tourist attractions in lilongwe malawi

Top Things to Do in Lilongwe, Malawi

Places to visit in lilongwe, explore popular experiences, ways to tour lilongwe.

Cultural Tour of Lilongwe (Malawi)

Southern Malawi Adventure 7Days/ 6 Nights

Lilongwe City Tour (full day)

Northern Malawi Safari 7Days/6 Nights

Luangwa and Lake Experience 6 Days/5 Nights

Coffee tour farm visit in Mzuzu, Malawi

Discover Malawi in 7 days. Private tour with accommodation

Malawi in 6 days without accommodation

Outdoor activities, top attractions in lilongwe.

Other Top Attractions around Lilongwe

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Top Things to Do in Lilongwe, Malawi - Lilongwe Must-See Attractions

Things to do in lilongwe, explore popular experiences, ways to tour lilongwe.

Cultural Tour of Lilongwe (Malawi)

Southern Malawi Adventure 7Days/ 6 Nights

Lilongwe City Tour (full day)

Northern Malawi Safari 7Days/6 Nights

Luangwa and Lake Experience 6 Days/5 Nights

Coffee tour farm visit in Mzuzu, Malawi

Discover Malawi in 7 days. Private tour with accommodation

Malawi in 6 days without accommodation

Outdoor activities, top attractions in lilongwe.

Other Top Attractions around Lilongwe

Tours & Sightseeing

Private & custom tours, multi-day & extended tours, what travellers are saying.

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Lilongwe

Things to do in lilongwe, explore popular experiences, ways to tour lilongwe.

Cultural Tour of Lilongwe (Malawi)

Southern Malawi Adventure 7Days/ 6 Nights

Lilongwe City Tour (full day)

Northern Malawi Safari 7Days/6 Nights

Luangwa and Lake Experience 6 Days/5 Nights

Coffee tour farm visit in Mzuzu, Malawi

Discover Malawi in 7 days. Private tour with accommodation

Malawi in 6 days without accommodation

Outdoor activities, top attractions in lilongwe.

Other Top Attractions around Lilongwe

Tours & Sightseeing

Private & custom tours, multi-day & extended tours, what travellers are saying.

• The Best Things To See...

The Best Things to Do in Lilongwe, Malawi

Malawi is sometimes referred to as the “Warm Heart of Africa”, known the world over for its hospitable people. Lilongwe is an ideal place to experience this friendly welcome first-hand, along with plenty of other reasons to visit. Discover the top things to see and do on your next trip to Lilongwe , Malawi .

Spot animals at lilongwe wildlife centre.

Lilongwe Wildlife Centre is Malawi ’s sole wildlife sanctuary, set up by the trust of the same name. Their aim is to ensure the survival and wellbeing of the rescued animals that find their way there. One thing to bear in mind is that it isn’t a zoo – the animals aren’t on display – so it varies day to day which ones you will see. With that being said, there are lions, servals, baboons, various types of monkeys and an assortment of reptiles – to name a few.

Visit Lizulu Horticulture Market

The Lizulu Horticulture Market is one of the largest of its kind in Malawi . It is bisected by the Lilongwe river – with produce on one side and clothes on the other – linked by a series of bamboo footbridges. It’s as authentic a local experience as you’re likely to find, and there are spots where you can even have a sit-down meal. Try nsima (a thick corn-based porridge), which is a staple in Malawi .

Hike up Nkhoma Mountain

At its peak, Nkhoma is 5,702ft (1,738m) above sea level, making it one of the highest points in the Lilongwe area. It’s a great place to enjoy panoramic views of Malawi . From the city, it takes an hour to drive there and the hike to the top takes around 3 to 4 hours – depending on your fitness level. As well as the views, you’ll get to see a mission hospital that has been there since 1889 – and still treats patients to this day.

Smell the Roses at Four Seasons Nursery and Garden Shop

Not to be confused with the Four Seasons hotel chain – easy considering Lilongwe doesn’t have one – this expansive garden centre sits on the eastern side of town, and it’s home to dozens of different plant species: from roses and rare ferns to cacti. Many of these species can be purchased in the shop, along with handmade pots, jewellery and trinkets. If you’re travelling with little ones, don’t forget to hit up the playground.

Grab a Coffee from Ama Khofi

A Parisian-style cafe might not seem like an obvious choice in an African city, but Ama Khofi gets the formula just right. The cafe is nestled in the midst of the Four Seasons Nursery, so you can enjoy a salad or a wrap with an iced coffee in the shade of the trees, taking in the aromas of the surrounding blooms. The cafe has breakfast, lunch and dinner options, so you’re set no matter when you decide to stop by.

Buy Local Artwork at La Galleria Africa

Malawi has a long, storied artistic history going back thousands of years. La Galleria Africa proudly displays this lineage in all shapes and sizes – paintings, masks, sculptures and more – all made by locals. Clothing, mugs and other souvenirs are also sold there – if you’re in the market for something a little more suitcase-friendly.

Safari in Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

Malawi ’s beefier neighbours, Tanzania and Zambia, might be more well known for their safaris, but you can easily spot elephants from Lilongwe . Under two hours from the city is Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, the oldest and largest reserve in Malawi . It’s home to nearly 600 elephants, as well as hippos, antelopes and honey badgers. Book a room at the Tongole Lodge for an extended safari experience.

Marvel at the Chongoni Rock-Art Area

Malawi is zig-zagged with granite hills – many of which provided a home for humans back in the earliest days of our existence. The Chongoni Rock-Art Area is a Unesco World Heritage Site made up of 127 different sets of cave paintings, dating back to the late Stone Age. It’s vast and there’s little in the way of tourist development. However, the sites at Chencherere, Namzezi Hill and Mphunzi can be easily reached from Dedza – just under two hours by car from Lilongwe .

