Surrounded by much larger African countries renowned for their safari credentials, Malawi hides a surprisingly diverse landscape, packed with unspoiled national parks. Malawi’s narrow area of land runs alongside the massive Lake Malawi, Africa’s third largest lake. This shimmering channel of water – formed by the Great Rift Valley – is home to schools of rainbow-coloured cichlid fish and a myriad of bird species. Spend a day at the lake as you’d like, from diving and snorkelling to kayaking or relaxing on the beaches of Cape Maclear. The lake feeds into the smaller Lake Malombe and the Shire River, which is flanked by Liwonde National Park. Take a half-hour boat safari up the river to spot elephants, rhinos, hippos and crocodiles sunbathing on the river banks. Follow the Shire down to Blantyre, the country’s second biggest city, which is also within reach of some fantastic scenery. Take a Jeep tour in Majete National Park for more wildlife sightings, or climb Mount Mulanje, the tallest of Malawi’s three peaks to the east. Most hotels and guesthouses can be found in the Malawi capital of Lilongwe – a city which takes pride in its eco-friendly outlook – while lodges, retreats and budget hostels are more common along Lake Malawi’s shores.
Top picks for hotels in Malawi
Try one of these popular and highly-rated Malawi hotels
Superb - What previous guests thought, 100 reviews
Superb · 100 reviews
Situated in Nkhata Bay, 11 km from Vizara Rubber Plantations Malawi, Soul Rebel Lodge & Backpackers features accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a private beach area and a shared...
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 4 reviews
Exceptional · 4 reviews
Featuring a garden and views of garden, Takonda BnB is a recently renovated bed and breakfast set in Zomba, 600 metres from King's African Rifles Monument.
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 6 reviews
Exceptional · 6 reviews
Chipatso features free bikes, garden, a terrace and bar in Cape Maclear. There is free private parking and the property provides paid airport shuttle service.
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 8 reviews
Exceptional · 8 reviews
Offering garden views, Giant apartments is an accommodation situated in Lilongwe, 4.2 km from Lingadzi Namilomba Forest Reserve and 6.1 km from World War I & II Memorial Tower.
With National Herbarium & Botanic Gardens of Malawi reachable in 5.9 km, Hilltop Executive Lodge offers accommodation, a restaurant, a fitness centre, a garden and a shared lounge.
Located within 7.4 km of Kamuzu Stadium and 12 km of Limbe Country Club, Instahomes by Tru - Chrysalis B&B provides rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom in Blantyre.
Boasting a garden, terrace and views of lake, Sunbird Waterfront is situated in Salima, 32 km from Kuti Game Ranch. The accommodation features room service and a 24-hour front desk for guests.
Set in Blantyre, 5.1 km from Kamuzu Stadium, Amaryllis Hotel Blantyre offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness centre and a terrace.
Guest review
cheerful staff, new traditional menu. inconvenience location
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 316 reviews
Situated in Blantyre, 5.5 km from Kamuzu Stadium, Casa Mia Lodge & Restaurant features accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a restaurant.
Guest review
The rooms have been renovated since my last stay and have a modern feel to them.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.7
8.7
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 191 reviews
Set in Lilongwe, 2.7 km from World War I & II Memorial Tower, Mitengo House offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a shared lounge.
Guest review
Beautiful and calm. Nice people working there. Easy to get food and drinks. Atmosphere was great.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.5
8.5
Very good - What previous guests thought, 130 reviews
Situated in Lilongwe, 2.8 km from Lingadzi Namilomba Forest Reserve, Sunrise Motel features accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge and a restaurant.
Guest review
The staff was very welcoming and helpful. The room was definitely worth the price. We only stayed one night on the way from Liwonde to Nkhata bay. They have a cozy bar/restaurant area downstairs, some vegetarian food options available.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.5
8.5
Very good - What previous guests thought, 34 reviews
Protea Hotel Ryalls offers accommodation in Blantyre. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant. Certain units have a seating area to relax in after a busy day.
Guest review
Ryalls Hotel in Blantyre is by far the best hotel I have ever stayed in Malawi. The rooms were impeccably clean and exceptionally comfortable, providing a perfect environment for rest and relaxation.
The buffet service was absolutely outstanding, offering a variety of dishes that were not only delicious but also felt like a true taste of home. Each meal was a delightful experience, showcasing the hotel’s commitment to quality and flavor.
The staff provided excellent service throughout my stay. I would like to give special recognition to the reception and dining room staff for their professionalism, attentiveness, and warm hospitality. They truly made me feel valued as a guest.
Thank you for an unforgettable experience. I will certainly be returning to Ryalls Hotel whenever I am in Blantyre. Highly recommended!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 78 reviews
Situated in Mulanje, 2.4 km from Mulanje Golf Club, Kara O Mula Mulanje features accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge and a restaurant.
Guest review
Friendly staff. Lovely tranquil location. Great food! Loved seeing wildlife in the area (including monkeys!)
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 28 reviews
Located in Nkhata Bay, 14 km from Vizara Rubber Plantations Malawi, Ndau Lodge provides accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a restaurant and a bar.
Guest review
Perfect peaceful location and high-quality accommodation - the best in Nkhata Bay. Close to some other places for lunch.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 22 reviews
Set in Lilongwe, 4 km from National Herbarium & Botanic Gardens of Malawi, Bamboo Boutique Hotel offers accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant.
Guest review
The breakfast was delicious and made separately with care.
Located in Lilongwe, 2.9 km from World War I & II Memorial Tower, Latitude 13 Degrees provides accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness centre and a garden.
Guest review
The hotel location is quiet and excellent, the staff are amazing, the food is yummy
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.1
8.1
Very good - What previous guests thought, 215 reviews
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