Capital city in Central Region, Malawi
Getting around Lilongwe
How to get around Lilongwe
Taxis and minibuses are the main options; the city is spread out and not very walkable. Coaches and minibuses run to the lake.
Ways to get around Lilongwe
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 6,000–16,000 MWK for 5 km | No meters; agree the price first |
| Minibus | 500–2,000 MWK | Cheap; crowded; watch your bag |
| Coach to Mangochi / Salima | 5,000–15,000 MWK | 2–5 hours to the lakeshore |
Taxis in Lilongwe
- No ride-hailing apps operate here. No reliable ride apps. Use hotel taxis or ask a guesthouse for trusted drivers; agree fares first.
Arriving in Lilongwe
Kamuzu International (LLW)
About 25 km north; taxi roughly US$25–45 or equivalent, 30–45 min. Hotels can arrange pickups.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Rare. Motorbike taxis (kabaza) exist but are risky; use taxis instead.
- Driving: on the left. Home licence in English is usually accepted for short stays; an IDP helps at police checkpoints.
- Onward travel in Malawi: Minibuses and coaches link Lilongwe, Blantyre and Mzuzu; the Ilala ferry serves Lake Malawi. Few domestic flights. Most visitors arrange private transfers or hire a driver.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Lilongwe?
No ride-hailing apps work here. No reliable ride apps. Use hotel taxis or ask a guesthouse for trusted drivers; agree fares first.
What's the best way to get around Lilongwe?
Taxis and minibuses are the main options; the city is spread out and not very walkable. Coaches and minibuses run to the lake.
How do I get from the airport to Lilongwe?
About 25 km north; taxi roughly US$25–45 or equivalent, 30–45 min. Hotels can arrange pickups.
Is Lilongwe walkable?
You'll need transport.
More about Lilongwe
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Sources
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.