Avila Travel Malawi African Children Malawi

Heart of Africa

Round trip Malawi

Malawi is one of Africa's hidden gems. This special travel destination is also known as 'The Warm Heart of Africa' and this is due to the friendliness of the local people. This makes Malawi a very special African destination! Our Malawi trips take you to the most beautiful places in the country.

View our Malawi sample tours

Discover Malawi's highlights

One of the country's most famous spots is Lake Malawi. This is one of Africa's largest and deepest lakes and offers incredibly beautiful opportunities for snorkelling or diving. The lake is home to many beautiful endemic fish species. A trip to Malawi cannot miss a wildlife safari for spotting the Big Five. Many animals, such as lions, cheetahs and rhinos, have been reintroduced from other countries, such as South Africa. These programmes have mainly taken place in Liwonde National Park and Majete National Park. In addition, be sure to visit the Zomba Plateau, where you can enjoy hiking and the area around Thyolo with its many colonial tea plantations.

Sample trips from Malawi

Well-organised travel through Malawi

Your round trip through Malawi will be taken care of to perfection by us. Travelling through Malawi with Avila means staying in characterful lodges and small-scale accommodation, travelling at a pleasant pace, experiencing the highlights with local guides and getting to know authentic village communities. Malawi is ideally suited for peace seekers, nature lovers and adventurers looking for an original and meaningful travel experience.

Country information on Malawi
Best travel time Malawi
Places to visit in Malawi
Frequently asked questions Malawi

Malawi, also called 'The Warm Heart of Africa', offers an impressive diversity of landscapes: from crystal-clear Lake Malawi to lush mountain areas, vast savannahs and verdant tea plantations. The hospitable people, cultural richness and unspoilt nature make Malawi a special destination off the beaten track.

Nature & safari: wildlife spotting in an intimate setting
Malawi offers surprisingly good safari opportunities. In Liwonde National Park, sail by boat among hippos and crocodiles, while watching elephants graze along the banks. In Majete Wildlife Reserve, a successful reintroduction area of the Big Five, you will experience safaris in peace, away from mass tourism.

Discover Lake Malawi: beach, diving and islands
Lake Malawi is a tropical paradise with white beaches, crystal clear waters and a colourful underwater world. You can snorkel, kayak or just enjoy the sunset from the beach here. Visit remote Likoma Island for an intimate island experience and discover the colonial cathedral and small-scale accommodation overlooking the lake.

Active in the mountains: hiking, cycling and climbing
For the active traveller, Malawi offers impressive opportunities: hike the vast high plains of the Nyika Plateau, explore the verdant Zomba Plateau by mountain bike or climb to the top of Mount Mulanje, the country's highest mountain. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views and rare flora and fauna.

Colourful culture and vibrant markets
Malawi is rich in culture: from traditional music and dance to artisan markets and colourful festivals. Visit local villages to learn about everyday life and be welcomed by the warmth of the people. In cities like Lilongwe and Blantyre, you will find a mix of modern amenities and authentic African atmosphere.

Avila Travel Malawi Raymond Rutting Game
Avila Travel Malawi Zebra horses together

Malawi is a country with a tropical climate that can vary greatly by region and season. The best travel time depends on your interests and the areas you want to visit. Below is an overview by season:

Rainy season (November - April):
During these months, Malawi is lushly green and impressively beautiful. This is the ideal time for bird watching and photography enthusiasts, as many species are active during this period. Do allow for limited access to remote areas due to heavy rainfall, especially on unpaved roads.

Dry season (May - August):
The cooler months are the best time for an active tour. Temperatures are pleasant, the air is clear and the wildlife parks are easily accessible. This is an excellent period for safaris in Liwonde National Park or Majete Wildlife Reserve, for example, and to explore the Nyika Plateau or the Zomba Plateau on foot or by bicycle.

Hot dry period (September - October):
This is the hottest time of the year, with temperatures soaring, especially in the lower-lying areas. However, it is one of the best times to spot wildlife as they gather around water sources. Lake Malawi is also perfect for snorkelling, swimming and kayaking during this period.

