Malawi Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

Lilongwe.

Geography:

Malawi shares borders to the north and northeast with Tanzania, to the south, east and southwest with Mozambique and to the west with Zambia. Lake Malawi, the third largest lake in Africa, is the dominant feature of the country, forming the eastern boundary with Tanzania and Mozambique. The scenery varies in the country's three regions. The Northern Region is mountainous, with the highest peaks reaching over 2,500m (8,200ft), and features the rolling Nyika Plateau, rugged escarpments, valleys and the thickly forested slopes of the Viphya Plateau. The Central Region is mainly a plateau, over 1,000m (3,300ft) high, with fine upland scenery. This is the country's main agricultural area. The Southern Region is mostly low-lying except for the 2,100m-high (6,890ft) Zomba Plateau south of Lake Malawi and the huge, isolated Mulanje Massif (3,000m/10,000ft) in the southeast. The variety of landscape and the wildlife it supports make this relatively unspoilt country particularly attractive to visitors.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

Proflight Zambia (www.proflight-zambia.com) connects Zambia with flights to Malawi's capital Lilongwe. From the UK, you can fly to Malawi with Ethiopian Airlines (www.ethiopianairlines.com) via Addis Ababa or Kenya Airways (www.kenya-airways.com) via Nairobi. Alternatively, British Airways (www.ba.com), South African Airways (www.flysaa.com) and Virgin Atlantic (www.virgin-atlantic.com) fly direct from London to Johannesburg, from where you can take a connecting flight with Ethiopian Airlines or South African Airways.

Departure Tax

Included in the air fare.

Flight Times

From London - 14 hours 30 minutes (including stopover); New York - 19 hours (including stopover).

Getting Around

Getting Around By Air

Ulendo Airlink (www.flyulendo.com) operates domestic flights in Malawi, serving destinations including Lilongwe, Liwonde and Likoma Island.

Car Hire

Available from local and international firms, particularly in Lilongwe and Blantyre, with a number of companies offering a wide choice of vehicles. Standards do vary (even with the internationally franchised chains) so it's worth seeking a recommendation. Nonetheless, you should reserve cars well in advance as they are very much in demand. Chauffeur-driven cars are also available.

Coach

AXA Coach Service (tel: +265 1 876 000) operates coaches between Malawi's main towns and cities.

Documentation

An International Driving Permit is required.

Getting Around By Rail

Central East African Railways (tel: +265 1 840 841) operates the lines in the country. The main route connects Mchinji, Lilongwe, Salima, Chipoka, Blantyre, Limbe and Nsanje. Trains tend to be slow and crowded and are little used by tourists.

Road Quality

All major roads are tarmac and most secondary roads are all-weather.

Side Of Road

l

Urban Travel

Bus: There are services in all major cities.

Taxi: You can find taxis in cities, but they're less easy to pick up in rural areas.

Getting Around By Water

The Ilala ferry connects communities along Lake Malawi and has single and double cabins.

Travel Advice

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. 

Follow and contact FCDO:   

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This information is for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government's understanding of Malawi's current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Malawi set and enforce entry rules. If you're not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Malawi High Commission in the UK.

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must have an 'expiry date' at least 6 months after the day you arrive in Malawi.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

If you are travelling to Malawi for a visit of 30 days or less on a British passport you do not need a visa.  

If you wish to live, work or study in Malawi, visit the Malawi Immigration website for further information.

Travelling with children from South Africa

If you're travelling with children aged 17 and under and passing through South Africa, see what documents you need in South Africa travel advice.

Vaccine requirements

To enter Malawi, you must have certificates to prove you've had:  

• a yellow fever vaccination if you're coming from a country listed as a transmission risk
• a polio vaccine, in some circumstances

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro's Malawi guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Malawi. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Malawi

Terrorist attacks in Malawi cannot be ruled out.

Political situation

There can be demonstrations related to political and economic issues. Avoid large crowds and demonstrations. Monitor this travel advice and local media for updates. Keep local and international travel plans under review.

Crime

Criminal kidnaps

There are occasional reports of kidnappings for ransom in Malawi. These kidnaps have generally been for financial gain or motivated by criminality. In some instances, the kidnapped individuals have been British Nationals, so kidnappers may also target foreigners. Business/wealthy individuals are likely to be at increased risk of this activity.

Protecting yourself and your belongings

There is a risk of mugging and bag-snatching. Take sensible precautions to protect yourself such as:

• avoiding walking in quiet areas, especially after dark
• leaving valuables and cash in a hotel safe if possible
• keeping copies of important documents in a separate place

Most thefts from tourists take place around main bus stations in urban areas. Report any thefts to the police as soon as possible.

