Top Things to Do in Lilongwe

Lilongwe, Malawi

About the City

Lilongwe, the charming capital of Malawi, is a tapestry of vibrant colors and diverse cultures. Imagine a city where the bustle of market life brushes against the serene tranquility of nature reserves. Here, friendly faces greet you at every turn, amid street vendors beckoning with colorful crafts. The city's heartbeat can be found in the sounds of lively chatter, the clinking of pots from roadside eateries, and the distant hum of a local band. Although Lilongwe has a warm heart, it's not without a few prickles. Sometimes you'll find that the roads seem to engage in a peculiar dance, twisting and turning unexpectedly, which can disorient even the savviest of travelers. And when the rain decides to visit, it pours down with such enthusiasm that it occasionally forgets about the concept of moderation, leaving soggy streets in its wake. But don't let these small quirks dampen your spirit. After all, the city's vivid markets offer a sensory overload that's just waiting to be explored. And if urban fatigue sets in, escape to a wildlife sanctuary where you can chat with the birds and gossip with the monkeys. Lilongwe is a city of contrasts, where the good heartily overshadows the bad, leaving you with tales to tell and memories to cherish.

Things to Do in Lilongwe

Go Nuts for Nkhotakota Honey

Food & Drink

Buzz over to the sweet side with Nkhotakota Honey, straight from the wilds of Malawi! Drizzle it over pancakes, slurp it from a spoon, or blend it in your tea. It's the golden nectar that'll have you ...

Botanical Gardens Picnics

Outdoors

Lay out your blanket and nibble away in a serene slice of green. The botanical gardens are ideal for a lazy afternoon of people-watching and cloud-gazing, with the occasional butterfly flitting by. Do...

Ride with the Wind on a Microlight Flight

The Unexpected

Holy flippin' flapjacks, are you ready to soar like a bird with seriously epic views? Strap in for a microlight flight and skim the skies over Lilongwe. You’ll get to see the landscape unfurl below li...

Ride with the Wind on a Microlight Flight

The Unexpected

Holy flippin' flapjacks, are you ready to soar like a bird with seriously epic views? Strap in for a microlight flight and skim the skies over Lilongwe. You’ll get to see the landscape unfurl below li...

Jazz Up Your Wardrobe with Traditional Fabric Shopping

The Unexpected

What's that? Your closet's calling, and it wants a makeover, Malawi style! Sashay through fabric markets, run your hands over vibrant chitenje cloths, and snag yourself some bold patterns. You'll turn...

Unleash Your Inner Chef in a Local Cooking Lesson

The Unexpected

Ever wanted to whip up a storm in the kitchen with some authentic Malawian recipes? Now's your chance! Roll up those sleeves and get to dicing, spicing, and everything nice-ing alongside local culinar...

Mountain Bike the Many Hidden Trails

Outdoors

Gear up for a two-wheeled adventure and discover Lilongwe's off-the-beaten-path charm. Tackle the dirt roads, swoop around the bends, and feel the wind in your hair on hidden trails that lead to breat...

Catch-and-Release Fishing Excursions

Outdoors

Rev up for a reel good time! Cast your line in the tranquil waters surrounding Lilongwe. Whether you're a first-timer or an old hand, fishing in these calm waters is a peaceful way to pass the time. A...

Sunset Kayaking on Lingadzi River

Outdoors

Paddle into the sunset on the gentle Lingadzi River. Kayak as the sky blushes with the day's end, waving to the riverbanks' critters. It's pretty much a moving meditation with a watery soundtrack—tran...

Bicycle Tours around Lilongwe

Outdoors

Pedal your way to excitement with a tour that wheels you through the heart of Lilongwe. You'll zip past bustling markets, whizz by historic landmarks, and race the setting sun. It's the eco-friendly w...

Savor the Scrumptious Zitumbuwa

Food & Drink

Fried banana slices with a twist! Zitumbuwa is that sweet-tooth satisfier you didn't know you needed. Crunch into this golden, sweet, and sometimes ginger-kissed treat on a lazy afternoon for a taste ...

Take a Dip in the Cool Lilongwe Waters

Sights

Who needs a beach when you've got Lilongwe's freshwaters? Slip into your swimwear and get ready to make a splash in the refreshingly chilly streams and pools that dot the city outskirts. It's the perf...

Golfing with a View

Sights

Grab your clubs and take a swing at one of Lilongwe's lush golf courses. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just swinging for fun, you'll get a side of stunning landscapes with your golf game. Just don'...

Golfing with a View

Sights

Grab your clubs and take a swing at one of Lilongwe's lush golf courses. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just swinging for fun, you'll get a side of stunning landscapes with your golf game. Just don'...

Explore the Lively Lilongwe Wildlife Centre

Sights

Dive into the wild side of the city at the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre. This isn't your average walk in the park! Get up close and personal with Malawi's rescued animals, and learn a thing or two about c...

Marvel at the Magnificence of Kamuzu Mausoleum

Sights

Want a slice of history with a side of architectural awe? Check out the Kamuzu Mausoleum, the final resting place of Malawi’s first president, Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda. With its striking design and s...

Tuck Into Tasty Nsima

Food & Drink

Get your hands into the staple dish of Malawi, nsima, a thick maize porridge that'll stick to your ribs and make you feel like one of the locals. It's the ultimate belly-filler and pairs up with prett...

Devour Delicious Mkhwani

Food & Drink

Leafy greens take center stage with Mkhwani, a dish where the pumpkin leaves get the VIP treatment. Stewed to perfection with groundnut powder, it's like the veggie world's answer to a creamy stew. Pa...

Nibble on Ndiwo

Food & Drink

Dive into the world of Ndiwo, the unsung hero of side dishes. These stews are a riot of flavors, starring anything from beans to pumpkin leaves or even grasshoppers for the adventurous eaters. Scoop i...

Unleash Your Inner Chef in a Local Cooking Lesson

The Unexpected

Ever wanted to whip up a storm in the kitchen with some authentic Malawian recipes? Now's your chance! Roll up those sleeves and get to dicing, spicing, and everything nice-ing alongside local culinar...