Africa
Malawi
The 'warm heart of Africa': friendly people, Lake Malawi beaches and easy English. Basic infrastructure, fuel and power shortages and forex scarcity make it slow going, but cheap and safe by regional standards.
- US travel advisoryLevel 2Exercise increased cautionDetails
- Visa63 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyMWKUS$1 ≈ MK1,746.94Details
- Price level53%of US prices (World Bank PPP)Details
- English3/5Common in tourist areasDetails
- PlugsType G230 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency997Police 997 · Ambulance 998 · Fire 999
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink bottled or filtered water; lake water carries bilharzia risk and tap water is not reliably safe.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedConservative and hostile attitudes; arrests have occurred.Details
- DrivingOn the leftHome licence in English is usually accepted for short stays; an IDP helps at police checkpoints.
Where to go in Malawi
2 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LilongweCapital city | 3/5 | $1,030–1,830 | May–Oct | 54/100 |
| Cape MaclearBeach town | 4/5 | $801–1,370 | May–Oct | 81/100 |
When to visit Malawi
May–October is dry and cooler, best for travel; July–September is peak at the lake. November–April is rainy; roads can be difficult and malaria risk rises.
Good to know
Entry
- Most nationalities need a visa; apply for an e-visa on the immigration portal before travel or ask about arrival options.
- Yellow fever certificate is required if arriving from risk countries; passport needs 6 months validity.
- Carry USD cash in good condition; visa and some lodge fees are charged in USD.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing government buildings and the military is prohibited
- Cannabis remains illegal for recreation
- Do not buy wildlife products
Etiquette
- Greet people and ask how they are before anything else
- Use the right hand to give and receive
- Dress modestly away from the lakeshore resorts
- Ask permission before taking photos of people
Tipping
10% at restaurants is welcome; tip drivers and guides a few thousand kwacha for a day.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Malawi Department of Immigration
- UK FCDO travel advice: Malawi
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.