Where is Malawi Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated December 18, 2024

Where is Malawi located on the map? Malawi is an independent nation located in Eastern Africa. Check out the following images to see location of Malawi on maps.

Malawi Location in World Map

Do you know the singer Madonna? She has two adopted children and they come from Malawi. This is in Southeast Africa and otherwise rarely makes the headlines in newspapers and magazines. But when Madonna traveled there in 2014, everyone reported about it. However, they reported more about the famous rich singer than about the still very poor African country. Malawi is one of the least developed countries on earth. We tell you something about the country here!

What else is there that is exciting to tell about Malawi besides the fact that a singer traveled here and started aid projects?

Here you can see where Malawi is. The East African Rift Valley runs through Lake Malawi, which you can also see.

Location Information of Malawi

Latitude and Longitude

Malawi is a landlocked country located in the southeastern part of Africa. It is bordered by Tanzania to the northeast, Mozambique to the east, south, and southwest, and Zambia to the northwest. The approximate coordinates for Malawi are 13.2543° S latitude and 34.3015° E longitude.

This position places Malawi within the Great Rift Valley region, with a significant portion of the country lying along the eastern side of the Great Rift Valley. The country’s diverse landscape is shaped by the Lake Malawi, which runs along much of its eastern border, and by the highlands that make up the central and western parts of the country.

Capital City and Major Cities

The capital city of Malawi is Lilongwe, located in the central part of the country. As the political, economic, and administrative hub of Malawi, Lilongwe plays a central role in the country’s government and is the second-largest city in the nation. The city is situated near the Liwonde National Park and is known for its modern city planning, which contrasts with the more traditional African cities.

Other significant cities in Malawi include:

Blantyre – Located in the southern part of the country, Blantyre is Malawi’s second-largest city and is considered the commercial and industrial center. The city has a vibrant business atmosphere, with significant trade in agricultural products, textiles, and manufacturing. It is also known for its colonial architecture and proximity to Mount Mulanje, the highest peak in Malawi.
Mzuzu – Located in the northern part of the country, Mzuzu is the third-largest city and the main administrative and commercial center of the Northern Region. The city is surrounded by a rich agricultural landscape, producing crops such as tobacco, tea, and coffee.
Zomba – A city located in the southern part of Malawi, Zomba was once the capital of Malawi before Lilongwe took over this role. It remains a key educational and administrative center and is known for its proximity to Zomba Plateau, which offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
Karonga – Situated in the northernmost region of the country, near the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Karonga is an important trade hub with a thriving fishing industry. It is also a center for historical sites related to early human evolution and paleontology.
Salima – Located on the shores of Lake Malawi, Salima is known for its fishing and tourism industries. The area is also important for agriculture, particularly for the cultivation of maize, rice, and cassava.

Malawi’s cities are scattered across the country, with each region offering its own unique cultural and economic characteristics.

Time Zone

Malawi operates on Central Africa Time (CAT), which is UTC+2 year-round. The country does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains consistent throughout the year. This time zone places Malawi in sync with several countries in southern and eastern Africa, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.

For international travelers, the consistency of the time zone is helpful, as there is no need for seasonal adjustments, making it easier to plan and coordinate activities.

Climate

Malawi has a tropical climate influenced by its latitude and its proximity to Lake Malawi. The climate varies depending on the region, altitude, and time of year. Malawi experiences distinct wet and dry seasons.

Wet Season (November to April): The wet season is characterized by high humidity and heavy rainfall, particularly from December to March. During this period, the southern and central regions of Malawi receive the most precipitation. In the north, the rains are somewhat less frequent but still significant. Average temperatures during the wet season range from 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F) in lowland areas, with cooler conditions at higher altitudes.
Dry Season (May to October): The dry season is generally cooler, with less humidity. The temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in the central and southern regions and slightly cooler temperatures in the higher elevations. This season is ideal for travel, as the rains have diminished and the climate is more temperate.
Regional Climate Variations: The climate varies significantly depending on altitude and location. The northern regions, particularly around Mzuzu and the Nyika Plateau, have a more temperate climate, with cooler temperatures year-round, while the southern regions, including Blantyre and Zomba, are warmer, with hotter conditions during the dry season.
Lake Malawi: The proximity of Lake Malawi influences the climate in the surrounding areas. The lake helps moderate temperatures, creating a more temperate climate along the lakeshore, with temperatures generally between 23°C and 30°C (73°F to 86°F) year-round.

The tropical climate, especially the distinct wet and dry seasons, plays a significant role in Malawi’s agricultural practices, tourism, and local economies.

