Malawi

About Malawi

Capital

Lilongwe

Continent

Independence Date

6 July 1964

Official Language	Afrikaans
Second Language	Yao, Tumbuka
Population	~22 million
Passport Color	Green
Passport Rank	#71
Dialing Code	265
Country TLD	.mw

Malawi Overview

Malawi, officially the Republic of Malawi, is a landlocked country in southeastern Africa. It is bordered by Tanzania to the north, Mozambique to the east, south, and west, and Zambia to the northwest. The capital and largest city is Lilongwe, while Blantyre serves as the commercial hub.

Known as the “Warm Heart of Africa“, Malawi is famous for its friendly people and natural beauty. The country is dominated by Lake Malawi, Africa’s third-largest and the world’s ninth-largest lake. Its economy relies on agriculture, fishing, and tourism, with tobacco, tea, and sugar being key exports.

The official languages are English and Chichewa, and the national currency is the Malawian Kwacha (MWK). Malawi’s culture is a blend of indigenous traditions, music, and crafts, and its scenic landscapes include plateaus, highlands, and national parks.

Quick Facts About Malawi

Coordinates	13.2543° S, 34.3015° E
Bordering Countries	Tanzania, Mozambique, Zambia
Region / Continent	Africa (Southeast Africa)
Total Area	~118,484 sq km
Population Density	~203 people per sq km
Highest Point	Mount Mulanje – 3,002 m
Major Rivers	Shire River, Ruo River, Songwe River
Climate Type	Tropical; rainy season (Nov–Apr), dry season (May–Oct)
Famous For	Lake Malawi, national parks, tea estates, warm hospitality
Major Landmarks	Lake Malawi National Park, Mount Mulanje, Liwonde National Park, Nyika Plateau
Official Languages	English, Chichewa
Currency	Malawian Kwacha (MWK)
Government Type	Unitary Presidential Republic
Time Zone	UTC+2 (CAT)
Major Exports	Tobacco, tea, sugar, coffee, uranium
Visitor Entry	Visa required for most; eVisa available online