Malawi 5 Day Itinerary

Malawi 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Lilongwe to Nkhotakota

  • Morning: Arrive in Lilongwe, the capital city of Malawi. Obtain a visa on arrival (USD $50) if you don’t have one already.
  • Afternoon: Drive to Nkhotakota ( approx. 2 hours), a historic town on the shores of Lake Malawi. Visit the Nkhotakota Museum to learn about the country’s history and slave trade.
  • Evening: Check-in at a lakeside lodge, such as the Nkhotakota Pottery Lodge, and enjoy a relaxing evening by the lake.

Day 2: Nkhotakota to Salima

  • Morning: Take a boat tour on Lake Malawi to explore the surrounding islands and coves. Keep an eye out for fish eagles and other bird species.
  • Afternoon: Drive to Salima (approx. 1.5 hours), another lakeside town with beautiful beaches and scenic views.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant, such as the Salima Bay Restaurant.

Day 3: Salima to Cape Maclear

  • Morning: Drive to Cape Maclear (approx. 2.5 hours), a picturesque peninsula on Lake Malawi’s southern shore.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Cape Maclear Lighthouse and take in the stunning views of the lake. Go snorkeling or swimming at one of the many beaches, such as Chembe Beach.
  • Evening: Stay at a lodge like the Cape Mac Lodge, which offers beautiful sunsets and tranquil surroundings.

Day 4: Cape Maclear

  • Morning: Take a hike to the top of Mount Malombe for breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
  • Afternoon: Go kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Malawi. Alternatively, visit the nearby village to experience local culture and traditions.
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at your lodge, with a campfire and stargazing.

Day 5: Cape Maclear to Lilongwe

  • Morning: Return to Lilongwe (approx. 3.5 hours) with a stopover at the Dedza Pottery, where you can see local artisans at work.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Lilongwe Wildlife Sanctuary, which provides a safe haven for orphaned and injured animals.
  • Evening: Depart from Lilongwe International Airport or spend another night in the city.

Transportation

  • Car rental: Available at Lilongwe International Airport or in the city center. Approximate cost: MWK 50,000 (USD $70) per day.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but be prepared to negotiate prices. Approximate cost: MWK 5,000 (USD $7) for a short trip.

Things to Know

  • Language: English is the official language, but Chichewa and other local languages are also spoken.
  • Currency: Malawian kwacha (MWK). You can exchange currency at banks or bureaux de change. Credit cards are accepted in some tourist areas.
  • Safety: Take necessary precautions to stay safe, such as avoiding traveling alone at night and keeping valuables secure.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of most countries require a visa to enter Malawi.
  • Obtainable on arrival: USD $50 (single entry) or USD $150 (multiple entries).
  • Check with the Malawian embassy or consulate in your home country for specific requirements.

Other Tips and Information

  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about necessary vaccinations, such as yellow fever and hepatitis A.
  • Weather: Malawi has a subtropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity. Pack light, breathable clothing and sun protection.
  • Respect local culture: Dress modestly, remove shoes when entering homes or places of worship, and avoid public displays of affection.

Enjoy your trip to Malawi!