Health, Safety & Beauty

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.

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!