Travel Vaccines and Advice for Malawi

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Malawi. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Malawi: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.

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.

In all regions of Liberia, malaria is present. Antimalarial use is strongly recommended. Malaria is chloroquine-resistant in Liberia.

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.

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

The best protection against cholera is through vaccination. Passport Health clinics offer the cholera vaccine. Book your cholera vaccination appointment today!

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.

Malawi Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to Malawi?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

• Insect Repellent – 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 beige and gray, 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.

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
Area 40, City Center
16 Jomo Kenyatta Road
Lilongwe 3, Malawi
Mailing Address: PO Box 30016
Lilongwe 3, Malawi
Telephone: +(265) 1-773-166, 1-773-342 and 1-773-367 (Dial “0” before the “1” within Malawi)
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(265) (0)882-960-178 or +265 (0)88 198 0814
Fax: +(265) 1-774-471 (Dial “0” before the “1” within Malawi)

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

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