UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Book Attractions in Advance
Skip the lines at Malawi's top attractions by booking tickets in advance through Tiqets. Get instant confirmation and mobile tickets for museums, parks, and experiences across Malawi.
Lake Malawi National Park
Discover the world's first freshwater national park with crystal-clear waters and diverse cichlid fish species.
Ideal for snorkeling and kayaking amid tropical islands, a biodiversity hotspot.
Chongoni Rock Art Area
Explore ancient rock paintings from the Stone Age, showcasing Chewa cultural heritage.
Guided tours reveal over 100 sites with symbolic art in a dramatic landscape.
Livingstonia Mission
Visit this historic hilltop mission with colonial architecture and panoramic views.
A key site for understanding missionary history and local education legacy.
Blantyre Old Town
Wander through preserved colonial buildings and the Mandala House Museum.
Offers insights into Malawi's trading past and early European settlement.
Zomba Plateau Heritage
Hike trails with colonial relics and endemic flora in this elevated sanctuary.
Combines natural beauty with historical landmarks like old rest houses.
Lilongwe Cultural Sites
Discover the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre and traditional villages nearby.
Focuses on conservation history and Chichewa cultural exhibits.
Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures
Lake Malawi Shores
Swim in warm, clear waters along sandy beaches with island-hopping opportunities.
Perfect for relaxation and water sports in Africa's third-largest lake.
Majete Wildlife Reserve
Spot the Big Five on guided safaris in this restored savanna habitat.
Ideal for game drives and walking tours with diverse birdlife.
Nyika Plateau
Hike rolling grasslands and forests at 2,000m elevation with zebra herds.
A hiker's paradise with misty moorlands and wildflower meadows.
Zomba Plateau
Explore pine forests and waterfalls via trails leading to Emperor's View.
Offers cool climate escapes with mountain biking and birdwatching.
Liwonde National Park
Boat safaris on the Shire River to see hippos, elephants, and crocodiles.
Riverine ecosystem perfect for photography and eco-lodges.
Mount Mulanje
Trek granite peaks and tea plantations in this southern highland massif.
Challenging hikes with stunning vistas and endemic bird species.
Malawi by Region
🌅 Northern Region
- Best For: Highland plateaus, missions, and misty forests with dramatic landscapes.
- Key Destinations: Nyika National Park, Livingstonia, and Karonga for natural and historical sites.
- Activities: Hiking trails, cultural village visits, and wildlife spotting in remote areas.
- Best Time: Dry season (May-Oct) for clear skies and cooler 15-25°C weather, ideal for trekking.
- Getting There: Fly into Karonga Airport or drive from Lilongwe, with private transfers available via GetTransfer.
🏙️ Central Region
- Best For: Urban vibes, markets, and lake access as the political and cultural heart.
- Key Destinations: Lilongwe for city life, Senga Bay for beach relaxation.
- Activities: Market shopping, wildlife center visits, and lakeside fishing experiences.
- Best Time: Year-round, but June-Aug for dry weather and events like cultural festivals.
- Getting There: Lilongwe International Airport is the main hub - compare flights on Aviasales for best deals.
🌳 Southern Region
- Best For: Wildlife reserves and mountains, featuring tea estates and savannas.
- Key Destinations: Blantyre, Zomba Plateau, and Majete for adventure and urban culture.
- Activities: Safaris, hiking, tea plantation tours, and river boating in scenic valleys.
- Best Time: Dry season (May-Oct) for wildlife viewing (20-30°C), with summer rains greening landscapes.
- Getting There: Rent a car for flexibility in exploring reserves and highland roads.
🏖️ Lake Malawi Region
- Best For: Beach paradises and water activities with tropical island vibes.
- Key Destinations: Cape Maclear, Nkhata Bay, and Likoma Island for lakeside charm.
- Activities: Snorkeling, dhow sailing, village homestays, and fresh fish dining.
- Best Time: September-December for warm waters (25-30°C) and sunny beach days.
- Getting There: Buses from Lilongwe or Blantyre, with ferries connecting lake ports.
Sample Malawi Itineraries
🚀 7-Day Malawi Highlights
Arrive in Lilongwe, explore the capital's markets, visit the wildlife center, and enjoy local cuisine with cultural tours.
Head to Cape Maclear for snorkeling in the national park, island boat trips, and beach relaxation.
Drive to Zomba Plateau for hikes and views, then Blantyre for colonial sites and shopping.
Final day with optional Majete safari or city exploration before departure.
🏞️ 10-Day Adventure Explorer
Lilongwe city tour including markets, museums, and nearby villages with traditional dances.
Nkhata Bay for diving and kayaking, with homestays and local fishing experiences.
Drive to Nyika for hiking and wildlife drives, staying in plateau lodges.
Boat safaris and game walks spotting elephants and birds in riverine habitats.
Blantyre cultural sites and Zomba hikes before heading back to Lilongwe.
🏙️ 14-Day Complete Malawi
Comprehensive exploration of central markets, wildlife sanctuaries, and day trips to Senga Bay.
Cape Maclear snorkeling, Likoma Island ferry, and Nkhata Bay diving adventures.
Nyika Plateau treks, Livingstonia mission visits, and Karonga cultural sites.
Majete safaris, Mount Mulanje hikes, and Liwonde river boat trips.
Blantyre history tours, Zomba relaxation, and final Lilongwe shopping before departure.
Top Activities & Experiences
Lake Boat Trips
Sail on traditional dhows across Lake Malawi for island views and sunset cruises.
Available year-round with opportunities for fishing and birdwatching.
Wildlife Safaris
Track elephants and lions in Majete or Liwonde on guided game drives.
Learn about conservation from rangers in malaria-free reserves.
Snorkeling & Diving
Explore underwater cichlid reefs in Lake Malawi National Park with PADI centers.
Colorful fish and clear waters make it a top freshwater diving spot.
Mountain Hiking
Trek Mount Mulanje or Nyika trails with porters and scenic campsites.
Routes suit all levels, from day hikes to multi-day expeditions.
Cultural Village Tours
Visit Chewa communities for Gule Wamkulu dances and traditional crafts.
Immersive experiences including homestays and storytelling sessions.
Tea Plantation Walks
Stroll Thyolo tea estates, learn harvesting, and sample fresh brews.
Colonial-era plantations offer guided tours and highland serenity.