Be cautious if over-friendly people approach you offering to act as guides, selling goods, or claiming to know you and asking for a lift.

Drink and food spiking

People have been robbed after eating drugged food. Do not accept food or drink from strangers.

Burglary and violent assault

There is a risk of house burglaries and violent assault, including by armed gangs. There has been an increase in break-ins in Lilongwe, Blantyre and Limbe, including violent assaults on residents. Review your security systems and watch out for anything unusual.

Climbing Mulanje Mountain

If you plan to climb Mulanje Mountain, get security advice from the Mountain Club of Malawi.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Police sometimes ask to see ID. Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.

Clothing sensitivities

Outside the main tourist areas, you should dress conservatively to avoid offending local sensitivities.  

Illegal drugs penalties

Penalties for drug use and smuggling can be severe. This includes cannabis.

Uncut gemstones

It is illegal to buy uncut precious gemstones.

LGBT+ travellers

Homosexual acts are illegal.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It is illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade its parts without a licence. Buying or selling ivory is illegal. If you are caught buying or carrying these items, you will be prosecuted and get a prison sentence or a fine.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Malawi, see information on driving abroad.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Malawi for up to 90 days. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence. If you get an international driving permit (IDP), you can drive for up to one year.  

Always carry your licence, and copies of your passport and your visa or residence permit when driving. You may need to show these at police checkpoints.

There are frequent fuel shortages in Malawi and there can often be long queues. Do not assume fuel will be available on your route. Plan ahead to make sure you can reach your destination.

Police use breathalyser tests and regularly stop vehicles for speeding. There are speed cameras on main roads, often where there are no speed limit signs. Police can give on-the-spot speeding fines. Drivers caught drink-driving or speeding can also have their licences and vehicles immediately confiscated. Convicted drivers face fines and possible imprisonment.

Driving standards and conditions

Driving in Malawi can be hazardous and there is a high rate of road fatalities. Potholes, animals, abandoned vehicles and cyclists can cause serious accidents, as can vehicles travelling at night without lights. Emergency services are basic.

Always wear a seatbelt and avoid travelling after dark.

Minibus and coach travel

Public minibuses and pick-up trucks are often in poor condition and overloaded. Larger coach services running between the major towns are more reliable.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Cyclones and floods

Cyclones and floods are common during the rainy season from November to April. They often cause landslides, which result in road closures and disruption to travel and public transport.

Monitor local reports and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organization.

Rainy season

The rainy season runs from November to April and can make road travel difficult. Floods can make areas of Malawi inaccessible.

Monitor weather services, including the:

• Malawi government's Facebook weather page
• Department of Climate and Meteorological Services
• World Meteorological Organization

Check your route before travelling and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes are a risk in Malawi. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 998 and ask for an ambulance.

There may be other numbers for the areas you visit – ask your hotel or the local police.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks  

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Malawi guide
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you'll face in Malawi.

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Malawi. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

In late 2022 and early 2023, Malawi experienced the largest cholera outbreak in its history. Cases are likely to rise again during the rainy season.

Tap water may not be safe to drink, especially in rural areas.

You should take normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Malawi

General medical facilities throughout Malawi are unable to provide the same standard of healthcare as in the UK. Facilities in rural areas are basic and emergency services are limited. You should carry basic medical supplies. Many medical facilities expect up-front payment. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad, medical evacuation and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Malawi where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Malawi     

Ambulance: 998

Fire: 999

Police: 990 or 997

There may be other numbers for the areas you visit – ask your hotel or the local police.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers and funeral directors in Malawi
• dealing with a death in Malawi
• being arrested or imprisoned in Malawi
• getting help if you're a victim of crime
• what to do if you're in hospital
• if you're affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO 

Help abroad  

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency. 

Help in the UK  

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.  

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)  

Find out about call charges

Get travel advice updates  

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.  

Follow and contact FCDO: 

• travel advice on X

• travel advice on Facebook

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Malawi on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Vaccinations

Title	Special Precautions
Diphtheria	Yes
Hepatitis A	Yes
Malaria	Yes
Rabies	Sometimes
Tetanus	Yes
Typhoid	Yes
Yellow Fever	Sometimes*

Overview:

Health insurance is essential. It is advisable to take personal medical supplies, including needles.

Vaccinations Note:

* A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from all travellers coming from infected areas.