Note: Malawi has relatively mild temperature variations, but altitude differences create regional variation. In mountain areas such as Mount Mulanje, it can cool considerably at night, while on the shores of Lake Malawi it remains tropically warm. For a comfortable travel experience, the transitional months of May and June are often the most pleasant.

Vehicle in Rainy Avila Travel Malawi Weather at Jalawe Rock Nyika Plateau Malaw
Avila Travel Malawi Raymond Rutting Boot

Malawi is a diverse destination, where pristine nature, warm hospitality and authentic culture come together. From shimmering Lake Malawi to vibrant markets and impressive mountain landscapes; each region has its own charm and surprises with unique experiences.

Discover the highlights of Malawi:

  • Lake Malawi: Africa's third largest lake is a tropical jewel with white sandy beaches, clear blue waters and an exceptionally rich underwater world. Ideal for snorkelling, diving or just relaxing on the shore.
  • Liwonde National Park: One of Malawi's best safari destinations, where you can see hippos, crocodiles and elephants up close on a boat safari. Also a paradise for birdwatchers.
  • Zomba Plateau: A green mountain plateau with dense forests, waterfalls and panoramic views. Perfect for hiking, cycling or a relaxing picnic overlooking the lower landscape.
  • Mount Mulanje: Malawi's highest mountain offers challenging hiking trails, spectacular views and unique flora and fauna. A must-see for adventurous travellers.
  • Nyika National Park: A vast highland area with rolling hills, wildflowers and grazing antelope. The open plains and fresh air make it almost European in feel - but with zebras.
  • Blantyre: The commercial capital of the south, with colonial architecture, a vibrant market and surprising culinary hotspots.
  • Likoma Island: A remote island in Lake Malawi with an impressive cathedral, charming lodges and a relaxed island atmosphere - ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
  • Livingstonia: A historic mission town on a mountainside overlooking the lake, where you can explore colonial history and traditional villages.

Whether you enjoy safari, beach, culture or active tours, Malawi offers a surprisingly diverse and heartwarming travel experience.

Avila Travel Malawi Raymond Rutting elephants with shadow car
Avila Travel Malawi eagle

1. Do I need a visa for Malawi?
Yes, most travellers from the Netherlands, Belgium and the EU require a visa to enter Malawi. You can apply for this in advance online via the e-visa system or obtain it on arrival at the airport. Before departure, always check the current visa requirements and validity for your nationality.

2. What is the best length of travel for Malawi?
A round trip of 10 to 21 days is ideal for exploring Malawi at leisure. This provides enough time to combine Lake Malawi, various national parks, mountain areas and cultural highlights.

3. What is the best way to travel around Malawi?
The most convenient way to explore Malawi is by chauffeur-driven hire car or organised private travel. Roads are generally well paved, especially between the main attractions. Domestic flights are limited, but can be convenient for longer distances.

4. Is Malawi easy to combine with another destination?
Yes, Malawi is easy to combine with neighbouring countries such as Zambia, Mozambique or Tanzania. A safari in South Luangwa (Zambia) or a beach extension on the Mozambique coast is particularly popular. There are also combination trips with Malawi and safari parks in northern Zambia or southern Tanzania.

5. Am I comfortable with English in Malawi?
Yes, English is the official language of Malawi and is well spoken in most parts of the country, especially in tourist areas. There is also a lot of Chichewa spoken, which is the local language, but you will be fine as a traveller with English.

Our travel specialists are happy to help with any questions you might have about a trip to Malawi.

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Your travel specialist

Marjet Young

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Avila travellers about travel to Malawi

"The safaris in Liwonde and relaxing at Lake Malawi formed an unforgettable trip. Everything was organised to perfection, compliments to Avila Reizen for putting together such a beautiful itinerary." - Jeroen & Marijke

Our customers give us a 4.6/5 Calculated from 97 reviews.
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