Lake Malawi
Lake Malawi holds more species of fish than any other lake on earth, and the clear water makes them visible from the surface.
Malawi.
Lake shores. Warm hearts. Relaxation. Tranquillity.
Southern Africa · 2 of 6
Photo Omar Hakeem / Unsplash
Malawi is a true hidden gem — an intimate and captivating destination, and one of Africa's most charming smaller countries.
Renowned for its remarkable natural beauty, it enchants visitors with the shimmering expanse of Lake Malawi, a vast freshwater paradise often referred to as the “Lake of Stars.” Fringed by golden beaches and crystal‑clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life, the lake offers a tranquil contrast to the country’s rolling highlands, lush landscapes, and warm, welcoming culture. Malawi promises an authentic, unspoilt African experience, where serenity, scenic splendour, and heartfelt hospitality come together to create a truly unforgettable journey.
Best time to travel
May – Oct
The dry months are the most comfortable for the lake and the highlands alike. Lake Malawi itself is a year-round destination — the rains are heavy but short. An indicative pattern rather than a forecast; conditions vary year to year.
Start planning
Start planning your adventure
Please answer these few short questions to give us an idea of what kind of a journey you have in mind.
The guide
Malawi in full
Malawi is a lake with a country around it. Lake Malawi is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world and holds more fish species than any other, which makes its shoreline a genuine snorkelling and diving destination rather than merely a pretty one.
Its parks have been transformed over the past decade by a series of large-scale reintroductions, and the country now offers a credible safari alongside the lake — at a fraction of the crowding of its neighbours.
Liwonde and Majete
Liwonde and Majete are the two parks that have been most transformed by reintroduction, and both now hold the Big Five.
Nyika and the northern highlands
The Nyika Plateau is high, rolling grassland that looks more like the Scottish Highlands than Africa.
Gateways
- LLW — Lilongwe — Kamuzu InternationalThe capital's airport and the usual entry point for the northern parks.
- BLZ — Blantyre — Chileka InternationalThe southern gateway, closest to Majete and the Lower Shire.
Getting around
- The country is long and narrow, and the drive from Lilongwe to the far north is a serious undertaking — light aircraft link the lake, the parks and the plateau for anyone short of time.
- Malawi combines naturally with Zambia's South Luangwa, which is close to its western border, and with the Mozambican coast to the east.
- The lake is the pause rather than the point for most itineraries: two or three nights of it after a safari is the usual shape.
In pictures
Malawi
Photo Omar Hakeem / Unsplash
Photo Omar Hakeem / Unsplash
Photo Omar Hakeem / Unsplash
Photo Craig Manners / Unsplash
Photo Omar Hakeem / Unsplash
Photo Egle Sidaraviciute / Unsplash
Planning Malawi
Malawi — the questions we are asked
When is the best time to visit Malawi?
May – Oct. The dry months are the most comfortable for the lake and the highlands alike. Lake Malawi itself is a year-round destination — the rains are heavy but short.
Which Famous Africa journeys include Malawi?
Famous Africa plans Malawi as a tailor-made itinerary rather than a fixed departure, on its own or combined with neighbouring countries. Nothing is sold as a set package, so the routing, lodges and length are decided with the traveller.
What is Malawi known for?
Malawi is a true hidden gem — an intimate and captivating destination, and one of Africa's most charming smaller countries. Lake shores, Warm hearts, Relaxation, Tranquillity.