News from Malawi Travel

Wild Beauty of Malawi: Exploring It's Wildlife

Malawi, often referred to as the warm heart of Africa, is a country blessed with breathtaking landscapes, shimmering lakes, and an astonishing variety of wildlife. Despite its small size compared to other African nations, Malawi has preserved a wealth of natural habitats that provide sanctuary to some of the continent’s most iconic species.

The country is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, from the rolling highlands and lush forests to open savannahs and wetlands. Each of these landscapes nurtures its own unique collection of plants and animals, creating a mosaic of life that thrives within Malawi’s borders.

Lake Malawi, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, is a jewel in the nation’s crown. Beneath its surface lies an astonishing array of fish species, many of which are found nowhere else on earth. The shimmering waters not only support aquatic biodiversity but also provide food and livelihoods for surrounding communities.

Malawi has made remarkable strides in conservation, restoring once depleted reserves and reintroducing species that had disappeared from its lands. Majete Wildlife Reserve and Liwonde National Park stand as shining examples of this effort, where lions, elephants, and rhinos now roam once again, transforming the reserves into celebrated Big Five destinations. Next to those great destinations there are many other amazing African/National Parks parks which you can find on Malawitravel.org. In all parks you have the feeling that you have the place to yourself. No mass tourism or 4 x4 traffic jams.

For bird enthusiasts, Malawi is nothing short of paradise. More than six hundred species of birds inhabit the country, ranging from the vibrant lilac-breasted roller to the majestic fish eagle that soars over the waters of Lake Malawi. The rich avian diversity reflects the health of the ecosystems and draws ornithologists and nature lovers from across the globe.

The story of wildlife in Malawi is one of resilience and renewal. Through community engagement, conservation partnerships, and a growing recognition of the value of natural heritage, the country is charting a hopeful path. Protecting wildlife not only safeguards biodiversity but also strengthens tourism, culture, and the very identity of the nation.

Malawi’s wilderness invites travelers and nature lovers alike to witness a land where beauty thrives and where the wild heart of Africa beats strong.

When families consider their next adventure, Malawi often comes as a surprise contender. Tucked away in southeastern Africa, it may not always make it  to the top of ones list, but those who go, always describe it as one of the most welcoming places they’ve ever visited. Known as “The Warm Heart of Africa,” Malawi has a reputation for friendly locals, breathtaking scenery, and a pace of life that feels refreshingly unhurried. But for families traveling anywhere in the world, safety should always be the first question.

Malawi is widely regarded as one of the more peaceful countries in Africa (top 20%) and world ( top 43%). While it is not without challenges such as poverty, it is not known for violent crime or conflict that would make it a high-risk destination. Petty theft can like anywhere else occur, especially in crowded urban areas, but with basic precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and avoiding walking alone late at dark, most visitors experience little to no trouble. Families often comment on how kind, approachable and helpful Malawians are, something that adds to a sense of reassurance when traveling with children.

Health and safety considerations are important for any family trip, and Malawi is no exception. Malaria is present, so mosquito protection and preventive medication are highly recommended. Access to (private) healthcare in major towns and cities is available, though it may not be as advanced as in other parts of the world. Many families choose to bring a small medical kit and ensure they have travel insurance in case of emergencies. On the road, driving conditions can vary. Major routes are generally in decent shape, but rural roads can be challenging, especially in the rainy season. Families who opt for a local driver or guided tour often find this reduces stress and enhances safety.

What makes Malawi especially appealing to families is its sense of space and nature. Lake Malawi, with its calm waters and sandy beaches, feels almost tailor made for children who love swimming and playing outdoors. The national parks are way less crowded than in neighboring countries, offering a chance for families to enjoy wildlife without the intensity of mass tourism. Villages and cultural visits provide an opportunity for children to learn about life in another part of the world, often through genuine, friendly interactions rather than staged experiences.

In essence, Malawi is a safe and rewarding destination for families who prepare with the right information such as on MalawiTravel.org. It requires the same kind of thoughtful planning as any international trip, with attention to health, travel logistics, and awareness of local customs. But for those who make the journey, the reward is discovering a country that is not only safe but deeply enriching for travelers of all ages.

