Malawi beckons travellers with a surprisingly diverse and unique blend of natural wonders and warm hospitality.
Lake Malawi stretches nearly 600 km / 373 miles, is the 3rd largest lake in Africa, the 5th largest freshwater lake in the world, and is also a biodiversity hot spot that has been compared to the Galapagos Islands for its radical diversification of fish species. Lake Malawi defines the country and the crystal clear waters are a resource to locals, and a remarkable tourist destination, one of Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Best in Travel destinations in 2022.
Beyond the aquatic dimension, Malawi is a surprising safari destination. Liwonde National Park boasts a winding river perfect for boat trips and elephant sightings, Majete Wildlife Reserve is fast becoming an excellent Big 5 safari destination, and Kasanka and Nkhotakota offer a wilderness feel. Heading to the highlands, the rolling green hills of Nyika National Park offer a unique safari experience ideal for leisurely walks.
Featuring breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and unspoiled white beaches, the real allure of Malawi stems from its relatively undiscovered nature. Away from the well-known safari routes, the lake's crystalline waters and untouched biodiversity create an ideal tropical retreat, complemented by the genuine warmth of local hospitality.
- Liwonde National Park
- Majete Wildlife Reserve
- Nyika National Park
- Lake Malawi National Park
- Kayak, sail, snorkel, and scuba dive
- Visit the cathedral of St. Peter on Likoma Island
- Tea and coffee estates of the Shire Highlands
- Dzalanyama Forest
- Lilongwe, Blantyre, and Mzuzu
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Majete Wildlife Reserve is a remarkable conservation success story. From mismanagement and exploitation, Majete has risen from the ashes to become a symbol of what is possible when community-structured conservation practices are thoughtfully applied.
Majete Wildlife Reserve was once depleted of wildlife, with just a few antelope remaining and no visitors for three years. This all changed in 2003 when African Parks signed an agreement with the Malawian government to take control of the park's strategic management in collaboration with local communities. This was African Park's flagship project, and the reserve has transformed into a thriving wildlife destination.
In 2003, rhinos were reintroduced to Majete, followed by elephants in 2006, lions in 2012, giraffes in 2018, cheetah in 2019, and wild dogs in 2021. the reintroduction of various species has significantly increased wildlife numbers. Majete has been so successful that it translocated 200 elephants to Nkhotakota as part of the 500 Elephants translocation initiative. Since taking over the the management of the Majete Wildlife Reserve, not a single flagship species has been lost to poaching.
Today, Majete Wildlife Reserve is Malawi’s premier Big 5 safari destination, with robust populations of Africa’s most sort after species. Majete's boasts sizable herds of elephant, buffalo, zebra, sable antelope, Lichtenstein's hartebeest, nyala, waterbuck, and giraffes. The reserve is home to Malawi’s largest variety of antelope species, including the thicket-loving greater kudu. Massive buffalo herds roam the terrain, and the Shire River abounds with hippos.
Visitors can revel in the beauty of the landscape and river scenery, with opportunities for night drives, boat trips, and walking safaris. Elephant tracking on foot adds an immersive experience. Majete, in addition to being a paragon of conservation success, offers miombo woodland, rocky outcrops, and a sense of space and wilderness. Accommodation at Majete includes a community-owned tented camp, and a luxurious 5-star lodge, ensuring that Majete Wildlife Reserve caters for all tastes.
Discover some of Africa's finest river-based wildlife viewing at this remarkable destination 160 km north of Blantyre. Since 2015, Liwonde National Park, managed by African Parks in collaboration with Malawi’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife has undergone a remarkable transformation from a depleted ecosystem into a thriving wildlife haven.
Since 2015, Liwonde has removed over 40,000 wire snares, and the park now boasts effective conservation law enforcement and advanced wildlife protection technology. Noteworthy reintroductions include cheetahs in 2017, lions in 2018, wild dogs in 2021, and a historic translocation of 17 black rhinos from South Africa in 2019. Liwonde has not only been revived but has expanded its conservation footprint by 60% with the inclusion of the Mangochi Forest Reserve. Liwonde is an undiscovered gem, but its growing wildlife populations and increasing visitor numbers reflect its restored status as a safe haven for both wildlife and local communities.
