Malawi Travel Guide

Safety & Security

Expert

Philip is the author of the Bradt guidebook to Malawi.

Malawi is, in our opinion, overall a safe country to visit – even more so if your visit is primarily an organized safari. About 800,000 visitors enter Malawi every year and most visits are trouble free. As with many countries, there is some crime in the cities, but most issues can be avoided by following basic safety precautions.

Below are tips on staying safe in Malawi.

Staying Safe on Wildlife Viewing Activities

Parks and reserves are generally very safe places to visit – always follow your guide’s instructions. Always remember that all animals in parks and reserves are wild and, when on a self-drive safari, only leave your car where it has been designated as safe to do so. For additional tips:

Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions

Staying Safe in Cities & Towns

Although there is some minor crime in Malawi’s cities (as is the case all over the world), most issues are minor. Petty theft and pickpocketing is quite common, but you are unlikely to encounter any trouble on guided activities. When going out alone, we recommend the following safety precautions: seek advice from your hotel before taking a walk; don’t wear jewelry and only take the money you need with you; always take a taxi after dark. For more safety tips that apply to African cities in general: