Lilongwe
Malawi's capital since 1975, laid out in two separate centres with a wildlife sanctuary between them.
Saved in this browser only - no account, nothing sent anywhere. See your map
Lilongwe was made the capital in 1975 and built to a plan that left it in two parts: the Old Town with the markets and most of the ordinary commercial life, and Capital Hill some kilometres north with the ministries, embassies and newer building, with a belt of green between them. The Lilongwe Wildlife Centre in that belt takes in rescued animals, and the Old Town market is the busiest in the country.
What you actually see
- The two centres - the Old Town and Capital Hill, separated by a green belt.
- The Old Town market - the largest and busiest market in the country.
- The Wildlife Centre - the rescue sanctuary in the green belt between them.
- The planned layout - a capital built to a scheme from 1975.
When to go
May to October is the dry season and most comfortable. October before the rains is very hot. Markets are busiest in the morning.
Honest expectations
The two centres are far apart and getting between them needs transport. There is little of historic interest; the city is entirely modern. Normal city care applies after dark.
Nearby
Dzalanyama is southwest, and Nkhoma Mountain is south.
What to pack for Lilongwe
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.