Southern/East African Trip 2019

Day 66 & 67 – 12 th & 13 th August 2019 Blue Canoe Safari Camp was only an hour from the Tanzanian/Malawian border post.    These African border posts are incredibly slow – either their systems are slow, or they have no systems and everything is paper based!   It took us three hours to cross the border, but with the help of the insurance guys at the border.   The Malawi Road Toll fee was US$20, TIP $20 and 3 rd Party Insurance US$50.   But once we had been “cleared” to leave, the insurance guys demanded a US$25 “Agent’s Fee”.   At the end of the day, we thought that it would have taken us a heck of a longer time more if they didn’t help us, so we gladly paid the fee. We arrived at Chitimba Camp on Lake Malawi around lunchtime.   Camping was on lawn and really pleasant.   Because there was power we decided to stay for two nights, instead of pushing on to Lukwe Eco Lodge which was just 18km’s up the mountain but did not have electricity.   Johan & Joanne left

Day 65 – 11 th August 2019 Wow, this is like camping on the beach!   It was absolutely great to fall asleep to the sound of waves breaking.   Our hosts, Thomas and Layla, were great.   B ecause there is no electricity here, and with our charging system not working in the camper, we cut our stay to one night.   But it really was worth it! Beach camping at Blue Canoe Safari Camp Tomorrow we're off to Malawi.

Day 57 to 59 - 07th - 09th August 2019 What a piece of paradise!! Lake Side Lodge is owned and run by Chris and Louise ( ex South African's who have been in Tanzania for 21 years).  A more hospitable couple, together with their staff - particularly Pruve, Sabena, Noddy and Achmed - not forgetting the magnificent chefs and cleaning staff, we did not meet.  We had the most enjoyable time on the lake.  Our sunset cruise was also, of course, a winner! Us truly with Louise, Muffin and Chris The magnificent sunset Day 60 - 10th August 2019 We're back in Mbeya, at Utungele Coffee Lodge, and will be leaving for a relaxing 2 nights on the most Northern shore of Lake Malawi - still on the Tanzanian side of the border.  After that we shall be leaving for Livingstonia.