Economic Status

Malawi has a predominantly agricultural economy, with agriculture accounting for a significant portion of the country’s GDP and employing around 80% of the population. The country has faced a range of economic challenges, including poverty, poor infrastructure, and vulnerability to environmental factors such as droughts and floods. However, Malawi’s economy has seen steady growth over recent years, driven by agricultural exports, mining, and some industrial activity.

Agriculture: The backbone of Malawi’s economy, agriculture is centered on crops like tobacco, tea, coffee, sugar, maize, and cassava. Tobacco is Malawi’s primary export, followed by tea and coffee. Rice, groundnuts, and soybeans are also significant crops. Agriculture remains vulnerable to climate change, especially due to droughts or irregular rainfall patterns.
Mining: Malawi is rich in natural resources, particularly coal, uranium, and precious stones. While mining plays a smaller role compared to agriculture, it has the potential to contribute more significantly to the economy in the future. The country has some of the world’s largest uranium reserves, and there has been exploration in other minerals like lithium, tantalum, and gold.
Services and Industry: Malawi’s industrial sector is relatively small but growing. The country has a modest manufacturing sector, producing goods like textiles, food processing, cement, and construction materials. The services sector has expanded in recent years, particularly in telecommunications, finance, and tourism.
Tourism: The tourism sector in Malawi is becoming an increasingly important contributor to the economy. Attractions like Lake Malawi, national parks, and wildlife reserves draw tourists seeking eco-tourism and cultural experiences. The country’s efforts to develop infrastructure, such as better roads, airports, and accommodations, have facilitated the growth of tourism.
Poverty and Development: Despite steady economic growth, Malawi remains one of the poorest countries in the world. The population faces high levels of unemployment, limited access to education and healthcare, and an overall reliance on subsistence farming. The country continues to rely on foreign aid and investment to drive development and address issues of poverty and inequality.

Tourist Attractions

Malawi is home to a range of natural, cultural, and historical attractions that draw visitors from around the world. Some of the top tourist destinations include:

1. Lake Malawi

One of Africa’s largest and most beautiful freshwater lakes, Lake Malawi is the centerpiece of the country’s tourism. Visitors come to enjoy the lake’s pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life. It is a popular destination for swimming, diving, and fishing. The Lake Malawi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to a rich diversity of endemic fish species, particularly cichlids.

2. Liwonde National Park

Known for its rich wildlife, Liwonde National Park is one of Malawi’s premier safari destinations. Located along the Shire River, the park is home to elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of birdlife. The park offers boat safaris, game drives, and walking safaris, making it a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts.

3. Majete Wildlife Reserve

Another important wildlife reserve in Malawi, Majete Wildlife Reserve is known for its conservation efforts, which have helped bring back large populations of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros). The reserve also offers safaris and guided walking tours.

4. Nyika National Park

Located in the northern part of the country, Nyika National Park is known for its unique highland plateau, rolling hills, and wildflower fields. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including antelope, elephants, and rare bird species. The cooler climate of Nyika makes it a perfect location for hiking, bird watching, and camping.

5. Mount Mulanje

The highest peak in Malawi, Mount Mulanje offers opportunities for mountain climbing, trekking, and exploring its stunning scenery. The mountain is surrounded by diverse flora and fauna and is considered a sacred site by locals. The Mulanje Massif attracts hikers and adventurers from around the world.

6. Zomba Plateau

The Zomba Plateau offers breathtaking views, cool temperatures, and a chance to explore the lush forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Zomba is also a popular destination for picnicking, horseback riding, and nature walks.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens require a visa to enter Malawi. The visa can be obtained either through the Malawi High Commission or upon arrival at designated entry points, such as airports or border crossings. The typical tourist visa allows for stays of up to 30 days and can be extended if necessary.

A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond the entry date is required, and travelers may need to provide proof of sufficient funds and a return ticket.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

Distance to New York City: The distance between Lilongwe, Malawi, and New York City is approximately 12,800 kilometers (7,950 miles). A flight typically takes about 18-22 hours, with one or more layovers.
Distance to Los Angeles: The distance from Lilongwe to Los Angeles is approximately 14,000 kilometers (8,700 miles). A flight typically takes 20-24 hours, depending on layovers.

Malawi Facts

Size	118,480 km²
Residents	18.6 million
Languages	English and Chichewa
Capital	Lilongwe
Longest river	Shire (402 km)
Highest mountain	Sapitwa (3,002 m)
Currency	Kwacha