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Top 20 Places to See in Lilongwe, Malawi

•  Chikangawa Forest Reserve
•  Dedza Pottery
•  Dzalanyama Forest Reserve
•  Kasungu National Park
•  Kumbali Cultural Village
•  Lake Malawi
•  Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary
•  Liwonde National Park
•  Mua Mission
•  Mwabvi Wildlife Reserve
•  Mzimba Boma
•  Mzimba Cultural Village
•  Mzimba Hills
•  Mzuzu City
•  Mzuzu Coffee
•  Nkhotakota Boma
•  Nkhotakota Pottery
•  Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve
•  Ntchisi Forest Reserve
•  Ntchisi Hills

•  Majete Wildlife Reserve
•  Nyika National Park
•  Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve
•  Balaka
•  Blantyre
•  Chikwawa
•  Chiradzulu
•  Chitipa
•  Dedza
•  Karonga
•  Kasungu
•  Lilongwe
•  Mangochi
•  Mchinji
•  Mzuzu
•  Nkhotakota
•  Nsanje
•  Ntcheu
•  Phalombe
•  Rumphi
•  Salima
•  Thyolo
•  Zomba
•  Chintheche Inn
•  Chongoni Rock Art Area
•  Kande Beach
•  Livingstonia Mission
•  Mount Mulanje
•  Mvuu Camp
•  Mzimba
•  Nkhotakota Game Reserve
•  Nkhotakota Pottery Village

18 Best Things to Do in Lilongwe, Malawi – 2023

18 Best Things to Do in Lilongwe

Dzalanyama forest reserve, r and l game ranch in lilongwe, lilongwe wildlife centre, nkhoma mountain, bunda mountain, kumbali country lodge, national war memorial tower, kamuzu mausoleum, african habitat, craft market (area 4 art market), farmers market at woodlands lilongwe, shopping malls in lilongwe, linga winery tour and wine tasting, zikomo restaurant, other popular restaurants in lilongwe, sunday jazz nights in lilongwe, ufulu festival, find out more about lilongwe.

Lilongwe is the capital of Malawi since 1975, when the capital was relocated from Zomba in southern Malawi.

Lilongwe offers a wide range of activities and places to visit.

This article provides an overview of what to do and where to go in Lilongwe.

Enjoy Nature and Wildlife in Lilongwe

Dzalanyama Forest Reserve which lies 60 km south-west of Lilongwe, is a popular hiking destination for local and international tourists.

Dzalanyama means ‘place of animals’ in the native Chichewa language and is registered as a forest reserve to protect Lilongwe’s water resources.

The reserve covers an area of 989 km2 and is between 1,100 m and 1,650 m above sea level, making the hilly forests of Brachystegia and Miombo the best places for walking, trekking, mountain biking and forest bathing.

It is also home to more than 300 bird species and bird guides are provided by the local community.

There are 7 trekking trails that start from Dzalanyama Forest Lodge.

Although the trails vary in length and difficulty, they are well signposted, and everyone can enjoy them, from easy walks to thrilling hikes.

You can even make a day trip from Lilongwe or stay at Dzalanyama Forest Lodge for the weekend and enjoy nature at its best.

The Lodge also has a camping site with barbecue facilities.

R and L Game Ranch is a charming farm and game ranch which is located on the outskirts of Lilongwe along Bunda road at Cheseka, about 8km from Bunda roundabout.

The farm was opened in 2021 and boasts of a wide variety of exotic and hybrid animals and birds.

The friendly guides are available to take you around the farm while explaining the various species of animals found there.

Some of the animals you will see along this tour are zebras, emus, ostriches, vulture, mongoose, turtles, sable antelopes, guinea fowls, peacocks, rabbits, Japanese bantam, English geese, Francolin spur fowl, parrots, porcupine and more.

There are also a special go-cart track and a play ground for children.

Whether you enjoy adventure or you just like trying new things, R and L farm is the place for you.

Lilongwe Wildlife Centre is run by the Lilongwe Wildlife Trust (LWT), a private NGO.

The Wildlife Centre works to protect injured and rescued wildlife in order to release them back into the wild, and has over 200 animals in the centre.

Visitors can go trekking along the nature trails.

There are three trails of 1.1 km, 3.2 km and 4.3 km, allowing visitors to choose a course that suits their time and fitness.

The indigenous forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including hyenas, porcupines, bushbabies, serval cats, Nile crocodiles, monitor lizards and Schlegel’s snakes.

The Lingadzi River, which flows through the site, is also a great place to watch kingfishers, herons and other waterbirds.

The facility also has a trendy café, gift shop and playground.

If you want to relax in the midst of nature in Lilongwe, this is the place to visit.

Nkhoma Mountain rises behind Nkhoma Mission Hospital, about 60 km south of Lilongwe on the M1 road, and can be seen from the centre of Lilongwe.

Nkhoma Synod was founded in 1889 by Scottish missionaries from South Africa, and Nkhoma subsequently became the Mission’s headquarters.

The area around Nkhoma Mission is a lovely, green, tranquil place with historic buildings.

Nkhoma mountain has two peaks, Nkhoma and Mbalambala, locally known as ‘the-two-headed mountain’.

It is very popular with local hikers as the most challenging and rewarding of the mountains around Lilongwe.

From the top of the mountain, you can see Lilongwe, Lake Malawi and other distant landscapes.

The spectacular views will leave you awestruck.

Bunda Mountain is a small mountain which is 1,159 m high, rising on a flat plain 20 km south of Lilongwe, near Bunda College of Agriculture.

