Flights from Kamuzu Intl. Airport, Lilongwe

Unless you're traveling overland, either north from Mozambique, east from Zambia or south from Tanzania, you're likely to arrive in Malawi at Lilongwe airport, also known as Kamuzu International.

Lilongwe, the capital, is a hot, hectic city with plenty for its guests to see and do; a visit to the central food market is a must, while the Nature Sanctuary is a well-run facility with informative tours. However, for most visitors, it's Lake Malawi with its cool, cobalt blue waters and surrounding escarpments, that is the main attraction.

The lake runs most of the length of the country, with a decent road connecting the capital to the northern border. Along the way there are also many popular lakeside stopping points to be explored. You ll find local establishments offering delicious fish dishes and very cold local beer, often right on the sandy shores.

Getting around

Direct flights to Lilongwe Airport (LLW) depart from several major African cities including Johannesburg and Nairobi. The airport is around 40 minutes by road from the center of the city.

Hints and tips

Halfway up the lakeside, roughly three hours by road, you'll find Nkhotakota; a good base for trips to the nearby wildlife reserve, it is an area well worth journeying out to.