malawi department of tourism

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Market Overview
Market Challenges
Market Opportunities
Market Entry Strategy
Agricultural Sector
Mining and Minerals
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Travel and Tourism
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Investment Climate Statement (ICS)

The government identified the tourism sector as a key driver for sustainable economic growth and development. Malawi Vision 2063, the country’s long term development plan, places tourism as a priority economic sector towards achieving inclusive growth and self-reliance. Tourism investments are eligible for exemption of various import duty and excise taxes. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism sector contributed more than 525,000 jobs, representing close to seven percent of overall employment, and served more than 980,000 international visitors annually. According to the National Statistics Office, regional travelers make up most of the tourist visitors and the predominant long-haul international travelers are from India, the United States, and Australia. During the COVID-19 pandemic, international tourist arrivals (overnight visitors) to Malawi plunged by 80 percent due to widespread travel restrictions and a massive drop in demand, but the situation has improved and is expected to increase further in 2023.

Potential investors in the tourism sector face significant challenges regarding land tenure and reliable data on tourism trends. The government implemented the National Tourism Policy of 2019 to address these challenges and create an enabling environment for development and promotion of the sector. In the medium term, the government intends to establish a semi-autonomous tourism authority aimed at improving efficiency in the tourism and travel sector. With support from development partners, Malawi embarked on a tourism data gathering effort to help investors and the government make informed decisions.

Leading Sub-Sectors

Malawi hosts nature-based and cultural heritage tourism. The prime attractions are Lake Malawi, the third largest freshwater lake in Africa; wildlife in numerous national parks, wildlife reserves, and forest reserves; mountains and scenery; and cultural and historical attractions.

Opportunities

The tourism and travel sector in Malawi is growing. Investment opportunities exist in eco-tourism, hospitality, water and lake sports, wilderness safaris, and tours that showcase Malawi’s natural treasures. Malawi hosts the annual Takulandirani Malawi International Tourism Expo (MITE) to provide local and international tourism enterprises an opportunity to exhibit their products and services. Successful enterprises will need to differentiate between tourism opportunities in Malawi and that of its neighboring countries.

Malawi Government Department of Tourism Site (VISIT Malawi)
Malawi Government Department of Tourism site 2
Malawi Tourism Site
Malawi Investment and Trade Centre (MITC)
Ministry of Finance (MOF)

Department of Culture

The Department of Culture in the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Wildlife is mandated to contribute to national development, identity and unity through the promotion and management of cultural projects and programs.

Culture is the center point of our co-existence with other human beings in our communities, outside our communities as well as with our environment. It dictates our attitude and perception on life in general. Among others, it is exemplified by national monuments, artifacts, relics, museums and cultural expressions including: music, folklore, crafts, the fine arts and traditional dances, language, literature and religion. Furthermore, culture is crucial for poverty reduction, sustainable socioeconomic development, increased sense of national identity and unity as well as any other human endeavors.

The Department of culture has been disbanded into other three departments following Government approval of a functional review that took place in 2014 namely Department of Museums and Monuments, Department of Arts, and National Records and Archives

The Department is composed of two former Departments. The former department of Antiquities and the former Museums of Malawi.Thus, the Department of Museums and Monuments implements these two Acts of Parliament

The mandate of this Department is to preserve, conserve, promote, study and present the natural and cultural heritage of Malawi and interpret this heritage to all Malawians and visitors alike for posterity and social economic development.
The Vision of the Department is to be a model institution in heritage research and conservation

Institutional set-up of the Department of Museums and Monuments

The Department of Museums and Monuments is comprised of the following Divisions :

Conservation
Education and Outreach
Administration and Support

+ FUNCTIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF MUSEUMS AND MONUMENTS

Formulates policies and guidelines dealing with culture and zoology;
Administers cultural and zoological issues in the country;
Maintains external cultural co-operation;
Communicates with and co-ordinates internal cultural and zoological institutions
Registration

Malawi’s Regions
North Malawi
Central Malawi
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March 2021 Newsletter

A Year in Liwonde – Part 1: Conservation Success as wildlife thrive in 2020

Malawi awarded Safe Travels stamp of approval by WTTC

Wednesday, 10 March 2021

Malawi has now received the Safe Travels Stamp of approval from the World Travel & Tourism Council in recognition of its new national Health & Safety protocols for tourism. The implementation of these protocols assures the safety and well-being of its international visitors – giving them the confidence to travel to and around the Warm Heart of Africa.

