The lodge is owned by two couples of the Giannakis family: Dimitri and Mariangeles; Chris and Sylvia. Dimitri and Chris are twin brothers, decedents of the Yiannakis family who have been in Malawi since the 1920s. They were attracted by the opportunity of being part of the government’s conservation efforts for the preservation of the magnificent Marelli islands, which were threatened by ever growing population pressures in Malawi.

In 2011 they acquired the wildlife concession for the islands, operating under Waterlands Ltd. Named after a colourful Cichlid (fish) – Blue Zebra Island Lodge officially opened to guests in October 2013, following a long process of intricate design and construction to create an unobtrusive and eco-friendly lodge on wild Nankoma Island.

Malawi is otherwise known as The Warm Heart of Africa for its friendly people. We strive to live up to this reputation! Your stay is hosted by our welcoming front of house team, but there are over 30 permanent staff who make up the Blue Zebra family, working together to ensure you have the best possible stay.