Reflects recent average nightly prices reported by our partners, and may not include estimated taxes or fees. Price at checkout may differ.
Cheaper
Average
Higher
About
4.0
#1 of 4 lodges in Nkhata Bay
Location
4.6
Rooms
3.6
Value
4.3
Cleanliness
3.6
Service
4.1
Sleep Quality
3.8
Butterfly Space is a unique socially responsible eco-lodge, on the beautiful ricky shores of lake Malawi. Our lodge support our projects to empower our community through education and sustainable development. Our bespoke accommodation suits all requirements and budgets, from spacious, secluded en-suite rooms, to cozy budget chalets, dormitories, and naturally shaded lakeside camping. Enjoy free use of snorkels & paddleboards, our hot open-air shower, have a massage, enjoy the abundance of activities offered by our community, or just sit back and relax in this amazing space.
Butterfly space is the only place I would ever stay in Nkhata Bay! The lodge has one of the best views of the lake, friendly staff and a community atmosphere. It has recently been renovated, and the kooky, eco-friendly. Permaculture based design make it unlike anywhere else I have stayed in Malawi. I stayed in the Lakeview room, which has a self contained shower and toilet, and an amazing view over the lake! It was the perfect spot for a relaxing, romantic get away.
But what makes Butterfly so special is the people. Everyone that works there goes an extra mile to make you feel at home. Being a non-for profit lodge, the local community is central to everything Butterfly does- and it shows. There is a community run kitchen, and the lodge works with a locally owned kayak company and massage parlour. If I had more time, I would definitely volunteer here and get involved in some of their projects!
I really could not recommend Butterfly space more. Living in Malawi I come here as regularly as I can, and always stay longer than planned!
Read more
Date of stay: May 2021
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
With some newly renovated rooms, this gem in Nkhata Bay is truly a beautiful experience. We stayed in the Lake View chalet which was spacious, clean, well decorated and had a beautiful balcony and view. We enjoyed the self contained composting toilets and warm showers. The restaurant is fantastic as well with sweeping views across the lake. And the long deck by the bar is a great place to chill. The water is easy to access, private and not over crowded so plenty of space to swim! The lodge was super flexible with our odd hours of arrival due to the Ilala ferry and helped with our car. Thanks Butterfly for the great service and visit!
Read more
Date of stay: May 2021Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Butterfly space is the only place I would ever stay in Nkhata Bay! The lodge has one of the best views of the lake, friendly staff and a community atmosphere. It has recently been renovated, and the kooky, eco-friendly. Permaculture based design make it unlike anywhere else I have stayed in Malawi. I stayed in the Lakeview room, which has a self contained shower and toilet, and an amazing view over the lake! It was the perfect spot for a relaxing, romantic get away.
But what makes Butterfly so special is the people. Everyone that works there goes an extra mile to make you feel at home. Being a non-for profit lodge, the local community is central to everything Butterfly does- and it shows. There is a community run kitchen, and the lodge works with a locally owned kayak company and massage parlour. If I had more time, I would definitely volunteer here and get involved in some of their projects!
I really could not recommend Butterfly space more, I have been coming regularly since 2017.
Read more
Date of stay: May 2021
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I should start by saying that I have known the owners at Butterfly Space for 15 years. However, I have never stayed there, so my review is genuine.
I stayed in the Beach Room. Its a big wooden cabin sitting on the rocks above a small beach over the lake. A great start! The bed was comfy and there was a good net. An en-suite bathroom with an outside shower was very cool and there was a compost loo too.
The lodge hosts volunteers and back-packers and has a relaxed vibe and an eco-friendly philosophy.
It is 'cheap as chips' and well worth visiting when in Nkhata Bay. The food is great too and there is a nice bar deck over the lake.
Read more
Date of stay: February 2023
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:The beach room has amazing character
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This place is lovely and with some changes it could be excellent. The location is amazing. It is right next to the lake which is crystal clear and full of amazing plants and wildlife. Did not meet the owners unlike in other lodges but the staff are all fabulous - super friendly and helpful. Shout out to Donna especially. The lodge itself is on a hill so has a lot of steps which we didn’t mind but just a warming for those with heavy bags, suitcases, or mobility issues. The shower is an outdoor one and the toilet is a compostable loo so very outdoorsy but we found it quite charming! For the few days we were, there they were fun to use. There is a nice restaurant at the top serving nice enough food and a bar area at the bottom which overlooks the lake. There is free filtered water at the bar but it is very slow and often empty so would recommend for the lodge to get some more of those. Would suggest introducing some deck chairs or other comfier seats but overall both areas are nicely decorated and would be really comfy to sit if it were not for the thousands of ants everywhere. The ants and insects really became a problem when we were trying eat or relax. This issue extended to the rooms. There were ants everywhere which we didn’t mind, and whilst we are not looking for luxury, we do want clean, insect-free beds. I would wake up every morning with about 15 dead ants in my bed. Our beds were also dirty and smelt. I am not usually one to leave a negative review but want to leave this feedback because if it was solved, and it is clearly a reoccurring issue based on past reviews, it would significantly improve an experience at Butterfly. It is overall a lovely lodge, it just needs some attention.
Read more
Date of stay: October 2024Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The best place in Malawi we have stayed in two months by far. Run by the most awesome crew of Josie, Holly, Stefan and their team, they make such welcoming, fun, and hospitable hosts. We have loved our time here so much, the food is delicious, the local staff are such good kind people, great access to the lake via a private beach. Butterfly is also such a force for good in the community with so many great projects. We volunteered at the primary school for 5 weeks which was so rewarding and such a great insight into local life . Couldn’t rate it higher!
Read more
Date of stay: October 2021Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It feels like home every time we arrive. We have visited Butterfly Space on a few occasions, most recently this month. Its perfect location on the lake, beautiful rooms, delish food and drinks and welcoming staff make it one of our best lodges in Malawi! Yes, you should definitely put it top of your list! Yewo chomene to the team :)
Read more
Date of stay: August 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I’m currently in the midst of a three-month internship here, and it has been an extraordinary experience. After exploring various accommodations in Nkhata Bay, I can confidently say this one stands out as the best. The quality of the food is exceptional, and the bar offers a great selection in a welcoming environment. The staff are incredibly friendly and attentive, making each day enjoyable. The rooms are comfortable and well-maintained, but it’s the overall atmosphere that truly sets this place apart. If you're planning to visit Nkhata Bay, I highly recommend staying here for an unforgettable experience!
Read more
Date of stay: July 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I had an amazing stay at butterfly lodge. It’s a very special place. Just beautiful located on lake Malawi with amazing food and so friendly staff. The food is amazing and the rooms are lovely. I met so many amazing people here. I was able to borrow a stand up paddle board and mask and snorkel for free which was amazing ☺️
Read more
Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Traveled solo
Room Tip:It’s an amazing place just the perfect place to stay
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I first went to Butterfly in 2014 and have been a regular visitor ever since. Its the best place to go and just chill, such easy vibes. The bar area is right on the lake with a big coconut tree over it, its a real tropical paradise! I love the owners, the staff and the whole ethos! You are made to feel at home instantly. Visitors should make sure they have the right expectations - there are only compost toilets but that is part of the experience and is all part of ensuring there is a minimal impact on the beautiful environment.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2021
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
There are more places to choose from in the Nkhata Bay area.
PRICE RANGE
$28 - $30 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
MalawiNorthern RegionNkhata Bay
NUMBER OF ROOMS
12
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
