Getting In and Around

Visas: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned exit date. If you are visiting Malawi for 90 days or fewer, you will not require a visa. However, as of 2007, a three-month, single-entry visa costs $70; a six-month, multiple-entry visa costs $150; and a one-year, multiple-entry visa costs $250. For more information, check out the State Department’s page on Malawi.

If you are traveling from or transiting through a yellow fever–infected area, you will be required to show a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Please check with a medical professional or travel clinic to learn whether you will need such documentation.

Transportation: Flying into Malawi frequently involves a transfer through another country, often South Africa. The two standard airports for international flights are Chileka International Airport, outside of Blantyre, and Lilongwe International Airport, in the country’s capital.

The most common means of transportation within the country are buses, minibuses, and coasters, which are medium-size buses. You can expect every sort and size of local bus to be crowded, and the ride can be unpredictable, depending on weather and road conditions. Shire Bus Lines buses make for a more comfortable ride and travel speedily between Blantyre and Lilongwe. We recommend that you ask your hotel for information on other reputable intercity bus services.

Mobile Phones: Cell phone use in Malawi is very widespread; we recommend that you buy a cheap phone for your time in the country. If you have an unlocked, SIM card–enabled phone, plan on buying SIM cards within Malawi. Top-up credits are available in every city. We remind you: sending text messages is always cheaper than making calls, especially because receiving messages is free.

Safety and Security

The U.S. Department of State’s consular website has a great deal of information about safety and security in Malawi. It can’t be repeated enough: be sensible when you travel. Crime rates vary throughout Malawi. Be alert and aware about your surroundings.

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation has created a security ratings system called the Ibrahim Index, wherein scores are based on each country’s quality of government. Before traveling to Malawi or anywhere in Africa, check the index and do your research.