Chembe Eagles Nest Campsite | Established Campground

Malawi

Details

Verified:
29 days ago
Altitude:
0.0 masl
Phone:
None

Amenities

Electricity:
Yes - At Sites
Wifi:
Yes - Fast
Kitchen:
Yes
Restaurant:
Yes
Showers:
Hot
Water:
Non-Potable
Toilets:
Running Water
Big Rig Friendly:
Yes
Tent Friendly:
Yes
Pet Friendly:
Yes
Sanitation Dump Station:
Unknown

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It seems that your view of this campsite will depend entirely on a few things. Firstly, there is only one pitch that has a lake view. This pitch is level, close to the only water tap and has a stunning view over the lake. However if someone else already has that pitch the only other option is a hill which has no level ground, no view of anything other than the back of house facilities of the lodge and security fences.

If the generator is on it will be unbearably noisy. If you’re there on a Thursday through Sunday the noise from the village will be loud. If, however the generator is off and you’re there from Monday to Wednesday it may well be quiet.

Either way there is only one ablution block which is a long walk from the campsite and there are so many lights on overnight it’s hard to sleep.

If you have the lakeside pitch the downsides will no doubt be worth it. If you don’t there is little to stay for.

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Very nice campsite right at the beach. There is one bigger site right at the front of the beach and other one further ”up”. Electricity at sites. We spent 6 nights here relaxing at the beachfront site and heard virtually no noise from the surrounding village even on weekend nights. Very tranquil place! Good and clean ablutions. Nice pool and good beach to go swimming. 17000 mkw/pppn (~$10). Restaurant serves good food with reasonable prices (10000mkw for lunch, 13000mkw for dinner). Very friendly and helpful owners and staff. Friendly dogs around (owners’ dogs). They also do snorkeling trips etc. Would definitely come again!

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Wonderful campsite directly at the beach and benefiting from the lodge facilities (pool, bar). The chef helped us to buy a fish and cook it on our braai. There are 2 large spots for 4x4 and others for tents. We were here on a Saturday night and heard no noise from the village!

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A word of warning to not rely on email confirmation and to phone and confirm your booking. We emailed this lodge two days before we were meant to arrive and confirmed camping for 2 nights. Upon arrival we were told that they were fully booked and had no camping available. We were then told the only other option was a room for $140 which is frankly outrageous. The staff were so unfriendly and unapologetic. All in all a very unpleasant experience that left us high and dry. We stayed the night at Thumbi View Lodge which was amazing, and the staff there were incredible in comparison.

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Stayed three nights (Monday evening to Thursday morning) and it was quiet these nights (see earlier comment). The camp site is lovely and worth a stay as described by other guests. However, the village (we made two long walks through it) made a rather destructive and uninspiring impressionen on us. We managed to reach the camp with our big rig (height 3.5m, length 6.5m) - but bigger trucks might not be able to get through as shops were built into the road and make it very narrow. We paid K 11,000 per person per night for the camp site.

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What an amazing place during the day and at sunset BUT what a dreadful night! The music from the village was blaring ALL night! It is still on now at 6am! I don't know what it is like during the week but the weekend (incl. Thursday apparently) is terrible even though the campsite is right at the end of the beach. There were also drunk locals congregating right behind the campsite listening to loud music and shouting. As said, during the day Chembe eagles nest is a dream. The facilities are beautiful, the beach is clean and so are the ablutions. Friendly staff, lovely restaurant right on the beach etc. What a shame! We wanted to stay another night but will now be leaving.

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Great place. Amazing pool right on lake side. Basic food menu, nice hot chips. Nice campsites. Beware of monkeys. Moses and Collins both great people. The owners are nice friendly people. If you go on a cruise, beware there is a $10usd fee for being in the park, this is something the owners or staff didn’t tell us about and no word of it on price board for cruise.

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Camping right on the beach with our OverlanderTruck. $10 pppn
Friendly staff, cold beer. Bought fish from locals. Tough road for large OverlanderTruck, but as always, tough roads leed to Great Destinations!!!

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Fine campsite, not much special. Beach space was taken so we took the higher pitch. Firewood at 4.000 kwacha is way too expensive, don’t trust Edward the campsite guy.

Noise etc is normal in these regions of Africa.

Exchange rate at the bar is very bad, tried to overcharge us for 20USD for the nights.

Pool is very nice and bar personnel is very friendly.

Overly a fair place to stay, but I’m not sure if you will find any better here.

