Mbame Estate is the collective location of our offices, lodge, project workshops, training centre, labs and old protected forest. You’ll experience Friday morning songs, call the lodge home and explore the natural wonders of Mbame forest when you visit!
Fisherman’s Rest Lodge sits at the top of Mbame Estate, where the forest stretches out below it and the mountains rise on the horizon. It is said Livingstons walked this very escarpment, and old tribal stories still echo the beauty and wildlife that once roamed these hills. Today, the trees stand as witnesses — holding the stories of the past and watching time unfold.
From sourcing our own water, to planting trees, conserving the forest, minimising waste and sourcing products and ingredients as locally as possible, we are always looking to reduce our impact on the environment.
Fisherman’s Rest Lodge has grown into a collection of diverse and rustic accommodation – all connected by our workspace and cafe. From cottages and self catering complexes, to individual rooms, there are options to suit everyone.
School teams, travelling groups and large church groups take over the whole site! Browse each of our accommodation options below.
The land at Mbame has undergone many transformations, from wild grasses to a coffee plantation, and from a piggery to a commercial chicken farm. Yet nothing stood the test of time. Over the past 30 years or so the land that once was farmed for over a 100 years, has been reclaimed by forest. Now you can lose hours wandering the meandering paths, the shade offering a cool reprieve from the intense sunshine. It’s beautiful.
The cafe and nature reserve are open to visitors during the day. Enjoy the park and its views, and take a picnic or go for a walk in the forest. Impala and nyala roam wild around you. Breakfasts, simple stews, cakes and light snacks are served throughout the day from the cafe.
Follow the M1 for 20km South of Blantyre, pass through the escarpment check point at Mirale. 1km on, Mbame Estate is the gate to your right. Fisherman’s Rest Lodge entrance is a large sign-posted and gated entrance 500m further down the road on the right.
The reserve is home to a family of impala, nyala, monkeys, birds and remarkable trees. For day visitors, there is an entrance fee to the reserve. Entrance and access to the park is separate to any refreshments you take at the cafe. Guided walks are highly recommended please call and book in advance (English or Chichewa speaking).
Opening Times
Monday to Friday 7am – 4pm
Saturday and Sunday 6am – 6pm
Our café serves breakfast, lunch and dinner — along with homemade cakes, fresh coffee, and cold drinks.. Drop by and enjoy its relaxed charm and the warm-hearted hospitality Malawi is known for.
Opening Times
Monday to Friday 7am – 4pm
Saturday and Sunday 6am – 6pm
Our history means when you visit, you’re welcomed not as a guest, but as family. We’ll introduce you to people we’ve known a lifetime – the stories and laughter you share with them often become the highlight of your trip (alongside the lions at Majete!).
To keep up to date on all Fisherman’s Rest news, including new trips, project work and good news stories, join our mailing list.
When booking a trip with us, you create an account. The login details you created when doing so will gain you access to our Trip Portal. If you still have issues gaining access, head over to the Login page and click Lost Your Password?
