BANKING

• The National Bank of Malawi is the central bank of the country.
• ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas.
• Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted.
• Banking hours are typically from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

CURRENCY:

• Local currency: The kwacha is the currency of Malawi.
• ISO code: MWK
• Currency Subunit: The kwatcha is divided into 100 tambala.
  
• Banknote units: Common banknote denominations include 5, 10, 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,000 kwacha.

BY AIR

• Kamuzu International Airport (LLW) is Malawi’s main airport, located 26km (16mi) from the capital, Lilongwe.
• Some international flights arrive at Chileka International Airport (BLZ), 16km/10mi from Blantyre, in southern Malawi.
• Onward travel is by either small aircraft to Malawi’s 16 smaller airports or by car.
• Self-drive is a viable option.
• Inbound / Outbound Airlines: Search for flights here. 

BY ROAD

• The road network in Malawi is limited, especially outside major cities.
• The main roads are paved, but the condition can vary.
• Taking a motola (minibus) is cheap but uncomfortable.
• Hiring a driver is often better than driving yourself.
• Taxis are easy to find in the cities.
• A lot of locals travel by bike.

BY BUS & RAIL

• Bus services are available between major cities, but they can be slow and uncomfortable.
• Train services are limited.

BY WATER

• A privately owned company, The Malawi Shipping Company, offers passenger services on Lake Malawi.

Food and water safety:

• It is recommended to drink bottled water and avoid tap water.
• Be cautious when choosing street food.

Local cuisine: 

• From hearty stews to flavorful grilled meats, food in Malawi reflects the diverse influences and resources of the region.
• Staple foods in Malawi include rice and Nsima made from ground maize, which are usually served with meat, beans, and/or vegetables.
• For dessert, Malawians may enjoy the local plain doughnut, mandasi, and they frequently wash their meals down with tea.

Local drinks:

• Malawian tea is grown locally and enjoyed in many households.
• Maheu, a thick, sweet, and nutritious non-alcoholic drink made from fermented maize, is a popular local favourite.
• Chibuku is a beer made from fermented maize with the consistency of porridge and served in a milk carton.
• Locally brewed beer such as Kuche Kuche and imported beverages are widely available.
• Malawi Gin is popular with tourists and served with tonic and a slice of lemon.

Tipping: 

• Tipping is customary in Malawi.
• A tip of 10-15% is generally expected in restaurants and hotels.

Seasons:

Malawi has two main seasons:

• Wet season – November to April.
  
• Dry season – May to October.

Climate and Weather:

• Malawi has a mild subtropical climate.
  
• During the cool dry season mean temperatures range around 13°C.
• The hot wet season has temperatures between 30° to 35°C.

Best time to visit:

• For game viewing conditions, the best time to visit Malawi is from May to October.

Summer Clothing:

• Midday is generally hot. Wearing sunglasses and a hat is advisable.
• Shorts, t-shirts, and dresses are suitable.

Winter Clothing:

• Early mornings and evenings can be cold in winter.
• Long pants and sweaters may be needed.

General:

Modest dress is generally appreciated, especially in rural areas and religious sites.

Internet Availability:

• Internet access in Malawi is available in major cities and tourist areas, but the speed can be slow.

Electricity and Plug Standards:

• The standard voltage in Mozambique is 230 volts (50Mz).
• Electrical plugs are typically type G, which is the plug that has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern.