Staff & Service
@ Nkwichi Lodge

The people that live around the shores of Lake Niassa are known throughout Africa as some of the most friendly and charming in the continent. In this corner of the Niassa region the locals are known as the Nyanja. The majority of them practice subsistent farming methods and rely on the lake for fishing as an additional income. Nkwichi is the biggest local employer, providing alternative opportunities for people to develop skills in the tourist industry.

All the staff at Nkwichi come from the local villages. Having helped build the lodge many of them stayed on and have trained to become waiters, barmen, chalet supervisors and a host of other important roles.

The Chefs take enormous pride in using vegetables, fruit and other produce that has been grown locally on the Manda Conservation Project Farm. They have all been trained to cook a variety of delicious western meals but often add a touch of their own local recipes to introduce guests to their own traditional meals.

Guest chalets are looked after by a group of dedicated men and women who will ensure that you have everything you need to be comfortable and relaxed. They will organise the hot water in the Tanganyika boilers which supply your bathrooms and keep your room tidy and clean. In the evenings while you are dining someone will drop the mosquito net around your 4 poster bed.

The guides at Nkwichi play a central role in looking after guests during their stay. This is their 'backyard' and they know the local area and all its characteristics like the back of their hands. They lead guests on walks up the escarpment to the stunning look out points above the lake pointing out tree species and helping guests to identify many of the bird species. They also take guests out on the lake in the lodge's sailing dhow and in the Canadian canoes.

Everyone at Nkwichi takes enormous pride in working at the lodge and most importantly looking after guests during their visits. They will naturally go out of their way to help guests learn as much as possible about their culture and the local environment whilst allowing people to relax and have a peaceful stay.