Travel to Malawi

Malawi in numbers

Why visit Malawi

A lake like an inland sea, plus mountains and parks within a few hours' drive

Where to go

The lake, Mulanje, the southern parks and the cities

The country is long and narrow from north to south: most travellers combine a few nights by the lake, a stop in the mountains and one or two parks. Distances are short but roads are narrow, so allow plenty of time for each leg.

Lake Malawi, Cape Maclear and the beaches

Between Mangochi and Monkey Bay lies the biggest cluster of lodges on the lake. Round the headland, Cape Maclear and the UNESCO-listed Lake Malawi National Park are a natural aquarium: you swim and snorkel among colourful tropical fish and reach the islets by kayak or boat. Further north, Senga Bay, Nkhata Bay and Likoma Island give other moods, and the mv Ilala ferry links several lake ports.

Mount Mulanje and the Zomba Plateau

Mulanje rises like a granite fortress above the tea estates of the south. Hikes last from one day to several, between mountain huts, waterfalls and forest, aiming for Sapitwa, Malawi's highest peak. The more accessible Zomba Plateau has shaded trails and viewpoints over the plains. Pack warm clothes: nights are cool from June to August.

Liwonde, Majete, Nkhotakota and Nyika: wildlife

Liwonde is known for boat safaris on the Shire, where you meet hippos, crocodiles and elephants, and for walking safaris. Majete, a reserve where big game has been restocked, has become a Big Five destination, and rugged Nkhotakota is home to relocated elephants. In the north, the Nyika Plateau is explored by 4x4 or on foot in search of zebras, antelope and wildflowers.

Lilongwe, Blantyre and the cities

Lilongwe, the capital, is spread out and green: markets, a wildlife centre in the middle of town and restaurants. Blantyre, the commercial city of the south, is the base for Mulanje and the Shire valley. Mzuzu is the gateway to the north. To extend your trip in the region, see also our Mozambique page or our Zambia page.

Before you go

A rainy season from November to April and a dry season that suits safaris

Region	Climate	Best time to visit
Lake Malawi shore	Hot and humid in the rains, with highs of about 27 to 29 C. From June to August, mild days around 23 C.	May to October for the weather, all year for swimming
South (Blantyre, Mulanje, Zomba)	Rain from November to April. At altitude, cool winter nights, 6 to 8 C on Mulanje.	May to October for hiking
Southern parks (Liwonde, Majete)	Hot and humid in summer, warm and dry in winter. Animals gather near water late in the dry season.	May to October
North (Nyika, Mzuzu)	Altitude, fresh air, mist possible. Green grassland during and after the rains, drier afterwards.	April to October depending on flowers or safaris

The rainy months make some tracks difficult and nights warmer by the lake, but the country is greener. Dates vary from year to year, so check forecasts before booking accommodation.

Getting around

Narrow roads, car hire and regional flights

Main roads are tarred but narrow, with potholes possible, and traffic drives on the left. Avoid driving at night, as people and animals use the roads. Car hire companies operate in Lilongwe and Blantyre; many travellers prefer a driver-guide for the parks.

Malawi Airlines links Lilongwe, Blantyre and several neighbouring countries, and bush airlines serve a few lodges. On the lake, the mv Ilala ferry and lodge boats reach beaches that have no road.

Malawian food

Nsima, chambo and Mulanje tea

Nsima, a thick maize porridge, is the base of nearly every meal: you roll a ball in your hand and dip it in vegetable, bean, meat or fish relish. Chambo, a lake fish grilled or fried, is the dish to look for by the water.

In the cities you will find Indian and South African restaurants and grills. In the south, the tea estates around Mulanje and Thyolo can be visited and finish with a cup in front of the mountains.

Flying to Malawi

The Malawian airport covered by SniperAir

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Malawi