Liwonde recently translocation 263 elephants to Kasungu National Park, and has been successful in controlling both elephant and rhino poaching. The Spicy Farmers project educates local farmers to grow and harvest chillies to help mitigate human-elephant conflict through a 'chilli-elephant barrier.' Additionally, Liwonde's ranger training centre serves as a crucial training ground for rangers in Malawi and across the continent.
Liwonde’s wildlife includes substantial elephant populations, hippos and crocodiles, lion, cheetah, kudu, sable antelope, bushbuck, as well as leopards, and occasional black rhino and hyenas. The birdlife is remarkably diverse, with fish eagles drawn to the river and weaver birds crafting nests in the sparse woodlands. Pel’s fishing owl is a captivating sight along the river's edge at dusk.
Accommodation at Liwonde National Park includes the Mvuu Lodge and Kuthengo Camp, which provide luxurious safari experiences along the Shire River. Accessible by road, river ferry, or pre-arranged boat from Liwonde town, the lodges also have an airstrip for charter flights. Mvuu Camp, a sister property, offers chalets and a campsite, and Chimwala Bush Camp, established in 2020, provides spacious en-suite safari tents for self-catering in the park's southern region.
Situated at Cape Maclear on the southern tip of Lake Malawi, the Lake Malawi National Park is the world's inaugural freshwater national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Encompassing the land area around the cape, bay, and the lake's islands 100 meters off-shore, the park boasts a vibrant underwater world. A multitude of freshwater fish, known as mbuna, thrive here in crystal clear waters, creating a spectacular display. Boats are available for hire, allowing visitors to hand-feed the fish. Beyond the lake, the park features baboons, antelope, hyrax, and diverse birdlife, including fish eagles and cormorants. Cape Maclear, historically significant as the initial site of the Livingstone Mission, now hosts an abundance of lake-side resorts and accommodations that offer lake activities like snorkelling, diving, kayaking, and nature walks in an idyllic island setting.
Nkhotakota, Malawi's oldest and biggest protected area, stretches from the Great Rift Valley in the west to just shy of Lake Malawi in the east. In 2015, after years of conservation challenges, the African Parks Foundation assumed management, initiating an ambitious program to rejuvenate biodiversity. Despite previous wildlife depletion, the park now hosts growing populations of major safari animals, including buffalo, eland, sable, and greater kudu. Predators like lions, leopards, and spotted hyenas are present in smaller numbers. African Parks' translocation efforts introduced diverse antelope species and bolstered the elephant population with 520 elephants introduced from Liwonde and Majete, contributing to the restoration of the reserve. Nkhotakota’s rugged terrain has varied habitats, including vast patches of miombo woodland, grassland, and pockets of rainforest. The park is graced by scenic rivers, with lodges positioned along the Bua River. Activities within Nkhotakota include game drives, walks, canoeing, and fishing.
Perched on a high-altitude plateau, Nyika National Park offers a distinctive experience for walking, mountain biking, and game viewing all against the backdrop of unique rolling grasslands and valleys. While not a traditional Big 5 destination, the plateau hosts diverse wildlife, including Crawshay's zebra, eland, roan antelope, common duiker, warthog, predators like jackals, hyenas, and leopards, as well as smaller treasures including endemic butterflies, chameleons, frogs, and toads. This vast expanse of high montane grassland has a Scottish highlands feel. Nyika Plateau is renowned for its profusion of wildflowers, with approximately 200 orchid species, including 11 endemics. Accommodations include lodges and charming cottages that cater to various preferences and budgets. Nyika Plateau is a unique destination, different from the rest of Malawi.
Stretching north-northeast along Lake Malawi's west shore, the Viphya Mountains cover approximately 210 km from Mount Champhila in the south to Mount Uzumara in the north. Mount Chimaliro is located about 40 km north of Mzuzu in the northern part of the range. The Viphya Plateau is characterised by a combination of grasslands, plantation, and indigenous forests, the Luwawa Forest being a particular highlight. Renowned for its dramatic scenery, this remote locale offers a plethora of activities, including mountain biking, horse riding, trekking, rock climbing, abseiling, canoeing, fishing, and various hiking trails. Visitors will encounter bush pigs, antelope, monkeys, duikers, leopards, and abundant bird life including the Scaly Francolin, Olive Woodpecker, and Red-faced Crimson-wing.