Food Drink:

All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Other Risks:

Vaccinations against meningococcal meningitis, tuberculosis and hepatitis B are sometimes recommended. Avoid swimming and paddling in slow-moving or stagnant fresh water; swimming pools which are well chlorinated and maintained are safe. The risk of contracting bilharzia when engaging in watersports in Lake Malawi is minimised if sensible precautions are taken. Bathers should swim only at the resort areas known to be free of bilharzia, avoiding parts of the lake where there is still water or close human habitation. Many areas of the lake are free of this disease.

Currency Information:

Kwacha (MWK; symbol Mk) = 100 tambala. Notes are in denominations of Mk500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of Mk1 and 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 tambala.

Credit Cards:

Acceptance of credit and debit cards is very limited, although in Lilongwe and Blantyre and in main hotels, American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa can be used.

Travellers Cheques:

Traveller's cheques can be exchanged in banks, hotels and other institutions. In remote areas, the Treasury Office of Local District Commissioner's offices will cash traveller's cheques. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars, Euros, Pounds Sterling or South African Rand.

Banking Hours:

Mon-Fri 0800-1400.

Currency Restrictions:

The import of local currency is unlimited. The export of local currency is limited to K3,000. The import of foreign currency is unlimited. The export of foreign currency must not exceed the amount imported and must be declared on departure.

Currency Exchange:

US Dollars, Pounds Sterling, Euros or South African Rand are readily exchanged but lesser-known currencies may prove difficult to exchange.

Currencies

Code	Symbol
MWK	Mk

Exchange Rates

755.24

899.57

726.65

Language

English and Chichewa are both official. Chichewa is widely spoken but the language of the business community is English.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

.

List Of Public Holidays

Title	Start Date	To Be Confirmed
New Year's Day	2024-01-01 00:00:00	0
Chilembwe Day	2024-01-15 00:00:00	0
Martyrs' Day	2024-03-03 00:00:00	0
Good Friday	2024-03-29 00:00:00	0
Easter Monday	2024-04-01 00:00:00	0
Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)	2024-04-10 00:00:00	0
Labour Day	2024-05-01 00:00:00	0
Freedom Day	2024-06-14 00:00:00	0
Republic Day	2024-07-06 00:00:00	0
Mother's Day	2024-10-14 00:00:00	0
Christmas Day	2024-12-25 00:00:00	0
Boxing Day	2024-12-26 00:00:00	0

Note:

Holidays falling on the weekend are observed the preceding Friday or following Monday.

Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the moon and the dates given below are approximations. During the lunar month of Ramadan that precedes Eid al-Fitr, Muslims fast during the day and feast at night and normal business patterns may be interrupted. Some disruption may continue into Eid al-Fitr itself. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha may last up to several days, depending on the region.

Overview:

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Banned Imports:

Prohibited or restricted imports include arms and ammunition, flick knives, game traps, pharmaceutical products, gold, sugar, wild animals and their products, and some foods (eg bananas, potatoes and uncooked meat).

Mobile Telephone:

Roaming agreements currently exist with many international mobile phone companies. Coverage is good in urban areas.

Internet:

Services are available in business centres in hotels, and there are a few Internet cafes.

Post

Letters take about seven to 10 days to reach Europe by airmail.

Post Office Hours:

Generally Mon-Fri 0730-1200 and 1300-1700. Post offices in some of the larger towns may be open Sun 0900-1000, but only to sell stamps or to accept telegrams.

Media:

Radio is the chief source of information and state-run MBC is the main national broadcaster. Television was introduced in 1999. Privately owned publications present a range of opinions, although the government has used libel and other laws to put pressure on newspaper journalists.

Head north to Mzuzu

Capital of the northern region, Mzuzu reflects the culture of the Tumbuka, while remaining largely agricultural with tea, coffee and rubber plantations. Africa's largest manmade forest lies to the south, and Nyika National Park and Vwasa Marsh Wildlife Reserve are nearby. The famous Livingstonia Mission, with its red brick homes and small museum, is approximately three hours away.

Kick back in the capital, Lilongwe

Malawi's capital since 1975, Lilongwe was officially founded in 1906 as a colonial trading post. Alongside the traditional Old Town, with its interesting walled markets, is the modern New Town and seat of government with its imaginative architecture and beautiful garden setting. A short journey away is the famous pottery workshop at Dedza.

Learn about Blantyre’s history

Malawi's commercial capital and largest town was established at the end of the 19th century. Sights include the National Museum on Chichiri Hill, St Michael and All Angels Church and its associated clock tower with its links to David Livingstone, and Mandala House. The oldest European building in Malawi, it dates back to 1882.

