Likoma

When planning your trip, it helps to distinguish between Likoma Town and Likoma Island as different geographical scales. St Peter’s Cathedral is in Likoma Town; many other topics concern Likoma Island as a whole. These include nature spots, beaches, activities on Lake Malawi and how to get there. If you’re looking for hotels in Likoma, you can first decide whether you’re most interested in the attraction in town or in topics relating to the island as a whole.

St Peter’s Cathedral in Likoma Town

St Peter’s Cathedral is the principal church of the Anglican Diocese of Northern Malawi and is described as the third-largest cathedral in Central Africa. The Gothic cathedral towers over Likoma Island; in front of it stands a statue of St Peter holding the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven. This description of the building is therefore linked to a specific feature at its location.

Construction began in 1903. The large granite building was built using local labor and materials; the first service was held in 1905. Its features include carved soapstone work and stained-glass windows. Its architectural style, building materials, religious function and timeline offer different points of reference for understanding the cathedral. The building’s history and its present-day role in the church are two distinct aspects of the same place.

Island history across different periods

Likoma’s history goes back beyond the cathedral’s construction. The University Mission to Central Africa, also known as David Livingstone’s mission, established its headquarters on Likoma in the 1880s. One of its aims was to combat the slave trade on routes across Lake Malawi. After the Second World War, Lake Malawi was divided politically: Likoma remained part of Malawi, while the surrounding waters went to Mozambique. The cathedral’s construction, the history of the mission and the island’s later political status thus represent different chapters in its history.

For many people, Kaya Mawa is another reason to visit Likoma. This reason for travel sits alongside an interest in the cathedral, the island’s history or its nature. Deciding which of these topics matters most to you can help give your choice of Likoma a clear direction.

Nature, activities and events

Likoma Island has several local communities and beaches. Visitors go to Ulisa Gardens on the island to experience nature. Likoma Island is also easy to explore on foot because of its small size. These island-based experiences differ from activities on the water: diving is also among the activities on Lake Malawi. If diving is important to your trip, check current operators and availability in advance.

The Likoma Island Festival includes a procession through the streets of Likoma Island. If you’re considering the festival when planning your trip, check the event dates in advance. Chizumulu, another small island that also belongs to Malawi, lies near Likoma Island. This gives you a geographical point of reference for the nearby island region, without implying a specific connection or travel route.

Getting to the island

Likoma Island can currently be reached by boat or plane. Check the latest operating information before your trip. The Ilala is described as the main means of water transport on the lake and to the islands of Likoma and Chizumulu. If you’re planning to travel by boat, confirm current operations and schedules before making your travel plans around them. This helps you distinguish the general travel options mentioned here from the specific details of your trip.

Discover more destinations: Nsanje, Lilongwe.

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