If you’re seeking a destination where warmth is found not just in the sunshine but in the people you meet, Malawi may be the family adventure you were looking for.

Malawi’s green future

At sunrise in the hills of Mulanje, local villagers kneel in the rich, damp soil, gently planting young saplings. Each tree they plant is more than a patch of green, it is a promise for the future. Across Malawi, similar scenes are unfolding as communities, organizations, and government agencies work together to reverse decades of deforestation.

Once lush forests have been cleared for farmland, charcoal production, settlements or by wildfires, leaving rivers strained, soil eroded, and biodiversity threatened. According to the Forestry Department and Mongabay, Malawi lost over 3 million hectares of indigenous and plantation forests the last 50 years.
Reforestation is not just about protecting and replacing trees; it is about restoring balance. Communities nurture seedlings, protect young forests, and maintain water catchments that sustain both people and wildlife.

The government encourages participation through annual tree-planting campaigns, while universities, non-profits such as Zomba Treez and private companies provide expertise, funding, and coordination. On Mount Mulanje, conservation groups are reviving the endangered Mulanje cedar, showing that reforestation can protect both landscapes and unique species.

Challenges remain. Illegal logging and charcoal production and land pressures continue to threaten forests, and the survival of newly planted trees depends on long-term care. Yet the collaboration between communities, institutions, and leaders demonstrates a shared commitment to sustainable restoration. This, because they know that deforestation contributes to climate change, reduces biodiversity, causes soil erosion and disruption of water cycles causing droughts and floods.

What can you do? Make a donation to organizations such as Zomba Treez. Also buy approved charcoal such as the charcoal from Kawandama Hills Plantation and make use of environmental friendly services such as on Malawitravel.org

For Malawi, every planted tree is a step toward resilience, a lifeline for communities and proof that many hands can leave the largest mark. The future, it seems, is taking root, one sapling at a time.

Saturday blog: Dreaming of solar powered electric cars?

Fuel shortages throughout Africa keep coming back, and each time they hit, life gets a bit harder. Long queues at petrol stations, rising prices, and endless waiting have become part of life. The main reasons are foreign currency shortages, delays in imports, and supply management struggles.

For car owners, this means every drop of fuel counts. Driving smart is essential: keep your car serviced and without AC when you can, so it uses less fuel, avoid unnecessary trips by planning ahead, and share rides whenever possible. Joining a trusted WhatsApp group that alerts members when fuel is being offloaded can also give you an advantage in the cue. On the third day of no fuel, parking your car strategically near the empty gas station increases your chances of filling up when supply finally arrives. Always keeping your tank topped up when fuel is available prevents panic when shortages strike.

It’s important to remember that buying fuel on the black market only worsens shortages for everyone, and stockpiling at home is prohibited for safety reasons. The best approach is to stay prepared, stay alert, and use fuel wisely.

The fuel crisis may test patience and resilience, but it also reminds us of the ability to adapt. With African determination, community support, and a few clever strategies, car owners can stay ahead of the queues and keep moving forward, no matter how tough the road ahead may seem.

For now, keep on dreaming about solar powered electric rides and enjoy the sun while waiting for your fuel.

Mark your calendars for one of Africa’s most anticipated cultural celebrations. UMP Festival 2025 is set to take place from October 21st to 27th in the breathtaking lakeside paradise of Cape Maclear, Malawi. This year’s festival promises an unforgettable week filled with music, fashion, film, art, and cultural exploration. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Malawi, UMP Festival continues to elevate African creativity on a global stage.

Music & Dance Performances

Cape Maclear Film Festival

Miss UMP Beauty Pageant

UMP Awards: Music & Fashion

Art Exhibition

From October 13–17 2025, Mindfulness van Commenée is hosting a 5-day silent retreat at Kuti Wildlife Reserve in Salima.

What is a mindfulness silent retreat?

