Explore Africa: Malawi

In southeastern Africa lies the relatively small, landlocked country of Malawi, a nation also known as “The Warm Heart of Africa.” The country boasts a large tourism industry and is brimming with things to do, see, and explore. From lakes to landscapes, wildlife, events, and more, there’s something for everyone in Malawi.

Covering nearly one-fifth of the country, Lake Malawi is captivating for visitors. The lake holds titles both as the world’s ninth largest and the continent’s third largest, stretching 360 miles in length and up to 47 miles wide. The crystal clear waters are home to hundreds of fish species found nowhere else on earth. 

Lake Malawi National Park, located at the southern end of the lake, was the world's first freshwater national park and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, or water sports in water that’s warm year-round, or they can relax on sandy beaches. 

For climbers and hikers, Mount Mulanje is a range with more than 20 peaks above 8,200 feet. At 9,850 feet, Sapitwa Peak is Malawi's highest point and Central Africa's tallest summit, though its name translates to "don't go there." The mountain creates its own microclimate with unique ecosystems, including the famous Mulanje Cedar forests. Well-maintained mountain huts dating back to 1899 make multi-day treks something every hiker should add to their “must-do” list. 

For nature lovers, the story of Liwonde National Park is one you’ll want to see as it continues to unfold. When African Parks assumed management in 2015, the park was devastated by poaching, with more snares than large animals. Through anti-poaching efforts, community engagement, and wildlife reintroduction programs, the park now thrives as a “Big Five” destination, meaning visitors could see lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros, and is Malawi's most popular safari park. 

Malawi's cultural richness shines through events like the popular Lake of Stars Music Festival, one of Africa's premier music festivals, which attracts over 4,000 attendees each year. Traditional village visits show authentic rural life, where visitors see the warmth and friendliness that have earned Malawians their reputation as some of Africa's friendliest people. 

Malawi proves that great African experiences don't require tons of space or crowds. Sometimes the warmest welcomes come from the smallest places. 

Malawi – Long may she thrive!

Sources:

https://www.britannica.com/place/Malawi

https://www.malawitourism.com/

https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/289/

https://www.africanparks.org/the-parks/liwonde

https://www.malawitourism.com/news-blogs/

https://africageographic.com/stories/liwonde-national-park/

https://www.expertafrica.com/malawi/