When to Visit Malawi: A Seasonal Guide
Small and land-locked Malawi is loaded with diverse game parks, lively cities, varied topography, and a stunning lake that packs a punch no matter what time of year you visit. The country has two distinct seasons: wet and hot (November to April), plus cool and dry (May to October). The best time to visit depends on your interests, but there is plenty on offer all year round.
June to October: The Best Time for Wildlife Watching
The winter months of June, July, and August are ideal for wildlife watching, featuring bright sunshine, lush landscapes, and lower temperatures. Pack a jacket for chilly night drives in game parks and frosty mornings around the campfire. June is a particularly good month for spotting elephants and large flocks of lovebirds in Liwonde National Park. With clear sunny days and cooler temperatures, this period is perfect for tourists who prefer to avoid the heat. However, nights and mornings can be quite chilly, reaching around 30°F (-1°C) in the highlands.
Crocodile mating season occurs in July, while the last gasp of winter brings windy and cooler conditions to Lake Malawi, making it an excellent time for sailing. As spring starts in August, warmer days bring mid-day temperatures around 80°F (27°C) and nights closer to 50°F (10°C). By September and October, temperatures rise, the land dries out, and wildlife-watching opportunities flourish as hippos, elephants, and water birds cluster around water sources. After a few days in the arid bush, refreshing experiences await on the shores of Lake Malawi, where you can enjoy sailing, snorkeling, or simply relaxing with a drink on the beach.
April to May: Ideal for Budget Travelers and Budding Photographers
April and May signal a slower pace as rains diminish, making travel within wilderness areas easier. Photographers looking to capture Malawi’s big skies and vibrant shades of green will find ample picturesque locations, from the coffee and tea estates of the Shire Highlands to various wildlife reserves.
In April, the rutting season begins, and male antelopes clash in the national parks. As lodge availability increases around Lake Malawi, travelers can take advantage of reduced rates for accommodations. As temperatures drop in May, the dry and sunny days mark the onset of winter, opening all lake lodges and increasing wildlife activity in the parks.
November to March: Low Season but Great for Spotting Migratory Birds
As summer approaches, Malawi experiences heavy rains and humidity, particularly in January and February. This season coincides with the higher risk of malaria, and flooding may restrict access to national parks, resulting in some lake lodges closing in January.
Travelers during these months can explore the Nyika Plateau, home to hundreds of migratory birds, as well as a variety of rare orchids and wildflowers in bloom. November is a favorable time for Nyika National Park, noted for its cooler, higher elevation. While some remote lodges near flood-prone areas may close due to rains, December offers an opportunity for last-minute visits to Lake Malawi before lodges close for the off-season. This time of year is also characterized by dramatic thunderstorms, perfect for photographers interested in capturing breathtaking landscapes.
The highlight of February in Malawi is the vibrant display of wildflowers and the presence of many bird species, making it an excellent period for bird watching, especially in Nyika National Park, where eagle owls, wattled cranes, and other unique species can be observed. As the rains continue into March, the possibility of flooding arises, but the flourishing wildlife creates an exciting atmosphere, particularly for bird enthusiasts.
