Interested in travelling to Malawi? Not sure what to expect or how to prepare? View my recommendations and start planning a trip today.
Getting to Malawi
Search cheap flights with Skyscanner.
Accommodation
Find the best deals on hotels on Booking.com.
Tours
Booking a tour can be on of the easiest ways to discover the highlights of Malawi, I recommended G Adventures who offer lots of trips in Africa.
Best Places to Visit
Malawi might look small on a map but this is a diverse country with exotic wildlife and spectacular scenery. Here are some essential places to add to your itinerary:
• Lilongwe, the capital
• Blantyre
• Liwonde National Park
• Kasungu National Park
• Lake Malawi National Park
• Nyika National Park
• Mount Mulanje
• Kuti Wildlife Reserve
• Majete Wildlife Reserve
• Lilongwe Wildlife Centre
• Zomba Plateau
• Chongoni
• Mzuzu
• Nkhata Bay
Malawi Travel Tips
Here are some important things to know before you go.
Do I need a visa?
For travellers from the UK and USA you will be given a 30-day free visa upon arrival at the airport but you will need to arrive on a return ticket or hold an onward ticket to another country.
Where can I change money?
You can exchange money at the airport and at local banks in Malawi. Upon arrival your taxi driver can take you to a local bank to exchange your money if you request in advance. US dollars or UK pounds are very common and easy to exchange. Bank cards can also be used to withdraw money, only in larger cities such as Zomba, Blantyre, and Lilongwe. Please note that sometimes there may be long lines at the cash point/ATM machines and some may not be working due to electrical outages.
Climate
Please be aware that the Malawian summer in Domasi is September–April, November – March can be wet so bring an umbrella and waterproof shoes/sandals.
Health
Malawi is also known for its malaria carrying mosquitoes that breed in stagnant water. You can reduce the risk of Malaria by employing certain tactics such as taking Malaria tablets, wearing mosquito repellent spray (50% DEET is recommended) and also wearing long light weight clothing during the night time. I’m not a doctor so I recommend that for all other health concerns you consult your local doctor!
Do I need vaccinations?
In the first instance it is best to contact your GP. You may also find it useful to visit your country’s Department of Health website for up-to-date vaccination and travel health information. I would suggest you have all the recommended jabs that are required for your visit to Malawi, but this is completely at your discretion.
Is Malawi safe?
Overall I believe that Malawi is a safe place, however as a foreigner you need to be aware of your surroundings and be on your guard. Take extra care when going to largely crowded areas as this is where thieves will be on the look out for your personal items. I understand that you may be travelling with large amounts of money and also your passport, so I recommend to keep them as close to you as possible and never leave your bags unattended or in the care of someone you don’t trust!
Is taking a taxi a good idea?
Keep in mind that most taxis are just locals with a car so it is important to keep your bags close. You will have to bargain the price, and it is best to agree before you start your journey.
What about using public transport?
Minibuses are the main use of public transport and in most cases they are very full and if you are travelling with a large bag/case it will have to be placed in the back of the bus. I recommend that you try to keep your bags with you if possible, but if it must go in the back always check on it when the bus is making a stop to make sure your bag is not removed. It is also best to keep valuables out of sight and make sure your bags are fully closed at all times.
How about going out at night?
At night it is very dark in as some towns and villages don’t have electric. Please use common sense when going out at night. Try and inform someone of the location you plan to go to. Have your mobile with you if possible. You can also ask a local to walk with you if you are not feeling confident to walk in the dark, in most cases travellers can be escorted during night-time mainly because it is dark and the road is not easy to see.
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