During a mindfulness silent retreat, you are invited to literally step into silence. When you arrive, there’s still time to talk, to get to know eachother, ask your questions, and settle in. The silence begins on the evening of day 1.

Three weeks of unbridled exploration, life changing experiences, and friends who will be with you for a lifetime. An epic start, half way, and finish line party, and plenty of opportunity for mischief in between. That’s right folks – this mobile menagerie of motoring mayhem is back!

The Africa Rally 2025 will run between 5^th July 2025 and 26^th July 2025 and as always, we only have capacity for 50 teams on the roster.

More detail info on the site!

We are organizing a Christmas party again to cheer up orphans, vulnerable children and people living with HIV and AIDS, which we care for at our orphanage and school care center. We are planning to hold the aforementioned activity at BAHASI orphanage school in Bangwe Township.

We trust you will find this activity to be for the good and will help the needy within our community. Our budget requirement is around $1500. We hope that you will subsequently favour us and this good cause by granting our request, click on this DONATE!  (the link opens in new tab and you are redirected to the Bahasi site) via Paypal/Creditcard, (local) Bank Transfer or Check.

Lilongwe, Malawi - The Malawi National Commission for UNESCO, National Library Service, Music Crossroads Malawi, Department of Museums and Monuments, Tumaini Letu, and Rei Foundation Limited, are pleased to announce the successful launch of the Malawi Folktales and Folksongs Database. The launch event, held on Wednesday, 9th October, 2024 at Crossroads Hotel, Lilongwe, marked a major milestone in the safeguarding and accessibility of Malawi’s rich intangible Cultural Heritage.

The project, initiated in 2012, has successfully documented and preserved a collection of folktales and folksongs in every district across Malawi. The database contains 257 folktales and 217 folksongs. It is available in Chichewa, English, and Kiswahili, ensuring its accessibility to a broad audience both locally and internationally.

Visit Library: https://malawifolklore.mw/

We successfully completed the migration of our very comprehensive website to Joomla 5 and PHP 8.3 today. A big thank you to Atol Solutions in Amsterdam and Gova from Percept Infotech in India for their assistance. The project was very challenging, especially with K2, Joomlashine templates, and multi-category support not being compatible, but we made it happen!

With our new Joomla engine and software we are even faster loading and definitely prepared for the future remaining at 99.99% uptime. We even got improved look and feel!

Only the best for our clients!

Lake of Stars is one of the world's favorite festivals, small but significant, making global headlines with CNN, BBC, The Guardian and many other media houses. An untamed arts adventure tapestry set on the wilderness of Malawi's finest lake beaches, Lake Malawi, also known as the 'Lake of Stars'.

The Mulanje Peaks and Rhythms Festival is a three-day annual celebration of the unique blend of Mulanje’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and artistic talents, held in the picturesque region of Mulanje, Malawi. Scheduled to take place from August 30th to September 1st, 2024, this festival not only aims to entertain but also to promote environmental conservation, community engagement, cultural exchange and tourism in the region, while providing a platform for local and international artists. As we mark the beginning of the tourism month, we strive to create an event that resonates with both local and international audiences.

The theme for the 2024 festival is "Promoting Youth Involvement in Tourism, Reforestation, and Cultural Arts for and Peace for Environmental Sustainability," This theme underscores our commitment to nurturing young talent, protecting our natural resources, and promoting cultural heritage.

This July the Warm Heart of Africa plays host to Africa’s Biggest Charity Road Trip!

After setting off from South Africa in late June, a variety of vehicles from old Land Rovers, to VW Beetles, Mercedes, Volvos, and even a Kugelwagon will have made their way across Botswana, Zambia, and will finally cross the border into Malawi at Chipata.  Here they will head for Senga Bay, where, for the first time routes will diverge with a number of teams heading north to Kenya, while others head south back through Mozambique to South Africa.

Come explore the city of Zomba! Zomba City festival brings you three days of culture, nature and heritage in the university town nestled at the foot of the mountain. Participate in games, coffee tasting, hiking, yoga and mountain biking. Watch live performances. Stroll through Zomba’s magical botanic gardens and Enjoy a fashion show and visual arts. Why not top off your visit with a refreshing cocktail or some craft beer?

