Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Enhanced E-Visa System
Malawi has streamlined its e-visa process for 2026, allowing online applications from most countries with faster processing times of 3-5 business days. The fee is around $50-75 USD, and it's recommended to apply at least two weeks in advance to ensure smooth entry at airports like Lilongwe or Blantyre.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Malawi, and it should have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Always verify with your issuing country's guidelines, as some nationalities face stricter rules for African travel.
Children under 18 may need additional parental consent forms notarized for international travel.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens from over 30 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations, can enter Malawi visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism purposes. This policy promotes easier access to Lake Malawi and national parks without prior applications.
Always confirm your eligibility on the official Malawi immigration website, as exemptions can change based on diplomatic relations.
Visa Applications
For nationalities requiring a visa, apply through the e-visa portal at evisa.gov.mw, submitting a passport scan, proof of accommodation, return ticket, and financial means (at least $50/day). The single-entry visa costs $75 USD and is valid for 90 days.
Processing typically takes 3-7 days; print your approval letter as it's required at immigration checkpoints.
Border Crossings
Malawi shares land borders with Tanzania, Zambia, and Mozambique, where visas on arrival ($50-75) are available at major posts like Songwe or Chipata, but expect queues and cash-only payments. Air arrivals at Lilongwe International are smoother with pre-arranged e-visas.
Yellow fever vaccination certificates are mandatory if coming from endemic areas; have it ready for health screenings.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, covering medical evacuation (essential in remote areas like Liwonde National Park), trip delays, and activities such as kayaking on Lake Malawi. Policies should include at least $100,000 in emergency medical coverage.
Providers like World Nomads offer tailored plans starting at $3/day; declare any pre-existing conditions to avoid claim denials.
Extensions Possible
Visa extensions for up to 90 additional days can be applied for at the Department of Immigration in Lilongwe or Blantyre, requiring a valid reason like extended safaris and proof of funds. Fees are approximately $50, and applications must be submitted before your current visa expires.
Overstaying incurs fines of $10/day and potential deportation; plan ahead for longer wildlife viewing trips.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Malawi uses the Malawian Kwacha (MWK). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Lilongwe or Blantyre by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for regional flights from Johannesburg or Nairobi.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at roadside chambas for affordable meals like chambo fish or nsima under $5, avoiding resort restaurants to save up to 60% on food expenses.
Visit local markets in Mzuzu for fresh fruits and vegetables at bargain prices, supporting community vendors.
Public Transport Passes
Opt for matola shared taxis or minibuses for intercity travel at $10-20 per leg, far cheaper than private hires.
Some tour operators offer multi-day transport packages including national park entries for bundled savings.
Free Attractions
Explore Cape Maclear beaches, Zomba Plateau hikes, and village walks around Lake Malawi, all free and immersing you in authentic culture.
Many community-based tourism spots offer no-cost entry with optional donations, enhancing sustainable travel.
Card vs Cash
Cards are accepted in major hotels and Lilongwe ATMs, but carry USD or MWK cash for rural areas and markets where fees can add up.
Exchange at banks for better rates; avoid airport kiosks and use Wise for pre-trip conversions to minimize losses.
Park Entry Discounts
Purchase a multi-park pass for Liwonde and Majete reserves at $25 for 3 days, covering multiple visits and reducing per-entry fees.
It becomes cost-effective after two parks, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts on extended itineraries.
Smart Packing for Malawi
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, breathable cotton clothes for the tropical climate, including long sleeves and pants for sun protection and mosquito-prone evenings. Neutral colors are best for safari spotting in parks like Nkhotakota.
Include a wide-brim hat, scarf for dust, and modest attire for visiting local villages or religious sites.
Electronics
Bring a UK-style Type G adapter for 230V outlets, a solar-powered charger for remote areas without reliable electricity, and a waterproof phone case for lake activities.
Download offline maps of Malawi via apps like Maps.me and a Chichewa phrasebook for better navigation in rural spots.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive insurance docs, a malaria prophylaxis kit, DEET repellent, and vaccinations proof for yellow fever and hepatitis. Include rehydration salts for hot weather and a basic first-aid kit with anti-diarrheal meds.
Pack water purification tablets or a LifeStraw for safe drinking in areas beyond bottled water availability.
Travel Gear
Opt for a durable backpack with rain cover for dusty roads, a reusable water bottle, quick-dry microfiber towel, and a headlamp for power outages in lodges.
Include passport copies, a money belt, and a dry bag for boat trips on Lake Malawi to protect valuables from splashes.
Footwear Strategy
Choose sturdy hiking sandals or closed-toe shoes for plateau trails in Nyika and lightweight sneakers for beach walks at Nkhata Bay.
Water shoes are vital for rocky lake shores and potential bilharzia risks; always rinse off after swimming.
Personal Care
Pack high-SPF sunscreen (50+), biodegradable soap, and moisturizer for dry harmattan winds, plus wet wipes for limited facilities in bush camps.
Travel-sized toiletries in a waterproof pouch help manage humidity; don't forget lip balm and nail clippers for longer stays.
When to Visit Malawi
Cool Dry Season (May-August)
Perfect for wildlife viewing in dry landscapes with temperatures of 15-25°C and minimal rain, ideal for safaris in Majete or Liwonde where animals gather at waterholes.
Fewer crowds mean better lodge rates, and it's great for hiking Nyika Plateau's rolling hills without mud.
Warm Dry Season (September-October)
Peak for lake activities with warm days around 25-30°C and clear skies, excellent for snorkeling at Likoma Island or birdwatching migrations.
Vegetation thins for easier game spotting, though book accommodations early as it's shoulder season for divers.
Wet Season Start (November-December)
Lush greenery transforms the landscape with temperatures of 20-28°C and afternoon showers, vibrant for cultural festivals and fishing communities on Lake Malawi.
Lower prices attract budget travelers, but roads can get slippery—ideal for birders spotting breeding species.
Peak Wet Season (January-April)
Budget-friendly with heavy rains (25-30°C daytime), the waterfalls in Zomba and Thyolo tea estates are spectacular, though some parks close for flooding.
Focus on indoor cultural experiences or southern beaches; malaria risk rises, so prioritize prevention.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Malawian Kwacha (MWK). USD widely accepted in tourist areas; ATMs available in cities but scarce elsewhere. Exchange rates fluctuate—carry small bills.
- Language: English (official) and Chichewa widely spoken. Basic phrases help in rural areas; French useful near Mozambique border.
- Time Zone: Central Africa Time (CAT), UTC+2
- Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Type G plugs (three rectangular pins, UK-style)—power outages common, so bring a torch.
- Emergency Number: 999 for police, ambulance, or fire; 112 also works in some areas
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated—10% in restaurants, $1-2/day for guides or drivers in safaris
- Water: Tap water unsafe; drink bottled or purified. Lake Malawi safe for swimming but avoid drinking untreated.
- Pharmacies: Available in major towns like Blantyre; stock up on essentials in advance for remote travel.