Experience the culture, traditions and village life of Cape Maclear
Whether you’re visiting Cape Maclear for a relaxing getaway, an authentic cultural experience, volunteering, or planning a university program, Chipatso offers a unique opportunity to connect with the local community while enjoying our unique accommodations.
Volunteering & Long Term Stays
University & Educational Programs
Community Impact & Cultural Experiences
Located in the rural village of Cape Maclear, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chipatso is just a four minute walk to the shores of Lake Malawi with the most species of freshwater fish than anywhere in the world (1,800+ species). We are dedicated to supporting single mothers, children from vulnerable backgrounds by providing them with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
Contact us to plan your visit
What We've Built
Chipatso has created a safe and supportive community where families can rebuild their lives. Our initiatives include:
Housing: Two single mother families currently occupy 2 houses on site. These women run our nutrition program and offer a unique insight into everyday life in the village.
Education: Our scholarship fund supports 58 students, from preschool through college.
Nutrition: We provide 2 daily meals to 50 learners during the school year and 60 during breaks, ensuring no child in our program goes hungry.
We believe that education opens doors to better job opportunities, allowing families to become self-sufficient. As mothers secure stable employment, they can transition out of Chipatso, making room for other families in need.
A Village Within a Village
Chipatso is more than a lodge - it's a thriving community. Our site includes:
Single-mother homes • 1/2 acre farm • The Knighting Nutrition/Education Center • Chippy’s Restaurant • 6 Lodges • Volunteer quarters • Chipatso Supermarket • Hilden Bakery • Nelson Recycling Center and more!
These initiatives provide employment opportunities for single mothers in Cape Maclear. Currently, we employ 10 women out of a staff of 15.
Volunteer With Us
Experience the heart of Chipatso firsthand! Share your skills with our community. Whether it's cooking, art, crafts, sewing, music or something else, we welcome you.
We especially need help with:
Painting & decorating • Tiling & grouting • Gardening • Preparing & serving food • English and Math tutoring • Teaching new skills to our mothers and children
Your Stay at Chipatso
Our lodges are just a 4 minute walk to the shores of Lake Malawi (best sunsets in the world!) and many restaurants. The site is fully enclosed with 24-hour security, though it's safe for women to walk in the village alone at night.
We are conveniently located behind the Billy Riordan Medical Center, which offers transport to larger hospitals if needed. The center is staffed by qualified English-speaking doctors and nurses, with medication available for various needs.
During your stay you'll have access to:
Hot water in all lodges but the dormitory and volunteer house • AC in 3 lodges • Private patios in 2 lodges • Unique Accommodations with western-style toilets and showers • Multiple electrical outlets • Chipatso's own restaurant along with a wheelchair accessible outdoor dining area • Fire pit • Performance stage • Conference center with seating for 100 people • On-site Supermarket & Bakery • Cultural Center • Camp ground • On-site parking that can accommodate over sized vehicles
While occasional outages may occur, we'll do our best to make your stay is as comfortable as possible.
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