Take in the view from Zomba Plateau

North of Blantyre, the 2,100m (6,890ft) Zomba Plateau offers spectacular views and fantastic walking, rock climbing and mountain biking. Its vast forests and waterfalls tower above Zomba, a university town and the former capital. Known for its colonial architecture and botanic gardens, the town is also home to a school of dressage.

Climb the Mulanje Massif

Rising out of the surrounding plains and tea-growing Mulanje region, the massif is popular with hikers and climbers, and has several huts. The highest point of this huge block of mountains, which cover more than 640 sq km (250 sq miles), is Sapitwa Peak. At just over 3,000m (10,000ft), it is the country's loftiest summit.

Explore the Lower Shire Valley

In Malawi's far south, the Lower Shire Valley has a very different look and feel. Low lying with higher temperatures, it is dominated by the River Shire. The only river to drain from Lake Malawi, it goes on to join the mighty Zambezi. A fertile region, there are vast sugar plantations to be seen at Sucoma.

Follow in the footsteps of Livingstone

View the many markets on the shore of Lake Malawi, including Nkhotakota, one of Africa's oldest market towns and a major centre of the Arab-Swahili slave trade until David Livingstone convinced Chief Jumbe to end the practice. Further north, Nkhata Bay is a busy port and market and a favourite with visitors for its lush tropical atmosphere.

Take the steamer to Likoma Island

Located near Malawi's marine border with Mozambique, Likoma and its sister island Chizumulu offer a glimpse of largely unspoiled East African ocean and excellent swimming. The town of Mbamba is the site of the Saint Peter's Anglican Cathedral. One of the largest churches in Africa, it was built by missionaries over a century ago.

Go on safari in Liwonde National Park

Due to its unspoiled environment and prolific game, Liwonde National Park is generally considered the best reserve in Malawi. Covering 550 sq km (212 sq miles) of thin woodland in the country's south, wildlife includes large herds of elephant, hippos, lion, and a vast array of birds and antelope. Alternatively, look out for elephant and buffalo in Kasungu National Park.

Visit the world’s first freshwater national park

Lake Malawi National Park lies towards the southern extremity of the lake near Monkey Bay. Snorkelling or scuba-diving reveals tropical fish, while inland antelope and vervet monkeys can be seen. An 800-year-old baobab tree in the park is reported to have been one of explorer David Livingstone's favourite spots.

Immerse yourself in Lake Malawi

A range of watersports are available along the 580km (360 mile) length of Lake Malawi. Snorkelling and scuba-diving are increasingly popular because of the attraction of seeing the brilliantly coloured fish, the mbuna (African cichlids). Swimming, waterskiing, sailing and kayaking are all possible at various locations on the lakeshore.

Grab a rod and reel

Fishing, possible all year round on the southern lakeshore north of Mangochi and at Senga Bay, offers the opportunity to reel in ngumbo (yellow fish), mpasa (lake salmon) and ncheni (lake tiger) among other species. Trout fishing is easily arranged in the rivers and streams of the Nyika and Zomba Plateaus.

Get active on the Nyika Plateau

Hike, mountain bike or ride a horse on the grassland of Nyika Plateau, where safaris on horseback are a popular activity. Fully encompassing Nyika National Park, the plateau is known for its wildlife, particularly Burchell's zebra and endemic butterfly, bird and orchid populations. Accommodation and equipment hire is at Chelinda.

Witness a traditional dance

Traditional dances play a part in most ceremonies in Malawi. The Gule Wamkulu is an important dance performed by members of the Chewa tribe's Nyau brotherhood, who cover themselves in carved masks, feathers and skin paint. It takes place following the July harvest, and also at weddings and funerals.

Overview

Malawi produces a variety of colourful arts and crafts. Items are invariably handmade and there is no factory production of curios. Purchases include woodcarvings, wood and cane furniture, soapstone carvings, decorated wooden articles, colourful textiles, pottery, beadwork, cane and raffia items. The standard of woodcarving is one of the highest in Africa. The Mua Mission, south of Salima, where carvers are trained, has an excellent shop. Traditional musical instruments are also sold throughout Malawi.

Opening Hours

Mon-Sat 0800-1700. Markets and roadside stalls trade every day.

Overview

Relatively free from outside influences, the food of Malawi remains rustic and traditional. Outside of the big cities, it's likely the food you eat will have been grown locally by those serving you.

