Cairo to Cape 2010 Blog
Blog 9 - Malawi
What a contrast to the other countries we have travelled through to date. Entering Malawi the pace immediately slows to a snail pace, it is a pleasant change from the hustle and bustle of parts of Tanzania.
Our first stop was in Chitimba.... Well for most of us. Unfortunately on the way one of the vehicles overheated until it finally came to a stop. So Steve and a couple of other vehicles stayed with the broken Landie to fix it while Tracey and the rest of the group continued to Chitimba beach.
The campsite we stayed was superb, Hakuna Matata is what it is called which means in Swahili "No worries" (no it is not something made up just for the Lion King - it is an actual word with meaning!!!). The staff were very friendly and helpful. A few of us wanted to head up the hill to the historic town of Livingstonia but found out the road had been closed due to a land slide. Not to worry maybe next time!!!
The other vehicles finally reached Chitimba beach a day later with the landie fixed and ready to hit the road once again.
 Kande Beach, Malawi |
 Dancing, Lake Malawi |
We made our way along Lake Malawi through the town of Mzuzu to Kande Beach. What a piece of paradise. As we weaved our way down the track toward the campsite, one never knows exactly what might be at the other end.... as the big green gates opened we were pleasantly surprised to see this little piece of paradise in the middle of Malawi. The campsite site is run by an English guy who came to Africa more years ago then he would like to admit, he fell in love with the place and decided to make Kande beach home.
The highlight for us was having a traditional meal on the local village, prepared by the women in the village. It was a simple meal of plantain, potatoes, stew, rice and fruit but gave us an insight into what the local cuisine is really like (the food the crew prepare for us is very much western style) - it was a simple tasty meal. The meal was not the only treat, the local kids and adults alike joined in some dancing and celebrations. It was not long before everyone was up dancing. It was a very memorable night and will bring a smile to our faces for a long time to come.
Malawi is one of Africa's poorest countries yet it would have to have been one of the friendliest and welcoming of all the countries we have travelled through. The poverty is evident however this does not seem to dampen the spirits - every person we met had an enormous smile and love for life.
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