Malawi Road Trip

The Malawi Road Trip is an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Malawi. Starting in the capital city of Lilongwe and ending in the same city, this 12-day journey takes you through Balaka, Chikwawa, Liwonde, Nkhotakota, Nkhata Bay and Rumphi, covering a total distance of 1579 km. The best time of the year to drive this route is during the dry season, when the roads are in the best condition. Along the route you will be able to take in the breathtaking scenery, lush green hills and nature reserves. However, it is important to bear in mind that the roads in Malawi are generally in poor condition, and seasonal road closures due to weather conditions may occur. Although this road trip requires a high budget, the experience and memories you will take away from it will be worth every penny. Suitable for any driver, this is the perfect way to explore the beauty of Malawi.

Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi, is a great starting point for any road trip in the country. Located in the central part of the country, visitors can explore the city’s attractions and afterwards start their journey through the rest of Malawi. The closest international airport is Lilongwe International Airport (LLW) and car rentals are available there. The city itself offers a variety of sights to explore. The Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary is a must-see for any nature lover, with its diverse wildlife and bird species. The Chinkhoma Craft Village is also a great place to visit, as it provides a unique insight into the traditional culture of Malawi. Visitors can explore the bustling markets and watch artisans create traditional crafts. The Lilongwe City Mall is an excellent shopping destination, and visitors can find anything from traditional African goods to modern clothing and electronics. For those looking to explore Malawi further, the road trip through the country is a great way to do so. From Lilongwe, travelers can visit the beautiful Liwonde National Park, the stunning Lake Malawi and the misty Zomba Plateau. With so much to explore, the “Malawi Road Trip” is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Embark on an exciting road trip from Lilongwe to Balaka, Malawi! This 238 km journey will take you less than 4 hours, and you'll get to experience some of the most amazing sights in the area. For a truly unforgettable experience, we recommend a 4WD car. You'll get to see the beautiful rolling hills of the countryside, as well as the traditional villages that have been around for centuries. As you drive, be sure to keep an eye out for historical sites like the old mission station of St. Michael and All Angels, which was built in 1896. At the end of your journey, you'll arrive in Balaka, a vibrant city with a lively market and plenty of local attractions. You can also visit the nearby Ntchisi Forest Reserve and go on a guided safari. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Start your road trip in Balaka, Malawi and take an exciting 165 km journey through Majete National Park, Lengwe National Park, and ending in Chikwawa. This journey can be done in less than three hours, but it's worth taking your time to take in the picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. A 4WD car is advisable for this section, and some parts may be closed seasonally. Along the way you can admire the diverse animal and bird life of Majete National Park, and explore the majestic forests of Lengwe National Park. For a unique experience, you can also visit the nearby hot springs and the historic ruins in the area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage. So grab your friends and family, and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

Embark on a 162 km, less than 3 hours drive, from Chikwawa to Liwonde and explore the wonders of Malawi. This journey, which requires a 4WD car, is part of a larger tour and will take you through some of the most picturesque landscapes and scenic roads in the region. On your way, you will pass through Nchalo, a small town known for its tea plantations and the beautiful Chikwawa River. Here, you can take a break and go for a swim in the river. Further down the road, you will find the Nchalo Wildlife Reserve, a great spot for bird watching and game viewing. Your journey will end in Liwonde, a small town located on the banks of the Shire River. Here, you can explore the Liwonde National Park and see some of the amazing wildlife, including hippos, elephants, and crocodiles. Additionally, you can also visit the Mvuu Camp, a great spot for camping and bird watching. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Liwonde to Chipoka! This 161 km journey will take you just under 2 hours and will take you through the stunning Lake Malawi. It is advisable to take a 4WD car as some of the roads can be bumpy. Along the route, you will be able to take in the beautiful scenery of the lake and the surrounding area. Be sure to take time out to visit the Liwonde National Park, where you can observe the wildlife and explore the park. Further along the route, you will find the Lake Malawi National Park, where you can go for a swim in the crystal clear waters of the lake. Once you reach Chipoka, you can take a boat ride to explore the shoreline and the islands. For more information about attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants and campsites along this route, please refer to the Itinerary. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the beauty of Liwonde and Chipoka!