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Had a great 2 nights camping here.....no one else staying so very well looked after by the friendly staff. We also had the campsite right on the beach, absolutely stunning views, tranquil relaxing. The lake was crystal clear and the beach pristine. Electricity at the site and a nice washing up area. No WiFi available at the moment due to a storm, likewise with the supply from S-com so generator had to run sometimes but not a problem. Very nice shower blocks, cold water only during our stay but again it was hot, hot so not a problem. We hired a 2 man kayak for 20 USD to go to the island and went snorkeling with hundreds of multi coloured cyclids, there are other trips available if you want guided things too. 10 USD pppn, there is also a 1% tourist levy added to your whole bill.

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There aren't many camping options at Cape Mclear and we absolutely loved it here! It's right down the end, secure and on a private quiet beach which others can't enter so it was nice to have a break from the constant selling (there's still tailors and arts people etc outside if you wanted to get anything though). The sites are lovely right on the lake with beautiful views and rocks to climb. Ablutions are great, although we did have intermittent hot water. Food seemed great but not the cheapest option around compared to some other lodges. Lovely bar, restaurant and lounhe area and nice pool and outdoor spaces too. Washing up area under cover to do dishes, and power too. $10pppn. You can technically swim in the lake here but it was a bit murky with some rubbish. Would recommend, very peaceful.

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To complete my first review : we went to the national park's main gate in order to pay our fees. The rangers at the gate told us they have no knowledge about arrangement between lodges/campsites and the government that prove the lodge Can receive the fees directly. We finally paid by cash (they don't have the machine for visa) and it's 10000kwachas per adult, free for kids under 12. They have us an official receipt.
For info the lodge requested us 25700kwachas without receipt...so better and normal to go directly to the main gate and show your receipt to the lodge if you want to make a catamaran tour !

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The place is really nice, the catamaran tour is really amazing. But as told below ....very noisy!!!!
And as you Can see in my picture, ask nothing about discount, the answer will be NO...no commercial spirit!!!!
They put the generator from 4.30 in the morning and woke up all the people on campsite. But they didn't Ask you or excuse.
We asked to print a sheet of paper like several Times during our stay (3 days) and they just told us the last day that they forgot us (we were two clients) and we had to go to the village with one of their employee (and pay him) to ask someone to make the printing.
When you make the catamaran tour, they explain you that all the coast is part of the national Park and that you Can have control with rangers everywhere. But you Never see a ranger during your trip, and when you come back, you have to pay your Park fees only in cash directly to the captain or to the lodge...and no receipt at all. So we decided to not pay!

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We planned on staying here for a couple of days, ended up staying for a week :)

Such a beautiful part of the world with beautiful views of the lake, islands and local fishermen's comings and goings. Sunsets are spectacular! We whiled away our time by the pool or under a lovely shady trees, and were kept amused by baboons, various water birds and the picturesque scenes of local fisherman. Life could not get more laid back than here. Campsite very comfortable, bar & lunch menu reasonable with good simple options, kayaks to hire for $10 pp or ask them to take you out on the catamaran. Really friendly and helpful staff!

Spoke to the owners about the generator as there have been some comments on it and they said they are looking to move it in the near future a little further from camp. The generator didn't really disturb us and is needed for fridges, water pumps, etc. with all the after-the-cyclone power cuts in local area.

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The location is exceptional, with view of the sunset. Unfortunately, the frequently used generator is placed right behind the camping bay and resonates noisily from the rocks around. This somehow does not fit with the amount of care that is obviously dedicated to the rest of the resort (including the bathrooms which are ample and nicely decorated), indicating that maybe the campsite is only a side business (although there were 3 guests camping when we were there).
Also, a bit unexpected for us, a lot of fishing boats are motor boats, so there was quite some additional noise from them at night, as well.
On the positive side, we walked up the rocky hill next to the campsite and had a great view over the village and bay. Also, we walked to the village center across the market streets in less than half an hour.
Camping costs 10000 MKW ppn, and this was the only place where they charged some extra tax or levy on top of this; drinks are quite expensive (1000 - 2500 MKW).
Wifi is not free, they sell vouchers with login codes for 2000 MKW.

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wonderfull place.
we overnight on the beach behind the rocks.
so we didn't heard the genenator.
And the generator turns only when there is an electricity cut off.
all is OK and good restaurant.

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This is by far the nicest place in Cape Maclear. Such a nice place, as long as the generator isn’t running. We spent 6 nights here, first 3 the generator was running 8-10 hours a day, then you don’t wanna be anywhere near the camp site. The rest of the days it was quiet and amazing.

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Wonderful place, stunning scenery but the power generator is annoying. It makes a lot of noise. So don’t go here with kids as they are not able to sleep with such a noise. It is shame that such a wonderful place is ruined by a power generator and these guys not using solar panels during the day. The sunsets are spectacular and the sunset cruise is a must do!

