Takulandirani Malawi

Welcome to the Warm Heart of Africa!

A hidden gem landlocked between Zambia, Tanzania and Mozambique and offering an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, rich history and culture, wildlife, and unforgettable experiences.

Known as the "Warm Heart of Africa" for its friendly and welcoming people, Malawi has become a popular solo traveler, families and self-drivers choice within Southern Africa.

Conservation efforts across the country has meant Wildlife thrives and Malawi's national parks, most undiscovered and still maintaining their wild seclusion, rival those of its neighbors.

For a small country, and mostly made up of the infamous "Lake of Stars" - Lake Malawi - This Central African destination has everything in it.

Crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches open up to miles of fresh water filled with life, dotted with islands and hosting unending activities such as scuba diving, sailing, swimming, snorkeling and kayaking.

Home to the towering Mulanje Massif makes Malawi every hikers dream, scaling rock faces, sleeping in picturesque mountain huts and overlooking fields of lush green Malawi tea and macadamias between plunging into fresh mountain springs and waterfalls.

Bustling cities and compact road-side markets are a colorful amalgamation of African materials, fruits and vegetables that wind down to the open and wild landscapes of Malawi's big 5 game reserves.

Sit back overlooking the mighty Shire river listening to the distant roar of lions, walk in the footsteps of giants on a game walking safari, rock with the waves on the river that elephants create as they bathe, and keep up with the cheetah hunt in an open jeep on the dusty African roads.

An ornithologists dream - Malawi is an exceptional birding destination with the multiple landscapes in short driving distances. Miombo Woodland, plateaus and riverine habitat are scattered amongst savannah and montane.

The culture in Malawi is really what ties this country together, heavily populated, Malawi culture and history can be found in all major cities as well as on the road and within the communities. Learn how to make traditional food and drink, dance, sing and immerse yourself in home life, explore ancient rock paintings and visit the numerous markets and museums.

Getting here and traveling around...

Malawi airports:

Lilongwe - Kamuzu International Airport

Blantyre - Chileka Airport

Malawi does have charter flights across the country to make things easier to travel the country in a shorter time-frame.

All game reserves have airstrips as well as Mangochi, Likoma island and Mzuzu.

Malawi Currency:

Malawi Kwacha - All major currencies and debit and credit cards are accepted in most standard - upmarket properties.

Some fuel stations and large shopping markets also have card facilities but kwacha cash is essential.

Malawi Entry Requirements:

Check out: Visa Guide | Malawi Tourism - For updates on entry and visa requirements!

Malawi is a very safe country to travel around whether you're a family with small children or a solo female backpacker or self-driver.

But here's some tips:

Traveling around:

Local transport consists of minibus's - large coach travel is between major cities such as Lilongwe - Blantyre and Mzuzu with occasional stops between.

Local taxis are readily available and there are a few we suggest for a cheaper and more efficient way of traveling from one destination to another.

Malawi also has bicycle taxis, motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks which are suitable for short travel conveniences.

Many options have their pros and cons and we suggest to leave plenty of time between each location, ensure you do not travel at night and choose a registered or recognized operator for safety and convenience.

Self-driving is a perfect choice - Roads can be congested in towns and trading centers and it's best to keep your eyes out for road hazards that are often present on Malawi roads such as potholes, bicycles and people, goats, chickens and other domestic animals. Police stops are frequent with the occasional speed trap so it's best to stick to 50km per hour in towns, cities and trading areas and 80km per hour on major roads.

Most destinations are accessible throughout the year but some areas South of Malawi can be prone to flooding in March and accessibility inside National Parks such as Majete, Liwonde and Nyika may be limited in peak rain season.

Weather:

January - April - This is the period around the peak of the rains but don't let the put you off! - Warm days and cool, stormy nights make the perfect beach weather. Malawi is thriving with crops and greenery and game reserves are packed with babies.

June - August - Winter in Malawi. The best time for hiking and cycling across the country. Malawi is still green after the rains and mid-day is still hot enough to catch a good tan!

September - December - Summer! As it approaches November and December the humidity rises and the occasional rainstorm breaks the heat. This is the best time for game viewing!