Malawi is known for its friendly people, beautiful country and its remarkable variety of nature-based tourism experiences: the wildlife, the scenery and Lake Malawi. It has become the latest in a remarkable total of 250 destinations around the world to have been awarded the Safe Travels Stamp since its launch by WTTC in the second half of 2020. Meeting the accepted and established global standard in Health & Safety that allow tourism to re-start, brings Malawi in line with key tourism destination around the world.

This is a wonderful achievement for this small African destination.

The Safe Travels stamp is the world’s first global safety & hygiene stamp for travel & tourism, designed specifically to address COVID-19 and similar outbreaks. It was developed to help restore confidence in travellers and aims to revive the global Travel & Tourism sector which has been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic. WTTC, which represents the global Travel & Tourism private sector, created the Safe Travels stamp to enable both business and leisure travellers to distinguish destinations around the world which have adopted health and hygiene global standardised protocols – so they can experience ‘Safe Travels’. These worldwide measures provide consistency and guidance to travel providers and travellers about the necessary new approach to health, hygiene, deep cleansing and physical distancing.

The WTTC Safe Travels Protocols have received the backing of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and were developed in collaboration with leading industry associations and international organisations, taking into account current guidelines of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC).

Malawi’s own robust guidelines were developed by the Malawi Department of Tourism, through a process of engagement with the Malawi Tourism Council and the Malawi Ministry of Health.

Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We are delighted to see our Safe Travels Stamp is still growing at a rapid rate and is being adopted by destinations from all corners of the world. Reaching the incredible milestone of 250 destinations around the world now proudly holding our Safe Travels stamp, is testimony to the hard work which has been put in to make the stamp work for both destinations and holidaymakers. As the global vaccine rollout picks up pace and with the restrictions expected to be relaxed over the coming weeks, we believe the stamp will prove a key component of destination recovery and restoring consumer confidence. The success of the stamp shows the importance of global coordination to help rebuild and revive the international Travel & Tourism sector. Destinations with the stamp will benefit from travellers being able to recognise the destinations which have adopted the global protocols, encouraging the return of ‘Safe Travels’ around the world. We are finally beginning to step into the new normal of a post-COVID world, and we are proud to be leading the way for globally coordinated efforts in recovery.”

Malawi is a genuine ‘hidden gem’ for tourism but one that had been emerging as perhaps one of the most complete destinations in Africa. With a number of attributes making it ideal for post-lockdown travel, it is anticipated that it’s trajectory of growth will now be re-established. Malawi always had stunning landscapes, amazing beaches and the friendliest people in the world. Recent efforts have seen it undergo a remarkable wildlife transformation now also giving it high quality safari experiences. Malawi has no crowds of tourists & spacious accommodation, and most of its attractions are nature-based and enjoyed in the open air (even the cultural interactions are outdoors). As a small country that offers all of Africa’s experiences in one place, there is no need for long journeys cooped up in small vehicles or even any unnecessary border crossings (with their crowds, tests and procedures). Add to that the fact that all of Malawi’s tourism operators support their local communities and conservation efforts and it’s clear to see that Malawi really is the perfect place to visit and spend that ‘tourism dollar’ well, when international tourism re-starts.

Kelly White, representative the Malawi Travel Marketing Consortium, welcomed the award of the Stamp, saying “In obtaining the WTTC Safe Travels Stamp, Malawi is showing the world that it is taking the well-being of its tourists very seriously and doing all that it can to ensure they can visit safely. Despite a rise in early 2021, Malawi’s COVID case numbers remain relatively low and it has now received its first set of vaccines. Its airports are open to international visitors. As vaccines roll out around the world, the Warm Heart of Africa is now very well placed to start welcoming its visitors back as soon as they are able to travel again!”