Located in Malawi's northern region, Livingstonia Mission is a significant historical and cultural landmark. Founded in 1894 by the Free Church of Scotland, the mission was the first permanent European settlement in the area. Livingstonia Mission played a pivotal role in spreading Christianity and education in Malawi and functioned as an economic hub, trading post, and hospital. Today, Livingstonia Mission’s rich history draws curious visitors from around the world. Historic buildings, cultural performances, traditional meals, and visits to the church and library, are all part of the Livingstonia Mission experience. Guided tours of the mission and surrounding villages are recommended, as are the volunteer programs that support the local community.
Situated 40 km south of Nkhata Bay, a cluster of small lodges with private beaches dot the northern shores of Lake Malawi around Chintheche, the most famous being Makuzi Beach. Renowned for some of the lake's best beaches and lodges, Chintheche is a bit of a tourist mecca. The abundance of activities in the surrounding areas includes snorkelling, kayaking, fishing, bird watching, and hiking to Makuzi Hill for panoramic lake views, as well as horse riding and yoga retreats. Spice tours and cooking weekends add to the array of offerings for those seeking more than leisure, tanning, and swimming along the shores of Lake Malawi.
Malawi's Zomba Plateau boasts extensive cedar, pine, and cypress forests along with diverse mixed vegetation. Surrounded by scarp-like edges, the plateau's central depression features criss-crossing streams, tumbling waterfalls, and serene lakes. The tar road from Zomba Town provides easy access to breathtaking viewpoints described in colonial times as "the best views in the British Empire.". Once atop, hiking is the main activity that takes in streams, waterfalls, forests, and spectacular views, and visitors can also do horse riding or go fly fishing for trout. Wildlife, includes occasional rare leopard sightings, giant butterflies, baboons, and bird species including long-crested eagles and augur buzzards. The Zomba Plateau has accommodations to suit every budget.
On the southern shore of Lake Malawi, Cape Maclear, also known as Chembe village, is the busiest resort on the lake, and draws a diverse array of holidaymakers, from families and tour groups to backpackers and romantic couples. The golden sand beach and relaxed atmosphere create an idyllic retreat, that offers a wealth of activities, visitors can indulge in scuba diving, kayaking, snorkelling, sailing, hiking, water-skiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, sunbathing, paddleboarding, and village exploration. Cape Maclear is home to Lake Malawi National Park, the world's first freshwater national park and guests can explore this sanctuary through island tours and sunset cruises. Cape Maclear offers a wide variety of accommodations from eco-lodges to camping and luxury lodges.
Mua Mission, home to the KuNgoni Centre of Culture & Art, was founded in 1976 by Canadian missionary Fr. Claude Boucher Chisale. Dedicated to the research, recording, and preservation of Malawian culture, the center has evolved into a dynamic cultural hub, offering insights into Malawi's history and heritage through the Chamare Museum, Carving Centre, and Research Centre/Library. The museum showcases the Chewa, Ngoni, and Yao cultures, delving into their rites of passage, intercultural interactions, and encounters with Islam and Christianity. A distinctive exhibit of Gule Wamkulu masks, texts, and images is featured, with the option to arrange dances. The mission also serves as a training ground for skilled wood carvers, providing them with the means to make a living from their craftsmanship. For those looking for authentic keepsakes, carvings are available for purchase in a dedicated shop.
Nestled in the northeast corner of Lake Malawi, within Mozambican waters, Likoma Island is a modest 17km² destination. Despite its size, Likoma Island offers captivating experiences, including vibrant cichlid-filled dives at over 20 sites. Boat trips explore nearby Chizumulu Island and Mozambique. Exploration on foot, mountain bike, or quad-bike leads to charming villages and the old Baobab on the New Market Place. St Peters, Central Africa's third-largest cathedral, akin in size to Winchester Cathedral, showcases stained glass and soapstone choir stalls. Surrounded by clear waters and sandy beaches, Likoma Island makes for an enchanting island retreat rich in nature and culture.
