Malawi🇲🇼
Malawi, known as the 'Warm Heart of Africa', is a landlocked country located in the southeastern region of the African continent, neighbouring Zambia to the west, Tanzania to the north and northeast, and Mozambique surrounds it on the east, south, and southwest. Malawi is known worldwide for its stunning landscape featuring dramatic mountain terrains, lush farmlands, and a large proportion of the country's eastern border defined by Lake Malawi - the ninth largest lake in the world. The relationship with neighbouring countries is cordial and is built around trade, political and social-cultural exchanges. Malawi has a rich tradition and is famous for its pottery, wood carving and straw weaving. The country is also known for its wildlife parks and reserves, and Malawi's safari parks have grown in prominence in recent years. Popular attractions include Lake Malawi, Liwonde National Park, and Mount Mulanje. Malawi's greatest asset is the Malawian people themselves - renowned for their friendliness and hospitality.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid drinking tap water; always drink bottled or boiled water.
- Avoid displaying valuable items like jewellery, cameras or other electronic devices in crowded places.
- Avoid unprotected sex, as HIV/AIDS is prevalent in the country.
- Avoid politically sensitive discussions, especially related to homosexuality.
- Avoid unlawful photography, especially of government buildings and military installations.
- Avoid travelling off the main roads after dark due to potential hazards such as unlit vehicles and people and animals on the road.
- Avoid swimming in fresh water bodies as they can carry parasites like schistosomiasis.
- Avoid illegal drugs and narcotics.
- Avoid disrespecting local cultures and traditions.
- Avoid being involved in any form of corruption.
Overall
5
Crime 🔫
5
Even though the crime rates in Malawi have been relatively moderate, petty crimes such as theft, mugging and pick-pocketing are frequent, especially in larger cities and towns like Lilongwe and Blantyre. Tourists should exercise caution when visiting local markets and crowded places.
Terrorism 💣
8
Terrorist attacks in Malawi are relatively rare. However, there have been no significant incidents of terrorism in the country in recent years. Nonetheless, the global threat of terrorism cannot be ignored anywhere.
War ⚔️
9
Malawi has a peaceful profile with no recent history of war or civil unrest. The country enjoys political stability, but societal tensions based on economic inequality and social issues occasionally surface.
Natural Disasters 🌊
3
Malawi is vulnerable to several natural disasters, particularly floods and droughts, which can have a significant impact on food security. In 2019, Malawi was badly hit by Cyclone Idai, causing extensive damage to infrastructure and loss of life.
Medical Care 🏥
3
Medical facilities in Malawi are poor by Western standards. For serious medical treatment, evacuation to South Africa or other neighbouring country with better facilities may be necessary. Health infrastructure, especially in rural regions, is lacking.
Tap Water Quality 💧
4
In most areas of Malawi, tap water is not safe to drink. Only boiled or bottled water should be consumed. Access to clean water can be limited, particularly in rural areas.
Disease Burden 🤒
2
Malawi suffers from a significant disease burden, primarily due to Malaria, HIV/AIDS, and Cholera. These diseases can pose a high risk to travellers if adequate precautions are not taken.
Corruption 💸
2
There is a fairly high level of corruption in Malawi, as evidenced by the notorious 'Cashgate' scandal in 2013, when millions of dollars were siphoned from government coffers. Efforts to curb corruption are ongoing.
Safety for Women ♀️
6
While physical violence is not widely reported, women travellers can experience harassment, especially if travelling alone. It's always better to move with caution and avoid secluded and poorly lit areas.
Safety for Queer People 👬
3
Malawi isn't particularly friendly towards the LGBTQ+ community. Homosexuality is seen as a taboo and is technically illegal, though enforcement of this law is sporadic.
Censorship 📺
5
Malawi enjoys relative media freedom, though instances of censorship and self-censorship persist, and journalists can face threats and attacks.
Public Transportation 🚌
4
Public transportation in Malawi is cheap, yet road conditions are generally poor, occasional accidents happen, particularly after dark and during the rainy season.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Despite socio-political stability, Malawi has moderate levels of crime. If visitors take normal precautions, like avoiding displaying valuables in crowded places or travelling off the main roads after dark, it poses no extra risk. Don't drink tap water and avoid unprotected sexual encounters. Be respectful about cultural sensitivities.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
There are several foreign embassies located in the capital city, Lilongwe, including the embassies of the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, and China.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Before travelling to Malawi, it is recommended to get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Malaria and Yellow Fever. Rabies vaccination is recommended for travellers engaged in outdoor and other activities.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
The wildlife in Malawi can be dangerous. There are predatory animals such as leopards and hyenas, crocodiles and hippos in water bodies, and poisonous snakes such as the black mamba and puff adder. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
🛂 Visa Requirements
For most travellers, visas are required to enter Malawi and can be obtained on arrival. The requirements may vary depending on the nationality of the traveller.
💲 Currency
The official currency is the Malawian kwacha (MWK). Currency can be exchanged in banks and bureaus de change.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards usage is gradually increasing in Malawi, but it is not as widespread. Cash is preferable, especially in rural areas.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Malawi does offer opportunities to work and travel, particularly in teaching, healthcare, and community development roles, usually through volunteer programs. However, employment opportunities for travellers are limited.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
In comparison to many other African countries, Malawi can be a relatively inexpensive destination. The cost of travel and living in Malawi is low, making it an affordable destination for budget travellers.