Making Unforgettable Memories at Cape Maclear, by Sukruti Gandham

Sukruti Gandham aka Just A Desi Chori has been exploring Malawi recently and is sharing a series of blog posts with us. In this first one she visits the Cape Maclear, home of the famous Lake Malawi National Park.

Ethiopian Airlines connects Poland to Africa with easy onward flights to Malawi

Ethiopian Airlines, the Largest Aviation Group in Africa and SKYTRAX Certified Four Star Global Airline, is pleased to announce that it will start passenger flights from Warsaw to Southern Africa, from 16 June 2024.

Nyika-Vwaza Trust Spring 2024 Newsletter

The Nyika-Vwaza (UK) Trust, who work in North Malawi and focus on environment and wildlife conservation have released their Spring 2024 newsletter.

Luwawa International Charity Mountain Bike returns in June

The annual Luwawa International Charity Mountain Bike Race returns for another year as avid cyclists from Malawi and beyond take to the incredible landscape of the South Viphya Forest Reserve.

Lake of Stars to make triumphant return for 20 year anniversary

Mark a Milestone in Marvellous Malawi

In yet another fantastic blog from travel writer Sarah Kingdom, we explore Malawi's hotspots that are fit for a special occasion. Have a read to discover their country's wonders.

BLOG: A promising season begins at Pumulani, by Robin Pope Safaris

In this latest blog from Robin Pope Safaris, we hear from Kascha at Pumulani with a look back on recent visits from guests now the lake's surprisingly high water level is beginning to drop, all written in her own words.

Family-Friendly Adventures in Malawi

In this excellent blog from travel writer Sarah Kingdom, we learn why Malawi might just be the perfect African destination for family travel.

Malawi, tourism

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Felix Gasten Bello 3 , 4 ,
Brent Lovelock 4 &
Neil Carr 4

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Malawi is a landlocked country in southern Africa , with an area of 118,484 km 2 (45,746 mi 2 ), bordering Zambia , Tanzania , and Mozambique (Figure 1 ), and has a population of 15.8 million. Malawi was ruled by the United Kingdom from 1891 until independence in 1964. The economy is mainly agriculture, which represents 37 % of GDP and accounts for 82.5 % of foreign exchange earnings (ADB 2013 ).

Map of Malawi

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ADB 2013 Malawi Country Strategy Paper 2013-2017. African Development Bank. www.afdb.org/fileadmin/uploads/afdb/Documents/Project-and-Operations/2013-2017%20-%20Malawi%20-%20Country%20Strategy%20Paper.pdf (27 February 2014).

Malawi Department of Tourism 2013 Malawi Tourism Report 2012. Lilongwe: Department of Tourism.

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Rogerson, C., and J. Rogerson 2011 Tourism Research within the Southern African Development Community: Product and Consumption in Academic Journals 2000-2010. Tourism Review International 15:213-224.

WTTC 2013 Travel and Tourism, Economic Impact 2013: Malawi. London: World Travel and Tourism Council.

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Department of Tourism, Mzuzu, Malawi

Felix Gasten Bello

Department of Tourism, University of Otago, 60 Clyde Street, 9016, Dunedin, New Zealand

Felix Gasten Bello, Brent Lovelock & Neil Carr

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School of Hospitality Leadership, University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonie, Wisconsin, USA

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School of Hotel and Tourism Management, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR

Honggen Xiao

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Bello, F.G., Lovelock, B., Carr, N. (2014). Malawi, tourism. In: Jafari, J., Xiao, H. (eds) Encyclopedia of Tourism. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-01669-6_658-1

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Travel Advisory October 10, 2023

Malawi - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to civil unrest information.

Exercise increased caution in Malawi due to crime and civil unrest.

Country Summary: Violent Crime such as theft, burglary, armed robbery, assault, and carjacking is common. The capabilities of the Malawi Police Service are growing but its resources and abilities to deter and investigate crimes, assist victims, and apprehend criminals are limited.

