Malawi: The Journey Begins

The main entry point to Malawi is Lilongwe International Airport (LLW), located 26km / 16 miles from the vibrant capital city of Lilongwe. Alternatively, Chileka International Airport (BLZ) is situated 16 km / 10 miles from Blantyre and acts as a gateway for various international flights. Lilongwe International Airport is home to a variety of airlines, such as South African Airways and Ethiopian Airways. International flights to Lilongwe take off continuously from Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Numerous explorers choose to journey through Johannesburg, seizing the opportunity of more budget-friendly fares on these bustling paths. The price of a flight from Johannesburg to Lilongwe varies with demand and when you book, usually falling between US$ 475 and US$ 600 per person. The flight from Johannesburg to Malawi takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Upon arriving in Malawi, you can embark on your journey with options like small aircraft or cars, and self-driving presents an exciting possibility. For those embarking on package tours, the local tour operator will seamlessly handle airport pick-up and arrange all following transportation as part of the all-inclusive tour experience.

Exploring the Transport Options in Malawi

Embark on a journey with a rental car

For those seeking freedom and spontaneity in Malawi, renting a car is an excellent choice. Major cities like Lilongwe and Blantyre provide car rental services, allowing visitors to discover the country on their own terms. Discover helpful tips for navigating the roads of Malawi below.

Transport options for exploration

In Malawi, the journey unfolds through a network of buses and mini-buses, offering a glimpse into the vibrant life of the country. Buses connect major cities, providing an affordable way to embark on long journeys. Mini-buses, in contrast, serve as a popular means of transport for shorter journeys and navigating through urban areas. Though they may be bustling, they offer a genuine taste of local life.

Bike

For eco-conscious and thrill-seeking travellers, cycling offers a fantastic opportunity to discover Malawi. The country’s breathtaking landscapes and inviting terrain create the perfect backdrop for exhilarating cycling tours. Some areas may offer rental services, inviting tourists to dive into a more engaging and dynamic exploration of Malawi’s delightful countryside.

Malawi Travel Insights

Journey Conditions: Get ready for a journey through diverse road conditions, particularly in the countryside. Some roads might be a bit rugged, so if you are looking to explore the less traveled paths, a 4×4 is advisable along with the right experience for handling it.

Community Customs: When using public transportation, embrace local customs and be ready for an engaging and vibrant atmosphere in minibuses. Kindness can transform any journey into an unforgettable experience.
African Time is a concept that embodies a unique approach to punctuality, often characterized by a more relaxed and flexible attitude towards timekeeping. It reflects a cultural understanding that life is full of unexpected twists and turns, allowing for spontaneity and a sense of adventure in daily activities. When using public transport, embrace the rhythm of African Time. This suggests that even if the bus is not punctual, immersing yourself in the surroundings will ensure you arrive right on schedule. Embrace the journey and ensure you allocate ample time to explore.
Planning Ahead: When it comes to renting a car or planning long-distance bus journeys, it is wise to book ahead, particularly during busy travel seasons, to ensure you get your desired transport and itinerary.
Malawi Travel Times & Distances
All distances and times listed below are estimates and provided for travel by car. These distances and times will provide insight into the vastness of Malawi, aiding you in planning your journey and setting your expectations.

The journey from Lilongwe to Blantyre spans 315 km / 196 miles and takes less than 5 hours by car.
Lilongwe to Zomba: 288 km / 179 miles, approximately 4.5 hours by car.
The journey from Lilongwe to Mzuzu spans 379 km / 235 miles and takes just over 5 hours by car.
The journey from Lilongwe to Cape Mclear spans 219 km / 136 miles and takes less than 4 hours by car.
The journey from Lilongwe to Nkhata Bay spans 423 km / 263 miles, taking nearly 6 hours by car.
The journey from Lilongwe to Liwonde National Park spans 310 km / 193 miles and takes approximately 5.5 hours by car.
Malawi offers a variety of travel experiences, from flying to embarking on self-drive safaris. Package deals offer the benefit of entrusting the logistics to seasoned professionals, ensuring that your safari experience is optimized for your budget and takes you to all the right places. Malawi offers a unique experience for every adventurer. It is beneficial to explore various possibilities with a knowledgeable travel consultant to discover where you can maximize your time by flying and where you can cut costs by driving.

What Attire to Choose for a Safari in Malawi

Malawi has a laid-back vibe, yet it maintains a sense of tradition. Beach attire and swimsuits are perfectly fine at your resort or while unwinding on the shore, but it is important for both men and women to dress appropriately when exploring local villages. It’s wise to pack with intention. Here’s a helpful list of essentials to bring along for your safari in Malawi.

Bring along versatile and functional clothing for your Malawi safari, keeping in mind the varied terrains from sandy shores to towering peaks. Choose airy, relaxed clothing to keep comfortable, particularly on warm days, and don long-sleeved shirts and pants in the evenings to protect yourself from pesky mosquitoes and other critters. Select fabrics such as linen, bamboo, and cotton for a comfortable experience, and steer clear of dark colors like navy blue and black, as they are known to attract tsetse flies. A safari hat, along with sunglasses and sunscreen, is essential. Bring along a fleece for those brisk mornings and evenings, and think about a multifunctional travel jacket, particularly in the chillier months. For your beach escapades, pack your swimwear but keep it to designated spots, opting for a kaftan, sarong, chitenge cloth, or t-shirt and shorts in other areas. Pack slip-on shoes for lounging by the beach, but opt for comfortable trainers or walking shoes for your journeys, considering the unpredictable weather ahead.