Things To Do
in Malawi

Malawi, often referred to as the 'Warm Heart of Africa,' is a landlocked country known for its stunning natural beauty and friendly people. The country is home to Lake Malawi, one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in the world, teeming with diverse wildlife. Rich in cultural heritage, Malawi features vibrant markets, traditional music, and colorful festivals.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences throughout this picturesque nation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Lake Malawi
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Cape Maclear, where you can relax on the sandy beaches or take a boat ride on Lake Malawi to explore the nearby islands.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local beachside cafe, then spend the afternoon snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters, discovering the rich aquatic life.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant overlooking the lake, watching the sunset while enjoying traditional Malawian dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Experience in Lilongwe
morning
:

Visit the Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary to see various wildlife and learn about conservation efforts, followed by a stroll through the local markets.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, then explore the National Museum of Malawi to immerse yourself in the country's history and culture.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife at a lively bar or restaurant, where you can enjoy live music and meet locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10
🛏️Budget hotel per night$25
🚕Taxi ride within the city$5
Coffee at a cafe$2
🍺Local beer$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful landscapes and natural attractions.
  • Friendly and welcoming local culture.
  • Affordable travel destination.
  • Limited infrastructure in rural areas.
  • Health risks such as malaria.
  • Public transportation can be unreliable.
  • "Moni" - Hello
  • "Zikomo" - Thank you
  • "Ndikufuna" - I want
  • "Chonde" - Please
  • "Muli bwanji?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Malawi

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Malawi

Capture stunning sunsets and the vibrant colors of the lake, perfect for landscape photography.

Mulanje Mountain

A breathtaking backdrop for photography, showcasing rugged peaks and lush greenery.

Liwonde National Park

A great location for wildlife photography, where you can snap pictures of elephants and hippos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Malawi

Malawi's culinary scene is a delightful journey of flavors, primarily centered around staple foods and local ingredients. Must-try dishes include nsima, a maize porridge served with various relishes, and fresh fish from Lake Malawi. The food markets are vibrant and offer a variety of fresh produce and local street food options.

Malawi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nsima

A staple dish made from maize flour, served with a variety of vegetable or meat relishes.

Must-Try!

Chambo

A popular fish dish from Lake Malawi, often grilled or fried and served with vegetables.

Kachumbari

A fresh tomato and onion salad that accompanies many meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lilongwe Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food.

Blantyre Market

Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this market offers a variety of local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Malawi experiences a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season lasts from November to April, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The dry season from May to October is cooler, with temperatures averaging 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet elders with respect, using appropriate titles.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially in rural areas; women should avoid revealing clothing.

Photography Permission

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural communities.

Safety Guide

Safety

Malawi is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. It's advisable to avoid walking alone at night and to be aware of your surroundings. Always secure your belongings and avoid displaying valuables in public.

Tipping in Malawi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; ATMs are available in cities, but it's wise to carry some cash, especially in rural areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (November to April)

Expect heavy rains and muddy roads; some areas may become inaccessible.

Dry Season (May to October)

Ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, with cooler temperatures.

Winter (June to August)

Cool, dry weather makes this the best time to visit, especially for hiking.

Summer (September to October)

Hot and dry, this season sees a lot of tourist activity, particularly around the lake.

Nightlife Guide

Malawi at Night

The nightlife in Malawi is vibrant and varied, particularly in urban areas like Lilongwe and Blantyre. Bars, clubs, and restaurants often feature live music, including traditional Malawian music and contemporary genres. Night markets and local festivals also provide lively evening entertainment opportunities.

Hiking in Malawi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Mulanje

A challenging hike offering stunning views from the summit, with trails ranging in difficulty.

Nyika National Park

Features beautiful plateaus and grasslands, with various trails for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Airports

How to reach Malawi by plane.

Kamuzu International Airport

Located in Lilongwe, this is the main international airport serving Malawi, with connections to various regional and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Malawi's urban areas, particularly cities like Lilongwe and Blantyre, are relatively walkable, with many amenities within a short distance. However, rural areas may require private transport due to limited pedestrian paths and road conditions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Chewa

One of the largest ethnic groups in Malawi, known for their rich cultural traditions and agricultural practices.

Yao

Predominantly found in the southern region, the Yao are known for their entrepreneurial spirit and vibrant cultural celebrations.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in Malawi, with local leagues and national teams sparking passion among fans.

Netball

A widely played sport, particularly among women, with a strong following and national competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Malawi can be congested in urban areas, particularly during peak hours. Public transportation options include minibuses and taxis, but safety and reliability can vary. It's advisable to negotiate fares in advance and use reputable taxi services.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While many dishes are meat-based, there are ample vegetarian options available, especially in urban areas.

Gluten-free

Nsima is naturally gluten-free, but it's advisable to check for gluten-containing sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Malawi is limited, especially in rural areas. Major cities have hospitals and clinics, but facilities may lack advanced medical equipment. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance and access to a reliable medical facility if needed.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Malawi.