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Chipoka to Nkhotakota in Malawi. This 138 km route takes less than two hours to drive and will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. The roads are quite bumpy, so a 4WD car is recommended for this section. Along the way, you will be able to enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and spot some unique wildlife. Be sure to stop at the Chipoka Nature Reserve, where you can observe a variety of birds and animals. You can also take a boat trip along the Shire River and visit the nearby Crocodile Pool. Nkhotakota is a great place to explore, with a variety of attractions, including the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, the Nkhotakota Cultural Museum, and the Nkhotakota Pottery Workshop. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. So, get ready for an amazing drive and enjoy the journey!

Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Nkhotakota to Nkhata Bay? This 189 km journey will take you less than 3 hours to complete, and you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the Malawian landscape. We recommend that you drive a 4WD car to make the most of this trip. Along the way, you'll be amazed by the picturesque landscapes that will pass you by. Make sure to take a few moments to appreciate the scenic roads that you'll be driving on. When you arrive in Nkhata Bay, you'll find plenty of attractions and activities to keep you busy. From the beautiful beaches to the lush forests, you'll be able to find something to do that suits your interests. Additionally, you'll find plenty of accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites to make your stay more comfortable. For more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the “Itinerary” section of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the beautiful Malawian countryside and have an unforgettable road trip experience!

Embark on an unforgettable 112km road trip through the stunning landscapes of Malawi, starting in Nkhata Bay and ending in Rumphi. Get ready to be awe-struck by the beauty of Nyika National Park, the largest national park in the country, and the best place to spot wildlife. Make sure to take a 4WD car for the journey, as some of the roads can be quite difficult to traverse. Along the way, be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the lush green hills, and the rolling valleys. Don't forget to take a few pictures of the scenic roads that you'll be travelling on. You should also take some time to explore the local villages and learn more about the culture and traditions of the people. The journey should take no more than two hours, so make sure to make the most of it. For more information on attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the 'Itinerary' of this stage.

Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Rumphi to Mzimba? This 164 km stretch of road is full of surprises and promises to be an unforgettable journey. You can expect to arrive in Mzimba in fewer than four hours, so make sure you take the time to enjoy the scenery along the way. We recommend a 4WD vehicle for optimal driving conditions, as the road is quite winding and hilly. You'll pass through breathtaking landscapes, so keep your eyes peeled for the best photo opportunities. There are plenty of interesting places to visit in between Rumphi and Mzimba, including the beautiful Mzimba Boma, the ruins of Mzimba Hill, and the stunning Chikangawa Forest. Make sure you stop and explore these unique attractions, as well as the many other hidden gems along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage of your road trip. Enjoy the journey!

Embark on a thrilling road trip from Mzimba, Malawi to Kasungu and experience the beauty of the African landscape! This 145 km journey will take you less than two hours and is best enjoyed in a 4WD car. Along the way, you will pass through some of the most captivating places in the region. In Mzimba, be sure to visit the Mzimba Heritage Centre and discover the history of the region. You can also explore the local markets, where you will find a variety of fresh produce and handmade items. As you travel along the route, you will come across the stunning Lake Malawi National Park and the beautiful Liwonde National Park. Both of these parks offer plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife and take in the breathtaking views. Finally, you'll reach Kasungu, where you can explore the Kasungu National Park and the nearby Mwabvi Wildlife Reserve. Here, you can observe the abundant wildlife, including elephants, antelopes, and hippos. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a memorable road trip!

Embark on an exciting road trip from Kasungu to Lilongwe! This 104 km journey will take you fewer than two hours, and you will be able to explore some of Malawi's most interesting sites. For a comfortable ride, a 4WD car is recommended. Along the way, you will be able to visit the Kasungu National Park, where you can see some of the country's most beautiful wildlife. You will also be able to explore the Kaphiri Ruins, which are a reminder of the country's rich and ancient history. As you make your way to Lilongwe, you will be able to visit the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, where you can learn about the country's unique animals and plants. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore Malawi on your road trip from Kasungu to Lilongwe!