Bunda Mountain’s hiking trail is ideal for beginners and the unique decorations on the summit as well as the remarkable views from the top make it a very popular destination for locals and tourists.

The summit is usually crowded with locals offering their prayers and some describe the stone-walled path also known as the ‘Moses Highway’, as Malawi’s version of the Great Wall of China.

From the top, visitors can appreciate 360-degree panoramic views of Nkhoma Mountain, the forests of the Bunda College grounds, the Kamuzu Dam and Lilongwe Township.

It is a short two-hour round trip, making it ideal for a half-day trip from Lilongwe.

Set amidst 650 hectares of forest reserve and dairy farm, just 10 minutes from Lilongwe city centre, Kumbali Country Lodge is a stylish and relaxing boutique lodge that sets itself apart from other hotels in Lilongwe.

It is the perfect place for those looking to get away from the turmoil of the city and spend a quiet, peaceful day.

The lodge’s restaurant serves a wide variety of delicious cuisines using farm-fresh produce and dairy products.

It is also a steady favourite among tourists and local expats.

During your visit, you will forget you are in the capital as you stroll through the gardens surrounded by natural forests, go hiking, biking or bird-watching, take a dip in the large pool, or enjoy a massage or spa treatment in the quiet, peaceful setting.

Learn about Malawian History in Lilongwe

Located at the centre of Lilongwe between the Capital Hill and Area 18 Filling Station, the memorial tower is set in the same compound as a statue of the first president of Malawi, Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda.

The monument was constructed in honour of all soldiers and civilians who died during the First and Second World Wars and other military operations both within and outside Malawi.

You can find staff who are very informative with lots of local stories and they can guide you to the top of the tower.

The view from the top is the one of the best viewing points of the city in Lilongwe.

There is no entrance fee, but a tip is expected when going up to the clock tower.

Located on the Presidential way next to the parliament building, Kamuzu Mausoleum is the resting place of the first president of Malawi, Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda.

Construction of the mausoleum was completed in 2006.

This marble and granite mausoleum has four pillars bearing the initials of his most prized principles, ‘Unity’, ‘Loyalty’, ‘Discipline’ and ‘Obedience’ and his portrait adorns the entrance.

Guides at the entrance will show you around in exchange for a tip.

Tourists who wish to learn more about Malawi’s founding father who deemed ‘The Lion’ have the opportunity to access information through the library and research centre at the mausoleum.

Buy Souvenirs in Lilongwe

Situated in the Old Town Mall, African Habitat is one of the best shops to purchase quality souvenirs and mementos in Malawi.

The shop established in 2000 by Italian owner and has a wide range of crafts and curios from across the country and African countries such as Swaziland, Tanzania and Zimbabwe.

African Habitat supports local artisans create original high-quality products by providing them with a market.

All products are sold on a fair trade base.

Finely crafted furniture, one of the main products in this shop is made in Lilongwe with rubberwood in Nkhata Bay.

Products made of Chitenje including dresses, skirts, bags, pants and hats are made by Malawi Children’s Village (MCV) in Mangochi as a part of vocational training for orphans and vulnerable children.

The high-quality products are good for souvenirs from Malawi as cute tags written with ‘Handmade in Malawi’ are attached.

Wall hangings are made by Club Makokola, women’s group in Mangochi.

The hangings are made of hemp cloth used to pack tobacco leaves and colourful yarn from Italy.

You can use VISA and MasterCard at this shop – it is rare in Malawi.

While Malawi is a mostly agricultural nation, many people dedicate their lives to arts and crafts which are famous throughout the region.

The Craft Market opposite the road traffic office in Area 4 has a wide range of quality souvenirs from all over the country, especially southern region of Malawi.

It began in 1966 with a single stall and now is the biggest and most important craft market to visit in Malawi.

There are around 85 stalls and 200 venders in the market.

Vendors sell everything from wood carving in teak, ebony and mahogany, chief’s chairs and small tables to paintings, traditional clothing, beadwork and jewellery.

The craft market is totally safe at any time, but some venders tend to over-quote prices at first, so enjoy bargaining for it, but most importantly, remember that Malawi is a poor country.

Some of the crafts take days, weeks and sometimes months to complete, so play fair.

Enjoy your shopping experience and don’t forget to bring an extra suitcase for all your treasures!

One of the best ways to find something new is go to the Lilongwe Farmers Market.

The farmers market takes place at Woodlands Lilongwe on last Saturday of every month (except December) from 7:30am to 1:00pm.

The place is shady and cool as it’s totally covered by trees.

It offers a huge range of products from fresh organic vegetables and delicious foods such as salsa, tortillas, chocolate, ice cream, fresh cheese and local wine to hand-crafted items including furniture, clothes, accessories, jewellery and paintings.

Everything is made in Malawi, and some is difficult to find in Lilongwe.

Vendors gather from all over Malawi such as Nkhata Bay, Balaka and Blantyre for this market.

You can meet a lot of interesting expatriates doing relevant works and earnest Malawians and exchange contact information.

Don’t miss this once a month event and make sure to bring a big shopping bag!

In Lilongwe, a series of modern shopping malls have opened in the last decade.

Whether you’re a weekend window shopper or a shopaholic, Lilongwe has enough malls to excite you.

If you’re looking for a great shopping experience in Lilongwe, why not visit one of the malls below?

Experience a Taste of Malawi in Lilongwe

Linga Winery is located in the leafy suburbs of Area 3 and was registered as a commercial entity in 2006.

The opportunity you cannot afford to miss in Lilongwe is Linga Winery tour.

