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Places to visit in Malawi provide a spectacular combination of nature and culture, as well as stunning landscapes and warm and friendly locals. From the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi to the towering mountains of Mulanje, a trip here in southeast Africa will be filled with unforgettable experiences. Wildlife safaris in Liwonde, ancient rock art in Chongoni, and charming retreats on Likoma Island show the incredible variety of things to do in this unique destination. Malawi inspires adventure and discovery and is a land of rich history and unforgettable relaxation.
Top 10 Places To Visit In Malawi
The range of places to visit in Malawi includes serene pebbled beaches along Lake Malawi to the high, rugged peaks of Mount Mulanje. There are wildlife parks, cultural sites, and scenic highlands.
1. Lake Malawi National Park
Photo: i_pinz / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Lake Malawi National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the southern side of the third-largest lake in Africa. It is well known for its fantastic water life biodiversity, generally the bright colorful cichlid fishes that are not found elsewhere on our planet. Park has crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, and rocky islands, and therefore it is suited to eco-tourism and relaxation. Tourists can snorkel, dive, or kayak in the freshwaters offered there as they view tropical fish swimming in the reefs. Cape Maclear is a tourist base in the park with its rustic lodges, sunset boat rides, and village life with a local charm.
Location: Southern end of Lake Malawi
Top Highlights: Endemic tropical fish and island-hopping
2. Mount Mulanje
Photo: Akerbeltz / Wikimedia Commons
With a peak height of 3,002 meters above sea level at Sapitwa Peak, Mount Mulanje is an imposing granite massif in southern Malawi nicknamed the “Island in the Sky.” Mount Mulanje provides different levels of trekking and mountaineering, including well-marked hiking trails, dense forests, waterfalls, and climbing to scenic views from cliffs, providing a memorable experience. Mount Mulanje is a significant biodiversity hotspot that offers many possibilities for exploring plant and animal diversity, including the native Mulanje cedar, as well as various endemic plants and animals, and many different ecosystems.
Location: Southern Malawi
Top Highlights: Summit hike to Sapitwa Peak
3. Liwonde National Park
Photo: Alex / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The leading safari destination in Malawi is Liwonde National Park, which is characterised by a rejuvenated wildlife population and is close to wildlife. The park is located along a picturesque river called Shire, and thus it includes characteristic savanna features and dense riverine settings. Tourists are able to observe those living and swimming dominant mammals such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and even the reintroduced ones such as cheetahs and black rhinos. One of the best things to do is to have river safaris where wildlife is observed from the bank. Birdlife is also very vibrant in the park, and this makes it a favorite choice by birdwatchers.
Location: Southern Malawi
Top Highlights: River safaris and Big Five sightings
4. Zomba Plateau
Photo: Balint Miko / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Zomba Plateau is an idyllic, calm retreat perched on the highlands from where the ancient town of Zomba exists below in the southern part of Malawi. It is cloaked in cedars, pines, and cypress trees. The area has cool weather, enticing walking trails, waterfalls, and silent freshwater streams. Exploring and hiking trails lead you to awe-inspiring vantage points, namely Emperor’s View and Queen’s View, which look down upon the Shire River Valley and Mozambique on a fine day. Horse riding and birdwatching are other pleasant activities here, while the cooler climate makes outdoor activities enjoyable all year round. A calmer air of the plateau, natural vistas, and some cultural injections make Zomba one of the best tourist attractions in Malawi.
Location: Zomba, Southern Malawi
Top Highlights: Emperor’s View lookout
5. Nyika National Park
Photo: Phil Haydn / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Nyika National Park, lying in Northern Malawi, is said to be the country’s largest and most unique wildlife reserve. Unlike common African savannas, Nyika comprises rolling grassy highlands with varieties of wildflowers, giving it a European meadow feeling. The elevation concludes with a cool climate and great vistas; it is misty hills as far as the eye can see. The park supports large herds of zebra, roan antelope, eland, and many smaller mammals, whereas over 400 species of birds sit well with birding and photography aficionados. Scenic drives, guided walks, and rustic lodges all add to the charm of this hidden gem in the northern highlands of Malawi.
