Malawi FAQs

What makes Malawi unique?

A land-lake destination, Malawi is home to the most phenomenal diversity of landscapes, vegetation and scenery. The landscape continuously shifts between arid savanna, sugar cane plantations and dense rainforest. The altitude in this small country ranges from 50 to 3000 meters above sea level.

What kind of weather can one expect in Malawi?

January to March is the hot, rainy season. Temperatures average around 26°C, but reach the mid 30°s. At this time, many of the roads in the national parks get washed away, and animals are difficult to see due to the thicker vegetation. For the budget conscious traveller this is the best time to visit as many hotels and activities are heavily discounted during this period.

In April, roads open up and the weather turns beautiful with clear skies, warm days and cool evenings. June and July are the middle of winter, but the average daytime temperature is about 21°C. Nights are cold, especially in the highlands.

By late August, Malawi is still very dry; the days become hotter, though the nights are still cool. By October the days are very hot, with warm nights. The rainy season starts in December, so this month can be very humid.

How accessible is Malawi?

The main international entry points into Malawi are Lilongwe and Blantyre. There are frequent flights to these airports from Johannesburg in South Africa as well as from several other African countries. The number of flights per week fluctuate with the seasons.

What is the best way to get around once we arrive in Malawi?

Once you arrive, there are options for both air and road transfers to most destinations. Land transfers are the more cost effective option and they are also incredibly beautiful because the scenery changes dramatically before your eyes, often within as little as 50km.

Air transfers in light aircraft charter planes are also an option to most areas in Malawi. Please be aware that luggage on charter flights is strictly limited to 12kg per person, and luggage need be carried in soft manoeuvrable bags.

Please note, Go2Africa does not arrange self-drive holidays in Malawi.

What can we expect to pay for accommodation in Malawi?

Depending on where you stay, the season you travel in, and the level of luxury and exclusivity you are looking for, accommodation in Malawi ranges from about $100 to $350 per person per night sharing.

What is the standard of accommodation like in Malawi?

The standard of accommodation in Malawi is slightly less up-market than it is in other Southern African destinations such as South Africa. Top of the range accommodation in Malawi matches the South African equivalent of a 4 star rating. Entry-level accommodation in Malawi can be of very poor standards.

Is Malawi a big five destination?

No. Although Malawi has most members of the big five, populations are low and the country is not regarded as a Big Five destination. Elephants and lions are likely to be encountered in many parts of Malawi, and though less frequently seen, there are leopards and buffalo as well. Most of Malawi does not have any rhinos.

Will my guide carry a gun or rifle with him?

Guides do not generally carry weapons in Malawi. They are highly skilled and very well trained in their knowledge of the wilderness. Guides do not require guns to ensure your safety. Malawi is also not so much a big game destination and the likelihood of encounters with dangerous animals is very low.

Are there any very important cultural or social issues to be aware of before we travel to Malawi?

Malawi is one of the poorest countries in Africa. Many tourists make the mistake of handing out sweets or pens or money to poor children and people in the streets. This kind of gesture, while well intended, is often the cause of severe conflict and physical fights over these much wanted/needed items.

It is recommended to rather channel your support by supporting local markets or through charities, NGO's or organized projects and programs.

Is it rude to barter or negotiate prices with vendors at the local market?

You will find that curios and crafts are already extremely affordable and cheap in Malawi. However, it is not rude to negotiate with vendors at the markets who will generally be flexible on their prices.

Please bear in mind that many locals do suffer from severe poverty in Malawi - it is therefore important to stop negotiating cheaper prices when you feel you have reached an appropriate price for an item being sold.

Continuing to press for cheaper prices beyond this point often means that you end up taking advantage of the local people's poverty and desperation.

What is the local currency and how should we manage carrying our money?

The local currency in Malawi is the Malawi Kwacha, but it is best to rather travel carrying small denominations of US Dollar cash with you. Travellers cheques are not recommended at all. Credit cards are accepted at certain lodges and hotels, but they are not ideal because electricity failures and poor connections often make this kind of payment troublesome.

What is the standard tipping procedure?

Tipping in Malawi is entirely at your discretion, based on the level of service you feel that you have received during your trip.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. Not all water sources in Malawi are safe for consumption. It is important to drink purified bottled water.

Is Malaria a risk in Malawi?

Yes. You will need to consult your doctor about anti-malaria medication.

What about electricity?

This depends entirely on where you are travelling in Malawi. Many lodges do not have electricity at all, and rely on candles for lighting and gas for heat. Where there is electricity, Malawi has a voltage of 230 and a frequency of 50. The plugs are the same as the British 3 square pronged plugs.

Is Malawi a child friendly destination?

Yes. Malawi is home to a wealth of very child friendly lodges and hotels. Many water activities on the lake are also fantastic for families to enjoy together. Certain more up market lodges do require that children are 8 years of age and older, and certain exploration tours have a minimum age limit of 12 years.

How can I be certain that my valuables will be safe where we are staying?

Most hotels and lodges will have safes for your valuables either in your room or at reception. Even though Malawi is one of the poorest countries in Africa, it has a very low crime rate. Violent crime is almost unheard of in Malawi.

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