Dzalanyama Forest Reserve consists of steep, tree-covered hills and escarpments inhabited by spectacular birdlife, as well as baboons, duikers, hyenas, leopards and some sable antelope. The Dzalanyama Forest is best known for its prolific birdlife, boasting over 300 bird species including the African Citril, Hilderbrandt’s Francolin and the White-tailed Blue-flycatcher. Other bird species include the Bar-tailed Trogon, Miombo Pied Barbet, Woodland Pipit, Central Bearded Scrub-Robin, Stripe-breasted Canary and Eastern Double-collared Sunbird. The Dzalanyama Reserve runs along the watershed between Malawi and Mozambique and is ideal for bird watching, hiking and simply enjoying nature.
Lilongwe is Malawi’s capital city. Situated at an altitude of 1,050m in the shallow valley of the Lilongwe River, Lilongwe is Malawi’s central hub, and most visitors to the country pass through here. Lilongwe comprises two distinct parts: the Old Town to the south, characterized by a mix of commercial, residential, and industrial buildings, and the modern Capital City to the north, boasting broad avenues lined with banks, hotels, embassies, and offices. While lacking significant character, Lilongwe is notably clean and tidy. Points of interest include the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, which offers a sanctuary for injured animals, and the Lilongwe Golf Club, where active travellers can enjoy tennis, swimming, and bowls. The city's origins trace back to a fishing village along the Lilongwe River, with a settlement for Asian traders established in 1906. Lilongwe became the colonial administrative centre under British rule in the early 20th century and gained official town status in 1947. After Malawi's independence in 1964, Lilongwe replaced Zomba as the capital and experienced rapid population growth to become the country's most populous city.
Blantyre, set amidst the Shire Highlands' basin, and surrounded by hills and peaks, is a historical trading hub and Malawi's commercial and industrial centre. Blantyre bustles with activity day and night, and while not a traditional tourist attraction, is the central focus for travel in southern Malawi. Notable activities include exploring the Old Town's markets, Limbe's vibrant streets, the tobacco auction floor, the Museum of Malawi, the Chichiri Museum, and iconic sites like St. Michael and All Angels church. Blantyre's rich history dates back to its establishment by Scottish missionaries in 1876, evolving into Malawi's oldest municipality and a crucial trade crossroads in southern Africa.
Situated in a shallow depression at the northern limits of the Viphya Highlands, Mzuzu offers a convenient base for excursions to Lake Malawi, Nyika National Park, and the Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve. Sitting at the crossroads of Malawi's lakeshore road (M5) and the main north-south highway (M1), Mzuzu is the capital of North Malawi and primarily serves as an overnight stopover for travellers on their way to explore the northern region and provides essential facilities, including banks, petrol stations, a vibrant market, a few accommodations, and a golf club.
Malawi experiences two clearly defined seasons: a wet and hot period from November to April, followed by a cool and dry season spanning from May to October. The ideal time to visit depends on your preferences and activities of interest, though there are ample opportunities and attractions available throughout the entire year, it is worth noting that many lodges and hotels close down during the green season from January to March because of unpleasant rainy and humid conditions.
For most people, the dry season from May to October is the best time to visit Malawi, with the high season falling between July and October. The weather is generally mild, and wildlife viewing is at its best.
Malawi, situated in the tropics, has a climate characterized by substantial rainfall. The Dry season spans from May to the end of October, succeeded by the Wet season from November to April, during which roads may deteriorate, often requiring a 4x4 vehicle. October marks the conclusion of the Dry season, with rising temperatures alleviated only by the onset of rains.
During the winter Dry Season, from May to October, there is little to no rainfall and low humidity. In game reserves like Majete, animals gather around waterholes, and daytime temperatures vary from 14°C/61°F to 26°C/79°F. In September and October, the temperature gradually increases with daytime temperatures reaching approximately 29°C/84°F in September and peaking at 31°C/88°F in October.
