Malawi · Snorkelling

6-Hour Lizard Island Snorkeling Tour from Salima with Picnic Lunch

6 Hours Round trip from Salima Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Cruise across Lake Malawi past traditional fishing villages
  • 02 Watch African fish eagles dive for prey - ideal for photography
  • 03 Explore Lizard Island on a guided walk
  • 04 Snorkel among colorful cichlids in clear, shallow waters
  • 05 Enjoy an island picnic with grilled chambo, tropical fruit, and cold drinks
  • 06 Hear fascinating legends of the "Lake of Stars" from your guide

Embark on a scenic 6-hour adventure from Salima to Lizard Island on Lake Malawi. Cruise across sparkling waters past traditional fishing villages with a knowledgeable local guide, watch African fish eagles dive for prey, and snorkel among vibrant cichlid fish in the clear shallows. Explore the island on a guided walk, relax in hidden coves, and enjoy an island picnic featuring grilled chambo, tropical fruit, and cold drinks before cruising back to Sunbird Livingstonia Beach Hotel with unforgettable lake memories.

Watch for African fish eagles as they dive for prey-ideal for photography.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Hours
Tour type Shared
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Not included
Transport Not included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Salima, Lake Malawi
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Lizard Island Cruise, Snorkeling, and Picnic Escape

8:30 AM

  • Arrive at Sunbird Livingstonia Beach Hotel and meet your local guide and boat crew.

  • Listen to a brief safety briefing and receive complimentary bottled water.

  • Board a private motorboat equipped with seats and life jackets.

9:00 AM - Cruise to Lizard Island

  • Begin your scenic cruise across Lake Malawi toward Lizard Island.

  • Pass traditional fishing villages and learn about local lake life from your guide.

  • Watch for African fish eagles as they dive for prey-ideal for photography.

10:00 AM - Arrive and Explore Lizard Island

  • Disembark on the island and start a guided walk through the island.

  • Snorkel for 45 minutes among vibrant cichlid fish in the clear shallows (reef shoes recommended).

  • Use free time to swim, relax, or explore hidden coves.

12:00 PM - Enjoy an Island Picnic Lunch

  • Dine on grilled chambo (local fish) or vegetarian skewers.

  • Refresh with tropical fruit such as mango and pineapple.

  • Sip on cold drinks, including sodas or bottled water.

1:00 PM - Prepare for the Return Journey

  • Take one last swim or enjoy golden-hour snorkeling for optimal underwater photography.

  • Listen as your guide shares stories and legends, including the "Lake of Stars."

2:00 PM - Cruise Back to Sunbird Livingstonia Beach Hotel

  • Relax as the motorboat returns to Sunbird Livingstonia Beach Hotel.

  • Enjoy the breeze and reflect on the natural beauty of Lake Malawi.

3:00 PM - Return to Sunbird Livingstonia Beach Hotel

  • Arrive at Sunbird Livingstonia Beach Hotel and say farewell to your crew.

  • Offer optional tips for the crew as a gesture of appreciation.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Salima 2 cities · 6 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Lunch
  • Bottled water and soft drinks
  • Life jacket
  • Snorkeling gear

What's Not Included

  • Transportation to and from Sunbird Livingstonia Beach Hotel (unless pre-arranged)
  • Alcoholic beverages beyond those included at lunch
  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs or snacks
  • Towels, swimwear, and reef shoes (bring your own)
  • Tips and gratuities for the guide and boat crew
  • Travel insurance or medical coverage

What to bring

  • Swimwear (wear under clothes for easy transitions)
  • Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat for sun protection
  • Quick-dry towel (compact and lightweight)
  • Reef shoes or water sandals (for comfort and safety on rocks or hot sand)
  • Waterproof phone case or dry bag for underwater photos and safe storage
  • Flip-flops for easy beach walking
  • Reusable water bottle (refill provided to reduce plastic waste)
  • Eco-friendly insect repellent for use during shore stops

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Sunbird Livingstonia Beach Hotel, S122, Salima, Malawi
Tour start
Salima, Malawi
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 6 hours finish where they began, in Salima.

Watch the tourHQ film Watch the film

Create your own adventure

Can't find the perfect tour? Tailor your dream trip.

  • Tell us your destination, dates and group size.
  • Our travel experts and local guides design a tailored itinerary, just for you.
  • Enjoy your trip with peace of mind, knowing everything is taken care of.
Plan my holiday

Say goodbye to travel stress.

Starting from

USD 600 /person
Book This Tour

When

Travellers

Total