Demonstrations may occur and increase in frequency around political issues and events such as elections. Teargas is frequently deployed at demonstrations and roads may be blocked.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Malawi.

If you decide to travel to Malawi:

Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the Country Security Report for Malawi.
U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, that could turn violent with little or no warning.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

One page for entry stamp

Yellow fever, COVID-19

Must declare all foreign currency upon arrival. Doing so helps to ensure travelers will be allowed to depart Malawi with foreign currency.

$5,000 is the maximum amount of foreign currency with which travelers may exit the country. Funds in excess of this amount (and previously undeclared upon arrival) may be confiscated and travelers may be arrested for failure to declare the foreign currency. Currency regulations are controlled by multiple entities, change often, and are not consistently applied by authorities. Citizens have spent months detained while Malawi authorities attempt to determine which regulations apply.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Lilongwe

Area 40, City Center 16 Jomo Kenyatta Road

Lilongwe 3, Malawi Mailing Address: PO Box 30016 Lilongwe 3, Malawi

Local Mailing Address: PO Box 30016, Lilongwe 3, Malawi Telephone: +(265) 1-773-166, 1-773-342 and 1-773-367 (Dial "0" before the "1" within Malawi) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(265) (0)882-960-178 or +265 (0)88 198 0814 Fax: +(265) 1-774-471 (Dial "0" before the "1" within Malawi) Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

The government of Malawi grants U.S. citizens visas upon arrival at a port-of-entry in Malawi, but encourages travelers to apply online in advance for an e-visa at the following link: http://www.evisa.gov.mw . The current fee for a single-entry visa is $50; a multiple entry visa is $150; diplomats and government officials are exempt from this fee.

Fees are subject to change. Contact the Embassy of the Republic of Malawi to confirm fees.

You must declare all foreign currency when entering Malawi regardless of the amount and exchange foreign currency at a bank or approved foreign exchange bureaus. Any currency declared at entry may be expatriated without further authorization. With bank approval, you may export up to $5,000 per trip. Otherwise, you are not permitted to export currency and it will be confiscated at the point of departure. U.S. citizens in Malawi have been arrested and detained for months for unlawful possession of foreign currency and failure to declare foreign currency.

The government of Malawi requires proof of yellow fever vaccination upon arrival if traveling from a Yellow Fever country. Please review the Center for Disease Control website for a listing of countries with risk of yellow fever virus transmission.

For travelers transiting South Africa on their way to Malawi, the South African government requires proof of yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days prior to arrival in South Africa if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever country; those without proof may be turned around at the South African port of entry. Travelers transiting South Africa with minor children should carry the child’s birth certificate and/or legal custody documents. If a minor child is transiting with only one parent, South African authorities may ask for notarized authorization for the child’s travel from the non-traveling parent. For complete entry/exit requirements for South Africa, please see our Country Specific Information for South Africa .

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents of Malawi.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

See the Department of State Travel Advisory and Alerts for Malawi.

Demonstrations sometimes occur. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays or election dates, or during international events.

Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. Looting is common along protest routes. Be aware of tear gas and other riot control measures.
Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. Both spontaneous and planned civil disturbances and demonstrations, primarily related to governance and economic issues, can occur. U.S. citizens should avoid crowds, political rallies, and street demonstrations, and maintain security awareness at all times.

CRIME : Crime is common in Malawi. Most crimes against U.S. citizens involve property. Residential break-ins are frequent; perpetrators are usually well armed and may become violent with little provocation. Petty street crime (robbery and pickpocketing) is common, and break-ins have occurred in hotels and lodges throughout the country. Kidnappings occur and non-Malawians have been targeted in Zomba.

Carjackings occur, especially in Lilongwe and Blantyre. Carjackers often block the rear of a victim’s vehicle while it waits to pass through a security gate into a residence and then assailants threaten the driver and take the car. Victims are often assaulted. Drivers are advised to lock their car doors, close their windows, and remain vigilant when entering or exiting a residence. When traveling, ensure your windows are up and doors are locked.

