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Lake Malawi
A long freshwater lake with beaches, islands, snorkelling and kayaking.
Southern Africa Travel Guide
Malawi Travel Guide
Known as the Warm Heart of Africa: Lake Malawi beaches, river safaris in Liwonde, the Nyika Plateau and Mount Mulanje.
Information status: Visa requirements, park fees, health advice and other time-sensitive details should always be checked with official sources before travelling.
Quick Facts
Malawi at a Glance
Essential information for travellers planning a journey through Malawi.
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Capital
Lilongwe
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Region
Southern Africa
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Currency
Malawian Kwacha (MWK)
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Languages
English and Chichewa
Discover Malawi
Why Visit Malawi?
Highlights that bring travellers to Malawi.
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Safari
Liwonde and Majete offer river safaris and game drives in restored wildlife areas.
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Highlands
Hiking on Mount Mulanje, the Zomba Plateau and the Nyika Plateau.
Nature & Wildlife
National Parks & Reserves
The main wildlife areas to consider when planning a Malawi safari.
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Lake Malawi National Park
UNESCO World Heritage Site at Cape Maclear, known for its many species of colourful cichlid fish.
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Liwonde National Park
Park on the Shire River, visited by boat and game drive for elephants, hippos and birdlife.
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Majete Wildlife Reserve
Reserve in the south where wildlife has been reintroduced, including the Big Five.
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Nyika National Park
High grassland plateau in the north with zebra, antelope and wildflowers.
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Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve
Forested reserve near the lake shore with rivers and miombo woodland.
Want to visit these parks? Tell us your dates and group size.
Plan this tripPlaces to Explore
Major Malawi Destinations
Towns, lakes and landscapes to include in your route.
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Lilongwe
The capital and main international arrival point.
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Blantyre
Commercial city in the south and a base for Mulanje and Majete.
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Mount Mulanje
The highest mountain in southern-central Africa, popular for multi-day hikes.
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Zomba Plateau
Cool forested plateau with walking trails and viewpoints.
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Likoma Island
Island in Lake Malawi with beaches and a historic cathedral.
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Chongoni Rock Art
UNESCO-listed rock art sites in central Malawi.
Seasonal Planning
When to Visit Malawi
Malawi has a wet season and a dry season, and each suits different trips.
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Green / Wet Season
November to April. Hot and green, with heavy rain at times. Some roads and park tracks become difficult.
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Dry Season
May to October. Cooler from May to August and hotter from September. Usually the best time for wildlife viewing and hiking.
Important Travel Information
Check Current Entry, Health & Safety Advice
Verify current entry requirements, malaria and vaccination advice, road conditions and park rules before departure.
OSARE provides travel information but does not replace official government or professional travel advice.
Planning a trip to Malawi?
Tell us where you want to go, your dates, group size and budget. We will reply with options and put you in touch with an operator. There is no charge for asking.
Official Malawi websites
Always confirm visa, park and health requirements on the official site before travelling.
Malawi Guide Source Record
Primary tourism source: Malawi Department of Tourism
Visa information: Verify current requirements with the Malawi Department of Immigration before travel.
Last reviewed: October 2026