Warnings & Dangers in Malawi
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Malawi is generally not a dangerous country to visit. However, there is a lot of petty crime. Travelers should be cautious and keep an eye on their belongings and surroundings. If traveling by car, be sure to lock the car and park it in a guarded parking lot.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport is poorly developed and not recommended for travel. In addition, pickpockets can be found there. Taxi is quite safe, but use only licensed taxi services and make sure that the driver has turned on the taximeter.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
There are a lot of pickpockets in Malawi. Mainly they prey on gaping tourists. Therefore, when traveling, never leave personal items unattended. And watch your surroundings. Someone who asks for your help or offers it may turn out to be an ordinary pickpocket.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Malawi experiences a variety of natural disasters, including cyclones, cyclical drought, earthquakes, flooding, and severe storms. In addition, vulnerable populations experience recurring food insecurity.
MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
Armed attacks and robberies in Malawi are rather rare. But they can happen in remote areas of cities, in the suburbs. Travelers are not advised to carry a lot of cash and jewelry, and it is better not to walk around the town late at night.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism in the country is not very high. In the recent history of Malawi, no severe terrorist attacks have occurred. However, this does not mean that they cannot happen. Stay alert while traveling and avoid any rallies and demonstrations.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
Malawi scams are found in tourist places, train stations, and bazaars. Travelers should be cautious and carefully monitor their surroundings. Buy goods and services only in licensed locations. Withdraw money from ATMs at banks to avoid scamming from your cards.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM
Women are free to travel alone, but they need to be attentive to their surroundings. In the dark, it is not recommended for leaving your room, and it is better to travel by car or taxi. Do not attract undue attention to you with your behavior or clothing, and you will remain safe.
How Safe Is Malawi for Tourists?
Malawi is a medium-security country.
The main problems are connected with hacking apartments and cars, car theft, vandalism.
There is also a high level of bribery and corruption in the country.
In large cities, especially in Lilongwe, as well as in some notorious places along the main tourist routes, robberies and robberies were carried out.
Avoid walking at night.
If you go out for the evening, be sure to know how to get home.
Car jacks happen from time to time, so be sure to keep your windows closed and doors locked during evening and night trips (although night driving is not recommended – most cars have broken headlights, and Malawians tend to walk in the middle of the road at night) and exercise reasonable caution, as in any foreign city or countryside.
Roads in the country are not very safe; drivers can behave aggressively and do not always follow the rules of the way.
There is also the factor of drunk driving, especially in the evenings, so be careful.
In Malawi, foreigners attract the attention of local people, so beware that you may be deceived at every turn.
Even in very local markets without tourists, some people will try to raise the price of the simplest snacks or vegetables.
Foreign women will be continuously harassed and screamed by Malawian men. Some Malawians are friendly, and some are not.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Malawi?
Visitors to Malawi must obtain a visa from one of the Malawian diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries or countries eligible for visa on arrival. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Malawi?
The kwacha is the currency of Malawi. It is divided into 100 tambala. The kwacha replaced other types of currency, namely the UK pound sterling, the South African rand, and the Rhodesian dollar, that had previously circulated through the Malawian economy.
How's the Weather like in Malawi?
The best times to visit Malawi for ideal weather are April to October. Average temperatures in Malawi vary somewhat and the weather feels nice most of the year, excluding some hot weeks in the summer, with a low chance of precipitation most of the year.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Malawi?
There are several airports in Malawi. The main and busiest is located 25 km from the capital. Kamuzu International Airport is an international airport serving Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi. It is also known as Lilongwe International Airport.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
Just like anywhere else, the travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Malawi?
Malawi is a landlocked country in Southeast Africa. Its relief is formed by plateaus cut by the Great Rift Valley, where the huge lake of Malawi lies. At its southern tip is the national park of the same name, where you can see a variety of animals – from colorful fish to baboons. Thanks to its clear waters, the park is popular with scuba divers and boat enthusiasts. Cape Broker, located on the peninsula, is known for its beaches.
Is the Water in Malawi Safe to Drink?
Most of the population of Malawi lack clean water for life, as well as a lack of drinking water. Drinking tap water in this country is strictly not recommended.
Is Uber Safe in Malawi?
There is no Uber taxi in Malawi. However, you can use any other taxi service in this country.