atlas•

Before you go to Malawi: what to know

Must know

  • A visa is required. Single- and multiple-entry visas can be issued on arrival; carry US-dollar cash. Online e-visas are also available.
  • Cash-based economy; cards are not widely accepted outside tourist establishments. Arrange sufficient accessible funds.

Entry and visas

British citizen passport: A visa is required. Single- and multiple-entry visas can be issued on arrival; carry US-dollar cash. Online e-visas are also available. Check the linked immigration guidance for other nationalities and purposes.

Passport validity: At least 6 months after arrival.

Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: gov.uk ↗, immigration.gov.mw ↗

Money

Mostly cash is used. Cards are rarely accepted.

Apple Pay — no data · Google Pay — no data

  • Cash-based economy; cards are not widely accepted outside tourist establishments. Arrange sufficient accessible funds.

Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: travel.gc.ca ↗

Rules and bans

Prohibited

  • Possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs.

Laws visitors break unknowingly

  • Check customs restrictions before bringing medicines, drones or wildlife products.

Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: travel.gc.ca ↗

Culture and clothing

Religion: Respect local religious traditions; ask before entering places of worship.

Clothing: Ask your hosts about appropriate clothing for community visits and religious sites.

Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: travel.gc.ca ↗

Climate

The main rainy season is November–April; floods can disrupt roads and essential services.

Month by month
  • January: Jan: Main rainy-season window; check local forecasts.
  • February: Feb: Main rainy-season window; check local forecasts.
  • March: Mar: Main rainy-season window; check local forecasts.
  • April: Apr: Main rainy-season window; check local forecasts.
  • May: May: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • June: Jun: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • July: Jul: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • August: Aug: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • September: Sep: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • October: Oct: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • November: Nov: Main rainy-season window; check local forecasts.
  • December: Dec: Main rainy-season window; check local forecasts.

Best season: Choose dates for your route using local forecasts and road-condition advice.

Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: travel.gc.ca ↗

What to pack

  • Copies of travel documents
  • An adapter compatible with your accommodation
  • Medicines with their prescription documents

Practical

Plugs: Confirm socket type and supply voltage with your accommodation before packing.

Water: Use a safe drinking-water supply; ask locally before drinking tap water.

Traffic: drives on the left

Insurance: Arrange insurance for your itinerary and planned activities, including medical evacuation where needed.

Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: tcs.ch ↗, travel.gc.ca ↗

Entry rules change. Before your trip, check the website of the embassy or immigration service of the country.