Travel Vaccines and Advice for Malawi

Do I Need Vaccines for Malawi?
Is There Cholera in Malawi?
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Malawi?
What is the Climate Like in Malawi?
How Safe is Malawi?
Maneuvering Malawi’s Mount Mulanje
What Should I Pack To Malawi?
U.S. Embassy to Malawi

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Malaria, dengue and chikungunya are all mosquito-borne infections found in Malawi. It is important to bring mosquito repellents and netting to prevent bites and potential spread. Antimalarials are recommended as well.

Rabies poses a risk to travelers to Malawi, especially if staying for a long period of time or visiting rural areas. Vaccination should be considered before traveling.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.

Is There Cholera in Malawi?

Cholera outbreaks in Malawi have been confirmed in the central region, southern region and in the northern districts of Karonga and Rumphi.

The most reliable protection against cholera is through vaccination. Passport Health clinics offer Vaxchora, the only cholera vaccine available in the United States. If you are concerned, make sure to book your cholera vaccination appointment today.

 

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Malawi?

Americans planning to visit Malawi will need a visa to enter the country. There is also an exit fee of $30 for U.S. citizens.

Is A …	A Malawi Entry Requirement?
Passport	Yes
Passport Validity	At least 6 months validity
Blank Passport Pages	One page for entry stamp
Tourist Visa	Yes
Other Visa Types	See visa page

Sources: Embassy of the Republic of Malawi and U.S. State Department

The U.S. Department of State reports that you must declare all foreign currency when entering Malawi as well.

For more information, see our Malawi visa page. Or contact a Passport Health Passport and Visa specialist by calling 1-844-366-8472 or by filling out our online form.

What is the Climate Like in Malawi?

Malawi is a country with sub-tropical climate. This means that the weather is warm and moderate almost all year round. The nation is also dry, and most of its precipitation occurs between November and April. Here is what to expect in a few tourist destinations:

• Lilongwe – The capital city of Malawi enjoys warm summers and milder winters. The high altitude of the city’s location actually keeps the temperatures a little lower, and more pleasant. Lilongwe sees most of its heavy rainfall from December to February and can be prone to downpours during this time.


• Blantyre – Temperatures in this city are considered tropical, it is often warm and sometimes humid. The area’s humidity is at its peak in October and November, the warm months right before the rainy season begins. The weather can also be misty and cool during the cold season in June and July.


• Mulanje – Temperatures also stay fairly warm throughout the year. Mount Mulanje itself experiences different weather patterns, as it cools the higher you climb. Weather on the mountain can also be sporadic, as mist and rainfall can cover Mount Mulanje. The area sees more precipitation around November, December and January.

How Safe is Malawi?

Crime in Malawi is fairly common. Armed residential break-ins are frequent, and break-ins in lodges and hotels have been reported. Robberies and pick-pocketing are also common street crimes.

Carjackings are prevalent in Lilongwe and Blantyre. This most often occurs when entering through a security gate into a home. Always keep doors locked and windows closed, and stay alert when entering or leaving.

Stay off the streets at night, particularly in urban areas. Armed assaults and muggings are becoming more prevalent. Foreigners are especially targeted in Lilongwe. Regardless of how many people you are with, city streets are not safe at night. It is also wise to exercise caution during the day. Make sure to arrange all your transportation in Malawi through your hotel or restaurant.

Be cautious when visiting or staying in isolated, lone areas such as Mount Mulanje. Public security in these areas is often limited. Be weary when visiting remote areas, and do not travel at night or alone.

While in Malawi, it is also crucial to stay alert for public demonstrations and civil disturbances. Avoid crowds, rallies and demonstrations, and always be aware of your surroundings.

Maneuvering Malawi’s Mount Mulanje

Adventurers and lovers of extreme sports consider Malawi an ideal travel destination. The nations’ terrain offers the perfect chance to test their skills.

One location that attracts hikers, bikers and rock climbers alike is Mount Mulanje. This mountain stands at over 3000 meters (or over 9800 feet) tall. It is a picturesque destination for those wishing to see its rolling green valleys and clear, flowing rivers. But, the mountain’s rugged terrain is what calls to risk-takers from all across the globe.

Even attempting to climb or hike Mount Mulanje if you are not prepared can lead to severe injury. If you plan to climb the mountain, never climb alone. Always have enough food and water, and bring essential equipment like maps, guidebooks and compasses. Stick together with your group and do not push into unknown territory.

There is limited public security at Mount Mulanje. Avoid traveling at night and never travel alone.

What Should I Pack for Malawi?

In addition to all travel documents and medications recommended by a Passport Health Travel Medicine Specialist, here are some items to consider packing:

• Insect Repellant – Since malaria is at risk in Malawi, you should always pack bug spray. Packing a repellent with at least 20%-30% DEET will keep mosquitoes away.


• Water Purifier – Cholera is spread primarily through contaminated water. Having a water purifiers or filter while in Malawi can prevent contact with dirty water. Having a water purifier helps ensure your safety and protects your health.


• Neutral-colored clothing – Wearing neutral clothing, such as beiges and grays, prevents contact with mosquitoes. It can also prevent from drawing too much attention to yourself. Avoid bringing too many blue or black articles of clothing. These colors attract tsetse flies, which may carry African sleeping sickness.


• Conservative clothing options – In some areas of Malawi, particularly in some villages, it can be offensive to wear revealing clothing. Islamic areas in southern Malawi require conservative dress. Wearing shorts, small skirts, crop tops and tank tops can be considered rude in many areas in the country.


• Walking shoes – Many adventures in Malawi require you to be on your feet. Hiking and walking through reservations can be uncomfortable, if not dangerous, if you do not have the proper footwear.

U.S. Embassy to Malawi

All Americans visiting Malawi should register with the U.S. Embassy in Lilongwe. This will inform the office of your travel plans and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation. You can register online, through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

U.S. Embassy Lilongwe
16 Jomo Kenyatta Road
Lilongwe 3, Malawi
Telephone: +265 (0) 177 3166
Fax: +265 (0) 177 0471

Visit the U.S. Embassy website before your departure to confirm correct contact details for the U.S. Embassy in Malawi.

Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!