+ 1 h; +/- 0 h during our summer time

Lilongwe

English and Chichewa

• 230 volts
• A travel plug adapter for type G sockets is required

Banks

8.00 am - 1.00 pm (Mon - Fri)

Shops

7.30/8.00 am - 4.00/5.00 pm (Mon - Sat)
Markets and street stalls are open daily.

• 1 January  - New Year’s Day (Chaka Chatsopano)
• 15 January  - John Chilembwe Day (Tsiku la John Chilembwe)
• 3 March - Martyrs’ Day (Tsiku la Achimwene)
• Good Friday (Lachisanu Labwino) - date varies
• Easter Monday (Lolemba la Pasaka) - date varies
• 1 May - Labour Day (Tsiku la Ntchito)
• 14 May - Kamuzu Day (Tsiku la Kamuzu)
• 6 July - Independence Day (Tsiku la Ufulu)
• 15 October - Mother’s Day (Tsiku la Amayi) - (if this date falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is observed as a public holiday)
• 25 December - Christmas Day (Tsiku la Khirisimasi)
• 26 December - Boxing Day (Tsiku Lotsatira la Khirisimasi)

The following documents are required for entry into Malawi:

• A Swiss passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry and containing two blank pages.

• Swiss citizens require a visa, which can be applied for online.

• For the visa application, you will need a recent photograph, a copy of the biographical data page of your passport and either an invitation letter signed by your host in Malawi or confirmation of your accommodation booking.
• A return or onward ticket is required, as well as valid documents for onward travel to the next country. 

• Minors: For minors travelling alone, with only one parent or without their parents, a travel authorisation is recommended. Further information: Travel authorisation for travelling with children.

As of: February 2025

Malawi has a predominantly tropical climate with three main seasons: a hot rainy season from November to April, a cool dry season from May to August and a warm dry season from September to October.

• Northern Malawi: In higher-altitude areas such as the Nyika Plateau, temperatures can fall to as low as 4°C during the cool dry season from May to August, while daytime temperatures can rise to around 20°C. During the rainy season, temperatures are milder and generally range from 15°C to 25°C.

• Central Malawi: In the Lilongwe region, temperatures are moderate, averaging around 25°C to 30°C during the hot rainy season and a cooler 15°C to 20°C during the cool dry season. Nights can be particularly chilly during the cooler months.

• Southern Malawi: Blantyre and the surrounding southern regions often experience temperatures above 30°C during the warm dry season from September to October. During the rainy season, temperatures are generally a pleasant 25°C to 30°C, while the cool dry season brings milder temperatures of around 20°C to 25°C.
• Areas along Lake Malawi: This region enjoys warm weather throughout the year, with temperatures rarely falling below 25°C. The high humidity around the lake contributes to a consistently warm feel.

The ideal time to travel to Malawi:

• Beach holidays: June to August for relaxing days by Lake Malawi.
• City trips: May to September for pleasant weather in Lilongwe and Blantyre.
• Wildlife watching: The dry season from May to October is the best time for safaris in parks such as Liwonde National Park.

• Using a mobile phone in Malawi may incur roaming charges. It is advisable to check roaming fees before travelling and, if necessary, purchase a suitable roaming package to reduce costs.
• Free Wi-Fi is available in cafés, hotels and restaurants.
• It is recommended to purchase a prepaid SIM card to make mobile calls and use the Internet at lower cost during your stay in Malawi.

• Lake Malawi: Known as the “Lake of Stars”, this vast freshwater lake offers crystal-clear water and excellent opportunities for snorkelling, diving and sailing.

• Liwonde National Park: One of Malawi’s best-known national parks and an ideal destination for safaris.

• Mount Mulanje: This massive granite massif is a paradise for hikers and climbers, with scenic routes and spectacular views.

• Nyika National Park: Located on a high plateau, this park is famous for its rolling grasslands, rich flora and fauna, as well as trekking and mountain biking opportunities.

• Zomba Plateau: Another popular hiking destination, offering forests, waterfalls and lakes as a refreshing contrast to the savannah landscape.

• Cape Maclear: A lively village at the southern end of Lake Malawi, known for its relaxed atmosphere and water sports activities.

• Karonga Museum: Offers insights into prehistoric archaeology and Malawi’s more recent history, including dinosaur and Malawisaurus fossils.

• Mua Mission: A cultural centre showcasing the history and culture of Malawi’s different ethnic groups through handicrafts, dances and exhibitions.

• Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve: A peaceful reserve on the shores of Lake Malawi, providing a natural habitat for elephants and other wildlife.

• Dedza Pottery: Famous for its handmade ceramics, Dedza also offers workshops and the opportunity to watch artists at work.

Malawi offers simple but hearty cuisine, strongly influenced by local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Its culinary variety reflects the country’s agricultural traditions.

• Maize dishes: Maize is the staple food in Malawi, particularly in the form of Nsima, a thick porridge served with almost every meal and often accompanied by vegetables or meat-based sauces known as Relish.
• Beans and vegetables: Pulses and seasonal vegetables are important components of the Malawian diet and are often prepared as flavourful, nutritious stews.
• Fish dishes: Lake Malawi provides a wide variety of fish, particularly Chambo, a popular cichlid that is grilled or dried and used in many local dishes.
• Street food: Street stalls often serve Chipsi Mayai, a dish of fried potatoes topped with a fried egg, as well as Mandasi, fried dough balls that are a popular snack.
• Meat dishes: Meat is mainly eaten on special occasions, with goat, beef and chicken being popular. One common dish is Nkhuku ya Kutchire, usually made with grilled free-range chicken.
• Sauces: Peanut Sauce is a popular accompaniment that adds creaminess and flavour to vegetable or meat dishes.
• Tropical fruits: Malawi is rich in tropical fruits such as mangoes, papayas and bananas, which are eaten fresh or used in sweet desserts.
• Drinks: Popular local drinks include homemade maize beer called Chibuku and Thobwa, a sweet fermented drink made from maize and millet that is especially refreshing.

