Malawi

Malawi in South-Eastern Africa is landlocked, although the mighty Lake Malawi takes up around one-fifth of the country, so there is always water nearby. It’s a country gifted with spectacular mountains, wildlife and of course the impressive lake. It is aptly nicknamed ‘The Warm Heart of Africa’ due to the friendliness of the people.

With a diverse and scenic kaleidoscope in such a small area, Malawi offers central Africa’s highest mountain, vast plateaus and seemingly limitless views. There are forests and of course the jewel in the crown, Africa’s third-largest and most beautiful lake – indeed an inland sea. Age-old cultures and traditions survive, along with delicate crafts. There are high mountain peaks and rivers for white water rafting to be explored along with hiking.

Visit the plantations of tea, sugar, coffee that roll down the green hillsides. Take time to do a taste test – we don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Then have lunch at a locally run café trying the home-grown food. Nsima is a staple food and forms the basis of many meals in Malawi. Mkhwani is a famous relish, and there is fresh fish from the lake. You won’t be left hungry.

Malawi is home to the Big Five. The reserves protect African wildlife, so they roam free. Malawi has always been an accessible home to lions and within Majete Wildlife Reserve and Liwonde National Park lions have been reintroduced, and the good news is numbers are growing. World Lion Day is on the 10th of August.

Music and dance form an intricate part of society. Each year in August is the Malipenga Dance Season - a traditional celebration of one of Malawi’s most iconic dance forms. Visit villages with age-old customs, witness wildlife in and out of the water. Its a country with a rich heritage and filled with beautiful, proud people.

Best time to visit Malawi

There are two seasons in the sub-tropical country of Malawi: Wet and Dry. From November to April are the Wet season and off-peak tourist time. As the name implies, it can be wet, and roads can close.

The Dry from early May to late October is considered the best time for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around rivers and permanent waterholes. Winter can be chilly high-up on the northern Nyika Plateau, while by the shore of Lake Malawi, it may be warm, sunny and dry days which means excellent beach weather!