Visitors will learn the background of Linga Winery, see the various processes and technologies involved and sample at least 3 varieties of Linga Fruit Wine.

The name ‘Linga’ means ‘a fortress’ in Chichewa and was the village of the Managing Partner of Linga Wine, Dr. Timothy Ngwira’s mother in the Kasungu District.

They offer 7 varieties of fresh wine produced from fruits including Jambula, Mulberry, Plum, Rosella, Strawberry, White Guava and White Peach other than grapes.

The various fruits are procured from rural farm families across Malawi.

Linga Winery is certified by the Malawi Bureau of Standards, holds MS178 and is currently pursuing ISO22000 Food Safety Management System.

Linga Fruit Wine are predominantly distributed nationally through Shoprite and Spar branches and smaller outlets and internationally via africanosworld in UK.

They can be also found at Farmers Market in Lilongwe.

Bwandilo is a popular drinking area for locals in Area 47, Lilongwe.

There are more than 10 stalls selling chicken, beef and pork braai, as well as pubs and clubs.

As it is not a tourist area, food and drink prices are reasonable.

Prostitutes and drunks can be seen at night, but it is not an unsafe place to visit if you are careful.

If you are looking for a popular local nightspot in Malawi, Bwandilo is highly recommended.

Zikomo Restaurant is a reputable local restaurant located behind the immigration office in Lilongwe.

There is ample seating and the best dish is the braai’d chicken on the spot.

The tomato sauce and braai are outstandingly seasoned, and there is a wide selection of other dishes including beef and gizzard braai.

You can choose from nsima, rice or chips as your staple meal.

If you are looking for a delicious local lunch in Lilongwe, you should definitely try Zikomo Restaurant.

Events and Festivals in Lilongwe

One of the hottest spots in Malawi’s capital, Lilongwe is Jazz Night, held every Sunday from 17:00 at a bar named “Khala”.

Khala is a cosy, sophisticated bar on Presidential Drive in Lilongwe, in the complex premises of the Four Seasons.

Entrance is free and it attracts many Malawians and expats who love to drink and listen to music, and is packed with around 200-300 people every Sunday at peak times.

If you like socialising and getting to know new people, then the Sunday Jazz Nights are for you.

From songs that are popular in Malawi to Western music that has been a hit around the world, the skilled band will keep you entertained with heart-warming melodies.

Even if you think you’re not interested in jazz, you’ll find yourself moving to the songs you know.

The Ufulu Festival is a free community event and festival organized by Flood Church Malawi.

The festival which was founded in 2014 is held every 6 July to commemorate Malawi’s independence.

It provides an opportunity for the youth to celebrate and reflect on the country’s history while looking forward to the future.

Additionally, the Ufulu Festival celebrates culture, creativity and freedom through music, dance and poetry.

It is an environment of awareness and response to the gospel, mental health and social justice.

It is also a great opportunity for artists to showcase their work while honouring Malawi.

The Ufulu Festival which is held annually attracted over 16,000 people in 2019.

• Lake Malawi
• Cultural & Historical Sites
• Lilongwe & Central
• Blantyre & South
• Mzuzu & North
• Things to Do
• Setting up a Business
• Entrepreneurs
• Facility Tour
• Special Feature
• Before You Go
• Chichewa Lesson

Kapani Kanengo Shopping Mall in Lilongwe

Sanitary Pads from Banana Stems in Malawi

History of the Malawi National Anthem

Symbolism of the Malawi National Flag

Storytelling Tour to Screen Priceless Historical Footage & Folktales

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Lilongwe

Things to do in lilongwe, explore popular experiences, ways to tour lilongwe.

Cultural Tour of Lilongwe (Malawi)

Southern Malawi Adventure 7Days/ 6 Nights

Lilongwe City Tour (full day)

Northern Malawi Safari 7Days/6 Nights

Luangwa and Lake Experience 6 Days/5 Nights

Coffee tour farm visit in Mzuzu, Malawi

Discover Malawi in 7 days. Private tour with accommodation

Malawi in 6 days without accommodation

Outdoor activities, top attractions in lilongwe.

Other Top Attractions around Lilongwe

Tours & Sightseeing

Private & custom tours, multi-day & extended tours, what travellers are saying.

Top Things to Do in Lilongwe, Malawi - Lilongwe Must-See Attractions

Things to do in lilongwe, explore popular experiences, ways to tour lilongwe.

Cultural Tour of Lilongwe (Malawi)

Southern Malawi Adventure 7Days/ 6 Nights

Lilongwe City Tour (full day)

Northern Malawi Safari 7Days/6 Nights

Luangwa and Lake Experience 6 Days/5 Nights

Coffee tour farm visit in Mzuzu, Malawi

Discover Malawi in 7 days. Private tour with accommodation

Malawi in 6 days without accommodation

Outdoor activities, top attractions in lilongwe.

Other Top Attractions around Lilongwe

Tours & Sightseeing

Private & custom tours, multi-day & extended tours, what travellers are saying.

The 10 best places to visit in Malawi

Apr 18, 2023 • 8 min read

Malawi is home to beautifully diverse natural landscapes © Jason Grunsta / Getty Images

For a sand-and-safari experience, few African nations are able to outshine Malawi. Its stunning Lake Malawi boasts countless bays, beaches and islands to explore, particularly as a bookend to a safari in one of the country's wildlife parks. 

But Malawi is more than its diverse natural landscapes. Travelers could spend weeks here exploring its tea and coffee farms and laid-back cities, all while sampling regional foods and experiencing cultural heritage sites. Here are the top places to visit in Malawi .