Malawi, known as the “Warm Heart of Africa”, is renowned for the friendliness and hospitality of its people. 

• Greetings: Greetings in Malawi are warm and often involve a handshake that may last longer than in Western countries. A friendly “Muli bwanji?” (How are you?) is always appreciated.
• Saying please and thank you: Politeness is highly valued in Malawi. Using “Chonde” (please) and “Zikomo” (thank you) in conversation is customary and shows respect for local people.
• Clothing: Conservative clothing is preferred, particularly in rural areas. Women should wear skirts or dresses that cover at least the knees, while men should avoid wearing shorts in public.
• Dining etiquette: It is customary to wash your hands before eating, as many dishes, such as traditional Nsima, a thick maize porridge, are eaten with the hands. It is considered polite to wait for the host’s invitation before beginning to eat.
• Smoking: Smoking in public is less common in Malawi than in many Western countries and may be considered impolite, particularly around people who do not smoke.
• Tipping: Tipping is not traditionally common in Malawi, but it is increasingly appreciated, particularly in the tourism sector. In restaurants and hotels, a tip of around 10% is appropriate if the service was good. Small amounts for porters and guides are also appropriate and appreciated.

• It is advisable to avoid drinking tap water and to use bottled or filtered water instead in order to reduce health risks.

• No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry into Malawi.

• Make sure that you and your children are up to date with standard vaccinations in accordance with the Swiss vaccination schedule of the Federal Office of Public Health. Additional vaccinations against hepatitis A, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox may be advisable.

• In Malawi, there is a risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, chikungunya and Zika virus. Protective measures such as mosquito repellent and mosquito nets are strongly recommended.
• There is a risk of schistosomiasis (bilharzia) in Malawi. Avoid swimming or washing in ponds, lakes or rivers in endemic areas to prevent infection. 

• Medical care in Malawi is relatively better equipped in urban areas such as Lilongwe and Blantyre, but often does not meet Western standards. In rural regions, healthcare facilities are generally basic and have limited resources. 
• It is strongly recommended to take out travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
• Pharmacies in Malawi often have only a limited range of essential standard medicines. In addition, the risk of counterfeit medicines, whose ingredients may be uncertain, should not be underestimated. It is advisable to bring any necessary medication with you.

• Check the media for the latest developments before and during your trip and remain in contact with your tour operator.

• In Malawi, there is a general risk of terrorist attacks due to its proximity to countries where terrorist groups are active. Potential targets include government buildings, hotels, bars, restaurants, shopping centres, public transport, airports and places of worship.
• The domestic political situation is currently stable. However, demonstrations may occur in larger cities due to social dissatisfaction caused by rapid inflation and fuel shortages.
• The crime rate is not particularly high overall, but theft and violent burglaries occur regularly, especially in larger cities such as Lilongwe, Blantyre, Mzuzu and Zomba, as well as in tourist areas around Lake Malawi.

• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

As of: February 2025

• Traffic drives on the left!

• An international driving permit is mandatory. In Malawi, it is only valid when carried together with your national driving licence.

• To hire a car, the driver generally needs to be at least 21 years old, depending on the rental company and vehicle type.
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.8%

• Long-distance and regional trains: There is a limited range of long-distance and regional train services connecting some larger cities and tourist destinations, but the rail network is not extensively developed. 
• Buses and minibuses (“Matola”): These are the most common forms of transport in Malawi, connecting both urban centres and remote rural areas. They are an inexpensive option for local residents but can become very crowded, particularly during peak hours. Minibuses depart once they are full; they are extremely cheap but often uncomfortable.
• Taxis: Available in larger cities such as Lilongwe and Blantyre, taxis offer a more comfortable and safer alternative to public buses, although they are more expensive.

• MV Ilala: This legendary ferry on Lake Malawi connects destinations such as Cape Maclear, Nkhata Bay and Likoma Island. The journey is slow, with multi-day trips being common, but it offers an unforgettable experience with views of fishing villages and mountains.

There are no direct flights from Switzerland to Malawi; however, connecting flights are available. The main airports in Malawi are:

• Lilongwe International Airport (LLW), also known as Kamuzu International Airport
• Chileka International Airport (BLZ), Blantyre

International airlines operating flights to Malawi include Ethiopian Airlines, KLM, Airlink, Kenya Airways and South African Airways. 

00 41 (omit the zero from the Swiss area code)

• Police: 997/990

• Ambulance: 998

• Fire service: 999

Mhonongo Road, 43/2/61
Lilongwe

Tel.: +265 0 999 843 068
Email:  lilongwe@honrep.ch

• Drug laws are very strict, with penalties of up to life imprisonment.
• It is illegal to damage banknotes in Malawi.
• Travellers should always carry a copy of their passport and the page containing the valid entry stamp in order to be able to prove their identity.
• Malawi is located in a seismically active zone, which may result in earthquakes and volcanic activity.
• Photographing military installations, government buildings, airports and bridges is a criminal offence.