Getting Around Malawi

RAIL & BUS

Buses are more commonly used by tourists, as trains tend to be slow and crowded. There is a daily service from Blantyre to Balaka and twice-weekly services from Limbe to Nsanje and Balaka to Nayuchi on the Mozambiquan border.

Buses are a reliable means of transport. A luxury air-conditioned bus operates three times daily between Lilongwe and Blantyre, and three times weekly between Lilongwe and Mzuzu.

Express bus services operate regularly between major towns. Slow, crowded local services run along rural routes. Minibuses operate in and around most towns and villages and roads that the larger buses cannot access.

Hitching is possible but slow and unreliable and most drivers will expect a small fee if they pick you up. The Ilala II ferry travels the length of the lake weekly on a six day cruise. It is used by locals as a novel bus, and by tourists as a relaxing way to explore the lake. Many hotels and lodges run transfers to and from the airports.

ROADS

There is a total of 28,400km of highway in Malawi, of which only 5,254 are tarred. The main route runs from the north through Mzuzu and Lilongwe to Blantyre. It is generally in good condition, but some areas are potholed. Secondary routes are usually gravel roads of varying conditions, some passable with four-wheel drive vehicles only.

Always check on the road conditions before setting out on a trip, especially during the rainy season. Car hire is available in most towns. Be sure to check your car thoroughly before accepting it. An international driving license is required. Make inquiries as to the location and availability of petrol pumps.

On all roads, even highways, be aware of bicycles and children crossing the roads, and for livestock and wildlife. Other drivers are major hazards too, Malawian drivers are notoriously bad. A good hooter is of utmost importance!

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