Question 1

Is Malawi a safe destination?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Malawi is known as one of the friendliest and safest countries in Africa. The people are exceptionally welcoming and travellers are warmly received almost everywhere. As anywhere, we recommend using your common sense, not leaving valuables in sight and following our practical travel tips.

Question 2

Is a self-drive through Malawi possible?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but whether a self-drive is the best choice depends on your travel plans. Malawi has relatively few affordable hire cars (especially with rooftop tents), the roads are not in good condition everywhere and fuel is not always readily available. As a result, travelling with a private driver can be surprisingly attractive and may even work out cheaper than a self-drive. In addition, local drivers know the roads and take the logistical challenges off your hands. We offer both self-drive trips and fully guided tours, and are happy to advise which form of travel best suits you.

Question 3

Is Malawi an expensive destination?

Accepted Answer

That depends on how you pay. Based on the official exchange rate, Malawi appears to be one of the more expensive destinations in Southern Africa. At the same time, there is a lively informal foreign-exchange market, meaning cash is still king. Therefore, take enough euros or US dollars with you to exchange locally. In euros or dollars, daily costs ultimately often work out at a similar level to those in other countries in Southern Africa. Do bear in mind that fuel is relatively expensive in Malawi and is not always available everywhere. We are happy to advise you in advance on the most practical way to pay, how much cash to take and how best to deal with the local situation while travelling.

Question 4

What are the most beautiful national parks in Malawi?

Accepted Answer

Malawi may not be at the top of the list for a safari, but its national parks have surprised us enormously. Thanks to the successful reintroduction of the Big Five, Liwonde National Park is now considered one of Southern Africa’s finest safari parks. Nyika National Park is completely different: rolling grasslands, misty hills and endless vistas that are more reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands than Africa. It is precisely this immense variety that makes Malawi so special.

Question 5

What is the best time to visit Malawi?

Accepted Answer

The best time to travel is from April to October. During these dry months, the roads are easy to navigate, the skies are clear and conditions are ideal for safaris, walking and a stay at Lake Malawi. The rainy season runs from December to March. Nature is beautifully green during this period, but some roads may be difficult to navigate.

Question 6

Is Malawi suitable for a trip with children?

Accepted Answer

Certainly. Thanks to its relatively short travel distances, friendly people and relaxed atmosphere, Malawi is a wonderful destination for families. Lake Malawi offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking, while safaris can also be combined easily with beaches and nature. We are happy to tailor the pace of the trip and the accommodation to the children's ages. Anyone swimming in Lake Malawi should bear bilharzia (schistosomiasis) in mind. The risk varies by location, but as a precaution, it is recommended to take a preventive treatment (two doses of several tablets) with praziquantel approximately six weeks after returning home. This medicine is readily available from almost any local pharmacy in Malawi. Naturally, we are happy to provide information about the current situation in advance and offer practical advice for a carefree trip.

Question 7

Which countries combine well with Malawi?

Accepted Answer

Malawi combines extremely well with Zambia and Mozambique. Zambia is ideal for travellers who want to extend their trip with some of Africa’s finest safari parks, such as South Luangwa National Park and Lower Zambezi National Park. Mozambique, meanwhile, is a wonderful addition for those who want to enjoy tropical beaches and the Indian Ocean after visiting Lake Malawi.

Question 8

Why choose Beyond Routes for a trip to Malawi?

Accepted Answer

Malawi is a destination that has surprised us enormously. The country has a great deal to offer, but travelling here sometimes requires a little more flexibility and local knowledge. Fuel availability can be a challenge, and good vehicles suitable for camping are not always easy to find. As a result, travelling with a local driver or guide can sometimes even be more affordable than a self-drive. What’s more, you then do not have to worry about the logistical challenges along the way. We help you assess what is feasible at the time of travel. When is a self-drive a good choice, and when would you be better off choosing a local driver? Thanks to our own experience and our network of local partners, we can make that assessment based on both the current situation and your wishes. Wherever possible, we work with local accommodation providers, guides and businesses who share our vision, helping to strengthen the positive impact of tourism. Trips covered by the package travel regulations are protected by the VZR Garantiefonds.