Things To Do
in Malawi
Malawi is a landlocked country in southeastern Africa known for its shimmering Lake Malawi, the country’s lifeblood and top travel draw. The lake's crystal-clear waters are lined with sandy beaches, fishing villages, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. The interior rolls with forested plateaus, highlands, and wildlife-rich reserves where nature comes close to visitors.
Malawians are renowned for their warmth and hospitality, making travel here welcoming, affordable, and easy to navigate.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Lilongwe, the capital city of Malawi, and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to refresh after your journey and get acclimated to the local atmosphere. A visit to the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre offers a great introduction to Malawi’s rich biodiversity.
Enjoy lunch at a local cafe before heading out for a guided walking tour of the city. Explore the bustling markets, including the Old Town Market, where you can shop for handmade crafts and local produce. Visit the National Museum to learn about Malawi's culture and history.
Dine at a local restaurant that serves traditional Malawian dishes, such as nsima and fresh fish. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the city, enjoying the vibrant nightlife. Get some rest in preparation for the days ahead.
Depart Lilongwe and head to Lake Malawi, one of the largest lakes in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the morning enjoying stunning views of the lake as your guide shares insights about its significance to the local communities and ecosystem. Arrive at your lakeside accommodation in the charming town of Mangochi.
After lunch, take part in water activities such as kayaking or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. The lake is renowned for its diverse species of cichlid fish, making it a paradise for underwater exploration. You can also relax on the beach, soaking in the beauty of the surroundings.
Evening falls with a breathtaking sunset over the lake, providing the perfect backdrop for dinner. Enjoy a meal at your accommodation or a nearby beachside restaurant, sampling fresh fish caught from the lake. Gather around a fire pit for stories and stargazing under the Malawi sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🧋Cappuccino or coffee | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🚕Local taxi / dala transport | $1-5 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Lake Malawi with beautiful beaches
- Warm, welcoming people and affordable travel
- Excellent wildlife experiences in Liwonde, Majete, and Nyika
- Good entry point to Southern Africa with regional flight connections
- Rural areas have imperfect infrastructure
- Malaria risk and limited healthcare outside major towns
- Seasonal road closures and occasional flooding
- Limited high-end dining and nightlife outside main towns
- "Moni" - Hello
- "Muli bwanji?" - How are you?
- "Zikomo" - Thank you
- "Pepani" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Ndine [Name]" - My name is [Name]
- "Ndikufuna" - I would like
Places to Visit in Malawi
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunrise and sunset over turquoise waters, colorful boats, and shoreline villages provide vibrant, postcard-perfect scenes.
Rolling high-altitude plains, dramatic skies, and abundant wildlife offer expansive landscape photography.
Misty forests and towering granite peaks create dramatic, moody photos with alpine-like scenery.
Riverine landscapes with elephants and hippos along the Shire River—fantastic golden-hour wildlife photography.
Cloud-covered viewpoints and tea plantations yield serene, sweeping valley shots.
Food in Malawi
Malawi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Maize porridge served with freshly caught Lake Malawi tilapia, often fried or grilled and accompanied by leafy relishes.
Must-Try!
Small dried fish served with nsima and vegetables; a staple seaside/shoreline meal.
A creamy maize porridge commonly eaten for breakfast or with a light sauce at lunch.
Fresh river greens or leafy vegetables sautéed with beans or peanuts and served with nsima.
Fresh, locally sourced tilapia prepared fried, grilled, or steamed with a side of vegetables or beans.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market for fresh fish, maize meal, vegetables, fruits, and street snacks—great for authentic flavors and bargaining.
Northern market offering produce, dried fish, grains, and regional snacks in a vibrant setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly 'Moni' or 'Muli bwanji?' goes a long way; a handshake with eye contact is common.
Dress modestly in towns and villages; ask permission before taking photos of people; remove shoes where requested in homes or certain temples or cultural centers.
Share snacks or water when offered; avoid loud behavior in public; family and community ties are important.
Safety
Tipping in Malawi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated at hotels, lodges, and with guides; 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included; round up fares for drivers when appropriate.
Cash (Malawian Kwacha) is widely used; US dollars are accepted in some tourist spots; major hotels and lodges may accept cards; ATMs are common in Lilongwe and Blantyre but can be scarce in rural towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; lush landscapes, vibrant colors, and good visibility for water activities. Pack lightweight clothing and rain protection.
Rain tapers off; warmth remains; roads may be muddy in rural areas; great for birding, blooming flora, and fewer crowds.
Cool to mild days; dry season with clear skies; ideal for hiking, game viewing, and photography; evenings can be chilly on highlands.
Warm and gradually drier as the season progresses; countryside comes alive with new growth and wildlife activity.
Malawi at Night
Hiking in Malawi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A dramatic massif with challenging trails, shaded forests, and summit views—guided treks recommended.
High-altitude plateau offering vast skies, rolling grasslands, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Lush forested slopes and scenic viewpoints with tea plantations and cool breezes.
Airports
How to reach Malawi by plane.
Main international airport serving the capital with connections to regional hubs and international destinations.
Secondary international airport handling regional flights and some international routes.
Regional airport serving the northern region with limited international service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group; widespread in central Malawi with a rich linguistic and cultural heritage.
Prominent in the southern region; strong crafts and traditions.
Predominant in the north and northeast; diverse linguistic and cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; extensive local leagues and vibrant match scenes in cities.
Widely played in schools and clubs, particularly among women and girls.
Growing interest with community leagues in urban centers.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most relishes can be prepared meat-free; request nsima with beans, lentils, greens, or peanut-based sauces; carry snacks for longer day trips and ask for oil-free options when needed.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Malawi.