1. Lilongwe

Best for a relaxed city break

Travelers usually skip African cities for the wilderness, but the capital has worthwhile activities and attractions, including shopping, sporting events and places to eat.  Lilongwe moves at a slow pace, making it a pleasant spot to rest before or after long international flights, or to recharge and resupply on a road trip.

A hike up Nkhoma Mountain is a good way to introduce yourself to the city. Panoramic views from the top reveal Lilongwe’s layout, highlighting the differences between the old town and the new capital city. One of Lilongwe’s best attractions, the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre , acts as a forested buffer between the two sections. It's the country’s only animal sanctuary dedicated to helping injured or rescued animals, with the aim of returning them to the wild. Shoppers will love Lilongwe’s many markets, and the Kanelolo Curios Market is packed with vendors selling paintings, wood carvings and jewelry.

Several hotels are located in or near downtown, including two from the popular Malawi-based chain  Sunbird Hotels and Resorts . Kumbali Country Lodge , only 10 minutes from the city center, offers a pool, restaurant and spacious guest rooms among gardens on a working farm.

Planning tip:  If you’re staying at Kumbali, try the Farmer’s Daughter , a cafe five minutes down the road serving crusty bread, farm-fresh salads and house-roasted Malawian coffee.

2. Lake Malawi National Park

Best place for a laidback yet wild experience

Most travelers heading to Malawi make a beeline for its namesake lake . The world’s first freshwater national park, Lake Malawi has tropical blue waters teeming with colorful cichlid fish, and its rocky islands, sandy beaches and jungle terrain provide habitats for birds, reptiles and mammals such as baboons, hippos, monkeys and leopards. 

Unesco-listed Lake Malawi is 587km (365 miles) long and 84km (52 miles) wide, so exploring the sights can take weeks, given the area’s minimal infrastructure. Those with time and a backpack to stay nimble catch the MV Ilala Ferry. The ship has been running for 70 years and provides a lifeline for people transferring goods from the lake’s northern tip of Chilumba, near Tanzania, to Monkey Bay in the south, plus the islands in between. If you’re looking for a throwback journey to the era of slow, immersive travel, the Lake Malawi ferry is it.

3. Cape Maclear

Best place for getting a local experience

At the tip of Nankumba Peninsula, on the southern end of Lake Malawi, Cape Maclear is both a working fishing village and a popular tourist stop. Known locally as Chembe, this small enclave hemmed in by forested mountains has beachfront accommodation set within the community, and the proximity of guest chalets to homes creates a natural setting for travelers to interact with residents.

Recreational activities include kayaking, snorkeling and diving in the lake’s turquoise waters; spotting wildlife like hippos and African fish eagles; learning to cook with a local family; or simply lounging with a Castel beer on a boat at sunset.

Planning tip:  Learn new skills from the locals and protect the natural landscape during your stay. Community members run workshops demonstrating how they upcycle materials like glass into jewelry or home decor, which is then sold at the Recycle Centre’s artisan shop in town.

4. Likoma Island

Best for luxury and flawless beaches

Travel guides tend to oversell the beaches of Lake Malawi, but Likoma Island deserves its reputation as the go-to for beach lovers. There are only two ways to get to there: a charter flight or the ferry, one of which requires money and the other time. Kaya Mawa , the island’s upscale lodge – complete with chalets secreted into the cliff sides, plunge pools and incredible scenery – is one of the best in Africa. 

When you’re not swimming, snorkeling or quad biking through the baobab trees, visit the Katundu workshop, where artisans upcycle wine bottles from Kaya Mawa into unique tumbled-glass chandeliers that hang in fancy hotel lobbies across the continent. The beaded textiles and jewelry, made from recycled and sustainable materials in a safe and ethical work environment, make great souvenirs.

5. Marelli Island archipelago

Best area for diving

The Marelli Islands, located in the center of Malawi toward the southern end of the lake, are all about nature, both above and below water. Naturalist David Attenborough praised the lake’s 850 species of fish, some of which are endemic to the archipelago. Blue Zebra Island Lodge , located on Nankoma Island, operates a PADI dive center whose guides help guests spot the iridescent blue-striped Mbuna that lends the lodge its name. Onshore, birdwatchers won’t tire of spotting kingfishers, eagles, weavers, herons or the elusive red duiker. Simple, comfortable accommodations in chalets and safari tents connect you to the soothing sway of island life. 

6. Blantyre 

Best city for food and nightlife

Blantyre is Malawi’s second-largest city, a commercial hub and the gateway to attractions in the southern part of the country. Travelers driving to Majete, Thyolo, Mt. Mulanje, Michiru Mountain and Zomba Plateau stop in this spirited town filled with bars and restaurants. 

Named for Scottish explorer David Livingstone's birthplace, Blantyre started as a mission base for the Church of Scotland in 1876, and relics of that era remain, including St Michael and All Angels Church and the 1882 Mandala House , a national monument with a cafe and art gallery. The bar at  Doogles  is the place to trade tips and stories with city-dwellers and backpackers. Before heading back into the bush, try the popular zinziri (barbecued quail). 

Planning tip:  Doogles also offers clean, quality accommodation in the form of both private rooms and dorms – an excellent option if you're traveling on a tight budget.

7. Majete Wildlife Reserve

Best place to spot the big five

Visit Majete Wildlife Reserve to spot the Big Five and support a conservation success story. Poachers and human encroachment had destroyed the wildlife in the park, but in 2003, the non-profit conservation group African Parks partnered with the Malawi Department of National Parks and Wildlife to reintroduce black rhinos, lions, giraffes and other animals. Almost two decades later, flourishing wildlife has brought visitors to the park and economic opportunities to the community. 