The summer Wet Season from November to April, brings unpredictable weather with afternoon rain. The wettest months, with heavy afternoon downpours, are December, January, February and March. In April, rainfall and temperatures decline, and you can expect daytime temperatures around 27°C/81°F, while evenings and early mornings can be chilly.
There are numerous factors that can affect the cost of your Malawi safari. The length of your trip, parks visited, group size, level of comfort, transport, and the season you choose to travel in, will all affect your Malawi safari budget.
Despite being one of the world's poorest countries, Malawi is one of the more expensive African safari destinations. Following the trend of many African countries, Malawi has adopted a strategy of developing a low-density tourism industry with relatively higher prices. Furthermore, therefore Malawi prices itself in dollars, and a Malawi safari can be relatively high-cost.
Here is a rough guide to what you can expect to pay for a Malawi safari, per person per day.
Many tours that visit Malawi combine well with Zambia, especially South Luangwa – which is relatively close by. Longer safaris take in Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and Vic Falls. Visiting multiple countries also has an effect on your safari budget.
To get a better idea, African Budget Safaris offers 58 tours that visit Malawi. Below are two tours that visit northern and southern Malawi respectively, and offer a combination of bush and beach.
The primary gateway to Malawi is Lilongwe International Airport (LLW), situated 26km / 16 miles from the capital city of Lilongwe. Alternatively, Chileka International Airport (BLZ), is located 16 km / 10 miles from Blantyre and serves as an entry point for some international flights. Lilongwe International Airport serves a multitude of airlines - including South African Airways and Ethiopian Airways. Non-stop international flights to Lilongwe depart from Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Many travellers opt to fly through Johannesburg, taking advantage of more affordable rates on these busier routes. The cost of a flight from Johannesburg to Lilongwe fluctuates based on demand and booking timing, typically ranging between US$ 475 and US$ 600 per person. Flight duration from Johannesburg to Malawi is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Upon arrival in Malawi, onward travel options include small aircraft or cars, with self-driving being a feasible choice. For those doing package tours, the local tour operator will coordinate airport pick-up and organize all subsequent transportation as part of the comprehensive tour package.
For flexible, independent travel in Malawi, renting a car is a convenient option. Major cities like Lilongwe and Blantyre offer car rental services, providing visitors with the freedom to explore the country at their own pace. See tips for driving in Malawi below.
Public transportation in Malawi primarily relies on buses and mini-buses. Buses operate between major cities, offering a cost-effective means of long-distance travel. Mini-buses, on the other hand, are a common mode of transport for shorter routes and within cities. While they can be crowded, they provide an authentic local experience.
Bicycle
All distances and times below are approximate and given for transport by car. These distances and times will give you an idea of the size of Malawi, and help you plan your trip and know what to expect.
Malawi has many travel options including flying and self-drive safaris. Package deals have the advantage of putting the logistics into experienced hands, making sure that your safari puts you where you need to be in the best way possible for your safari budget. Malawi is not a one-size-fits-all safari destination. It's worth discussing different options with an experienced travel consultant and figuring out where you can save time by flying and where you can save money by driving.
Malawi in general is casual but conservative. Beach wear and bathing suits are acceptable at your resort or while relaxing at the beach, but both men and women should cover up when visiting local villages. It is a good idea to pack to purpose. Below is a general guideline on what to pack for a Malawi safari.
Pack light and practical clothing for your Malawi safari, considering the diverse landscapes from beaches to mountains. Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting attire to stay cool, especially during hot days, and wear long-sleeved tops and trousers in the evenings to guard against mosquitoes and other insects. Choose natural fabrics like linen, bamboo, and cotton for comfort, and avoid dark colours like navy blue and black as they tend to attract tsetse flies. A safari hat, in addition to sunglasses and sunscreen, is a must. Pack a fleece for cooler mornings and evenings, and consider a versatile travel jacket, especially during the cooler months. For beach visits, bring swimwear but limit it to appropriate areas, covering up with a kaftan, sarong, chitenge cloth, or t-shirt/shorts elsewhere. Take slip-on shoes for beach relaxation, but wear comfortable trainers or walking shoes for exploration, keeping in mind the varying weather conditions.
