15 June, Saturday: Macondo Camp, Mzuzu -> Makuzi Camp

We woke up to a cold, misty morning, all our tents covered in dew. This made it hard to get on our bikes but knowing we were off the Lake made it easier. The cycle through the town was tough, we faced some steep climbs as we exited Mzuzu and the road was busy. Once we left the city, we headed down the mountain and we cycled through lush, green untouched forestry. It was a beautiful ride through the mountains on a good tar road with a big enough shoulder for us to cycle safely on. After the first hour of cycling, the overcast day eventually disappeared and the sun came out, making for a stunning day. Eager to get to the Lake before lunch, we sped down the hills and 2 and a half hours later we were in Nkhata Bay.

We arrived at our planned destination, Mayoka Village which is located on a steep cliff right on the Lake. It was beautiful, giving a European feel about the place and we had to desend 500 stairs to get to reception. The campsite was completely at the bottom and as we are living out of Madam as the tailgate is our kitchen, it was decided this is not such an ideal spot for camping.

Mayoka Camp stairs leading to the campsite

We moved on to Makuzi Beach, just over 30 km further down the Lake. We passed large scale rubber tree forest. There were people along the road bouncing rubber balls hoping to make a sale. It wasnt long before we arrived at Makuzi, a private beach overlooking the lake, with lovely deck chairs and loungers on the beach and not a sole around. A true piece of paradise. After setting up camp we had a nice swim in the lake, cooling our bodies from the cycle before Chris prepared the braai.

Makuzi Beach

Spot the parents

After finding good meat deals at the Shoprite, we were spoiled with a delicious braai'd steak and even borewors around the table, watching the full moon rising over the water.

Cycled: 51.5 km

Time: 2:30 hrs

Ave speed: 20 km/hr

Ascent: 306 m BUT 1054 descent