Complete Guide to Transportation in Malawi: Airport Transfers, Travel Around Lake Malawi, and Private Car Hire
Transport Guide
2026-10-03
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Malawi is a landlocked country where transportation mainly relies on road travel and private car hire. Getting between the lake region and national parks requires advance planning and booking. This guide explains all the key options.
Arrival and Getting into Town
| Airport | Location | Getting into Town |
|---|
| Kamuzu International Airport (LLW) | Lilongwe | Taxi, around 30–45 minutes |
| Chileka International Airport (BLZ) | Blantyre | Taxi, around 20–30 minutes |
| Mzuzu Airport (ZZU) | Mzuzu | Taxi, around 15 minutes |
Within Cities and Between Cities
- Taxis and Private Cars: Taxis are commonly used within cities. For intercity or national park travel, it’s best to hire a private car with a fixed all-inclusive rate.
- Minibuses: The main mode of transport for locals. Fares are cheap, but services are crowded and make frequent stops. Not recommended if you have a lot of luggage.
- Domestic Flights: There are flights between Lilongwe, Blantyre, and Mzuzu, which are a good option to save time on long road journeys.
Travel Around Lake Malawi and National Parks
- Towns around the lake are spread out. If driving yourself, watch out for road conditions and fuel availability.
- Likoma Island can be reached by boat or small plane from places like Nkhata Bay, but boat services are weather-dependent.
- At national parks like Liwonde, transport and safari vehicles are often arranged through lodges.
Tips
- People drive on the left. Road conditions vary, so it’s advisable to hire a driver familiar with the routes.
- Try to avoid driving at night. Watch out for pedestrians, livestock, and potholes.
- Fuel stations are limited, so fill up before long trips and carry cash.