Malawi has two broad seasons. The dry season is from May to October, and the 'wet season is from November to April. This Malawi month-by-month calendar is a rough guide. While we try to be as accurate as possible, shifting weather patterns do make the weather difficult to predict.
Malawi in January is the height of the rainy season. Impressive daily thunderstorms result in poor roads and wet conditions. While many lodges on Lake Malawi are closed in January, this is an excellent time for birding in the national parks as migratory birds are visiting from the northern hemisphere.
February is Malawi’s green season and experiences more heavy rain. Birding is still excellent, and the Nyika Plateau is a botanical hot spot as orchids come into bloom across the plateau. Though wet, rates are low and February is calving season making for excellent sightings of young herbivores.
Malawi’s March rains start to subside towards the end of the month. While not considered the prime safari season, Nyika National Park, in northern Malawi, is a great destination as weather conditions improve and the flowers are still in full bloom. Migratory birds get ready to fledge and begin their journey to the north.
April is a transition month with markedly less rain and drier conditions throughout Malawi. With more stable temperatures, March is an exciting safari month in Malawi’s national parks as this is the rutting season and male antelope can be seen engaged in titanic battles for supremacy.
May marks the beginning of the sought-after dry season. This is considered the best time to visit Malawi as the Lake lodges begin to reopen with the conclusion of the summer rains. The lush, green landscape, with mist drifting down from the highlands into the expansive valleys and plateaus of the countryside make this one of Malawi’s most picturesque months. In Majete and Liwonde, crocodile courtship in the Shire River is fascinating to watch.
In June, Malawi is characterised by long, sun-filled days. Temperatures dip in the evenings and mornings, and log fires are a common sight around the country. Safaris in Liwonde National Park are particularly rewarding at this time of year, as elephants congregate around the permanent water source of the Shire River. Another boon to visiting Liwonde is the appearance of Lillian’s or Nyasa lovebirds that congregate in flocks - hundreds strong - between June and August.
The cool, dry weather continues through July and throughout East Africa, the safari high season is in full swing. Wildlife viewing is at its best in the major parks, and Malawi, being less visited, offers excellent safaris without the crowds. The cooler weather means fewer mosquitos and morning game drives may start off chilly, so dressing warmly is advisable until temperatures rise later in the day.
In August, Malawi starts to get warmer, making it an ideal time to visit Lake Malawi. The slightly warmer temperatures are ideal for water sports on the lake, as well as lounging in the sun on the idyllic beaches. Wildlife in Malawi’s parks sees an increase in animal herds as water becomes scarce, resulting in tensions rising along the banks of the rivers. August is an exciting safari month in Malawi.
Temperatures rise swiftly in September and days are sunny, dry, and hot. Lake Malawi remains a popular destination, with wind in the afternoons creating good conditions for sailing. In the parks, large elephant herds are the top attraction. September is also the month for the Lake of Stars festival, one of Africa’s premier music festivals that attracts visitors from all over the world and showcases African musical talent from around the continent.
October is one of Malawi’s hottest months. Safari conditions are excellent with large aggregations of animals around watering holes. Impressive herds of eland in Nyika National Park are noteworthy, and Lake Malawi offers respite from the October heat.
In November, Malawi experiences the onset of the hot summer rainfall season which lasts for the next 5 months. As the migratory birds return for the summer months, Malawi’s parks become a birdwatcher's paradise. The visibility in Lake Malawi is at its best and this is an excellent time for snorkelling in the crystal clear waters.
For those considering a visit to Malawi in December, anticipate hot and wet weather, with rain becoming more consistent. While not the best safari month, December offers regular sightings of hatching crocodiles, a unique experience not to be missed by nature enthusiasts.
Located in southeastern Africa, Malawi is a landlocked country bordered by Zambia to the west, Tanzania to the north and northeast, and Mozambique to the east, south, and southwest. Covering an area of over 118,484 km² / 45,747 miles². Malawi’s landscape is diverse, shaped by the Great Rift Valley, which spans the country from north to south. Lake Malawi, the third-largest lake in Africa, occupies about 25% of Malawi's area. Known as the "Calendar Lake," it stretches approximately 365 miles (587 km) long and 52 miles (84 km) wide, with a maximum depth of about 700 m. The Shire River flows from the lake's south end, eventually joining the Zambezi River in Mozambique.