Animals congregate around two rivers, the Shire and Mkulumadzi. Split your viewing experiences between boat trips and night drives, or try a walking safari into the hilly woodlands and savannah. If you’re not at an all-inclusive lodge such as Thawale Camp or Robin Pope’s Mkulumadzi , local guides offer reasonably priced tours, and you can book a space at the community campsite .

Planning tip:  The best time for spotting wildlife is during the dry season, which runs between April and October.

8. Shire Highlands

Best place to hike through a tea and coffee estate

For a change of scenery, journey into a verdant swath of southern Malawi where farmers grow tea and coffee. First cultivated here by the British in the 1900s, Camellia sinensis (the tea plant) thrives in the higher elevation of the Shire Highlands, thanks to the cooler climate. You can hike or mountain bike over lush hills, tour a tea factory and then relax with a cup of earthy oolong or natural-processed arabica from Satemwa Tea and Coffee Estate . 

Looming in the backdrop, Mt. Mulanje rises into the mist at 3000m (9824ft). Fit and adventurous travelers can organize four-day treks up its slopes with local guides. The Thyolo district, pronounced “cho-lo,” is beautiful but has limited tourist infrastructure, including accommodations. If you’re not traveling with a tour company, some of the tea estates offer modest guesthouses, lodges or owners’ bungalows .

9. Liwonde National Park

Best park for a classic safari experience  

Liwonde National Park is a classic safari experience with a superb riverscape – here, you’ll find hippos and crocodiles lounging on the lapping shores of the Shire River, and zebras and kudu fleeing leopards and lions on the nearby plains. Herds of elephants trundle across the lagoons and floodplains, stopping for a drink or a snack of mopani tree leaves. You can watch all the action from a boat, on foot or in a 4x4. Liwonde National Park has excellent lodging options, whether you’re up for splurging on an intimate, all-inclusive camp or saving with a self-catering safari tent.

Best place to pick up some locally made souvenirs  

Malawi’s third-largest city, Mzuzu is the cool-climate capital of the north and an important agricultural region that specializes in tea and coffee. Try a cup of fresh-brewed arabica or stroll the produce market of locally sourced goodies. Tailors in the Mataifa Market will fashion custom-made clothing out of the colorful patterned cloth called chitenge , sold everywhere. For most travelers, this low-rise town provides a good base for the region’s attractions.

Drive or catch a bus to nearby Nkhata Bay on Lake Malawi. The beaches of this popular backpacker spot, known for cheap scuba diving and a community vibe, are less than an hour away. On the border with Zambia, Nyika National Park entices in part because it’s hard to reach. Unless flying, intrepid overlanders in high-clearance vehicles are rewarded with a breathtaking landscape of undulating grasslands. Some find it evocative of Scotland – that is, until a zebra, antelope or leopard strolls into view.

Planning tip:  On Sundays, locals set up speakers on the beach and relax together with a few beers.

This article was first published Jan 3, 2022 and updated Apr 18, 2023.

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Malawi's Wildlife

Malawi is blessed with a rich diversity of flora and fauna and has no less than nine National Parks and Wildlife Reserves. Although it may not have quite the sheer numbers of large mammals as some of its better known neighbours, it makes up for this in other ways by providing intensive and exclusive wildlife viewing in unspoilt areas of genuine wilderness with very few other visitors looking on. Malawi is also in the middle of a wildlife revolution with massive investment in a number of of its protected areas resulting in a boom in wildlife numbers and, so far, two of its parks & reserves becoming home to the ‘Big 5’.

Malawi offers some fantastic wildlife experiences. Safaris  here are varied and thrilling. As well as the usual safaris by vehicle (in Malawi they use open-topped 4x4s rather than mini-buses), all of Malawi’s parks & reserves offer walking safaris, and in the 3 that have the broadest stretches of river, wildlife can be viewed courtesy of boat safaris .

Birdwatching is an experience that can be had pretty much everywhere in the country because of the remarkable number and variety of species found. The highlands, wetlands and parks & reserves are hotspots for  wildlife viewing of the feathered variety.

For those visitors keen to make an even more positive difference to Malawi’s conservation efforts, there are also opportunities to get involved in Conservation Volunteer Projects.

National Parks & Wildlife Reserves

In recent years the Parks and Reserves have undergone something of a transformation, with private concessionaires helping to improve conservation and the quality of viewing.

In the South is the country’s longest established –  Liwonde National Park , with excellent accommodation and the country’s best game viewing. Emerging rapidly is  Majete Wildlife Reserve , subject to a re-stocking programme and now a ‘Big 5’ destination. Majete has two neighbours in the Lower Shire Valley  which have not yet received the same level of investment. But  Lengwe National Park  has privately run accommodation and is known for its buffalo herds, whilst Mwabvi Wildlife Reserve  remains little visited and is best known for its unusual rock formations. At the southern end of the Lower Shire Valley, Elephant Marsh is an important wetland for birdlife. Chimwenya , not far south-east of Blantyre, is one of very few private game parks in Malawi. Here. an area of indigenous forest has been lovingly preserved and restocked with giraffe and plenty of large antelope.

In Central Malawi , the once great Kasungu National Park is sadly now rather forgotten and neglected, but the nearby rugged wilderness of the  Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve  is opening up and promises much, having remained largely untouched for years. It has new lodges and was recently the recipient of the largest elephant translocation in human history.

In the North , the  Nyika National Park  is one of Malawi’s jewels and offers unique wildlife viewing on its rolling grassland plateau. Nyika is complemented by neighbouring  Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve , a lowland area offering a more traditional bush-game experience.

