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

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Mount Mulanje, Malawi? If you're planning to go to Mount Mulanje, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Mount Mulanje, Malawi

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

What to wear/what to pack for Mount Mulanje, Malawi

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January for Mount Mulanje is extremely warm. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Emergency phone

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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

February

February for Mount Mulanje is pretty consistently 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Mount Mulanje 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to get the correct type. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

March

If you go to Mount Mulanje in March, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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 Mount Mulanje may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

April

April is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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 Mount Mulanje 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to pick the correct type. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

If you go to Mount Mulanje in May, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

June

Traveling to Mount Mulanje in June, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s 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 Mount Mulanje may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you are traveling to Mount Mulanje in July, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain sometimes. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s 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 bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to get the necessary type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

August

August in this region dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains sometimes.

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 find 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 Mount Mulanje may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

September

September in this region dry with little 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.

  • Emergency phone

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to choose the right kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

October

October in this region is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains once in a while.

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 constantly losing bags 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 Mount Mulanje may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

November

November is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.

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 nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Emergency phone

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

If you go to Mount Mulanje in December, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Emergency phone

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply 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 appropriate for most locations.

What to do in Mount Mulanje, Malawi

Mount Mulanje is a natural wonder located in southern Malawi, offering visitors breathtaking scenery and one-of-a-kind adventure experiences. Known as the "island in the sky," Mount Mulanje is a granite mountain that rises 3,002 meters above sea level, and it is the tallest peak in Central Africa.

If you plan to visit Malawi, Mount Mulanje is a must-see attraction. Here are the top tourist attractions to explore on Mount Mulanje:

1. Hiking

Mount Mulanje is a hiker's paradise, offering several trails with varying levels of difficulty to suit all experience levels. The most popular is the Sapitwa Trail, leading to the highest point of the mountain. The trail takes approximately six to seven hours to complete and is suitable for experienced hikers only. Some other popular trails include Chambe Peak, Lichenya Plateau, and the Skyline Path.

2. Rock Climbing

Mount Mulanje is known for its magnificent granite rock formations providing ideal climbing opportunities for adventurers. Notably, some of the best climbing spots include the Back of the Dragon, Chambe Basin, and Malosa Wall. Climbing permits are required, and for safety reasons, visitors must be accompanied by a qualified guide.

3. Wildlife Viewing

The flora and fauna around Mount Mulanje are abundant, making it an excellent place for wildlife enthusiasts. You'll have the chance to spot several endemic species, including the Mulanje Cedar, the Mulanje Chameleon, the Pseudophilautus Mulanjensis frog, and many more.

4. Waterfalls

Mulanje is home to several stunning waterfalls. The most famous is the Likhubula Falls, a 20-meter-tall waterfall that cascades into a natural swimming pool below, providing an excellent place for visitors to cool off. Other waterfalls to visit include the Dziwe la Nkhalamba Falls and the Chambe Waterfall.

5. Mountain Biking

Another great way to explore Mount Mulanje is by mountain biking. Take in scenic views while cycling along the mountain trails, offering a thrilling experience as you navigate down rugged tracks and through streams. You can rent bikes around Mulanje or inquire with the tour operator.

In conclusion, Mount Mulanje is genuinely one of the must-visit locations in Malawi, offering an unforgettable adventure experience. The blend of extreme outdoor activities, wildlife, and stunning natural landscapes creates a magical backdrop for visitors' memories. Ensure you add this location to your itinerary if you're planning an adventure trip to Malawi.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Clewiston, Florida, United States of America, Browns Bay, New Zealand, Whitianga, New Zealand, Southern Thailand, Thailand, Rennes, France, Panama City Beach, Florida, United States of America, Thiruvayaru, India, Cattaraugus, New York, United States of America, Abruzzo, Italy, Dapoli, India, and Pyramiden, Norway.