Location: Northern Malawi
Top Highlights: Rolling grasslands and zebra herds
6. Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve
Photo: Julia Fiander / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve is one of Malawi’s oldest protected areas and a fantastic conservation victory, making it one of the best tourist places in Malawi. Once decimated, the reserve has been restored through huge wildlife relocations organised by African Parks, including 500 elephants. The reserve is rugged and remote, with extensive miombo forests, which are wonderful for an immersive, low-impact safari experience. The Bua River passes through the reserve and offers beautiful canoe safaris, where you may see elephants drinking at the banks or hear a fish eagle overhead. Activities include guided walks for up-close encounters with nature and eco-lodges that offer relaxing accommodation in the wild.
Location: Central Malawi
Top Highlights: The conservation success story
7. Likoma Island
Photo: Davidktorza / Wikimedia Commons
Likoma Island is situated in the northern part of Lake Malawi and is surrounded by waters that belong to Mozambique. It is one of the most tranquil and culturally fascinating places for Malawi trip. This island is a bit remote, but an enjoyable boat trip or small aircraft flight gets you there to enjoy the spectacular beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm welcome from locals. The main tourist attraction is St Peter’s Cathedral, a surprisingly large Anglican church built in the early 1900s, noted for its heavy stonework and stained glass. Tourists can snorkel with bright-coloured fish, visit local villages, or relax in eco-lodges on the lakeshore.
Location: Lake Malawi (near the Mozambique border)
Top Highlights: St. Peter’s Cathedral and lake views
8. Blantyre
Photo: Robert Linsdell / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Blantyre, Malawi’s business capital, is a mixture of urbanism and colonialism and is probably one of the most culturally rich tourist places in Malawi for travellers. Blantyre was founded by Scottish missionaries in the late nineteenth century. The city has remnants of its colonial past, like St. Michael and All Angels Church and Mandala House, the oldest building in the country. These sites serve as examples of Malawi’s colonial past, while local markets and art galleries serve as the contemporary side of the city. Blantyre is also a great access point for attractions in southern Malawi, such as Mount Mulanje and Majete Wildlife Reserve.
Location: Southern Malawi
Top Highlights: Mandala House and St. Michael’s Church
9. Chongoni Rock Art Area
Photo: Lazare Eloundou Assomo / Wikimedia Commons
Among the most culturally significant places to visit in Malawi is the Chongoni Rock Art Area, found in the Dedza Highlands. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that exhibits more than 100 rock shelters with ancient artwork, done by the BaTwa and Chewa people. Not thousands, hundreds of years old, they are paintings made in red and white pigments of ceremonial rituals, animals, and scenes of daily life. The region is a hiking terrain surrounded by wooded hills with granite protrusions. An escorted tour shows the interpretation of the symbols and spiritual culture of the area.
Location: Central Malawi
Top Highlights: Ancient rock paintings and hiking trails
10. Mua Mission
Photo: Florstein / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
As a culturally immersive place in Malawi, Mua Mission is found in the Dedza District. It was founded in 1902 by Catholic missionaries, and today, it is more of a place where the KuNgoni Centre of Culture and Art works, in a beautiful way, to document the customs of the Chewa, Yao, and Ngoni people. Chamare Museum has crafty woodcarvings, traditional masks, and artifacts that give the history of the spiritual and cultural identity of Malawi. Tourists have an opportunity to observe lively native dances, talk to artisans, and walk through the quiet grounds of the mission.
Location: Dedza District, Central Malawi
Top Highlights: KuNgoni Museum and crafts
Malawi is a land of striking natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly locals. From the crystal-clear waters of Lake Malawi to the wildlife of Liwonde and the scenic Nyika Plateau, there are countless places to visit in Malawi. Adventure seekers can hike Mount Mulanje, while history lovers can explore ancient rock art at Chongoni. Discover relaxation, culture, and adventure—Plan your next journey today with TripXL.
Cover Photo: TravelingOtter / Wikimedia Commons
