Landlocked Malawi is one of Africa's smallest countries. Its neighbours include Tanzania, Mozambique and Zambia. One fifth of Malawi is occupied by Lake Malawi, which is the third largest lake in Africa (580km long, 80 km wide) and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Six hundred species of fish inhabit the Lake, most enjoyed in the Lake Malawi National Park at Cape Maclear. The birdlife is spectacular - the call of the Fish Eagle being common. Malawi has impressive mountain ranges too: the north is occupied by the Nyika plateau and the Viphya mountains, whereas the Dowa Highlands lie centrally. Towards the South, the Zomba and Malenja massifs rise majestically, reaching over 10,000ft. Be enchanted by the giant butterflies on Zomba, the hundreds of species of orchid that occur on Zomba and the Nyika plateau, or the wildlife in any of the nine game reserves. Malawians are famous for their charm and peaceful nature. The capital city, Lilongwe, lies on the Central Plateau. Cultures include European, Ngoni and Chewa. The official language is English, and Chichewa, Yao, Ngoni, Nyanja are also spoken. The local currency is the Malawian Kwacha (take some hard currency in either Pounds, Dollar or Rands). Please consult your local embassy with regard to visa requirements. 

Seasons: Two seasons can be recognised; the dry season from Apr-Nov, and the wet season from Dec-Mar. A brief hot and humid period occurs between Nov-Dec The best time for game viewing is in the dry season, between April and November. The orchids in Nyika are best enjoyed from Dec-Mar, while birding is good all year, but particularly so Oct-Nov. Hiking too is good throughout the year, but it is recommended to avoid the wet season. August is the high season, so some parks and lake resorts may be crowded. 

Precautions: Compulsory vaccine: None Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Tetanus Malaria prophylaxis: Indicated for the whole country throughout the year. Beware of risk of Bilharzia in lakes Medical information supplied by Medi-Travel International.