The bustling city of Lilongwe is the perfect end to your Malawi Road Trip. As the capital and largest city of Malawi, Lilongwe offers a variety of cultural and historical attractions for you to explore. During your stay, you can take a stroll through Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary, visit the beautiful Lilongwe City Mall, and explore the local markets. Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary is a great place to observe wildlife and birds, and spot some of the 230 species of trees found in the area. There is also the Lilongwe City Mall, where you can find a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a cinema. The city's markets are also worth a visit, where you can find traditional crafts, souvenirs, and local produce. If you're looking to get a taste of local culture, there are plenty of traditional bars, restaurants and nightclubs to explore in Lilongwe. The city also has a variety of museums, galleries and performance venues, including the National Museum of Malawi and the Civic Centre. For those traveling by air, Lilongwe International Airport (LLW) is the closest international airport, located approximately 25 km from the city centre. From there, you can get to the city by taxi or bus. Enjoy your last few days in Malawi and make the most of the sights and sounds in the vibrant city of Lilongwe!

Hopefully, our Malawi Road Trip gave you multiple inspirations for your future holiday excursions.
We’ve presented you with a bunch of useful pieces of advice that can be readily expanded with your own creative trip ideas.
If travelling by car is your plan when moving around Malawi, there are a number of vital traffic regulations to follow and a number of elements to bear in mind to ensure pleasant experiences. These tips will surely become useful for drivers who are interested in hiring a car or camper hire.
In Malawi, there are a number of road regulations to be bore in mind while on a tour. Alcohol is best to be avoided at all while sightseeing in a car. Holidayers ought to remember that the permitted consumption limit is rather low and cannot exceed 0.8‰. In order to avoid speeding offence, it is best to never exceed 60km/h, which is the maximum allowed speed when driving around the build-up areas. In non-build-up areas, you can travel at the maximum car speed of 100km/h. Avoid exceeding the maximum car speed of 100km/h when travelling on highways. In order to stay safe, it is best to equip your car with a first aid kit and fire extinguisher and drive with your headlights on at daytime.
The majority of holidaymakers wonder about the costs of the whole trip. Well, depending on the budget option that you’re interested in, the amount of money that you have to spend on your travel expenses will vary. Below, you will find the budget possibilities.
We estimate that the cheapest option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 1,561km while travelling around Malawi will cost around 213 EUR. Holidaymakers will have to pay the average of up to 473 EUR for economy overnight stays. The travel expenses connected with food and restaurants within this option will cost up to around 576 EUR. If you also aim for the economy car rental option, you will pay about 4,104 EUR. Thus, going for vehicle rental will increase the expenses of the road trip from more or less 1,262 EUR to more or less 5,366 EUR.
When it comes to the standard offer, you have to spend the maximum of 213 EUR to cover the planned mileage of the adventure. Cost amounting to 1,584 EUR can be expected by all drivers who are looking for standard accommodation options. The standard option in terms of food and restaurants may cost up to more or less 864 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard hire car can expect a cost of around 4,536 EUR. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay roughly 7,259 EUR for the whole tour, whereas those who are not interested in vehicle hire will spend roughly 2,723 EUR.
Holidayers who are into the highest level of convenience will be pleased with the premium option. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay approximately 12,255 EUR for the whole road trip, whereas those who are not interested in vehicle rental will spend about 4,695 EUR. Travellers who would like to cover the tour in a premium rental car can expect a cost of more or less 7,560 EUR. When it comes to the premium version of the tour, you have to spend the maximum of 375 EUR on the fuel needed to cover the itinerary. Drivers who are considering top services in all aspects of their adventure should expect to pay approximately 1,152 EUR for restaurants and food and more or less 3,168 EUR for accommodation options.
Our adventure will also be excellent for all camper enthusiasts, as it can be easily adjusted to their requirements. If you choose this travel option, it costs more or less 2,700 EUR. You have to spend the maximum of 425 EUR on the gasoline required to cover the itinerary in a camper. Holidayers who are considering camper rental should expect to pay more or less 660 EUR for accommodation and more or less 576 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The Road Trip Costs section presents all the presented details in an easy to follow way.
The period between May and October is great to explore the part of Malawi described in our itinerary idea. If you like Malawi Road Trip, you should definitely check out other exciting journeys that are available on our website. Hopefully, the wide spectrum of trips will definitely live up to the expectations of the most demanding tourists.