Malawi, Malawi: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Malawi, Malawi? If you're planning to go to Malawi, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Malawi, Malawi

Based on the climate and weather in Malawi, Malawi, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Malawi, Malawi

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Malawi, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Malawi, Malawi by month

January

January in this region is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malawi has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Malawi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

February

February in this region is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malawi has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Malawi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to find the right type. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

March here is hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malawi has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Malawi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

April in Malawi is hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malawi has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Malawi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

May

Traveling to Malawi in May, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Expect it to rain once in a while. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malawi has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Malawi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the right type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

June

June dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malawi has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Malawi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you find the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

July here very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malawi has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Malawi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to choose the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

August

August very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malawi has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Malawi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

September

September for Malawi very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malawi has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Malawi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you find the correct type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

If you go to Malawi in October, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malawi has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Malawi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you find the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

November

If you go to Malawi in November, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malawi has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Malawi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the right type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

If you are traveling to Malawi in December, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malawi has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Malawi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

What to do in Malawi, Malawi

Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, Malawi is a land of hidden gems waiting to be discovered by intrepid tourists. From picturesque landscapes to fascinating cultural sites, there’s no shortage of attractions in this country that packs a punch beyond its size. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Malawi that are worth seeing.

1. Lake Malawi

Lake Malawi is more than just a body of water; it’s an entire ecosystem that supports a wealth of life. The clear blue waters of the lake are home to over 800 species of fish, making it an excellent destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. There are plenty of activities for visitors, including kayaking, sailing, and fishing, and the sunsets over the lake are breathtaking.

2. Nyika Plateau National Park

Nyika Plateau National Park is a vast and remote highland wilderness, located in the north of the country. The park is home to a wealth of flora and fauna, including over 400 species of birds, as well as large herds of antelopes and zebras. Visitors can go on game drives, explore the park’s many walking trails, and enjoy stunning views from high elevations.

3. Likoma Island

Located in the middle of Lake Malawi, Likoma Island is a place of timeless beauty, a pearl in the heart of Africa. The island was once the seat of the Anglican Church in Central Africa and is still home to a handful of stunning churches, including St. Peter’s Cathedral, which is one of the largest churches in Africa. The island’s sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere make it an excellent spot for relaxation and reflection.

4. Mulanje Mountain

Mulanje Mountain is Malawi’s highest peak, and it offers some of the most scenic views in the country. The mountain is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including rare orchids and elusive baboons. Visitors can hike to Lichenya Plateau at 3000 meters and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

5. Cultural Sites

Malawi is a country rich in cultural heritage, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. For example, the Chongoni Rock Art Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring over 100 ancient rock paintings that date back over 2,000 years. Other cultural attractions include the Nkhotakota Pottery Workshop and the King’s Pool in Mzimba, which is said to have mystical healing powers.

In summary, Malawi’s diverse geography, rich cultural heritage, and warm and friendly people make it an attractive destination for tourists. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a window into a different way of life, you’re sure to find it in this small but captivating African nation.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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