{"id":8398,"date":"2023-10-31T15:35:14","date_gmt":"2023-10-31T14:35:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lakebeyond.com\/?p=8398"},"modified":"2023-10-31T15:35:14","modified_gmt":"2023-10-31T14:35:14","slug":"how-to-get-to-lake-malawi","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lakebeyond.com\/how-to-get-to-lake-malawi\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Get To Lake Malawi"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Travel Essentials<\/h2>\n

Traveling to Lake Malawi can be a rewarding experience. But before you go, make sure you have the right travel documents and necessary immunizations. It is also important to be prepared for the specific natural hazards you may face in the area.
\nVisitors from outside Africa must have a valid passport, and obtain a visa from a Malawian embassy or consulate. During your travels, it is advisable to carry a copy of your passport in case of loss or theft, and take other precautions such as avoiding carrying large amounts of cash with you.
\nImmunizations are required for certain infectious diseases, so make sure to talk to a doctor prior to your trip. It is important to also be aware of potential natural hazards such as strong winds, changing currents and changing temperatures in the lake. Make sure you have the proper safety equipment such as lifejackets and be sure to have the names and contact details of the nearest medical facilities. <\/p>\n

Getting to the Lake<\/h2>\n

Lake Malawi is located in the country of Malawi, in Southeast Africa. The lake is roughly 500 kilometers long, so there are several possible travel routes to get there. The most convenient route is usually by plane, as there are several international and local airports that serve the lake.
\nIf you are coming from the United States, your starting point would likely be the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare, Zimbabwe. The airport offers flights to several destinations in the Lake Malawi region, including the cities of Lilongwe and Blantyre.
\nFor those who prefer to travel by train, there is a route that runs from Pretoria, South Africa all the way to Malawi. The trip is about 2,000 kilometers long, but it passes through some breathtakingly beautiful landscapes along the way.<\/p>\n

Travel Advisor Tips<\/h2>\n

Travel advisors recommend that visitors to Lake Malawi operate on an affordable budget. Malawi is much cheaper than most other African countries, and you should be able to get adequate meals for around US$5 per day.
\nIt is important to keep in mind the cultural and religious norms of Malawi. Make sure to be respectful and courteous to the locals and to dress appropriately. Women should not wear revealing clothing or body art, and you should generally avoid displaying any affection in public.
\nFinally, Lake Malawi is a great destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, and fishing. Be sure to rent the proper equipment, and carry enough food and water to last the entire trip.<\/p>\n

Accommodation Options<\/h2>\n

For those who plan to stay near the lake, there are several accommodation options. The most popular choice is the traditional guest houses, known as “bandas”, where visitors can stay for around US$15 per night. For those who prefer a more luxurious experience, there are many resorts located near the lake which offer a variety of amenities.
\nWhen choosing a place to stay, make sure to research it in advance, and to read up on customer reviews. You should also remember that Lake Malawi is a rural area, and electricity and internet can be unreliable. Be sure to bring a flashlight and phone charger, as well as any essential medications.<\/p>\n

Exploring the Region<\/h2>\n