To the west of the Great Rift Valley, high plateaus with elevations ranging from 910m to 1,220 m are the predominant feature of the landscape. In the north, the Nyika highlands rise to 2,400 m and is part of the Central Zambeze Miombo woodlands ecoregion. South of Lake Malawi lies the Shire Highlands, featuring elevations of 600m –1,600 m, which includes prominent peaks like the Zomba Plateau and Mulanje Massif. The Kirk Range serves as the border with Mozambique, and in the south, the Shire River descends through gorges, rapids, and cataracts.
Malawi's history evolved from a simple stone-age culture 2,000 years ago to the 4th century AD when the Bantu people introduced iron tools, weapons, and farming. The 15th-century Maravi Empire emerged south of Lake Nyasa, expanding into parts of Zimbabwe and Mozambique by the 18th century before disintegrating. The 16th-century Portuguese trade introduced maize from the Americas. In the 18th and early 19th centuries, the Yao raided from northern Mozambique, capturing slaves for Arab trade. The 1840s saw conflicts as the Ngoni invaded, clashing with the Yao.
In 1859, Scottish explorer David Livingstone reached Lake Nyasa, followed by Scottish Presbyterian missions in 1873. British merchants and missionaries increased, leading to gradual British control. The Shire Highlands Protectorate was formed in 1889, becoming the British Central African Protectorate in 1891. The British abolished the slave trade, established coffee plantations, and named Malawi Nyasaland in 1907. In 1953, Malawi joined the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland. Dr. Hastings Banda led the Malawi Congress Party in 1958, sparking protests and a state of emergency. In 1962, the British agreed to Malawi's independence, dissolving the Federation in 1963. Malawi became independent on July 6, 1964.
Hastings Kamuzu Banda became president in 1966 when the country transitioned to a republic following the British Queen's departure as head of state. Lilongwe replaced Zomba as the capital in 1975. Banda's controversial diplomatic relations with apartheid-era South Africa in 1967 stirred public disapproval. His regime turned dictatorial, marked by his self-proclamation as president for life in 1971, censorship of dissent, and significant wealth accumulation. The severe 1992 drought triggered protests and aid suspensions. In 1993, a referendum favoured democracy over one-party rule, leading to Bakili Muluzi's election on May 17, 1993, ending Banda's extended rule.
Today, many Malawians engage in subsistence farming, cultivating crops like cassava, sorghum, and maize, alongside livestock such as cattle and sheep. The country features white-owned plantations producing tea, tobacco, sugar, cotton, and peanuts. Fishing on Lake Malawi is a significant livelihood for many locals, and Malawi holds considerable tourism potential with its national parks. Bingu wa Mutharika initiated an anti-corruption drive upon his 2004 election as President, and in 2012, Joyce Banda became the first female president of Malawi. Despite being economically challenged, Malawi experienced steady growth in the early 21st century, fostering optimism about its developmental trajectory. As of 2020, Malawi's population stood at 19 million.
Yes, you will need a visa to travel to Malawi. Malawi has made moves to make travel easier, and visitors can apply for an evisa online. At the time of writing, a 3-month single entry visa would cost US$ 50.
Malawi remains a safe destination for tourists, with a low incidence of violent crime and a generally friendly and welcoming local population. Despite these positive aspects, travellers are advised to take precautions and be aware of potential risks. Ensuring safety involves being vigilant about surroundings, avoiding carrying substantial amounts of cash or wearing valuable jewellery, and maintaining a low profile. These precautions are particularly relevant when visiting larger towns and cities.
Recommended vaccinations for visitors to Malawi include polio, tetanus, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Yellow fever immunization may be necessary for those entering from affected zones.
Malaria prophylactics are advised, and travellers should consult with their doctor for updated health advice.
While there is a risk of bilharzia in certain parts of Lake Malawi, it's negligible near main beach hotels. Although serious if left untreated, bilharzia is easily treated once diagnosed, and individuals feeling unwell post-swimming should inform their doctor.
