In 1858 the famous doctor, missionary and scientist David Livingston discovered Lake Niassa from the south on his third expedition into Africa. Due to the numerous slave traders operating along the lakeshore, his experiences at lake Niassa reinforced his quest to free Africa from slavery and exploitation. Livingston nicknamed the lake 'Lake of Stars'.
Lake Niassa, with its clear blue water, is one of Africas largest lakes. It is situated in the western part of the province and definitely one of the main attractions in Niassa. You will need 4x4 to be able to go down to the edge of the lake. There are vehicles to hire in Lichinga and it is recommended to use a local driver that will also act as your guide.
Lake Niassa is the third largest lake in Africa and one of the world's biodiversity hotspots. Though navigated for centuries by indigenous people in dugout canoes, slave traders and missionaries on steamboats and dhows, the lake still conceals a lot to be explored.
More than 600 fish species have been identified, but research estimates that a total of over 1,000 species are living in the lake.
The road to the lake passes through fantastic scenery. Throughout the lakeside there are three small fishing villages, Meponda (42 km from Lichinga), Metangula (138 km) and Cobue (190 km), where you can buy fresh fish and stop for a nice rest.
The fish in the lake are renowned for their incredible color schemes easily competing with their saltwater cousins on the coral reefs. In particular, the Mbuna - the famed cichlid fishes, prized throughout the world of tropical fish enthusiasts. 99% of the Cichlids are endemic to the lake and each island in the lake has its own endemic rock-dwelling cichlids known to be some of the most colorful.
The Tchila (Labeo Mesops), extinct in Malawi waters, is known to exist on the Niassa side of the lake. Many species can only be seen in the clear waters of the Mozambican shoreline.
If you are interested in fresh-water diving and water sports, Lake Niassa can offer you a good time. Why don’t go snorkeling, canoeing, swimming, bird watching or simply just reading or sunbathing? With long sandy beaches, rock formations along the shoreline and large populations of cichlid fish there is a variety of activities in the area.
