Home to varied landscapes, from rolling plateaus to spectacular mountains, Malawi is a beautiful country you should definitely visit in Southern Africa. The subtropical climate means you can explore pretty much anytime and anywhere you wish, whether that be at Majete Game Reserve or Nyika National Park.
But when is the best time of year to visit Malawi?
The country has a rainy season, where migrant birds flock from Europe and Asia, and cooler months, which are ideal for spotting wildlife such as the majestic elephant population. Malawi's temperature by month doesn't tend to fluctuate too heavily. However, it can dictate what you'll see and experience.
Here's the best time of year for going on your holidays to Malawi.
Best Time to Visit Malawi: Dry Season
The perfect time for Malawi safari and beach holidays is June, July and August, Malawi's peak season.
Malawi's weather by month in this cool season is typically windy, so bring warm clothing to wear on your game drives and boat trips. As it's a cooler time with dry conditions, you don't have to worry about rain!
At Liwonde National Park, these dry months make game viewing easier as the vegetation is sparce and wildlife congregate to the little water sources available. The coldest month tends to be July or August, but you can still enjoy water sports and follow larger elephant herds without worrying about the weather. During the chilly evenings, warm up beside a roaring log fire and listen to the sounds of nature all around.
Crocodile courtship season is also in full force, having started in May. The males bellow, blow bubbles and fight in order to establish dominance. It's a fascinating watch if you're heading to Liwonde National Park.
"Malawi is truly authentic. When I visited last year, I was blown away by its back-to-basics and off-the-beaten-track adventure, from seeing giraffes at Majete Wildlife Reserve to spotting elephants at Liwonde National Park and relaxing at Lake Malawi!"
– Shelley Phillips, Africa Travel Specialist
Visiting Malawi in September, Post-Peak Season
Although it may be hot, Malawi's weather in September is not the least bit humid. This can make game viewing exceptional as the conditions are still ideal post-peak season and regular rains are yet to fall.
Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, near the lake shore of Lake Malawi, offers a 'slow safari' experience. While hiking past cascading waterfalls and canoeing along crystal-clear rivers, these types of safaris encourage you to stop and absorb everything along the way. Spot iconic animals such as the hippo, buffalo, lion or leopard. As it's hot this time of year, slowing down helps you to take everything in more comfortably.
Night-time temperatures drop to around 15-17°C, so you can cool down after all that hiking and exploring.
Visiting Malawi in October, the Hot Season
Since it's both a hot and humid month, October can be a challenging period for wildlife experiences. Daytime average temperatures reach their peak, the sunny weather beaming down from the heavens. However, if you like the heat, then you can reap the rewards. At Nyika National Park near Lake Malawi, the country's largest lake, you're able to witness eland herds who regroup here, ready for the breeding season.
Also, access to water sources is limited, tempting the more curious creatures to venture out of hiding and hydrate. This can involve hippos, elephants and water birds who cluster together in their hundreds.
Reasons to Visit Malawi in the Green Season
Green season, also known as the wet season or rainy season in Malawi, occurs from November to April.
As the heavy rains pour, the scenery completely transforms. Lush, green landscapes bring the national parks to life and stable temperatures help create wonderful conditions for game viewing. Spot a tower of giraffe reaching up high to feast on the vibrant trees or herd of bushbuck chewing on the rich vegetation.
Breeding season also takes place, where you can see baby animals! Antelope calves enter the world in addition to lion cubs, zebra foals and a host of other cute creatures. It's even a delightful time for bird watchers as a variety of migratory birds arrive to court and nest within the floodplains and forests.
When is the Best Time to Visit Malawi’s Beaches?
From May to August, after the rainy months of the wet season have passed, the bright sunshine descends on the white sandy beaches across Malawi. With daytime temperatures perfect for sunbathing or venturing out on the water, this time of year ensures you can find time to relax after embarking on a safari.
Spot the Big Five at Majete Wildlife Reserve and unwind on the sun-soaked shores of Lake Malawi by combining your safari with beach relaxation. It's the ultimate mix of adventure and rejuvenation.
"The ‘beaches’ on Lake Malawi are perfect for relaxing at the end of your holiday. They're rustic in style – similar to Zanzibar, but with less tourism. Scuba diving and snorkelling is incredible since Lake Malawi is filled with colourful fish, like little cichlids."
– Shelley Phillips, Africa Travel Specialist
Discover Why the Best Time to Visit Malawi is in the Drier Months
Now you've discovered the best time of year to visit Malawi, speak to one of our Africa Travel Specialists to start planning your own authentic adventure. The dry winter months offer the impressive sight of a crocodile's courtship process and ideal weather conditions for spotting magnificent animal herds. Not only that, but you can also observe large concentrations of elephant before relaxing in the fresh evenings.
