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
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 254 reviews
Exceptional · 254 reviews
Featuring garden views, Green Elephant offers accommodation with an infinity pool and a balcony, around 4.4 km from National Herbarium & Botanic Gardens of Malawi.
Superb - What previous guests thought, 105 reviews
Superb · 105 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...
Situated in Lilongwe, 3.9 km from Lingadzi Namilomba Forest Reserve and 5.9 km from National Herbarium & Botanic Gardens of Malawi, Palms & Pebbles Lodge features accommodation with free WiFi, air...
Boasting a garden and views of garden, 47 The Heights, Area 47, Sector 1, Lilongwe is a recently renovated bed and breakfast situated in Lilongwe, 5.2 km from Lilongwe Golf Club.
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 5 reviews
Exceptional · 5 reviews
Located just 8.3 km from Mulanje Golf Club, Mulanje Vista House features accommodation in Mulanje with access to a garden, barbecue facilities, as well as bicycle parking.
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.
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.
Featuring garden views, Bole Suites offers accommodation with balcony, around 3.9 km from World War I & II Memorial Tower. This property offers access to a terrace, free private parking and free WiFi....
Boasting city views, Blantyre Airport Lodge is located in Chileka, 21 km from Limbe Country Club. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
Located in Mangochi, 2 km from Lake Malawi Museum, Adams lodges Ltd provides accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant.
Guest review
Hotel was amazing and staff are super friendly and helpful, highlight of the trip so far.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 43 reviews
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
Amazing views, amazing hospitality and amazing food. This place is a 100/10. So amazing
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.6
8.6
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 297 reviews
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.
Guest review
Quietness and proximity to the lake
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 50 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
Breakfast was good with choice of cooked. The pool was looking good although no time to swim
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.6
8.6
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 195 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
Mitengo House is a spectacular place that perfectly encapsulates and radiates Malawi's natural beauty – photos do not do this boutique hotel justice, but its name, meaning "trees," certainly does.
During my short stay, I enjoyed the delicious chambo fish with tomato sauce and rice. The charming waiter, Peter, shared that the locals mix the tomato sauce with rice, although, in my sheer ignorance, I did not. Maybe next time.
Lastly, I’m forever grateful to Tasmim for fetching my laptop when I forgetfully left it at the front desk. Smiling Alinafe was equally helpful in settling my bills when I checked out the next day.
I’ll recommend Mitengo House to anyone who cares about nature and appreciates feeling at home.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.5
8.5
Very good - What previous guests thought, 128 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
The location is amazing. Beautiful views and the mountain right there for hiking. The food at the hotel was wonderful. Room was clean and well-equipped. Staff were friendly and helpful. I did two hiking tours and a trip to Satemwa tea plantation; all were great and worthwhile.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.2
8.2
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, 70 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
A lovely location with good food and drink
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 26 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 8.3
8.3
Very good - What previous guests thought, 54 reviews
Set in Blantyre, 6.4 km from Kamuzu Stadium, Lotus by Serendib offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a terrace.
Guest review
The property is very nice and has a beautiful garden and a pool (unfortunately I could not use the pool because it was too cold). The staff were very welcoming and helpful. I had an Asian meal at the restaurant which was delicious. Overall good value for money
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