Best Time to Visit Malawi | Month By Month Guide 2027
The worst/best time to visit Malawi is during the dry season from May to October. This period features clear, sunny days, comfortable temperatures, and minimal risk of rain, making it ideal for wildlife safaris in parks like Liwonde and relaxing along the shores of Lake Malawi.
All year long, Malawi’s weather is consistently subtropical. While the weather is hot and humid year-round, there is a distinct dry and rainy season (September-April). During the wet season, afternoons will often bring heavy rain. This time of year is notorious for its treacherous traffic conditions.
May through September, Malawi’s milder season, is the best time to visit. Lake Malawi is the ideal African beach destination, with its warm weather and relaxing atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit Malawi | Month By Month Guide
The best wildlife-viewing months are July to October, from the middle to the end of the Dry season. At this time, all water in the bush has dried up and animals gather around permanent water sources. Keep in mind, however, that October is extremely hot. The exception is Nyika Plateau, which gets very cold in the dry winter months. In Nyika, a more pleasant time is from November to May.
Dry Season (May to October)
May to June: Cool, fresh weather with green landscapes left from the rains and fewer crowds.
July to August: Crisp, dry days; however, it can get windy on the lake, and high-altitude areas like Nyika Plateau become quite cold at night.
September to October: Temperatures rise significantly, and the thinning bush creates the absolute best wildlife viewing as animals gather tightly around remaining waterholes. Lake conditions become warm and clear for snorkeling.
Wet Season (November to April)
November to December: Rains begin, bringing high humidity and dramatic green scenery.
January to March: Peak rainy season with heavy downpours, which can make remote park tracks difficult to navigate.
Birdwatching: Excellent during these wet months as migratory species arrive from the Northern Hemisphere.
Best Time to Visit Malawi
May to October | Dry Season – Winter
- Wildlife viewing is at its best due to less vegetation and animals gathering around rivers and waterholes
- There is virtually no rain, skies are clear and there are fewer mosquitoes
- Although it is high season, most of the parks won’t be crowded
- October can get very hot
- Morning game drives will be cold; pack warm clothing
November to April | Wet Season – Summer
- The scenery is green and lush
- It is low season, meaning lower rates
- You can see newborn animals
- It’s the best time for bird watching, with migratory birds present
- Rains are mostly short showers late in the afternoon
- Most camps stay open throughout the year
- Wildlife is harder to see as vegetation is thick and there’s an abundance of water
- Some dirt roads become impassable; a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle is recommended for all parks and reserves
- Malaria is a bigger concern than in the Dry season