The islands of Chizumulu and Likoma are both fairly low-key places to unwind and take in the spare beauty of the surroundings in Lake Malawi. Likoma is the larger of the two. It's not exactly an island paradise, but it does have some excellent beaches and snorkelling, with baobab trees scattered about. It's a densely populated place, with 6000 people packed into 17 sq km. Although this northern island is in Mozambique waters, they are territorially Malawian. It is linked to the country by steamer, and is highly populated. The island is covered in plantations of cassava and rice.

The coastline is alternatively rocky, with a few sandy bays, as well as marshy in certain areas, and you need to watch out for crocodiles when swimming or snorkelling. It is best to ask the locals where the safe places are to swim. The market is an interesting and lively place, and a huge baobabs. There is a dhow ferry running between Likoma Island and Chizumulu Island, which is a good place to spend a day snorkelling or diving.