Flights to Malawi at a glance

Traveling to Malawi is easy, with numerous flight options available to suit your travel needs. You can search for Malawi flights that match your schedule, allowing you to plan visits to the country's renowned attractions. In Malawi, popular destinations include Lake Malawi National Park for outdoor adventures, Monkey Bay Beach for relaxation, and the University of Malawi for a taste of urban culture. Be sure to explore great flight deals to Malawi to make your journey even more enjoyable.

• Major airport in Malawi: Chileka International Airport (BLZ) serving Blantyre
• Flights per week: 23 flights arriving at Malawi airport
• Number of airlines that fly to Malawi: around 2 carriers

Popular airport in Malawi

Malawi is a captivating destination, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and family vacations alike. Travelers flock to this country for its stunning scenery, adventurous activities, romantic spots, and beautiful beaches. A major airport typically serves as the gateway for visitors heading to Malawi.

• Chileka International Airport (BLZ): Situated in the Southern Region, Chileka International Airport facilitates both domestic and international travel. It connects to approximately 1 domestic city and 2 international locations, with options to upgrade to business class for enhanced service, depending on the airline and flight route. Ethiopian Airlines and South African Airlink are among the key carriers operating at this airport.

Top routes to Malawi

• Johannesburg (JNB) to Blantyre (BLZ), with one-way fares starting at around $280
• Atlanta (ATL) to Blantyre (BLZ), with one-way flight options from around $720

Cheapest routes to Malawi

• Johannesburg (JNB) to Blantyre (BLZ), with low one-way fares from around $280
• Atlanta (ATL) to Blantyre (BLZ), with low one-way fares from around $720

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Best time to fly to Malawi

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Malawi are January, April, and July, when peak temperatures in Malawi can reach up to 76.1°F in January. If you prefer quieter travel, consider December, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 77.5°F. For better deals, January usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $113, roughly 54% cheaper than the yearly average.

Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Average one-way Fare
January	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	$113
February	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$213
March	75.0°F (23.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$378
April	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	$179
May	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	$480
June	70.0°F (21.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	$334
July	68.7°F (20.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	$245
August	71.6°F (22.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	$254
September	76.6°F (24.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	$258
October	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	$168
November	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	$248
December	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	$147

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Malawi

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Malawi is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—stay up to date on fare changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Malawi hotel and flight deals.
4. Travel during shoulder season-peak travel periods tend to push the flight fares a little higher than usual. Traveling outside of these busy periods can help you find more competitive prices while still being able to enjoy good weather and lesser crowds.
5. Be flexible with your travel dates-if your schedule allows it, try and search for a few different departure and return dates as this may help you find lower fares.
6. Consider economy fares-if you're traveling light and don't need extras like seat selection or additional baggage, opting for a basic economy fare can be a simple way to keep costs down. Just make sure to check what's included in the flight ticket before confirming your booking.
7. Think about luggage—it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
8. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book with Expedia. Make sure to select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking to get more value from your trip.

*For members. Select hotels.

Where to stay in Malawi

• Mangochi: Nestled in the area of Malawi, Mangochi is a vibrant city that beckons outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With stunning scenery, it offers an array of activities such as hiking and trail access, making it perfect for those looking to explore nature. Key attractions include the picturesque Monkey Bay Beach, ideal for a relaxing beach vacation, and the Lake Malawi Museum, a cultural gem showcasing the region's history. For a taste of adventure, visit the Lake Malawi National Park, where breathtaking views and outdoor activities await.
• Cape Maclear: Cape Maclear is located in the area of Malawi and is a wonderful destination for families and outdoor lovers. This charming city provides access to beautiful landscapes and recreational opportunities, including campgrounds and shopping centers. Visitors can explore the nearby Lake Malawi National Park, a haven for adventure and scenery, or unwind at the sandy shores of Monkey Bay Beach. Don't miss the Museum and Aquarium, a fascinating landmark that offers insight into the local marine life and culture.
• Nkhotakota: Located in the area of Malawi, Nkhotakota is an eco-friendly city that invites travelers to connect with nature and embark on thrilling adventures. The city is home to various outdoor activities, including golfing and camping at private clubs. Key points of interest include the Kuti Community Wildlife Park, a nature reserve where you can encounter wildlife, and the majestic Mt. Mulanje, perfect for scenic hikes. Additionally, the Nkhotakota Game Reserve offers a chance to witness the beauty of the region's diverse ecosystems.

Tips for short-haul flights to Malawi

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothes, and organizing outfits efficiently. This approach also helps you avoid waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Early check in—nearly all airlines allow you to check in online at least 24 to 48 hours before your flight. This can save you time at the airport and may even secure you a preferred seat at no extra charge.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights might not provide in-flight entertainment. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts beforehand, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
• Arrive early—Even for short flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5–2 hours before departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Malawi

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24 to 48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may allow seat selection earlier, but be aware that an additional fee could apply.
• Arrive early—aim to reach the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, find a coffee shop, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin to align your body clock by changing your watch and modifying your sleep schedule to correspond with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.
• Dress comfortably—the journey will be long, so opt for loose, comfortable clothing and layers, as cabin temperatures can fluctuate.
• Stay hydrated—bring a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated, ensuring you feel your best upon arrival.