Malawi

Malawi: general info for travelers

Malawi is a landlocked country in southeastern Africa. It is bordered by Tanzania to the north, Zambia to the west, and Mozambique to the east, south and west. The country is known for its beautiful landscapes that include mountains, forests, plateaus, and the famous Lake Malawi. The lake is home to a wide variety of fish species, making it a popular destination for fishing and water sports. It is also home to several national parks and wildlife reserves, which offer opportunities for safari tours and game viewing. Malawi's people are known for their warmth and friendliness, and the country has a rich cultural heritage that is expressed in traditional dances, music, and art. The official language is English, while the local language is Chewa. The economy is primarily based on agriculture, with tobacco being the main cash crop, and the country faces challenges such as poverty, HIV/AIDS and food insecurity. Despite these challenges, Malawi remains a beautiful and welcoming destination for travelers who enjoy nature, culture, and adventure.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Malawi, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Malawi: places to visit

Malawi is a beautiful country with many amazing places to visit. Here are some of the main places you should consider visiting: 1. Lake Malawi National Park: This park is located along the shores of Lake Malawi, the third-largest lake in Africa. It is home to a diverse range of aquatic life, including over 500 species of cichlid fish. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking, as well as hiking in the surrounding hills.
2. Liwonde National Park: This park is located in the south of Malawi and is home to elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can enjoy safari tours to see these animals up close, as well as boat tours on the Shire River.
3. Chongoni Rock Art Area: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to around 100 rock art sites that date back over 2,000 years. The rock paintings depict scenes from everyday life, as well as spiritual practices and ceremonies.
4. Nyika National Park: This park is located in the north of Malawi and is known for its grassy plains, rolling hills, and stunning views. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing in the park, which is home to antelopes, zebras, and a variety of bird species.
5. Mount Mulanje: This mountain is the highest peak in Malawi, and visitors can enjoy hiking to the summit, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The mountain is also home to a variety of wildlife, including baboons, monkeys, and leopards.
There is more to see and do in Malawi: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Malawi: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Malawi, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Malawi has a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season lasts from November to April, with the heaviest rainfall typically occurring in December and January. The dry season runs from May to October.
The best time to visit Malawi is during the dry season, from May to October. The weather during this time is warm and dry, with clear skies and plenty of sunshine. This is also the best time to go on safari, as the wildlife gathers around water sources and is easier to spot. However, if you are interested in birdwatching, the wet season from November to April is the best time to go. This is when the migratory birds arrive in Malawi and the landscape is lush and green.

Malawi: activities and what to do

Malawi has a wide range of activities and sports to offer to visitors. Here are some options: 1. Lake activities: Lake Malawi is the perfect destination for water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, sailing, and swimming.
2. Hiking and trekking: Malawi has several beautiful hiking trails, including Mount Mulanje, Zomba Plateau, and Nyika National Park.
3. Wildlife safari: Visitors can explore game reserves such as Liwonde National Park, Majete Wildlife Reserve, and Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve.
4. Cultural tourism: Malawi has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore traditional villages and cultural sites such as the Chongoni Rock Art Area.
5. Cycling: Malawi has several cycling routes that provide breathtaking views of the countryside.
6. Golfing: Malawi has a few golf courses that offer players lovely scenery and relaxing atmosphere.
7. Bird watching: Malawi is a birdwatching paradise with over 650 bird species spotted.
All in all, Malawi offers plenty of activities and sports activities for visitors to enjoy during their trip.

Malawi: few words on history and culture

Malawi has a rich history and culture dating back hundreds of years. The earliest known inhabitants of the area were the Bantu-speaking tribes who settled in the region around the 10th century. These tribes included the Chewa, Tumbuka, Nyanja, Yao, and Lomwe. Malawi was colonized by the British in the late 19th century and remained under British rule until gaining independence in 1964. During this time, the British introduced Christianity and a formal education system, which has influenced the country's culture to this day.
The culture of Malawi is diverse, with many different ethnic groups and traditions. Music and dance are important parts of the culture, and the Malawi International Festival of Arts, known as Lake of Stars Festival, is an annual event celebrating music, art, and culture. Matrilineality is also an important aspect of the culture in Malawi, where descent and inheritance are passed down through the mother's family line. Traditional dress, festivals, and rituals are still practiced today, alongside modern influences.

