Capital city in Central Region, Malawi
Internet in Lilongwe: speed, SIM cards and coworking
Is the internet good in Lilongwe?
Wifi in hotels and a few cafés is usable but slow; mobile data is the backup.
Getting online in Lilongwe
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Home fibre | Fibre exists in some central buildings; most homes use 4G or fixed wireless. Pricey and slow by regional standards. |
| Cafés and coworking | Wifi in hotels and a few cafés is usable but slow; mobile data is the backup. |
| Outages | Frequent power cuts and network drop-outs. |
| Tourist SIM | Airtel and TNM SIMs sold at shops in Lilongwe and Blantyre; passport registration required. Data bundles are cheap but mobile data is slow. |
| eSIM | Local eSIMs aren't easy for visitors to get; travel eSIMs or a physical SIM work. |
| Carriers | Airtel Malawi, TNM |
Coworking in Lilongwe
There's no dedicated coworking scene here; people work from cafés and accommodation.
Internet speeds in Africa
National medians, Speedtest Global Index.
Quick answers
Is the internet fast in Lilongwe?
Wifi in hotels and a few cafés is usable but slow; mobile data is the backup.
Which SIM card should I get in Lilongwe?
Airtel and TNM SIMs sold at shops in Lilongwe and Blantyre; passport registration required. Data bundles are cheap but mobile data is slow.
More about Lilongwe
Going to Lilongwe solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Lilongwe meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
Speeds are medians from Ookla's Speedtest Global Index, cited for reference. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.