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We did not stay here, but we walked through the bar and camping area. The area was clean. Ablution was clean and restaurant was very nice.

There is unfortunately only one nice camp site on the beach like in 5m from the waters edge. But if someone camps there it blocks the view for other campers. You can stay on the top campsite ( elevated about 3M ). But not as nice . You want to be on the beach when you camp here. So we opted for Fat Monkey as they still had place directly on the beach.

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Absolut amazing sunsets on this place.
But the very loud powergenerator direkt on the campsite destroyed often the great atmosphere. One day starting at 5.50 am, other day running still at late evening.

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Unbelievable zone! One of the most relaxed camp spots in Malawi. You are right on the edge of the national park which means you have a completely private beach experience. Never get hassled, the water is crystal clear and they have great kayaks for you to go out and explore the lake on. 10/10 would recommend. The manager was an absolute legend and we really loved our 5 days here. Very tuk tuk friendly

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Spent 6 nights. Great place to relax on the beach. Well positioned pool looking on to the lake. Camping 10pppn. Restaurant and bar but eating here is expensive. Recommended

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Stayed here for one week. One awesome camp spot directly at the beach with a beautiful view over the lake. Other options a bit in the back. Private beach is awesome. Staff was super friendly we had even restaurant service directly at our campsite. The owners where super friendly. They offered us a chalet for a cheaper price when the cyclone Ana hit. Luckily Cape Maclear wasn’t affected a lot by it. One of their dogs stayed with us all the time. Lovely little fellas that chased the monkeys (they steal your food!) away. Just a cute dog that is. We did a half day trip with their catamaran and liked it a lot. Local options might be cheaper. Did a trip to Domwe Island with one of the kayaks.
Overall very good campsite with very clean ablutions.

Prices 10 USD pp
Kayak 15 USD for two and half a day
Boat cruise 25 USD half day pp + 10USD park fee

Regarding the generator. Yes it’s there and next to the campsite. They only run it during black outs though and not all the time. They apologized a lot about the disturbance and want to move it in the future. We weren’t annoyed by it.

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great location further down the beach so quite secluded. staff were very friendly and attentive however owners seemed quite rude and had aggressive dogs and loud caged birds that did slightly spoil the experience. food wasn't the best but it seemed to be a limited menu as we were the only ones there.

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At the end of the Cape Maclear strip, so out of the way and possibly quieter. However, as many have said, they run a generator. The generator is very close to the campsite and deterred us from staying a second night (you can’t hear it from the bar/chalets). That aside, the restaurant, lodge and campsite are wonderful - right on the beach ($10 pppn), with washing up facilities, a braai stand and clean ablutions. The restaurant is also nice, we had kampango, chips and salad for 5k mkw. We also went on a snorkelling trip to Thumbi island with Rodwell Phiri (+265 997 120 797) who you could contact via the lodge, too. It was a brilliant experience - a highlight of our time in Malawi!

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Nice secluded / private campsite close enough to experience the village life but far enough to enjoy the tranquility of the lake. Amenities great and a local boat trip (@$30pp) to Thumbi island is a must. We will be back!!!!

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We are not sure why others say the campsite is forgotten - it has all facilities in working order. Kitchen sink, nice spacious ablutions, power and braai. We do see how some of the spots on the higher level are uneven and near the generator which runs to up to 4 hrs a day (during power cuts only). We parked at the front under the tree - be aware that monkeys are a nuisance and not scared of people at all. The staff is friendly, we had dinner in the restaurant - the food was very delicious. Main course at 6500mkw. Even tough we were the only customers staff gave us a 1st class service. Wood a bit expensive at 2500 mwk per bundle.

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Nice lodge with beautiful view over the lake. They are not super focused on the campsite, but we found a nice flat spot overlooking the lake. Good ablutions and they organised a day trip on the lake for us with some locals which was super cool. $10 pppn which is a little bit on the high side, but we stayed 3 nights because we liked it.

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We stopped to have a look but decided to carry on. Seems like a nice lodge but the camping area didn't do anything for us. Very uneven on sand and rocks and no shade. Generator right there. There is one campsite that is level with grass but was occupied. We didn't feel you get value for $10pp.

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Beautiful camp spot!!! You camp next to the lake with a private beach and really nice swimming pool :-)

Drinks and food are available at the bar/restaurant.

Really nice ablutions! Only 3km from the centre of cape maclear.

Possible to pay with visa

10$/pppn

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Nice place if you do not know, pigs, the Netherlands couple of people viz photos

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You can pay with visa.
You can pay with visa.

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A very nice place. We stayed for five nights. We enjoyed the wonderful sunset & the direct view to the lake. The children love the pool. Sometimes visited by monkeys, goats & a lot of geckos. Very friendly staff - they organized us some bread in the village. There you can use also the laundry-service with a very good price.

