When is the best time to visit Malawi?

Visiting Malawi in February

The rains continue to fall regularly and the birding is spectacular; particularly in Nyika National Park. Many terrestrial orchids come into bloom across the valleys and they can be seen in colorful patches across the plateau.

Visiting Malawi in March

The weather is still unsettled in March, with regular rains that slowly peter out as the month goes on. The young birds will be growing quickly and spreading their wings for the first time to prepare for the long journey back to the Northern Hemisphere for the summer. The flowers are in full bloom, providing much food and pollen for insects, which in turn feeds the birds, providing them with the energy they need for their epic journey.

Visiting Malawi in April

The country begins to dry out as the rains subside, replaced with increasing sunshine and stable temperatures. Antelope are in rut in the national parks and spectacular clashes between the rival males can often be observed.

Visiting Malawi in May

With the days becoming more sunny and cooler, the crocodile courtship season begins in Liwonde National Park and Majete Game Reserve. The courtship process begins with males bellowing, bubble-blowing and fighting as they strive to establish dominance. Males also swim with their head up for display purposes. The female usually mates with the most dominant male in the vicinity; usually the oldest, largest male.

Visiting Malawi in June

The days are long and sunny, but the temperatures drop significantly at this time of year. The evenings and mornings are very cold in the highland regions, with log fires lit for both tourists and locals. The elephant population in Liwonde National Park group together in the drier periods around the Shire River for easier access to water and the more nutritious vegetation along the river’s edge. Lillian’s lovebirds congregate in large flocks of hundreds from June to August in Liwonde National Park.

Visiting Malawi in July

As the cooler, sunny weather continues, sightings of larger elephant herds are plentiful, with numbers often reaching into the hundreds. The crocodiles will mate regularly — mating takes about ten minutes and occurs in the water. Two months later, the female lays her eggs and buries them underground (usually around 50 eggs). She then guards them by lying on top of the burying site, fighting off any potential predators.

Visiting Malawi in August

The weather is warming, even at night, with daytime peaks averaging around 86°F and night-time averages rising to 50°F. Animal herds are growing in size and limited space near the water leads to tension between the animals. It's a delightful time of year to visit Lake Malawi, with the temperatures perfect for water sports or relaxing in the sun.

Visiting Malawi in September

Night-time temperatures rise rapidly within the month, while daytime averages soar well into the 70°Fs. The sun shines, the skies are clear and it is extremely dry. Concentrations of elephant and other game are great, and it is also a popular time of year to visit Lake Malawi, where the windy afternoons make for perfect sailing conditions.

Events & Festivals

• Lake of Stars Festival (late September): A three-day annual festival featuring musical acts from Africa and the UK, on the shores of Lake Malawi.

Visiting Malawi in October

Daytime temperatures regularly rise above 100°F and nights are warm; averaging in the high teens. The world's largest antelope, the majestic eland, can often be seen in the Nyika National Park as their herds start regrouping for the breeding season. The larger herds vary in size from around 100 to 320 animals, making for an impressive sight.

Visiting Malawi in November

November is usually a very interesting month, with the first few storms of the emerald season arriving. The beginning of the rains (the green season) usually coincides with the arrival of many migrant birds who come back from the less hospitable climates north of the Equator.

Visiting Malawi in December

The rains become more regular in December, with thunderstorms occurring every few days. High-pitched chirping sounds of baby crocodiles alert the mother that the incubation period is over. She then breaks open the sand-covered chamber and assists the hatchlings out of their shells by rolling the eggs between her tongue and palate. The mother crocodile then delicately transports them in her mouth to the water’s edge, and continues guarding them for two more weeks.