Remarkably for a capital city, the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre lies in the centre of the city. An oasis of green it is home to a variety of birds and a few smaller animals, and also the base of the Lilongwe Wildlife Trust , who work tirelessly to protect Malawi’s wildlife, including provide sanctuary and rehabilitation.

Forest Reserves

Although designated for the protection of the landscape and vegetation rather than the animals, Malawi’s Forest Reserves found across the country provide good habitats for a number of animals. Though not safari destinations, viewing of smaller mammals is not uncommon in the forest reserves and the birdwatching is often excellent.

Of the easy to access Forest Reserves, Dzalanyama and Ntchisi are both a relatively short distance from Lilongwe and are known for their excellent birdlife. the mountains of Mulanje and Zomba are also home to forest reserves, but the landscapes tend to dominate the focus in those locations!

Big cats were previously only occasionally seen in Malawi but the re-introduction of lions into Majete and Liwonde , and of cheetahs into Liwonde in recent years have changed that. The leopard is found across almost the entire country, with great concentrations at Nyika , but as with anywhere, its elusive lifestyle makes sighting difficult. Of the smaller cats, civet is the most widespread though genet, serval and wild cat may also be seen. Hyena are the most common of the other major predators and can be spotted in all the protected land areas. Jackal also have populations in Malawi but are less frequently seen.

Black rhino have been successfully re-introduced and can be seen in Liwonde and Majete . There are good elephant populations in all the protected areas except the low lying  Lengwe  and  Mwabvi . Hippos are numerous in Malawi and are commonly seen the Shire River, where they number in the thousands. Crocodiles are also common in the Shire.

Buffalo and zebra are common sightings in all areas. Of the antelopes, bushbuck, grey duiker, kudu, grysbok, klipspringer and reedbuck are found in most of the protected areas. Roan and eland can also be seen, particularly in Nyika , whilst Liwonde and Majete are the most likely places to spot sable and waterbuck. The rarest species, Livingstone’s suni and the beautiful nyala, have good populations in Lengwe . Malawi’s Lower Shire Valley is the furthest north of all nyala habitats in southern Africa.

Other mammals in the country include monkeys and baboons, bushpig, warthog and porcupine.  Giraffe were reintroduced to Majete in 2018.

Malawi is truly an ornithologist’s paradise. Few countries in the whole of Africa can rival Malawi’s range of bird species coupled with the relative ease of birdwatching. Around 650 species have been identified, spread across the countries diverse landscapes, with over ten per cent not being seen in other parts of southern Africa. They are primarily woodland or grassland varieties including Livingstone flycatcher, red-winged francolin and the endemic Lillian’s lovebird. However, the lake, rivers and dams also attract waterbirds such as hamerkop, fish eagle, kingfishers, egret and pelican. Raptors, like the African marsh harrier, black-breasted snake eagle and peregrine falcon, give further variety. For further details, see the  Birdwatching  pages.

For a series of image galleries showing a large number of Malawi’s most beautiful birds, visit the Planet’s Alive website run by wildlife photographer Marie-France Grenouillet.

The variety of fish, an estimated 1000 species, to be seen in  Lake Malawi  is unequalled anywhere else in the world. The Lake has more species of fish than all of the lakes and rivers of North America and Europe combined! The majority are cichlids , mostly endemic to Malawi and these small, brightly coloured mbuna can be seen along the length of the Lake. The Shire River through Liwonde and Majete also supports good fish populations including sungwa and tiger fish, whilst the Bua in Nkhotakota has mpasa (lake salmon), popular with anglers.

Wildlife Activities

Safaris in Malawi offer thrilling wildlife viewing by a choice of methods and in an amazing variety of environments, but without the crowds of mass tourism.

Conservation Volunteer Projects

Volunteering with wildlife is a becoming more common as Malawi continues to be at the forefront of wildlife conservation in Africa.

Boat Safaris

Game viewing from a boat can be extremely successful as many animals are less concerned about what's close to them on the water than what's close to them on the land.

Birdwatching

Malawi's varied terrains and environments create a birdwatcher's paradise. Around 650 different species have been identified and birds can be seen in the reserves and all across the country.

Places to See Wildlife

Chimwenya Game Park

Chimwenya Game Park is a serene, beautiful and privately owned 500 acre game park, in one of the last remaining indigenous forests inteh Shire HIghlands.

Dzalanyama Forest Reserve

Dzalanyama is approximately 40 km from Lilongwe and covers the steep range of hills which bear the same name. It's a beautiful natural environment to explore and enjoy.

Elephant Marsh

Elephant Marsh is part of the flood plain of the River Shire. Though now devoid of elephants it is still home to a fantastic array of birdlife.

Kasungu National Park

Kasungu National Park is an 800 sq mile area of natural woodland and bush with stretches of open grass. Poaching has reduced numbers but there is still wildlife to be seen.

Lake Chilwa

Lake Chilwa is Malawi’s second biggest lake, home to unique fishing villages and a designated wetland of international importance because of the huge bird populations it supports.

Lake Malawi National Park

Lake Malawi National Park is the world's first freshwater national park and world heritage site, situated at Cape Maclear.

Lengwe National Park

Lengwe National Park is 350 sq miles of dense vegetation with good birdlife and a number of mammal species to be seen. It is only an hour or so from Blantyre.

Lilongwe is Malawi’s capital. The Old Town is distinct and has the appearance of a traditional African settlement, whilst the City has much in common with other twentieth century urban developments around the world.

Liwonde National Park

Liwonde is perhaps the most popular of all of Malawi's game parks. The River Shire flows along its western border, allowing boat safaris to discover the Big 5 and an array of birdlife.