Zomba City Festival is a celebration of the culture, heritage and natural beauty of the one-time capital of Malawi. Expect 4 days full of activities at the city’s most vibrant locations; there will be something to enjoy for everyone’s taste. A long weekend with family fun, sports, arts & culture and live music

For more information see: www.visitzomba.com/festival

A leaflet of ‘Guidelines for Departing & Arriving Passengers at Airports’ was produced in November by the Ministry of Health downgrading the requirement for those with a  negative test result so that they only now have to ‘self-monitor’ but can otherwise travel freely. The latest document states the following for arriving passengers:

Empower. Connect. Enrich. Celebrate

Since its debut in 2003, the Lake of Stars Malawi Arts Festival has evolved into one of Africa’s most iconic cultural gatherings. Over the past two decades, it has welcomed thousands of visitors from around the world, received multiple awards, and earned UNESCO recognition for its groundbreaking sustainability practices.

Set along the golden shores of Lake Malawi, the festival offers an unforgettable blend of music, dance, theatre, film, workshops, and visual arts, creating a platform where creativity thrives and cultures meet.

At its heart, Lake of Stars is guided by four pillars:

• Empowerment & Connection: Showcasing Malawian talent while opening doors to global opportunities.
• Tourism & Culture: Promoting Malawi as a vibrant destination full of beauty and creativity.
• Sustainability & Innovation: Stimulating local businesses with eco-conscious practices and leading waste management solutions.
• Community & Storytelling: Sharing the voices of Malawi with the world while supporting and uplifting local communities.

As The Independent once named it, Lake of Stars is among the “Top 20 festivals in the world.” And as The Hotejem wrote, “This festival proves that music and art have the power to transform a place into something truly extraordinary.”

Lake of Stars 2025: A Greener Future

Join us in shaping the next chapter of this remarkable story.

Tickets available at:
• howler.co.za
• kwenda.co
• pamsika.online

Saturday blog: Traveling Malawi: Can It Be Sustainable?

Traveling Malawi is one of those experiences that sits at the crossroads of natural beauty, cultural richness, and important questions about sustainability. On the one hand, the country has become a remarkable example of how tourism can drive conservation. Once-depleted reserves like Majete and Liwonde have been transformed through partnerships with organizations such as African Parks, leading to the reintroduction of elephants, lions, rhinos, and other keystone species. Tourism revenue helps fund these efforts, while also providing jobs and opportunities for local communities who play a direct role in safeguarding wildlife. Staying in eco-conscious lodges like those around Lake Malawi or inside the national parks means your visit can contribute to this cycle of protection and empowerment.

At the same time, Malawi faces environmental and structural challenges that complicate its tourism story. Deforestation, overfishing, and pollution around Lake Malawi continue to put pressure on ecosystems, while limited infrastructure makes travel outside the main hubs slow and sometimes difficult. For international travelers, the biggest sustainability concern is the carbon footprint of flying reaching Malawi from Europe or North America requires long-haul flights and often multiple stopovers. Though this impact cannot be ignored, responsible travelers can balance it by choosing to offset emissions through credible programs like Zomba Treez that directly support reforestation projects in Malawi itself.

Sustainability here is not just about the environment but also about people. Malawi’s tourism industry remains small compared to its neighbors, which means travelers have the chance to make a meaningful impact by engaging directly with communities, supporting local guides, buying handmade crafts, and eating locally. Unlike mass tourism destinations, Malawi still offers an authenticity that allows visitors to connect with daily life in a way that feels personal and respectful.

The choice to travel to Malawi sustainably comes down to awareness and intention. By selecting responsible operators, staying at eco friendly lodges, and making conscious efforts to minimize waste and offset carbon, your trip can support a country that is working hard to balance conservation, community development, and tourism. In that sense, Malawi represents both a challenge and an opportunity: a destination where thoughtful travel does not just leave memories but helps sustain the very landscapes and communities that make it so special.

Traveling to Malawi can be sustainable, but only if we choose to make it so.