FAQ
WHO ARE MALAWIAN STYLE?
Malawian Style was created in 2010 by Michael Varndell. The company has since run over 300 trips. We work with agents all over the world and specialize in travel to Malawi and Zambia.
FLYING: HOW MUCH BAGGAGE CAN I TAKE?
Baggage restrictions depend on the airline with which you are flying. This is between one to two checked bag per person not weighing more than 23 kilos each. Carry-on luggage is limited to one piece per person. For more information, you should ask your airline. If you are flying on small charter aircraft within Africa, further restrictions will apply. Please if you have any question feel free to ask us.
ON SAFARI: IS GOING ON SAFARI DANGEROUS?
You will go on safari with a certified guide hired by your lodge. These guides received the formation and training necessary to your safety. As long as you take attention of your guide’s instructions – no standing in the vehicle and no loud talking or shouting you will be safe.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING ON SAFARI?
Going on safari is an adventure and we don’t want you to miss any part of it because you forgot something important. Check out our packing list.
CAN CHILDREN GO ON SAFARI?
Children under the age of 6 are rarely accepted at lodges and it is not recommended to bring young children on safari. If they are accepted, they will not be allowed to go on game drives and will have to be left at the lodge under the care of a babysitter or guardian. Some lodges will allow children 6 and over to go on game drives and other lodges only allow children over the age of 12. It is best to check with us and select children-friendly lodges.
HEALTH AND SAFETY: IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL TO MALAWI AND ZAMBIA?
Malawi is if not the, one of the safest countries in Africa, people are generally very friendly and keen to help. However, you will be travelling in one of the poorest countries of the world and it is recommended not to show your expensive cameras or jewellery. Zambia is also very safe.
At a health level Africa is not dangerous if you are prepared for it, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your trip, check your vaccines and be aware of the situation with food and water. You should also consider buying international travel insurance. For more information; check our “Before you leave” section.
WILL SOMEONE BE AT THE AIRPORT TO MEET US ON ARRIVAL?
A Malawian Style Guide will welcome you on your arrival in Malawi and we have an emergency number that you can contact anytime.
FOOD: WHAT KIND OF FOOD CAN I EXPECT TO EAT?
Most of the lodges will offer you European and American food made out from locally produced ingredients. Be aware that not all fruits and vegetables are available at all time as well as brands you are used to. You might also want to experiment local food, nsima is unmissable as well as fish from the Lake!
I HAVE ALLERGIES AND DIETARY RESTRICTIONS. WILL I BE ABLE TO FIND MEALS THAT TAKE THAT INTO ACCOUNT?
Provide us your dietary requirements and allergies and we will make sure that lodges offer you meals accordingly to your diet. If you are ordering on your own, make sure to be very specific with the staff.
MONEY MATTERS: WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO EXCHANGE MONEY?
We suggest you get local currency on arrival at your first destination at the bank / exchange bureau or ATM in the airport.
WHAT CURRENCY WILL I NEED?
Malawi & Zambia – US Dollars can be very useful
Zambia – Zambian Kwacha
Malawi – Malawian Kwacha
HOW SHOULD I TIP?
Tipping is the norm but there is never pressure to do so. It’s important to recognise the discrepancy in living costs between Europe and Malawi and not to tip in too high amounts. Better to tip little and often, and to make sure that everyone involved in whatever service you have received gets some of the tip. Lodges: Most lodges suggest a collective tip when checking out that will be distributed fairly amongst all of the staff. Suggested amount is US$5 per guest per night. One-off Tips: If people wish to tip a particular person for a one-off event (e.g. porter, local guide), anything from MK100 to MK500 is suggested.
Restaurants: 5 -10% of the bill
Driver: around $20 total
Please remember these are just guidelines and not compulsory.
WHAT IS THE SHOPPING LIKE IN MALAWI AND ZAMBIA?
Generally Malawian sell handicrafts such as wooden carvings, sculptures, paintings, bead work and woven articles as well as chitenge (piece of material, colourful in cotton) on the side of the road
If you have any more questions, please email: info@malawianstyle.com