Malawi

Malawi is known as the warm heart of Africa. This breath-taking country is dominated by the 300-mile long Lake Malawi which, with its sweeping palm-fringed beaches and beautiful multi-coloured fish, has always been the main draw for visitors.

What isn’t as well known about Malawi is that it offers so much more than its lake, with mountains, tea plantations and a fascinating history. A number of Malawi’s national parks and game reserves have now been rejuvenated under the management of African Parks (an NGO focused on conservation) making Malawi an up and coming destination for game viewing and safaris. 

Did you know?

• Lake Malawi is a UNESCO world heritage site.
• Lake Malawi is the third largest lake in Africa.
• In Malawi the climate varies from cool in the highlands to warm around Lake Malawi. 
• The rainy season is from December to March but if you want to see the orchids in full bloom on the Nyika Plateau this is the time to come. 
• After the rains in April and May the whole country is lush and green and as the months progress through to August the country becomes drier with little chance of rain and the temperatures are comfortable for travelling. 
• There is a close tie between Scotland and Malawi due to David Livingstone’s time there 
• September to November is the hottest time of year and the best time for game viewing as water sources dry up and game congregates around permanent water. 
• Temperatures are always warm around the lake but on the Zomba and Nyika plateaus it can be cold all year round.
• In 2015, Malawi underwent the world’s largest elephant translocation.