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Extremely pleasant camp site with hot and cold water wash up facilities, lovely grassy sites with shade and a great view of the Lake, the ablution facilities is top class, very neat and clean with hot water showers, the sun set is the best on the lake, beach very private no locals washing or swimming in the lake

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Those who complain about this campsite have probably never been camping in East Africa or outside of Southern Africa. This is Such a great campsite! 10usd pppn. It has electricity, shaded place for dish washing, clean toilets and showers. The sunset view is amazing! They have an exclusive beach and also a very comfortable swimming pool. Of course if the campsite is full the experience can be spoiled but is it really the fault of the Lodge itself?

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just perfect. good amenities, wonderful views, friendly staff. we were alone and really enjoyed it. you can also use the swimming pool.

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Nice lodge, but campsites limited and clearly not a priority. Ablutions clean, but the hot water did not work in all the showers. One large lower campsite on lake edge (had four vehicles with caravans and tents) completely blocked view of lake. Another campsite on the rocks had three vehicles with caravans and tents - also blocked the view. The only available other two campsites were next to the fence in mostly sun. Children from the village constantly shouting through the fence for attention (the guard did chase them away when he saw them). Lodge may be wonderful, but there are only two nice campsites.

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Agree with other comments below. A nice campsite, but more empathise on the lodge than campers, ablutions were not great, but not the worst either. Campsite has electric points and there is a generator on site so when you loose power form the grid that kicks in. We ate at the lodge, but it was nothing special. We took a local guide to the islands and it was a great way to see Cape Maclear

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Wonderfully located, really nice private beach, ablutions good (a bit far from campsite), food nice (expensive as everywhere). Quite und peaceful. Only downside is the under water pollution through plastic bags... Recommendable, but not for bathing

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Lodge with a camping on the side. You can camp near the beach or on a rock. Great views of the lake. You can go with a catamaran around the islands and see the fish eagles. The only downside is the wall between the village. You feel a little bit locked up.

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Nice grass campsite but really this is a lodge with camping on the side. If you want a bit of atmosphere and a chance to meet other travelers this is not the place to stay.
Staff friendly camping $10pppn

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Propably the best camping experience we've had so far in Malawi. Beautiful view from the campsite. Grasdy campsite with shade, electricity and small area to do laundry and dishes. Skyband wifi and also good signal if you have airtel. Toilets and showers very clean. They have a restaurant and bar with vegetarian dishes. Not all the dishes were available. Local village next to the lodge so a little noisy. Also they bathe and wash clothes in the lake so we didn't swim in the lake. They have a sunset cruise on a catamaran for $15 pp. Camping $10pppn.

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lovely camp at the right side of the Village. There ist nothing to ad to the posts before. Water was hot in the morning and evening. We did a boatcriuse at their own Katamaran sailing boat..... great experiance

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Sites for approx 6 vehicles, 2 on lower area on beach and 4 on terrace in rocks, nearly flat. 2x 1hr power outages on both evenings we were there so noisy generator started next to pitches. Lively quite large fishing village right next to camp/lodge so usual village noises. Can use lodge facilities including TV lounge, power, restaurant and bar. Food average and menu limited - may need to pre-order for evening meal. Helpful staff. Can get very windy but sites sheltered and have good shade. Good 3G on Airtel. Some monkeys running about and village dogs barking at night but not too loud. Hot water for showers and washing up. Overall we enjoyed our stay at this beautiful site

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Very nice and somewhat secluded campsite. A few nice pitches with electricity and a roofed kitchen sink. Water and electricity are not always available though. Negotiated the price down from $10 to $8. At the time I was the only guest and although the staff are very friendly I felt rushed eating my dinner and drinking my tea, as they were closing the bar restaurant while I was still there. Great views over the beach and lake. European owners, not very talkative but friendly nonetheless. Goats roam the area, so as sometimes vervet monkeys. No children or beach boys. The place is guarded all day, but I was still warned by the staff to always close the car when leaving it alone as there is 'a man that takes things from cars' around. Great food. The fish was amazing. Ablutions are quite good, not great. Water was only just warm on the best days and plain cold on the worst.

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A great secure campsite with private beach. Campsites are basically on the beach with excellent views of lake and islands. Quiet as is tucked away in quieter side of beach.

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Quiet, private beach, camping with beach view. Good restaurant, clean ablutions! Beware of the goats/monkeys/kids coming through the camp. You can buy very good fish, ask at the reception to hook you up with a fisherman. Skyband Internet (extra charge, did not work) >> 10 USD pPpN

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Great location and facilities. Average food and can feel out of the way

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