Malawi is a high-risk area for AIDS but this will not impact most travellers to Malawi.
Don't forget to pack your preferred insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay.
The African sun can be severe. A hat and sunscreen are highly recommended and it’s always a good idea to carry a bottle of water and stay well hydrated.
Your safari guides are trained, and extremely knowledgeable, and their top priority is to keep you safe in the wild. Always listen to their advice about how to behave and what to do while on safari, especially when encountering wild animals like elephants, hippos, giraffes, and lions.
Malawi's currency is the Kwacha. Kwacha are readily available for purchase within Malawi and is convenient for local shop transactions, especially with smaller vendors in remote locations.
While some hotels and restaurants may prefer US dollars, credit cards are not widely accepted, and there are limited ATMs. To ensure smooth payments for drinks and additional activities at accommodations, it is advisable to bring a supply of US dollars in small denominations.
When travelling to Malawi on a safari package, most of your travel expenses will be inclusive. That said, it is good practice to have cash in Kwacha and US$ for extra purchases like curios and gifts as well as tips.
In Malawi, it's customary to tip safari guides, drivers, and hotel staff. The amount varies depending on the level of service provided, but a general guideline is US$5-10 per day for safari guides and drivers, and US$1-2 per day for hotel staff such as housekeeping or porters. Many lodges and hotels will have a communal tipping jar for general staff, while guides should be tipped directly at the end of your stay.
Tipping is always optional, but it's a good way to show appreciation for good service.
Malawi does not have a bargaining culture, and many prices are fixed. You may be charged slightly more than a local in the markets, but it’s unlikely that you will be overcharged as honesty is a key value in the country, even amongst the poorest people.
Malawi is one of the poorest countries in the world, and tipping can make a big difference.
Tipping is always voluntary, and if you are unsure, feel free to ask your hotel manager or guide.
Malawians are famously friendly and warm-hearted. Learning a few Chichewa phrases can enhance your travel experience in Malawi, fostering connections with locals. Greetings are extremely important and knowing "moni" for hello and "muli bwanji" for how are you? are appreciated, along with expressions like "zikomo" for thank you.
In Malawian culture, discussions often revolve around health and family, and engaging in these topics in Chichewa can create meaningful connections. While vibrant political conversations are common, approaching them with humour and warmth enriches the travel experience.
Understanding cultural nuances is crucial, especially in remote villages where a more conservative dress code is followed. Modesty, particularly covering the chest and legs, is appreciated, especially in Muslim settlements. Female travellers can carry a chitenge cloth for village visits, serving as a practical accessory and a unique souvenir.
Homosexuality is illegal in Malawi, which may make discussions uncomfortable. Additionally, public displays of affection and cannabis use are frowned upon, with the latter carrying legal consequences.
Respecting these cultural norms will ensure a harmonious and enjoyable travel experience in Malawi.
Malawi is widely considered one of the safer countries in Africa. However, with poverty comes crime and it is important to stay aware of your belongings and surroundings, especially when visiting larger towns and cities.
Always be conscious of your belongings and don't leave your baggage unattended. Try to keep your valuables out of sight and never flash your cash.
Malawi has a wide diversity of attractions for visitors of all kinds. Take a look at a few of our Malawi safari tours to the country's top travel destinations:
Wherever your dream African safari destination is, talk to one of our expert travel consultants to start planning your Malawi safari today.
Use the Google map to explore Malawi.
A diverse Malawi & Zambia Safari to South Luangwa National Park, Majete Reserve, Game Haven, Zomba, Liwonde, Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi), Mua Mission and more.
Trip Style Malawi Budget Safari Packages
An affordable one-week Southern Malawi Safari (Budget Lodge Tour) to Majete Wildlife Reserve, Zomba Forest, Cape Maclear (Lake Malawi) and Mua Mission.
Trip Style Malawi Private Safaris
One-week Northern Malawi Safari Tour: budget lodge safari to Luwawa Forest, Livingstonia, Lake Malawi (Chintheche & Makuzi Beach) & Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve
Trip Style Malawi Private Safaris