Dishes are centred on starchy carbohydrates, which are still often served at all three daily meals, with side dishes of vegetables and meat, particularly chicken and goat.

Fresh fish from Lake Malawi is the country's speciality, and is both tastily cooked and easy to come by. Dairy products are plentiful thanks to cattle farming, and tropical fruits such as bananas, mangoes and pineapples are abundant in season.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

Generally not expected, but some employees who are very poorly paid might appreciate a small tip for good service.

Drinking Age

18.

Hotels

There are good hotels in all the main centres, along the shore of Lake Malawi and at some attractions, including a luxury hotel at the Zomba Plateau. Along the lakeshore, there is a concentration in the south between Monkey Bay, Mangochi and Senga Bay.

Camping Caravaning

There are campsites along the lakeshore, often near the hotels, and elsewhere in the resort and forest areas. In the main game parks and reserves, there are excellent camps with permanent accomodation. Sites are well equipped and camping is especially good during the dry season which runs from April to November.

Other

History

The shores of Lake Malawi have been inhabited for thousands of years and recent archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of settlements dating back to the late Stone and Iron Ages. The majority of the present population descend from Bantu tribes, who arrived in the region some time before the first Arab slave traders and Portuguese explorers. British colonial settlers and missionaries, including David Livingstone, moved into the area in the late 1850s.

Colonial domination became inevitable and, in 1891, the British declared the country the British Protectorate of Nyasaland. In 1953, the British federated Nyasaland with Northern and Southern Rhodesia (now Zambia and Zimbabwe), but Nyasaland seceded in 1963 following elections which gave Dr Hastings Banda a majority.

In 1964, Nyasaland became independent as Malawi and, two years later, was declared a republic and a one-party state. In 1971, Dr Banda became President for Life, and during his subsequent reign retained a firm grip of the country, jailing or exiling opponents and attracting criticism for his support of South Africa’s apartheid regime.

By 1993, the ailing Banda was forced to concede political pluralism in Malawi. After the adoption of a new constitution, simultaneous parliamentary and presidential elections were held in 1994. Banda and his chief henchman, the much-hated and feared John Tembo, were put on trial for their alleged role in the 1983 murders of four opposition politicians. They were acquitted in 1995, although investigations into various financial misdemeanours continued. The prosecution of Banda ended with his death in 1997, but Tembo was eventually convicted in 2003.

Abroad, Malawi has aligned itself with the post-liberation government in South Africa, the main political and economic force in the region. Domestically, the HIV/AIDS pandemic has been the dominant issue: Malawi is one of the worst affected countries with an estimated one million people (just under 10% of the total population) living with the infection.

Traditionally a very conservative society strongly influenced by Scottish missionaries during the colonial era, Malawi has found it hard to come to terms with its plight.

Did you know?
• Blantyre, the second city, hosts an annual nsima eating contest. Winners can expect to pack away up to 3kg of the starch.
• Lake Malawi contains more fish species than any other lake.
• The lake is locally known as Lake Nyasa, which translates as ‘Lake Lake’.

Religion

80% are Christian, 13% Muslim. A recorded 4.3% of the remaining 7% have no religion (1998 census).

Social Conventions

Despite the large number of tribal backgrounds in the Malawi population, integration is well established and visitors need not be aware of any social differences. The white population is very small in number. There are some religious differences, most noticeable among the Muslim population and especially as far as alcohol consumption is concerned.

Malawians place emphasis on the importance of shaking hands on meeting and departing. The special handshake, which includes grasping the thumb and putting the other hand on the forearm, is best avoided unless practised. Children and some women may curtsey as a greeting or if being made a presentation. Offering a soft drink to a visitor is common at meetings.

Malawians tend to be conventional rather than casual in their dress, especially in formal gatherings. Modest dress should be worn unless at the beach or playing sport.

Best Time To Visit:

Varies from cool in the highlands to warm around Lake Malawi. Winter (May to July) is dry and nights can be chilly, particularly in the highlands. The rainy season runs from November to March. Around Lake Malawi, in winter, the climate is particularly dry with pleasant cooling breezes.

.

Required Clothing

Lightweights are worn all year in the Lake Malawi area, with warmer
clothes advised in the mountains, particularly during winter and on
chilly evenings elsewhere. Visitors to Nyika and Zomba should note that
the nights can be cold. Dark or 'natural' coloured clothing should be
worn for game viewing.

Dialing Code:

+265

Area(sq km):

118484

Population:

19.129.952

Population Density(per sq km):

152

Population Year:

2020

EU Member:

No

Main emergency number

998