Health, Safety & Beauty
Health
The main health risks in Malawi are Malaria and travelers’ diarrhea. So, travelers must take prophylaxis against Malaria, use insect sprays, mosquito repellents, and mosquito nets, to prevent themselves from catching Malaria. To diminish the chance of diarrhea, consuming tap water and ice cubes are not advised, raw fruits must be washed before eating, and only hot, well-cooked foods should be consumed.
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Immunisation against polio, rabies, tetanus, typhoid and hepatitis A is recommended. Vaciantion against cholera may be cosnidered. Proof of Yellow fever absence or immunisation is required by visitors entering from a yellow fever zone. There is a risk of contracting bilharzia if bathing in some parts of Lake Malawi. Also in the surrounding hotels and pools because the water comes from the lake. Although serious if left to develop, the infection is relatively easily to be avoided. . Profylactic medication “praziquantel” is advised 6 weeks after you have been in the lake or used water around the lake. Buy this at the local pharmacy, no need for a prescription. Malawi is a high risk area for HIV, 9% of the population is HIV positive. Unprotected sex should be avoided to prevent the transmission of HIV/AIDS. If bitten by a street dog, monkey, or any animal, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Hospitals in Malawi are available but most of them do not have adequate resources. It is advised to bring own supply of medications if taking regular prescriptions. Comprehensive medical insurance is highly advised. Hiking should be done with caution as there are poisonous snakes, spiders, and other insects.
If you are in need of a doctor, dentist or pharmacy, go to the hospital(s) or dentist(s) en pharmacy(s) listed below. Contact your Insurance company so they can help you with your care, - arrangements and payments.
Safety and Security
Malawi is in 2023 in the top 45 % peaceful countries in the world and in the top 20% peaceful countries in Africa! One should take sensible precautions, just like anywhere else, to protect yourself from muggers and bag-snatchers. Most thefts from visitors take place around the main bus stations in Lilongwe and Blantyre. Never find yourself walking the streets after dark. Leave valuables and cash in a safe. Do not flash your money or jewelry around. Keep copies of important documents in a separate place Report any thefts to the police as soon as possible.
You should avoid all demonstrations and rallies, remain vigilant and follow the advice of the local security authorities and/or your tour operator.
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Be cautious if over-friendly people approach you offering to act as guides or selling goods, or who claim to know you and ask for a lift. Don’t accept food or drink from strangers; just like anywhere else.
House burglaries, do occur though crime rates are low by regional standards. Stay in (city) places with a good security system (Gate fencing and door/window bars, entree guard and private security firm connection) such as our Malawi Travel lodges (see places to stay in each region), hotels and bed and breakfasts. You will be fine.
Road travel
You can drive in Malawi using a driving license for up to 90 days or an international driver license for up to one year. You should carry a valid driving license, a copy of your passport and your visa or residence permit at all times when driving, as you may need to produce these at police check points (“roadblocks”). Most of the time a foreign traveler can pass the roadblocks without stopping, if stopped they will check your car for the right safety (COF) and insurance registration stickers.
Slowdown in all built-up areas. Traffic police often place speed cameras where there are no signs showing the speed limit. The police can impose on the spot fines. Follow signs and traffic rules, if not you might get fined.
The main roads are very well to drive on for any car, other roads (or a lack of) can be hazardous and may need 4 x4. Always wear a seatbelt and avoid travel after dark. Potholes, animals, abandoned vehicles, children and cyclists can cause serious accidents, as can vehicles travelling at night without lights. If an accident occurs, assess the situation before you get out of your car. If it concerns an animal or there is hostility, do not get out and go to the nearest police station or roadblock for help and assistance.
Malawi has an extremely high rate of fatalities on the road due to people on the roads, overloaded trucks, -cars, and minibuses and residents not wearing helmets. Travel between towns by public minibus or pick-up truck is not recommended; vehicles are often in poor condition and overloaded. Emergency services are basic. Larger coach services do run between the major towns and are more reliable.
Lock car doors and keep windows closed. Armed carjacking is a risk, especially for drivers of four-by-four vehicles. Do not offer lifts to strangers and look out for unusual obstructions in the road ahead.
The Malawi Police Service has introduced breathalyzer tests, and regularly stops vehicles for speeding. There are speed cameras on the main roads. Drivers caught drunk driving or speeding can have their licenses and vehicles confiscated on the spot. Convicted drivers face a fine and/or imprisonment. The blood alcohol limit is 0.08g per 100ml of blood. Always take a taxi if you want to drink!
Beauty
Malawian markets, shops, saloons, malls, and barbershops have mostly imported products you need for your beauty needs. There are professional beauticians and barbers that offer international services. Most Malawian women prefer hair extensions and braids but being in natural hair is becoming a fashion in most parts of Malawi.
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Towela Mkanda Yoga classes
Towela is the CEO of W.H.O.A meaning Warm Heart Of Africa. She hopes to bring the warmth of the people and the heat from the land around the world spreading “the fire and the light.”
