Nkhata Bay, 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 Nkhata Bay, Malawi? If you're planning to go to Nkhata Bay, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Nkhata Bay, Malawi

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

What to wear/what to pack for Nkhata Bay, Malawi

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

In January, Nkhata Bay is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Nkhata Bay, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

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 Nkhata Bay 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 bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large 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

February

February in Nkhata Bay is extremely warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average 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

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, 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 Nkhata Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

March

Traveling to Nkhata Bay in March, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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 Nkhata Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to choose the right type. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

If you are traveling to Nkhata Bay in April, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures 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.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Nkhata Bay 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 always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck 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. Be careful to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May in Nkhata Bay is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to 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 Nkhata Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option 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. It's important that you find the right type. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

June

Traveling to Nkhata Bay in June, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures 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 bit of protection, 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 Nkhata Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: 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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to pick the right kind. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

July

Traveling to Nkhata Bay in July, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and dry with little rain. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate 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 Nkhata Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • 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

  • 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 find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • 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

August

If you visit Nkhata Bay during August, you are likely to notice that it is warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 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.

  • 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 Nkhata Bay may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters that you can buy 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 works in most places.

September

September here is hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

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 Nkhata Bay 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

October

If you are traveling to Nkhata Bay in October, you will notice that it is really hot and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s 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 constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate 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 Nkhata Bay 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties 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

    A great choice is this one

November

If you go to Nkhata Bay in November, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s 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.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Nkhata Bay 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

December

If you vacation in Nkhata Bay during December, you will probably find that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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 Nkhata Bay 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow 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

What to do in Nkhata Bay, Malawi

Nkhata Bay is a beautiful town located on the shores of Lake Malawi. It is known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and warm hospitality. The town attracts tourists who are looking to relax, soak up the sun, and explore the local culture. In this article, we will highlight some of the top tourist attractions in Nkhata Bay, Malawi.

1. Lake Malawi Beaches

Nkhata Bay is blessed with beautiful white sandy beaches, and crystal clear waters of Lake Malawi. There are many beaches around Nkhata Bay, and some of the most popular ones include Mayoka Village Beach, Njaya Lodge Beach, and Kande Beach. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

2. Livingstonia Mission

Livingstonia is a historical mission that was founded by David Livingstone. It is located on top of a hill and offers stunning views of Lake Malawi and the surrounding hills. The mission has a church, a school, and a hospital that serves the local community. Visitors can explore the mission and learn about its history.

3. Ilala Ferry

The Ilala ferry is a popular mode of transportation for locals and tourists alike. It is a unique way to explore the lake and the various towns and villages on its shores. The ferry provides a comfortable and affordable way to travel and offers stunning views of the lake.

4. Chisumphi Conservation Area

Chisumphi Conservation Area is located about 25 kilometers from Nkhata Bay. The area is home to a variety of birds and animals, including monkeys, baboons, and antelopes. Visitors can hike through the conservation area and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.

5. Fish Markets

Nkhata Bay has a vibrant fishing industry, and the local fish markets are a great place to experience the local culture. Fishermen bring their daily catch to the markets, and visitors can buy fresh fish, and even watch it being prepared.

6. Tongole Wilderness Lodge

Tongole Wilderness Lodge is a luxury lodge located in the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve. The lodge offers game drives, walking safaris, fishing, and bird watching. Visitors can also relax and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.

In conclusion, Nkhata Bay is a beautiful destination that offers a variety of attractions for tourists. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, explore the local culture, or experience the natural beauty of Malawi, Nkhata Bay has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure in one of the most beautiful places in Africa.

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: São Vicente, Cape Verde, Mosonmagyaróvár, Hungary, Central Coast, Vietnam, Shenzhen, China, Bourne, England, United Kingdom, Mendi, Papua New Guinea, Ritzville, Washington, United States of America, Callander, Scotland, United Kingdom, Agia Roumeli, Greece, Þingvellir National Park, Iceland, and Neusiedl am See, Austria.