Lower Shire Valley

The Lower Shire Valley is an extension of the Rift Valley and home to no less than three national parks/wildlife reserves.

Majete Wildlife Reserve

Majete Wildlife Reserve is a unique conservation and tourist destination for all visitors. An amazing success story of recovery and restoration, and now home to the Big 5.

Mwabvi Wildlife Reserve

Mwabvi Wildlife Reserve is little neglected in terms of wildlife but the landscape includes scenic rocky outcrops and rivers cutting through impressive gorges.

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve is one of the two large wildlife areas in Central Malawi. A true wilderness, it has a promising future after recent mass restocking.

Nyika National Park

Nyika is Malawi’s largest park. Superb wildlife and landscapes in one, it offers breathtaking, unique, scenery combined with wonderful safaris.

Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve

Vwasa Wildlife Reserve, an area of marsh and plain, with a few rocky outcrops, is all of 400 sq miles (1000 sq km) and lies along the Zambian border north-west of Mzuzu.

Malawi's Other Experiences

Lake Malawi

Lake Malawi is the jewel in the crown of the country’s tourist attractions, “discovered” by the missionary-explorer Dr David Livingstone just over 150 years ago.

Malawi has a massive diversity of beautiful landscapes. The highest peaks in Malawi touch 10 000ft (3 000m) while the lowest point is barely above sea level.

The Malawian people are, without doubt, its greatest asset: friendly and welcoming to a fault. Every visitor is met with a smile.

Malawi has much offer when it comes to events, with musical, cultural and sporting events throughout the year.

As well as the various outdoor and water activities, Malawi offers a few organised sports and wellness activities.

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In Pictures

‘Climbing is for ladies too’: Transforming Malawi into a climbers’ paradise

A small group of enterprising, local climbers has a bold cause – to attract more malawians to the sport..

Mulundi, Malawi – Shalom Maholo dangles off the side of a rock face with a power drill in her hand. The 22-year-old steadies herself before drilling a hole in the wall, which she carefully cleans with a brush, then hammers in a bolt that she tightens with a wrench.

She straps the gear to her harness, abseils downwards for two metres and then does it all again, and again and again for 20 metres until she touches the ground 90 minutes later. It’s a physically exhausting, highly technical process which Shalom must get exactly right because climbers here will rely on these bolts for their survival for decades to come.

She’s creating a new climbing route, up which climbers can clip their ropes into pre-drilled bolts for protection while ascending. But here in Mulundi, on Malawi’s western border with Mozambique, Shalom is also making history. She’s the first Malawian woman to bolt a new route in the country, which she names Zikomo, meaning “thank you” in Chichewa.

“Climbing has done so much for me,” says Shalom. “People here think it’s something only white men do, but I want to show that climbing is for everyone, it’s for ladies and it’s for Malawians.

“We’re women, and society thinks that we cannot do it, but we need to take these barriers out.”

In the last decade, climbing has gone from a niche sport to a worldwide sensation and multibillion-dollar industry . The sport made its debut at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo and will feature again in Paris this year, while the Oscar-winning documentary, Free Solo, turned Alex Honnold into a star when he climbed the 3,000-foot (914m) El Capitan mountain wall without any rope or safety gear in 2017.

In 2022, The New York Times said that climbing could be the “future of tourism” in Malawi thanks to its soaring granite rock faces that have drawn comparisons with Yosemite National Park in the United States, one of climbing’s global hubs. But while Yosemite alone has more than 2,000 sport climbing routes, Malawi has yet to hit 50.

Shalom is still one of just a handful of Malawians who are trained to develop new climbing routes, but this is a diverse group of volunteers, with a mix of men and women as well as people of different ages, dedicated to seeing Malawi fulfil its potential as a climbing country.

The Climb Centre, an open-air gym in the capital, Lilongwe, is the beating heart of this cause. The gym is operated by Climb Malawi, an NGO which aims to attract young Malawians to climbing, create new routes across the country and develop Malawi’s local and international climbing scene.

‘I know I can do it, too’

In one of the world’s poorest countries, where two-thirds of the population lives on less than $2 per day according to the World Bank, climbing as a sport can be prohibitively expensive. Climbing shoes alone can cost at least $30 (bought online from abroad). But Climb Malawi says it will never turn someone away if they cannot pay for appropriate equipment or for the costs of travelling to climbing sites – all these things are subsidised through voluntary donations from those who can afford it.

A partnership with the Global Climbing Initiative – a non-profit that aims to equip climbing communities worldwide with knowledge and resources – has also helped provide professional education to a new generation of climbers and route setters.

But there are also challenges. There is nowhere to buy bolts, rope or climbing shoes in Malawi, according to Climb Malawi,  so climbers rely on donations, imports and volunteers to provide this equipment. Malawi is one of the five countries most affected by extreme weather events, according to the Global Climate Risk Index. This means that both flooding and extreme heat of up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) during the hot season from September to November can limit climbing opportunities.

The biggest challenge of all is attracting more Malawians to the sport. Climbing is still far from mainstream in Malawi, and while it may be a perfect place for it, the sport needs Malawians for it to thrive and for those who are already building a community to inspire others.

Celebrate Nhlane, 18, is a regular at the Climb Centre, but she never thought she would get the chance to bolt new climbing routes in the country. But, after seeing Shalom finish Zikoma, she says she’s desperate to be next.

“If she’s doing it, then I know I can do it, too,” says Celebrate. “We can make Malawi an amazing place for people to climb.”

Top Things to Do in Lilongwe - Lilongwe Must-See Attractions

Things to do in lilongwe, explore popular experiences, ways to tour lilongwe.

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