Malawi backdrop
Africa . Capital: Lilongwe . 20.7M people . MWK . English . 2 cities

Malawi_

Capital: Lilongwe
Capital Lilongwe
Region Eastern Africa
5.3/10
Nomad Score
7.6/10
Safety
25 Mbps
Internet
Updated Jan 26, 2026

Overview

Malawi is the "Warm Heart of Africa," a small, peaceful nation dominated by Lake Malawi—the ninth-largest lake in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site for its extraordinary fish diversity. The lake's clear waters contain more fish species than any other lake on Earth, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving. The country's friendliness is legendary, and tourism is low-key compared to East African neighbors. Liwonde National Park offers excellent wildlife viewing along the Shire River, while the Zomba Plateau and Mount Mulanje provide highland hiking. Colonial-era tea estates dot the southern highlands. Malawi offers authentic, unhurried African experiences in one of the continent's safest countries.

Nomad Score

5.3
Internet
75
Safety
40
Cost
50
Weather
60
Community
45

DROPTHE_ GOSSIP

Economy
$11.3 billion GDP, one of Eastern Africa's largest economies
Safety
Safety score 7.6/10 — one of Eastern Africa's safest destinations

Weather in Lilongwe

20C
Clear
Lilongwe
82%
Humidity
5 km/h
Wind

Best Time to Visit

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Visa Information

US Citizens
Visa Required

Practical Info

Power
230V
Tap Water
Use Bottled
English
Moderate
Driving Side
Right

Safety

Safety Score
7.6/10 (moderate)
US Advisory
Level 2 - Increased Caution

MOVIES & SERIES FROM MALAWI

Health & Safety

Healthcare
Limited
Emergency
112
Pharmacies
Available

Quick Facts

Area
118,484 km2
Calling Code
+265
TLD
.mw
Timezone
UTC+02:00

Embassy Info

Info
Find your embassy in Malawi

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Malawi good for digital nomads?
Malawi has a Nomad Score of 5.3/10, ranked #192 worldwide. Average internet speed: 25 Mbps.
How fast is the internet in Malawi?
The average internet speed in Malawi is 25 Mbps download. May require a backup connection for heavy use.
When is the best time to visit Malawi?
The best months to visit Malawi are Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec.
Do I need a visa for Malawi?
For US citizens: Visa Required.
Is Malawi safe to visit?
Malawi has a safety score of 7.6/10. Generally considered safe for travelers.
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