Lilongwe Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to exploring the beautiful city of Lilongwe in Malawi, including places to visit, hiking and biking routes, activities to do, food and drink scene, where to stay and more. Read on!


Introduction to Lilongwe

Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi, is located in the central region of the country. The city is a hub for travelers due to its convenient location, being in close proximity to several national parks and game reserves, as well as Lake Malawi, the third-largest lake in Africa. Lilongwe offers an opportunity to experience traditional African culture and modern city life. With its welcoming locals, beautiful parks, fun activities, and classy hotels, Lilongwe is an ideal destination for travelers looking for a unique African experience. In this travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, and the local culture of Lilongwe.

List of Places to Visit in Lilongwe

Here is a list of the top places to visit in Lilongwe.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The National Museum of Malawi features exhibits on the history, culture, and art of Malawi. The museum has a collection of over 20,000 artifacts, including musical instruments, weapons, and traditional costumes.
  • The Kamuzu Banda Mausoleum is the final resting place of the former President of Malawi, Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda. The mausoleum is a significant place for Malawians as it commemorates the life and legacy of the country’s first president.
  • The Lilongwe Wildlife Centre is an animal sanctuary and education center that rescues and rehabilitates injured wild animals. Visitors can take guided tours and interact with primates, antelopes, and reptiles.

Natural Attractions of Lilongwe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary is a tranquil park located in the heart of the city. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, bird watching, and picnic spots.
  • The Lilongwe Golf Course is a fantastic destination for golf enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains.
  • The Bunda Rock offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Lilongwe city and the Lilongwe River Valley. The hike to the top of the rock takes about an hour but is worth it.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lilongwe

Lilongwe offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in Malawi. Here are some of the best routes:

  • The Chongoni Forest Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its numerous rock paintings, hiking trails, and stunning scenery.
  • The Dzalanyama Forest Reserve is situated in the hills west of Lilongwe and is perfect for a day hike. The reserve offers a chance to spot rare birds like the African Finfoot.
  • The Lake Malawi-Nyika Plateau Trail is a multi-day hiking adventure through the rugged terrain of northern Malawi. The trail winds through the Nyika Plateau and offers breathtaking views of Lake Malawi.

Best Things to Do in Lilongwe: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours in Lilongwe to keep visitors entertained. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Take a cooking class and learn how to cook Malawian dishes like nsima and chambo.
  • Go on a walking tour of old town Lilongwe to experience the traditional African way of life.
  • Visit the Sunday craft market and shop for locally made souvenirs like wooden carvings and paintings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lilongwe

Here is a week-long itinerary for exploring Lilongwe:

Day Activity
1 Visit the National Museum of Malawi, Kamuzu Banda Mausoleum and Lilongwe Wildlife Centre
2 Enjoy outdoor activities at the Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary and the Lilongwe Golf Course
3 Go on a guided walking tour of old town Lilongwe
4 Take a cooking class and learn how to prepare Malawian dishes
5 Visit the Dzalanyama Forest Reserve for a day hike
6 Head to Lake Malawi to explore the Nyika Plateau Trail
7 Relax and unwind at your hotel or guesthouse in Lilongwe

Food and Drink Scene of Lilongwe

The food scene of Lilongwe is a blend of traditional African dishes and international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nsima is a staple food in Malawi, made from maize flour and typically served with vegetables or meat.
  • Chambo is a type of fish found in Lake Malawi and is usually grilled or fried.
  • Mandasi is similar to doughnuts and is a popular snack in Lilongwe.

Local Beverages

  • Malawi Gin is a popular local gin made from sugar cane and is perfect for cocktails like Gin and Tonic.
  • Masese is a locally brewed beer made from maize and sorghum.

Where to Stay in Lilongwe: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of options for accommodations in Lilongwe. Here are some of the best choices:

  • Latitude 13° is a luxury boutique hotel with a reputation for excellent service, stylish rooms, and modern amenities.
  • Mabuya Camp is a budget-friendly option for travelers on a tight budget. The hostel features comfortable tents and dorms and is located in the center of town.
  • Kumbali Country Lodge is a charming retreat located on a farm just outside Lilongwe. The lodge features spacious rooms and suites, swimming pool, and restaurant.

What to Buy in Lilongwe: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lilongwe is famous for its locally made crafts and products. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products you can bring home:

  • Wooden carvings, masks, and furniture are a popular purchase in Lilongwe.
  • Traditional Malawian fabrics and clothing are colorful and vibrant.
  • Coffee and tea are grown locally and make for a great souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Lilongwe

Malawi is known for its warm and welcoming locals who are always ready to greet visitors with a smile. It is essential to dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions while in Lilongwe. Malawians are very religious and observe Sunday as a day of rest, so it is best to plan activities accordingly.

Best Time to Visit Lilongwe

Lilongwe has a tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Lilongwe is during the dry season, from May to October. The weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lilongwe

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts while visiting Lilongwe:

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respect local customs.
  • Interact with the friendly locals and learn about their culture.
  • Try Malawian dishes and local beverages.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs without permission.
  • Insult or make fun of the Malawian culture or customs.
  • Use drugs or engage in illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Lilongwe is a relatively safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should take the usual precautions, like avoiding walking alone at night and not carrying large amounts of cash. It is essential to take malaria medication and drink bottled water while in Lilongwe.

Safety in Lilongwe

  • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in the old town area.
  • Take taxis or hotel transport after dark.

Health in Lilongwe

  • Take malaria medication and use mosquito repellent.
  • Drink bottled water and avoid tap water.
  • Seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of illness.

Getting to Lilongwe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lilongwe is easily accessible by air and land. Here are the transportation options available:

Airports Near Lilongwe

  • Lilongwe International Airport is the primary gateway to Lilongwe and is located just a few kilometers from the city center.
  • Kamuzu International Airport is the second international airport serving Lilongwe and is located about 29 kilometers from the city.

Bus Stations Near Lilongwe

  • Mzuzu Bus Station is the main bus station in Lilongwe, with connections to most major cities in Malawi.

Other Options

  • Car rental services are available at the airport and in the city center.
  • Taxis and hotel shuttles are readily available for convenient transportation within the city.

How to Get Around in Lilongwe

The best way to get around Lilongwe is by taxi or self-drive car. Public transportation is not well developed, and walking on some routes can be challenging due to the lack of sidewalks. Visitors can also rent a bike or moped to explore the city.

Where to Go Next from Lilongwe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lilongwe is the gateway to some of Malawi’s most beautiful destinations. Here are some nearby places to visit:

  • Lake Malawi - a vast freshwater lake lined by stunning sand beaches.
  • Nyika Plateau National Park – the largest national park in Malawi, with scenic views, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife.
  • Liwonde National Park – an excellent destination for game drives and boat safaris.

Conclusion

Now that you have read this comprehensive travel guide, you are ready to explore the beautiful city of Lilongwe. With so many attractions and activities on offer, you are sure to have an unforgettable African adventure. So why not pack your bags, head to Lilongwe, and experience the warm hospitality of the welcoming locals while enjoying the natural beauty and historic sites that Malawi has to offer?

Banda Mausoleum Banda Mausoleum K.A.R Clocktower K.A.R Clocktower Looking over the Old Town of Lilongwe Looking over the Old Town of Lilongwe