Malawi travel information
Getting There
Malawi has two main international airports, Lilongwe and Blantyre. There are domestic airports and airfields that connect major towns and safari destinations. Depending on your arrival time, you may require a night in Lilongwe.
Passport and Visas
You need a current passport with 6 months validity from the date you return home and two blank pages, a return air ticket, and a tourist visa. Visas are available on arrival for US$75 per person.
Weather and Climate
To generalise temperatures during the day are usually in the mid 20s°C. In the short hot season, November – December, maximum temperatures may rise to the lower 30s°C. Temperatures vary from below freezing (at night on the high plateau in winter – July) to 38°C (in the Lower Shire Valley in summer – December).
Getting Around
There is so much to see and do and the roads are not the best, so it’s preferable to get around using the light aircraft flights (scheduled and charter available). If you choose to self-drive, keep in mind you’ll need lots of time.
Health
Consult your GP or a travel doctor at least 6 weeks before you travel. You may be required or recommended to get vaccinations for yellow fever, typhoid and hepatitis A & B, among others. Malaria is present in Malawi, so malaria prophylactics are recommended.
Currency
The local currency is kwacha and US dollars, GB pound, euro, and rand are also accepted. Visa and Mastercard are only accepted at major hotels and a few lodges and can be subject to high fees.
Language
Chichewa is the official language in Malawi, and English is widely spoken.
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