Malawi Travel Facts

The Basics

Country: Malawi

Where is it?: Malawi is due east of Zambia in the south eastern section of Africa.

Why do people go here?: Most people come to relax and enjoy Lake Malawi

What are the main entry points?: Overland from Tanzania or Zambia are the usual routes.

Currency used: Kwacha

Country Code for Phones: 265

Area codes for Major Cities: No area codes required.

Religion: Protestant 55%, Roman Catholic 20%, Muslim 20%, indigenous beliefs 3%, other 2%

Population: 15.2 million

Ethnic Breakdown: Chewa, Nyanja, Tumbuka, Yao, Lomwe, Sena, Tonga, Ngoni, Ngonde, Asian, European

Government: Multi-party democracy

Languages: English, Chichewa

Travel Information

Major Cities: Lilongwe

Attractions: Lake Malawi, Liwonde National Park, Nkhata Bay

Accommodation: Malawi Hostels

Tourism Office locations and links: http://www.malawitourism.com/

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Nyika National Park

Health Issues: Malaria

Tips for Visiting

When to go: John Chilembwe Day: January 16, Martyrs’ Day: March 3, Labour Day: May 1, Freedom Day: June 14, Republic Day: July 6

Common Phrases: Hello = Moni, How are you? = muli bwanji? Thank You = zikomo No = Iyayi, Yes = Inde

Specific Events/Holidays: Lake of Stars International Music Festival, Lake Malawi International Yachting Marathon, The Mount Mulanje Porters Race

Getting Around: You can explore Malawi by bus, taxi, car or boat. It’ greatly up to you.

Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airports to fly into Malawi are Lilongwe International Airport and Blantyre Airport.

Need more information?: Check out the Malawi travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.