You should avoid traveling on foot at night, especially in urban areas, as armed muggings and assaults have occurred. Non-Malawians have been targeted in Lilongwe, and several U.S. citizens have been injured. City streets should be considered unsafe after dark even when walking in a large group. Pedestrians should also be cautious during daylight hours. Visitors in need of transportation should request that hotel or restaurant management call a taxi or car service.

The capacity and availability of public security forces is limited, we recommend you use caution when visiting and/or especially when staying in less populated areas such as the Mount Mulanje region . You should take appropriate action to ensure your safety if traveling to remote areas, and never travel alone or at night. Ensure you are communicating with a friend or family member as to your whereabouts while traveling in Malawi, as cell phone reception is limited in many areas.

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:

Report crimes to the local police at 199 or 997 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +265 88 198 0814, + (265) 1-773-166, 1-773-342, or 1-773-367 (Dial "0" before the "1" within Malawi).

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

We can:

Help you find appropriate medical care
Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
Provide a list of local attorneys
Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.

See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Visa Infractions: U.S. citizens entering Malawi with tourist visas or visitor’s permits have been arrested, fined, and deported if found engaging in activities inconsistent with their tourist status, e.g., business or volunteer services.

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad , and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to surrender them if you carry them to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information
International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
Human Rights Report – see country reports
Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: LGBTQI+ persons are denied, by law and practice, basic civil, political, social, and economic rights. Consensual same-sex sexual activity is illegal and punishable by up to 14 years in prison, including hard labor. The penal code outlaws “unnatural offenses” and “indecent practices between males.” Same-sex sexual activity may also be prosecuted as “conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace.” As of July 2014, the government has implemented a moratorium on the enforcement of laws criminalizing consensual same-sex sexual activity, though the general public largely remains hostile to LGBTQI+ persons. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers With Disabilities : The law in Malawi prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, but the law is not enforced consistently. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. Some modern buildings may have wheelchair accessible entrances. Generally, public transportation is not accessible for travelers with disabilities. The Disability Act of 2013 prohibits discrimination in education, health care, social services, the workplace, housing, political life, and cultural and sporting activities for persons with disabilities. However, the government has yet to adopt standards and plans for its enforcement and implementation.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES : Wild animals pose a threat to life and safety even in the most serene settings. Please observe local or park regulations and heed all instructions given by tour guides.

Credit cards are not commonly accepted outside of major cities. There are a limited number of ATMs in Malawi that accept Visa, MasterCard, and international ATM cards.

Dress codes prohibiting short skirts on women and long hair on men no longer exist, but travelers should be aware that Malawi is a conservative society when deciding dress, especially when visiting remote or rural areas.

For emergency services in Malawi, dial 998. Please note this number is not reliable and travelers should maintain back-up numbers, such as police and ambulance services, for the areas they visit.

Ambulance services are not widely available. The training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. More information can be found here .

Medical facilities are rudimentary. While all health workers have some degree of English proficiency, communication can be difficult. Diarrhea and other food borne illnesses are a common problem. You should avoid tap water, ice cubes, and raw fruits and vegetables. Bottled water is recommended for drinking and food preparation. Consume only food that is well-cooked and served hot.

Many medications are not available. You should bring adequate quantities of medications to last the duration of your stay. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. We encourage you to check with your primary healthcare provider or local travel clinic regarding malaria prophylaxis medications.

For major medical problems, you should consider obtaining medical treatment in South Africa, where advanced medical care is available.

We do not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Hospitals and doctors in Malawi do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas; most U.S. based medical plans do not. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

The following diseases are prevalent:

Schistosomiasis
Tuberculosis
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Yellow Fever
Leptospirosis
African Sleeping Sickness
African Tick Bite Fever
Chikungunya
Leishmaniasis

Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and travelers should sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.

HIV infection is endemic in the Malawian population. Travelers are advised to take appropriate precautions to limit the risk of transmission through blood or sexual contact.

There are often shortages of medicine and medical supplies throughout Malawi.

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Malawi.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

World Health Organization

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Health facilities in general:

Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
Hospitals and doctors require advance payment prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available. Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
Private hospitals require advance payment before admitting a patient.
Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.

