Magnificent Malawi Travel

Author: Darren Ravens

Article:

Often billed as 'the warm heart of Africa', Malawi offers
something for all visitors. One of the most beautiful and
laid-back countries in Africa, Malawi is renowned for being a
destination for those seeking adventure, leisure or
eco-tourism attractions. Malawi's scenery is gorgeous and
varied and Malawians tend to be extremely friendly toward
travellers. Nature lovers will adore the national parks
and game reserves, mountain hiking and plateau
trekking.

Top tips for Malawi Travel

Travel in Malawi

Malawi's road network is reasonably well established, with most
major routes tarred. Bus transport is a viable option,
with express and luxury coach options available and boat trips
are a fond favourite. For those seeking a more comprehensive
African adventure, there are a number of overland tour operators running trips that
span various countries, allowing travellers an opportunity
to really experience the spirit of Africa and enjoy a
variety of experiences.

Social Conventions -

With a large and diverse range of tribal backgrounds
among the people of Malawi, it's understandable that many
travellers are concerned about matters of accepted behaviour and
convention. Fortunately for visitors to this African
paradise, Malawian society is well integrated and visitors
need not worry too much about social differences.

Greeting Conventions -

Malawians are "hand-shake people". They generally place
some importance on the shaking of hands when meeting and
greeting. Among some parts of society men practice a special
handshake, involving the grasping of the thumb and placing
the left hand on the forearm - foreigners should probably not be
trying to do this, but if you're there and you see it, you'll
know what it's about. Also, women and children might curtsey
as a greeting or as a sign of gratitude.

Dress -

Generally, Malawians tend to the side of the conventional
in their dress. It's advisable to dress modestly but of course
in such a relaxed society there are no hard and fast rules and
it's probably better just to dress appropriately for your
intended activity; a day at the beach calls for beachwear
and a safari trip requires long sleeves and trousers.

Climate and weather

Winter, the dry season, is the best time to visit,
and lasts from May to October. June and July are the coldest
months with a very comfortable average daytime temperatures
21ºC. The dry season also offers excellent game viewing and
hiking opportunities.

The warm, humid rainy season, from November to April, brings
hotter temperatures of around the mid-30 ºC range. Rainfall is
concentrated on the higher plateaus and some roads become
impassable after very heavy rains.

Currency

The Malawi Kwacha is the locally used currency. It is
freely convertible at a rate of around 137 Kwacha to the US
dollar. US dollars are also readily accepted,
particularly for larger purchases.

It's also worth noting that the neighbouring Zambia's currency,
also called Kwacha, is worth a fraction of the Malawi Kwacha, so
travellers need to watch out.

Credit cards are accepted to some extent, but then only
the major brands like Visa and MasterCard and then only by the
larger hotels or businesses geared specifically towards
tourists. In general, it's safer to assume that your card will
not be readily accepted.

Traveller's cheques too are not always easily exchanged.
Some of the banks, Forex Bureaus and in top-end hotels may do
so, but US currency in cash is probably a better option.

Health Precautions

Malawi is a Malaria-risk area. To minimise the risk of
mosquito bites, wear light, long sleeved clothing and use an
effective insect repellent (those containing Diethyltoluamide
DEET work well) on exposed skin. Sleep under treated mosquito
netting or ensure that the doors and windows of your
accommodation are screened against mosquitoes. Having a fan or
air-conditioner on at night will also curb mosquito activity to
some extent. Currently, the three most effective anti-malaria
medications are Mefloquine (Lariam or Mefliam), Doxycycline
and Malarone (Malanil). Certain medications may cause
side-effects and need to be taken some time before you are
exposed to the risk, so consult you doctor or travel health
centre well before you intend to depart.

Must-see sights of Malawi

Lilongwe - This, the Malawian capital, is renowned
for the Old Town, home to market stalls, quaint cafés and
restaurants and the New City, which houses embass offices and
shops.

Blantyre - Blantyre, located in the southern part of
Malawi, is considered the centre of commerce and industry in the
country. Of interest for beer lovers, it is home to the
Carlsberg brewery and has a range of restaurants andommodation
options.

Lake Malawi - probably the most famous of Malawi's
tourist attractions, Lake Malawi is also know as also known
as Lake Nyassa and 'Livingstone's Lake' (after famous explorer
David Livingstone). It is the most southerly lake in the Great
African Rift Valley. The lake, about 560 km long and with a
total area of nearly 30 000km², is bordered by Mozambique,
Malawi, and Tanzania and is a source of territorial dispute
between Malawi and Tanzania. Lake Malawi is home to a greater
variety of indigenous species of fish than any other lake in
the world, making it very popular among scuba divers and
snorkellers. Its peaceful blue waters and stunning golden
beaches make for great retreats for those seeking a bit of
rest and relaxation. Water sports like kayaking;
canoeing, windsailing and water skiing are available for those
seeking a more active source of fun.

About the author:
The crew from the overland adventure travel
company, Oasis Overland have an extensive knowledge of
Africa, the Middle East and South America. Their philosophy is
to provide excellent value for money for budget conscious
travellers without compromising their experiences, and providing
quality vehicles, equipment, and crew. Travel in Malawi is
encompassed by various oasis African Tours,

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