Malawi is called the warm heart of Africa, and the welcome lives up to the name. Lake Malawi — a freshwater inland sea with beaches, islands and colourful fish — sits at its centre, and the safari parks of Liwonde and Majete are uncrowded and increasingly rewarding.
This guide covers where to go, when, and how to pair Malawi with Zambia. For our hand-picked trips, see our Malawi holidays page.
The quick answer
- Combine Liwonde boat safaris with beach days on Lake Malawi.
- For snorkelling, stay at Cape Maclear or Likoma Island.
- For walking, add Zomba Plateau or Mount Mulanje.
- Cross into South Luangwa in Zambia for a classic combination.
- Go between May and October.
Where to go
| Region | Best for | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Malawi | Beaches, snorkelling | Cape Maclear, Likoma Island, Nkhata Bay |
| Liwonde & Majete | Safari | Boat safaris, rhinos, the Big Five |
| Zomba & Mulanje | Walking | Forest trails, waterfalls, tea estates |
| Nyika & the north | Wild landscapes | High grassland, zebra and antelope |
A ten-day trip might start with three nights in Liwonde, add the Zomba Plateau, then finish with four nights on the lake — or continue to South Luangwa.
Things to do
- Boat safari in Liwonde — hippos and elephants along the Shire River.
- Snorkel at Cape Maclear — among cichlid fish in the UNESCO-listed national park.
- Likoma Island — barefoot lodges and a vast cathedral.
- Majete Wildlife Reserve — the Big Five in the south.
- Zomba Plateau — forest walks and waterfalls.
- The Ilala ferry — the historic lake steamer.
When to go
The dry season, May to October, is best. September and October are prime for wildlife but the hottest; May to August is cooler and pleasant for the lake and highlands. November to April is the green, rainy season.
Getting there and entry
There are no direct flights from the UK; flights to Lilongwe or Blantyre connect via Nairobi, Addis Ababa or Johannesburg in about 13–16 hours. Entry rules for UK visitors have changed in recent years, so check the current visa requirement, and a yellow fever certificate may be needed if you arrive from a country with yellow fever. Check the FCDO travel advice for Malawi before you go.
Money and local costs
The Malawian kwacha is the currency, but US dollars are widely used for lodges and safaris. Malaria is present throughout Malawi, so antimalarials are essential.
Food and drink
Lake fish is the star — especially chambo, grilled or stewed — with nsima (maize porridge), relishes and tropical fruit. Lodges serve excellent home cooking.
Ask us about a lake and safari trip →
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Malawi?
May to October, the dry season. September and October are best for wildlife.
Is Malawi good for safari?
Yes, and far less crowded than better-known parks. Liwonde has boat safaris, rhinos and lions; Majete has the Big Five.
Can you swim in Lake Malawi?
Yes, in the main resort areas such as Cape Maclear and Likoma Island.
Do I need malaria tablets?
Yes — malaria is present throughout Malawi. See a travel clinic about six weeks before you go.
Can I combine Malawi with Zambia?
Yes, South Luangwa is just across the border and pairs perfectly with the lake.
Planning a Malawi holiday?
Tell us how you would like to split safari and lake time, and we will build the route.
