Why visit
Lilongwe is the capital of Malawi. A practical starting point for museums, food, and onward routes into the country.
Malawi at a glance
Country center
-13.5°, 34.0°
Coast
Landlocked
Country area
118,484 km²
45,747 mi²
Subregion
Eastern Africa
Currency
Malawian kwacha (MK)
MWK
Dial
+265
Languages
English, Chewa
Demonym
Malawian
Internet
.mw
UN
Member state
ISO code
MW / MWI
Where in the world
-13.5° · 34.0°
Malawi
Open in Google Maps ↗
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world · CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Malawi is known as "the Warm Heart of Africa" for the renowned friendliness of its people.
- Lake Malawi contains more species of fish than any other lake on earth (1,000+), most of them endemic cichlids.
- The country is one of Africa's most densely populated, yet one of its least urbanized.
Bordering Malawi
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Lilongwe
What currency is used in Lilongwe?
Lilongwe uses the Malawian kwacha (MK), ISO code MWK.
What languages are spoken in Malawi?
The primary languages are English and Chewa.
What is the international calling code for Malawi?
The calling code is +265.
Other Africa destinations
Libya
Libya is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Madagascar
Madagascar is a destination in Africa where the landscape is the point. National parks, coastlines, forests, or mountain travel anchor most itineraries.
Malawi
Malawi is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Mali
Mali is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Mauritania
Mauritania is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Mauritius
Mauritius is an Indian Ocean destination with lagoons, Creole food, and volcanic interiors. Best paired with slow travel rather than island-hopping.