Depending on where you are coming from, there are several entry points into Malawi, but for this trip, we are exploring Malawi by road through Zambia from the Mchinji border. You can also get into Malawi from Tanzania through Songwe.
Mchinji, Malawi
Mchinji is a lively border town in Malawi and the capital of the greater Mchinji District, which is part of the central district. The town is remote, so make sure you have ready Cash when transacting. The Currency in Malawi is the Malawian Kwacha.
The Next stop on this Cross-Africa tour is Lilongwe, Malawi.
Exploring Malawi, Lilongwe City
Lilongwe is the capital of Malawi. It’s quite an exciting city lying next to the Lilongwe River. Like Nairobi, Lilongwe harbors a thick woodland and animal conservation right in the city’s heart at Lilongwe Wildlife Sanctuary.
As you’ll note, Lilongwe is rapidly developing. New buildings, roads, and infrastructure are under construction, a sign of positive development in this fast-rising African country.
Things to Do in Lilongwe Malawi
Lilongwe is the Capital City of Malawi, and as you’d expect, there are many activities for visitors and tourists. The following are exciting things you can do in Lilongwe City, Malawi.
Check Out the Lilongwe Wildlife Sanctuary
Like Nairobi, Lilongwe offers a wildlife experience in the city. The only difference is that Lilongwe offers this thrilling experience in the city’s heart at the Lilongwe Wildlife Center. This sanctuary is home to rescued wildlife that have either been injured or orphaned.
Some of the most fascinating game animals you can view at the Lilongwe Wildlife Sanctuary include lions, antelope, primates, and even zebras. Checking out this center is a great way to support the orphaned and injured animals. Your visit goes a long way toward facilitating their comfort.
Explore the Thick Woodland Trails at the Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary
If you love nature and want to be one with the earth, check out the Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary. It’s one of the most peaceful spots I’ve been to. The thick woodlands provide a tranquil place to reflect on your thoughts and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Bird lovers will have a blast checking out the species that call this tranquil woodland home. Take a stroll through the trails – and don’t forget to take pictures.
Get Lost Lilongwe Old Town
An old Swahili saying goes like this: ” Kupotea ndio kujua” loosely translates to “getting lost allows you to learn.” Lilongwe Old Town gives off the perfect African vibe—it thrives with a traditional market where you can buy local handicrafts for souvenirs and fresh produce.
You’ll also enrich your taste buds with Malawian street food. The Old Town is the perfect space for a whiff of Malawian culture.
Visit the New Parliament Building
The Malawian Parliamentary Building is a marvel of modern architecture. It is a must-visit when exploring Malawi. You’ll love the well-manicured gardens and the country’s history. If you are an architectural buff, this is a spot you don’t want to miss.
Please note that you must make an appointment before visiting the Malawian Parliament Building.
Maula Cathedral
Another fascinating experience for architectural and nature buffs for those exploring Malawi. The Maula Cathedral is one of the largest churches in Malawi and follows the Roman Latin rite. It also functions as the headquarters of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Lilongwe.
The Maula Cathedral offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can indulge their spiritual side while also learning about the religious lifestyle of the Malawi people.
Lilongwe Nightlife
If there’s one thing Malawians know how to do, it’s to party. Lilongwe is the nightlife capital of Malawi. Several sports bars and lounges are throughout the city, and visitors can enjoy a lively night out while getting to know the culture.
Don’t worry – nightspots in Malawi play all types of music, from local to international. It’s also the perfect opportunity to witness the entertainment scene on this side of Africa.
National Memorial Park
The National Memorial Park in Lilongwe is located at the heart of the city between Capital Hill and Area 18 Filling Station. This park honors citizens who died in different conflict events and those who contributed to the formation of Malawi.
The National Memorial Park is a great way to learn about the political history of the people of Malawi and how this great nation came to be.
Drive Through Lilongwe
Since you tagged your car a long, take some time to drive through Lilongwe City. It is the perfect way to check out the city and marvel at its rich culture and infrastructure.
Lilongwe has a great road infrastructure, and even though some sections of the city are under construction, you’ll still enjoy all the modern amenities, from the five-star hotels to the fancy restaurants. Lilongwe is very green, and the mash-up of architecture and nature is mind-blowing.
We highly recommend checking out Umodzi Park and National Memorial Park!
Exploring Malawi: Nkhotakota, Lake Malawi
Most people will tell you that Lake Malawi is in Lilongwe, but the truth of the matter is – it is on the outskirts of the city, specifically around Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve. Nkhotakota Reserve is the oldest and the largest wildlife reserve in Malawi.
At Nkhotakota, there’s a dense woodland with three rivers draining into Lake Malawi. Thanks to abundant wildlife, including elephants, nature-buffs will enjoy their time here.
Nkhotakota is approximately 196 kilometers from Lilongwe City and takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes to drive.
We recommend spending the night at Nkhotakota Pottery Lodge, which is next to the shores of Lake Malawi. During your stay there, make sure to order the Chambo and Shima (Fish and Maize meal)—it’s a sumptuous Malawian delicacy. Don’t forget to check out the sunset and sunrise at the sandy beaches of Lake Malawi.
Enchanting Experience at Lake Nkhata, Malawi
You still have time on your trip to explore Malawi. We recommend checking out Nkhata Bay. Believe me, it is a slice of paradise. Hop into your car and drive.
If you spend your night at Nkhotakhota, you’ll have a three-hour drive to the most scenic lake view on this side of Africa. We are talking about untouched natural beauty—unfortunately becoming rarer by the day.
The drive from Nkhotakota to Nkhata Bay is approximately 3 hours (193 kilometers/58 miles). And the road rolling down the hills to the bay will take your breath away. Locally known as the “lake of stars,” Nkhata Bay is where you want to spend a lot of time, relax, and enjoy the views.
There’s very little tourism interference here, and you’ll not find fancy resorts, but there’s a bar right next to the lake where you can enjoy a cold beer as you take in magnificent views. You can also enjoy fresh fish from Lake Malawi prepared with local cuisine.
This is a day event, and in the evening, you can find good accommodation one hour away in Mzuzu.
Leaving Malawi, Entry to Tanzania
If you slept in Mzuzu, it’s time to head to Songwe. It’s a long trip of about 362 kilometers (224 miles). It is difficult to approximate the time spent – the roads are not the best. There are patches of construction throughout the way. But one thing’s for sure: you will enjoy the view, especially as you cross through Rukuru. The hills and the lake in the backdrop will melt your heart.
NB: The Malawi – Tanzania border closes at 6 PM. Keep time!
We hope you had a fun time exploring Malawi. Cheers!