lodge offers direct access to the beach, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the stunning lakeside views and tranquil environment. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to indulge in sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely strolls along the shore, making it a delightful escape for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
• Norman Carr Cottage: Nestled in Monkey Bay, Norman Carr Cottage is a 3-star lodging option that caters to both beach and golf aficionados. This property offers direct access to the beach and features golf-themed experiences for guests eager to hit the green. With its unique blend of beachside relaxation and golfing opportunities, it appeals to travellers looking for a diverse holiday experience. Enjoy the serene surroundings and participate in engaging golf activities, all while staying in the heart of Monkey Bay.

Where to stay near Monkey Bay

Monkey Bay, nestled on the shores of Lake Malawi, offers a tranquil getaway for those seeking stunning beaches and serene bays. Explore the nearby Manda Wilderness for breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. This peaceful destination invites travellers to unwind while enjoying the picturesque surroundings, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration. Experience the charm of Monkey Bay and its idyllic atmosphere, perfect for a memorable holiday.

• Cape Maclear: Situated a mere 9.7km from Monkey Bay, Cape Maclear is a charming coastal city known for its stunning scenery and outdoor experiences. This area welcomes a steady stream of visitors throughout the year, with peak times in March to April and July. Travellers flock here for family-friendly activities and breathtaking views. Notable highlights include beautiful beaches, serene parks, and the nearby national state park, making it an ideal spot for camping and shopping. Perfect for those seeking adventure or relaxation amidst nature.
• Mangochi: Located 38.6km from Monkey Bay, Mangochi is a vibrant city that captivates adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. It experiences a consistent influx of visitors, peaking in March to April and December. The area is renowned for its outdoor activities, including trail access and hiking opportunities, allowing you to immerse yourself in Malawi's natural beauty. Local attractions such as pristine beaches and the national state park are just a stone's throw away, providing a perfect backdrop for an adventurous getaway.
• Chembe: Just 9.7km from Monkey Bay, Chembe is a quaint village that offers an idyllic retreat for those looking to unwind by the water. With visitor numbers peaking in July to August and October, it's a popular destination for beach enthusiasts. Chembe is particularly known for its scuba diving and kayaking opportunities, making it a hotspot for aquatic adventures. The village's close proximity to scenic beaches and the expansive lake enhances its charm, providing guests with a unique experience in a small-town setting.

Things to do in Monkey Bay

Monkey Bay is perfect for a beach getaway, offering a range of outdoor activities amidst stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy snorkelling, kayaking, and boat safaris, while also exploring the local wildlife on safari tours. For those who love adventure, there are opportunities for trekking and camping in the area. Make sure to take advantage of the day trips available to fully experience the beauty of this charming destination in Southern Malawi.

Shopping

In Monkey Bay, you can find local crafts and souvenirs at the bustling local market, where vendors offer handmade items. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Mangochi Shopping Mall for a wider selection of gifts and essentials.

Recreation

In Monkey Bay, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the pristine Sunbird Nkopola Lodge, where you can enjoy tranquil views of Lake Malawi. For relaxation, visit the nearby Nkhata Bay, offering serene beaches and opportunities for yoga amidst stunning landscapes, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.

Adventure

Monkey Bay offers thrilling boat rides on Lake Malawi, where you can explore hidden coves and snorkel among vibrant fish. For the adventurous, hiking the nearby hills provides breathtaking views and encounters with local wildlife, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and excitement.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Beach Club, where you can enjoy refreshing cocktails by the shore. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Monkey Bay Tavern, featuring local music and a selection of beers. Both venues offer a warm welcome and a taste of Malawian culture.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Monkey Bay

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Monkey Bay are March, August and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to October and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Monkey Bay is usually 3+ months out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Monkey Bay is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Monkey Bay is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You could enjoy savings by combining your Monkey Bay hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Monkey Bay

Monkey Bay, located in Malawi's Southern Region, is perfect for those seeking beach, outdoor, and scenic experiences. Key attractions include the stunning beaches along Lake Malawi, the picturesque landscapes of nearby national parks, and the charming islands in the area. Visitors can also explore the vibrant surroundings of Monkey Bay and nearby Nkhata Bay, offering a diverse range of activities for an unforgettable holiday.

• Lake Malawi National Park: Located 4.8km from Monkey Bay, this national park boasts stunning scenery and offers a range of outdoor adventures. Explore its diverse ecosystems, including freshwater habitats and unique wildlife, making it ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
• Monkey Bay Beach: Situated 11.3km away, Monkey Bay Beach is perfect for those seeking a relaxing day by the water. Enjoy the warm sun, soft sands, and gentle waves, making it a fantastic spot for swimming and sunbathing.
• Nkhudzi Bay Beach: Just 14.5km from Monkey Bay, Nkhudzi Bay Beach offers pristine shores and tranquil vibes. Ideal for peaceful escapes, it’s perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying beautiful sunsets over the lake.

Best time to go to Monkey Bay

The best time to visit Monkey Bay can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Monkey Bay falls in November, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Monkey Bay falls in July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
February	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	76.6°F (24.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
April	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	73.2°F (22.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	70.5°F (21.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
July	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	76.6°F (24.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	80.1°F (26.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
November	81.1°F (27.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Monkey Bay

When planning your visit to Monkey Bay, Malawi, you can fly into two major airports. Lilongwe (LLW-Kamuzu Intl.) is situated 127.1km away, with nearby accommodation options like the 4-star President Hotel and Latitude 13 Degrees, both approximately 10-19.3km from the airport, offering various transport services. The closer Monkey Bay Airport (MYZ) is only 644m from the town, with lodging choices such as the 3-star Norman Carr Cottage and Mgoza Lodge, providing shuttle services and transportation options. This ensures a convenient transition from your flight to your destination in Monkey Bay.