Lilongwe visitor guide

Arriving in Lilongwe

Most visitors arrive by air at Kamuzu International Airport, usually connecting through Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Johannesburg or Dar es Salaam. Overland routes link Lilongwe to Zambia and to the rest of Malawi by coach. Arrange your onward transfer before you land, since the airport sits well north of the city.

Visas, money, safety and health

Visas: many nationalities need a visa for Malawi, available on arrival or online — check your country's current requirement and passport validity. Money: the currency is the Malawian kwacha; carry cash for markets and minibuses, as card acceptance is limited outside hotels and malls. Safety: Lilongwe is calm by regional-capital standards; use normal city sense, avoid walking alone after dark and keep valuables discreet. Health: malaria is present — take prophylaxis, use repellent, and travel with insurance that covers medical evacuation.

When to visit and where to go next

The dry season, May to October, is the most comfortable time to visit, with clear skies and easier travel; October is hot, and the rains return around November. Lilongwe pairs naturally with day trips and onward journeys — the Dzalanyama Forest Reserve, Lake Malawi and the national parks are all within reach.

Lilongwe travel FAQs

Do I need a visa to visit Malawi?

Malawi has waived visas for many nationalities in recent years, and others can apply for an e-visa or a visa on arrival. Rules change, so check the current list for your passport before you travel, and make sure your passport is valid for at least six months. Visa guide.

How do I get from the airport to Lilongwe?

Kamuzu International Airport (LLW) is about 25 km north of City Centre by road, a 25–40 minute drive. There is no train or airport bus, so pre-book a hotel transfer or agree a taxi fare before you set off. Airport guide.

Can I use cards in Lilongwe, or do I need cash?

Hotels, malls and larger restaurants take cards. Markets, minibuses, taxis and small shops are cash-only in Malawian kwacha (MWK). Bank ATMs in City Centre and Old Town are the easiest way to get cash. Money guide.

Is Lilongwe safe for tourists?

Lilongwe is relatively calm for a capital city. The main risks are petty theft and bag-snatching, so avoid walking after dark, use a known taxi at night and keep phones and cash out of sight. Safety tips.

Is there malaria in Lilongwe?

Yes. Malaria is present all year, and the risk is highest in the rainy season. Take antimalarials, use repellent and sleep under a net or in a screened room. Health & vaccinations.

How many days do I need in Lilongwe?

One or two days cover the main sights: the Wildlife Centre, Old Town Market, the Nature Sanctuary and Kamuzu Mausoleum. Add more for day trips to Dzalanyama Forest or Lake Malawi. Day trips.