Volunteer
Take a look at our volunteer opportunities, and internship programmes on out Volunteering Page, and read our reviews and recommendations to see how we offer a unique experience.
Our non-profit lodge supports initiatives focusing on education and sustainability on and off site in Nkhata Bay.
“Our vision is to develop an inclusive and unique space, where we support sustainable projects and encourage self-advocacy by empowering those who benefit from the projects to govern & develop them.”
Our lodge is located on the crystal clear shores of Lake Malawi offering accommodation to suit all budgets. We have a spacious lakeside campsite, dormitories and secluded self-contained chalets. Our bar hosts regular events and our restaurant serves delicious international dishes and desserts. We also host regular activities for our guests including hikes, workshops, open mic nights and more!
Our grassroots projects offer varied impactful volunteering opportunities. Volunteering is an enriching experience which will immerse you into a welcoming new culture, contribute to your education & personal growth.
So whether you are a family or backpacker wanting to kick back and relax, or a gap year intern looking to volunteer in Malawi, we have something for everyone.
From dormitories, naturally shaded lakeside camping to secluded bespoke self-contained chalets, there’s something for all requirements & budgets. You will love our picturesque & sociable lakeside bar that serves delicious cocktails, beers, & wines. The lodge overlooks the lake & forested mountains of Nkhata Bay. The restaurant offers delicious international food, including pizza, smoothies & desserts. Stroll through our permaculture gardens, make free use of use our gym, snorkels & paddleboards. Use our hot open air shower with amazing views, and relax on our private beach in hammocks and enjoy this amazing space!
We are a registered UK charity trying to make positive changes to our community and environment. The owners, friends who met in Malawi, bought Butterfly Space in 2007 with a desire to develop a community hub encouraging socially responsible travel. We offer affordable and impactful volunteer and internship programs which provide educational, practical & creative opportunities. Butterfly Space is respectful of the environment with a focus on sustainability & green initiatives. The owners live on-site and work hands-on with the grassroots projects, working directly with the community, volunteers, and interns to make these projects succeed.
Our non-profit status means that, by staying with us as a guest, you can help us to financially support our diverse community projects. We are registered as a UK charity and reinvest 100% of our profits back into our community.
For this, our unique Lodge has been chosen as Lonely Planet’s ‘Top Pick’ for accommodation in Nkhata Bay in the latest edition of Southern Africa. The lodge was also highlighted for its picturesque beauty. We are now excited to be featuring on MalawiTourism.com.
Please support our projects. Without the generosity and support we have received over the years, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do!
Thank you, from all of the Butterfly team!
A small and easy-to-navigate country offering an abundance of activities and natural beauty, Malawi is the perfect country for all types of travelers, no matter what the budget. Labeled as the ‘warm heart of Africa’ because of the kind and friendly nature of its people, Malawi always makes its visitors feel welcomed and safe. An abundance of wildlife & nature can be enjoyed all over the country, boasting many affordable game reserves, national parks, world-class hiking at Mount Mulanje, and its prized jewel, the Lake. You can explore on scuba safaris, snorkel, swim & enjoy its golden sandy beaches & stunning views. The adventure of a lifetime awaits!
Nkhata Bay is a bustling and lively market town with a beautiful harbor, surrounded by sheltered bays with forested, rocky headlands. The crystal clear waters host abundant colorful fish and are so large you feel like you are swimming in the ocean! The town center is full of life, with vibrant markets, restaurants, and craft shops. The sense of community is truly the best part of Nkhata Bay, along with the abundance of activities for visitors to enjoy. Activities include village and mountain hikes, overnight canoe trips, drumming workshops, local cooking classes, boat trips, scuba diving, and more. See our ‘Activities‘ Page for more information.
Take a look at our volunteer opportunities, and internship programmes on out Volunteering Page, and read our reviews and recommendations to see how we offer a unique experience.