Malawi Travel Advice

Before you leave for Malawi or Zambia you will need to think about administration and health procedures. Visa, vaccinations, money, international insurance and medical precaution are little details that can make a big difference in your trip. All you need to know before a trip to Malawi and Zambia is here. If you have any questions we are at your disposal to answer.

Passport and visa

Malawi

  • Visa-Free Entry: As of February 2024, Malawi has waived visa requirements for citizens of 79 countries, including the UK, China, Russia, Germany, Australia, and Canada. British passport holders can visit Malawi for up to 30 days without a visa, and many other nationalities are also exempt​ (travelobiz).
  • Multiple Entry Visas: Malawi still offers multiple-entry visas, with extended validity of up to 12 months. This option is ideal for travellers planning to leave and re-enter the country (travel biz).

Zambia

  • Visa Requirements: Zambia continues to require a visa for most international travellers. The process remains straightforward, with visas available at border points or online. A single-entry visa costs approximately $50​ (Travel And Tour World).

Health and Vaccination

  • Routine Vaccines: Before travelling, ensure you are up to date on MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, chickenpox, polio, and flu shots. Discuss with your doctor if hepatitis B, rabies, or other specific vaccines are needed​ (Travel And Tour World).
  • Malaria Prevention: Malaria remains a concern in both Malawi and Zambia. Consult your doctor for prophylaxis and practice mosquito bite prevention using repellents, long sleeves, and bed nets.
  • Bilharzia Risk: If you plan to swim in Lake Malawi, be aware of the risk of bilharzia. Praziquantel is the recommended treatment and is readily available locally​ (Travel And Tour World).

Money and Payment

  • Currency: The US dollar is widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry local currency (Malawian Kwacha or Zambian Kwacha) for smaller transactions. ATMs are available but not always reliable​ (Travel And Tour World).

Here’s everything you need to know before a trip to Malawi and Zambia. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team.