Malawi: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Malawi largely depends on where you are traveling from and your budget. However, the most common and convenient means of transport to reach Malawi is by air. Major airlines like Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, South African Airways, and Emirates have daily flights that connect Malawi to major cities worldwide.
Once in Malawi, you can get around by public transport, shared minibus taxis, and private taxi services. Buses and minibusses are the most popular and cost-effective way to travel around Malawi, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. Private taxi services are more expensive but more comfortable and convenient. Additionally, renting a car is possible if you prefer a more independent and flexible mode of transport. To hire a car to visit Malawi, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Malawi: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Malawi with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Malawi: 1. Nsima: This is a staple food in Malawi, made from maize flour and water. It is similar to a thick porridge and is served with relish, which can be made of vegetables, meat, or fish. Nsima is eaten with the hands, and is a common dish for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
2. Chambo: This is a type of fish that is found in Lake Malawi and is a popular dish throughout the country. It is usually grilled or fried and served with nsima and a tomato or onion sauce.
3. Mandasi: This is a type of fried bread that is similar to doughnuts, and is a popular snack in Malawi. Mandasi can be eaten with tea or coffee, or as a dessert with sugar or honey.
4. Nyama: This is a generic term for meat, and can refer to any type of meat, including beef, goat, or chicken. Meat is usually eaten with nsima and relish.
5. Matapa: This is a dish made from crushed cassava or groundnuts, mixed with tomatoes, onions, and coconut milk. It is usually served as a side dish with nsima and meat.
These are just a few of the main typical foods of Malawi, and there are many more regional variations and dishes to explore.

Malawi: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Malawi is generally considered to be an affordable destination for travelers. With a low cost of living compared to many other countries, visitors can expect to find reasonably priced accommodation, food, and activities throughout the country. Of course, prices will vary depending on the level of luxury desired and the specific location within Malawi. However, compared to other African countries, Malawi is often seen as a budget-friendly option for tourists.

Malawi: where to find accodation

There are various platforms where you can look for accommodation in Malawi. 1. Booking.com - This website has a wide range of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury hotels.
2. Airbnb - Airbnb is a great platform to look for unique and affordable accommodation options in Malawi such as apartments, villas, and houses.
3. Tripadvisor - In addition to reviews and recommendations from other travelers, Tripadvisor is also a platform where you can search for accommodation in Malawi.
4. Agoda - Agoda offers various accommodation options in Malawi ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury five-star hotels.
5. Malawi Accommodation - Malawi Accommodation is a website that lists various lodging options in Malawi. It is always a good idea to read reviews and compare prices before making a decision.
You can check hotel prices in Malawi here:
Booking.com

Malawi: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the latest data from the World Tourism Organization, Malawi received around 1.8 million tourists in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism industry has been impacted across the world, including in Malawi, and the numbers may have decreased since then.
In terms of crowded periods, Malawi does not usually experience massive crowds of tourists, even during peak travel seasons. However, some of the busiest times of the year in Malawi are during national holidays and festivals, such as the Christmas and New Year holidays, Easter, and the Lake of Stars Music festival in September. It's always a good idea to plan your trip to Malawi in advance if you are traveling during peak periods to ensure that you can secure accommodations and activities that you want.
Malawi is generally a safe country for tourists, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, like any other country, there are certain areas that should be avoided. Areas that are known as being unsafe or prone to crime include the urban areas of Blantyre and Lilongwe, particularly after dark. As a tourist, it is generally advisable to avoid isolated areas at night as well as large gatherings and demonstrations, as they can sometimes turn violent. It is also advisable to exercise caution when using public transport, particularly minibuses and buses, as they can be overcrowded and involved in accidents. It is always best to use registered taxis or private transportation if possible. Overall, with proper precautions and common sense, tourists can have an enjoyable and safe trip to Malawi.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Malawi on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Malawi: events for tourists