Pharmaceuticals

Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Non-Traditional Medicine

U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications while seeking medical care from non-traditional healers and practitioners in Malawi. Ensure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases.

Water Quality

Tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be from tap water.

Adventure Travel

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Most roads do not have sidewalks, forcing pedestrians and livestock to use the roadways both day and night. Secondary roads are poorly lit, in disrepair, and may be impassable to all but four-wheel drive vehicles during the November-April rainy season. Motor vehicle accidents are the most common cause of death among travelers to Malawi. Safety hazards include the lack of road shoulders, potholes, pedestrians, bicyclists, and livestock. You should drive defensively and avoid road travel outside cities at night. Road support networks for stranded drivers do not exist. Fuel supply, both diesel and gasoline, is often erratic and travelers should plan accordingly. We do not recommend travel by foot along roadways.

Traffic Laws : Police roadblocks are common but properly documented drivers usually pass quickly and without incident. Malawian police operate radar-based speed traps throughout the country and you are expected to pay fines on the spot—please ensure you get a receipt. You must obtain a locally issued driver's license if you remain in Malawi for an extended period and plan to drive. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You should always wear a seat belt whenever available and insist drivers maintain a safe speed.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Malawi, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Malawi’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
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Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

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Burma (Myanmar)

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South Korea

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United Arab Emirates

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Malawi Tourism Annual Statistics Report

The Annual Tourism Report jointly produced by the National Statistical Office and the Department of Tourism. The report gives an overview of visitors to Malawi and accommodation utilization.

The sources of data for compiling reports were the Department of Immigration and Citizenship and the Department of Tourism. The data from Department of Immigration and Citizenship is obtained from non-residents at points of exit. Data for accommodation utilization is collected by Department of Tourism.

The reports provid the information on Departures of international visitors by age, sex distribution, country of residence, continent of residence, purpose of entry, mode of transport, length of stay, type of accommodation used, expenditures, room and bed occupancy.

In addition, the reports build a strong and effective tourism database with adequate and up to date statistics which is essential for monitoring industry trends.

Please see attached Reports.

2021 REPORT ON THE TOURISM STATISTICS

2020 REPORT ON THE TOURISM STATISTICS

2019 REPORT ON THE TOURISM STATISTICS

2018 REPORT ON THE TOURISM STATISTICS

The 2015-16 Malawi DHS

National Summary Data Page
Balance of Payments

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NSO Release Calendar

Malawi National Statistical System (NSS) Newsletter September 2017

Nso releases malawi mdg endline survey 2014 report, nso releases malawi bbss 2013-2014 report, listening to malawi ( l2m), national statistics act 2013, featured publications.

2018 MPHC Main Report

NSS Strategic Plan

Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 2019-20 (MICS)

2024 Malawi International Tourism Expo

The Warm Heart of Africa welcomes you to the 5th edition of MITE

25-27 April, 2024

Bingu International Convention Center

Showcasing the real African experience

The Warm Heart of Africa welcomes you to the 5th edition of “Takulandirani” Malawi International Tourism Expo (MITE) to be held from 25th to 27th April, 2024 at the Bingu Wa Mutharika International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe.

Secure your access

Discover products and services to incredible experiences in destinations.

Showcase your products, services and meet tourism players from all over the world.

Attend as Visitor

Attend as a visitor or trade visitor and meet participants at the expo. Meet suppliers, check out new industry developments , keep a close eye and get your hands on new products, attend demonstrations, and compare features and prices.

These Experts will Inspire you to Create Future

Vera Kamtukule

Minister of Tourism

World is committed to making participation in the event a harass ment free experience for everyone, regardless of level experience gender, gender identity and expression

Sessions by David

Marketing Matters

Rachel Sibande

Director, mHub

Last time we held the event

An event of this magnitude would not be possible without the support of our partners.

Contact Us Below

We'd Love to Hear From You! Please fill out the form below with any questions, comments, or feedback you have for us.

Attendant Registration

Exhibitor registration, portal announcement, check back in on 30th march for all interactive features in the portal, for now.. make sure you register below.