Dry Season
May to October offers cooler temperatures and less rain, ideal for wildlife viewing.
Travel guide
Malawi
Malawi, known as the 'Warm Heart of Africa', offers stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich wildlife. From the shores of Lake Malawi to the peaks of the Nyika Plateau, this country is a hidden gem for travelers seeking adventure and tranquility.
Panorama_Blick_auf_das_Zomba_Plateau_vom_Ndangopuma_Hügel.jpg : Rockwurm derivat · CC BY-SA 3.0- Best MonthsMay to October
- AirportsLilongwe, Blantyre
- TransitMinibuses, taxis, domestic flights
- Power230V, 50Hz
- Tipping10% is common
- LanguageChichewa, English
01
When to go
The best time to visit Malawi is during the dry season, from May to October, when temperatures are cooler and wildlife is easier to spot.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
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Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Wet Season
November to April sees heavy rains, making travel challenging but lush landscapes.
Shoulder Season
April and May are transitional months with moderate weather and fewer tourists.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Urban
Lilongwe
The capital city offers a mix of modern amenities and cultural experiences, including markets and museums.
Busy city life can be overwhelming.
Cultural
Blantyre
Known for its colonial architecture and vibrant arts scene, Blantyre is a hub for culture and history.
Less touristy than other cities.
Nature
Zomba
Home to the Zomba Plateau, this area offers stunning views and hiking opportunities.
Cooler climate at higher elevations.
Lakeside
Nkhata Bay
A picturesque town on Lake Malawi, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
Popular among backpackers.
Rural
Mzuzu
The gateway to the northern lakes and mountains, Mzuzu is known for its coffee and local markets.
Less developed infrastructure.
Wildlife
Liwonde National Park
Stay near this park for wildlife viewing and boat safaris on the Shire River.
Limited accommodation options.
Beach
Cape Maclear
A popular beach destination on Lake Malawi, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Can be crowded during peak season.
Adventure
Nyika National Park
Experience the unique highland ecosystem and diverse wildlife in this remote park.
Access can be challenging.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Nsima
A staple food made from maize, often served with vegetables or meat. Look for it in local eateries.
→ Try it with different relishes.
Chambo
A delicious fish from Lake Malawi, often grilled or fried. Available at lakeside restaurants.
→ Best enjoyed fresh.
Kachumbari
A refreshing tomato and onion salad, commonly served as a side dish. Found in many local homes.
→ Perfect with grilled meats.
Samp
Crushed maize often cooked with beans, a hearty dish found in rural areas.
→ A filling option for lunch.
Mkhwani
A traditional stew made with groundnuts, often served with rice or nsima. Look for it in local markets.
→ Rich in flavor.
Mango
Fresh mangoes are abundant in Malawi, especially during the harvest season. Available at roadside stalls.
→ A sweet treat to enjoy.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Lake Malawi
One of Africa's largest lakes, known for its clear waters and diverse fish species.
Liwonde National Park
Famous for its wildlife, including hippos and elephants, best explored by boat.
Nyika Plateau
A stunning highland area with unique flora and fauna, perfect for hiking.
Zomba Plateau
Offers breathtaking views and hiking trails, a great spot for nature lovers.
Chichewa Cultural Village
Experience traditional Malawian culture through music, dance, and crafts.
Mount Mulanje
A prominent mountain range ideal for trekking and exploring unique ecosystems.
Kuti Wildlife Reserve
A lesser-known reserve with opportunities for walking safaris and wildlife viewing.
The Old Boma
A historical site in Blantyre that showcases colonial architecture.
Mua Mission
A cultural and educational center that offers insights into Malawian traditions.
Cape Maclear
A beautiful beach area on Lake Malawi, great for relaxation and water sports.
Nkhata Bay
A charming town known for its scenic views and water activities.
Malawi National Museum
Showcases the history and culture of Malawi through various exhibits.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
International Arrivals
Lilongwe International Airport (LLW) and Chileka International Airport (BLZ) serve as the main entry points.
LLWLilongwe
BLZBlantyre
Local Transport
Minibuses and taxis are the primary means of transport within cities.
Domestic Flights
Several airlines operate flights between major cities and tourist destinations.
Car Rentals
Available in major cities for those who prefer to drive.
Biking
Biking is a popular way to explore rural areas and national parks.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Malawi uses type G plugs, so bring an adapter.
Cash
ATMs are available in cities, but carry cash for rural areas.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up the bill.
Language
Chichewa is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A week is ideal to explore major attractions.