Lilongwe
Lilongwe, Malawi's capital, combines the bustle of its Old Town markets with the wide avenues and government buildings of the City Centre, making it a practical gateway to central Malawi.
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About Central
Lilongwe is the capital and largest city of Malawi, located in the Central Region. It combines a compact, green city centre with sprawling residential and commercial areas and serves as the country's administrative and diplomatic hub.
The city was established as a trading settlement in the early 20th century and replaced Zomba as the capital in 1975. Its layout separates the older Old Town, with markets and commerce, from the newer Capital Hill government district, while landmarks such as the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre and the Kamuzu Mausoleum reflect the city's civic and natural heritage.
Neighbourhoods differ in character: Old Town is lively with markets, shops and restaurants; City Centre holds hotels, banks and offices; and Capital Hill is the seat of government. The Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, Parliament Building and the bustling central market are among the most visited places.
Lilongwe is a key centre for government, NGOs, conferences and business in Malawi, and its international airport connects the city to regional and international routes. Visitors also use it as a base for reaching Lake Malawi and nearby nature reserves.
For both leisure and business travellers, Lilongwe offers a practical mix of green spaces, local markets, international dining and access to Malawi's wider attractions.
Central Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit
The dry season from May to October is the most comfortable period for sightseeing, with mild temperatures and less rain. November to April brings the green season and heavier rains, when travel to rural areas can be more challenging.
How to Get Around
Lilongwe has a network of minibuses and taxis, though routes and reliability vary. Many visitors use private transfers or rental cars, and the compact City Centre and Old Town are easy to explore on foot for short distances.
Where to Stay
City Centre and Old Town are convenient for hotels, restaurants, banks and business access. Areas near Capital Hill suit government and diplomatic visitors, while lodges and guesthouses around the city offer quieter options.
Food & Drink
Lilongwe's food scene centres on Malawian staples such as nsima with fish or meat, along with international restaurants, cafés and markets. Local markets and the Old Town area are good places to sample street food and fresh produce.
Ground Transportation Services in Central
Airport Transfers
Travel between Kamuzu International Airport and hotels, embassies, conference venues and other locations across Lilongwe.
Hourly Chauffeur
Book a private chauffeur by the hour for business meetings, government visits, events and flexible travel around Lilongwe.
Car Rental
Rent a car in Lilongwe for independent travel around the capital and convenient journeys to destinations such as Lake Malawi and nearby reserves.
Bus & Group Transfers
Arrange minibuses or charter buses for groups, corporate travel, airport pickups, events and excursions in and around Lilongwe.
Airports in Central
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Cities in Malawi
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Zomba
Zomba, Malawi's former capital, retains a rich colonial character. It sits at the foot of the Zomba Plateau, a forested highland with trails, waterfalls and panoramic views.
Thyolo
Thyolo is a highland town in southern Malawi, known for its rolling tea estates, cool climate and forested slopes of Thyolo Mountain. Its quiet streets, old planters' bungalows and green scenery give it a relaxed, distinctive character.
Blantyre
Blantyre, Malawi's commercial and cultural capital in the Southern Region, combines colonial-era landmarks and lively markets with easy access to the highlands and wildlife areas beyond the city.