Malawi offers a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, which showcase the country's culture, music, and traditions. Some of the most interesting events for tourists in Malawi include: 1. Lake of Stars Festival: Held in September, this music festival takes place on the shores of Lake Malawi and features both local and international acts.
2. Malawi International Trade Fair: Held in May, this is the largest trade fair in the country and attracts exhibitors from all over the world.
3. Zomba Festival of Arts and Culture: Held in July, this festival celebrates the arts and culture of Malawi with music, dance, drama, and visual arts.
4. Likoma Island Swimming Challenge: This is an annual event held in August where swimmers make the 4-kilometer swim to Likoma Island on Lake Malawi.
5. Lake Malawi Sailing Marathon: Held in August, this sailing marathon sees teams from all over the world race around the stunning Lake Malawi.
These are just a few of the many events and festivals that take place in Malawi throughout the year.

Malawi: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Malawi, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Here is a two week travel itinerary for Malawi: Day 1-2: Lilongwe Arrive in Lilongwe and spend a day or two exploring the capital city. Visit the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre and the Kamuzu Mausoleum for some history and culture. Sample traditional Malawian food at the local markets or restaurants.
Day 3-4: Lake Malawi Take a scenic drive to Lake Malawi, the third largest lake in Africa. Spend a couple of days relaxing on the sandy beaches, swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Don't miss a visit to the Cape Maclear Nature Reserve and Monkey Bay.
Day 5-6: Liwonde National Park Visit the Liwonde National Park, which is home to wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes. Enjoy a boat safari or a walking safari to experience the wildlife up close.
Day 7-8: Zomba Plateau Take a trip to Zomba Plateau, which is known for its scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views. Don't miss the Nchisi Forest Reserve and the Zomba Botanical Garden.
Day 9-10: Mulanje Mountain Visit the impressive Mulanje Mountain, which offers stunning views and hiking opportunities. Explore the mountain trails and visit the local villages to learn about the history and culture of the people living in the area.
Day 11-12: Mzuzu Spend a day or two in Mzuzu, the third largest city in Malawi, to experience the local culture. Visit the Mzuzu Cultural Museum, walk around the local markets, and sample some traditional Malawian dishes.
Day 13-14: Nyika National Park End your trip with a visit to Nyika National Park, which is located on a plateau that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Take a safari to see wildlife such as zebras, antelopes, and leopards, and enjoy some birdwatching too.
I hope you find this itinerary helpful when planning your trip to Malawi!

Malawi: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Malawi described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Balaka is a town located in the southern region of Malawi. It is the capital of Balaka District and has a population of about 45,000 people. The town is situated along the main highway that connects M... CONTINUE here for a trip to Balaka
- Blantyre is a city located in the southern region of Malawi, East Africa. It is the second largest city in the country after Lilongwe, the capital. Blantyre serves as the center of commerce, finance, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Blantyre
- Chikwawa is a town located in the southern region of Malawi, near the border with Mozambique. It is the capital of the Chikwawa District, which is an area with a mostly rural population and agricultur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chikwawa
- Chintheche is a town located on the northern shores of Lake Malawi in Malawi. It is known for its beautiful, white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. The town is a popular tourist destination due... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chintheche
- Chiradzulu is a district located in the Southern Region of Malawi, bordered by Blantyre to the west and Mulanje to the east. The district has a population of approximately 236,000 people and covers an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chiradzulu
- Chiromo is a small town located in the northern region of Malawi, along the shores of Lake Malawi. It is a popular destination for tourists who come to enjoy the sandy beaches, clear waters, and stunn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chiromo
- Chitipa is a district located in the northern region of Malawi, bordering Tanzania and Zambia. The district is known for its hilly terrain, with elevations ranging from 900 to over 2,000 meters above ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chitipa
- Dedza is a town in the central region of Malawi. It is the administrative center for the Dedza District and is located about 100 kilometers south of the capital city, Lilongwe. The town sits at an ele... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dedza
- Dowa is a district located in the Central Region of Malawi. It is bordered by the districts of Lilongwe to the south, Nkhotakota to the east, Kasungu to the north, and Mponela to the west. The distric... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dowa
- Karonga is a district in the Northern Region of Malawi, bordering Tanzania to the north and Lake Malawi to the east. It is located about 400 km from Lilongwe, the capital city of Malawi. The town of K... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karonga
- Kasungu is a town located in central Malawi, approximately 120 kilometers north of the capital city, Lilongwe. It is the administrative capital of Kasungu district and has a population of around 42,00... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kasungu
- Likoma Island is a small tropical island located in Lake Malawi, which is the third-largest lake in Africa. The island is part of Malawi and is known for its picturesque scenery, sandy beaches, and cr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Likoma
- Lilongwe is the capital city of Malawi, located in the central region of the country. With a population of over one million people, it is the largest city in Malawi. It is known for being a modern cit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lilongwe
- Luchenza is a small town located in the southern region of Malawi, near the border with Mozambique. It is the administrative capital of Thyolo District and has a population of around 15,000 people. Lu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Luchenza
- Mangochi is a town located in the Southern Region of Malawi, bordering the southern end of Lake Malawi. It is the administrative center of the Mangochi District and is a popular destination for touris... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mangochi
- Mchinji is a district in the Central Region of Malawi, bordering Zambia to the west. It is located about 120 km northwest of the capital city, Lilongwe. The district has a population of around 500,000... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mchinji
- Monkey Bay is a small port town located on the southern shores of Lake Malawi in the Salima District of Malawi. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and cr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Monkey Bay
- Mponela is a small town in the Central Region of Malawi, located about 60 kilometers north of the capital city, Lilongwe. It is situated near the foothills of the Lilongwe Plateau and has a population... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mponela
- Mulanje is a city located in the southern region of Malawi, near the border with Mozambique. It is situated at the base of the Mulanje Massif, which is a granite mountain range and is the highest peak... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mulanje
- Mwanza is actually a city in Tanzania, not Malawi. It is located on the southern shore of Lake Victoria and is the second-largest city in the country after Dar es Salaam. The city is known for its fis... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mwanza
- Mzimba is a district located in the Northern part of Malawi. It is predominantly rural, with agriculture being the main economic activity. The district is known for its production of tobacco and maize... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mzimba
- Mzuzu is the fourth largest city in Malawi located in the northern region of the country. It is the capital of the Northern Region and the Mzimba district. The city is situated near the shores of Lake... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mzuzu
- Neno is a district located in the southern part of Malawi, bordering Mozambique to the east and Zambia to the west. It is a rural area with a population of around 150,000 people, primarily engaged in ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Neno
- Nkhata Bay is a town located in the northern part of Malawi, near the shores of Lake Malawi. It is a popular destination for tourists due to its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and abundant marine li... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nkhata Bay
- Nkhotakota is a district in the Central Region of Malawi. It is located on the western shore of Lake Malawi, and its administrative center is the town of Nkhotakota. The district is known for its beau... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nkhotakota
- Nsanje is a town located in southern Malawi, near the border with Mozambique. It is the main commercial center of the Nsanje District and is situated at the confluence of the Shire and Zambezi rivers.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nsanje
- Ntcheu is a town located in the central region of Malawi, east of the capital Lilongwe. It is the capital of Ntcheu District and has a population of approximately 30,000 people. Ntcheu is mainly an ag... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ntcheu
- Ntchisi is a district located in the Central Region of Malawi. Its administrative center is the town of Ntchisi, which is situated on a plateau overlooking the Ntchisi Forest Reserve. The district has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ntchisi
- Phalombe is a district located in the Southern Region of Malawi. It is bordered by the districts of Mulanje to the southeast, Thyolo to the southwest, Chiradzulu to the west, Blantyre to the north, an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Phalombe
- Rumphi is a district located in the Northern Region of Malawi. It has a population of approximately 215,000 people and covers an area of 3,628 square kilometers. The district's capital is Rumphi, whic... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rumphi
- Salima is a town located in the central region of Malawi, near the southern end of Lake Malawi. It is the administrative center of Salima District, and it has a population of approximately 50,000 peop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Salima
- Thyolo is a district located in the southern region of Malawi. It is known for its spectacular scenery, including rolling hills, tea plantations, and the Mulanje Massif mountain range. The district ha... CONTINUE here for a trip to Thyolo
- Zomba is a city in the southern region of Malawi, located about 70 kilometers northeast of Blantyre. It is the former capital city of Malawi and is known for its historic colonial architecture, pictur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zomba


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