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Here you will find important tips and useful information for Malawi.
in US Dollar (USD)
Change cash in local currency
Local currency / ISO Code
Malawi kwacha MWK
Credit cards are rarely accepted. For more detailed information, please contact the credit card issuer.
Travelers are advised to bring cash in US dollar (in small amounts).
Tourst must pay hotel bills in foreign currency (AUD, EUR, GBP, USD etc.).
Prior to leaving the country, it is advisable to spend local banknotes or to exchange them back into hard currency. Exchanging MWK in Switzerland may cause problems and result in considerable exchange loss.
Health situation
Do not drink tap water.
Mosquito protection advised.
Year-round risk of malaria throughout the country.
Vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles recommended.
Other information
Security
Find out from local authorities about the current situation and exercise caution when traveling or planning to travel to the northern end of Lake Malawi or crossing the border.
Walking the streets after nightfall is not advised.
Do not carry valuables (watches, jewelry, expensive cameras, etc.) on you.
Avoid demonstrations and large crowds.
Avoid nighttime driving.
Special legal regulations
Very strict laws to fight illegal drugs (up to life imprisonment).
Cultural characteristics
Please observe local customs for dress code and conduct.
Time difference with Switzerland
+ 1 h; +/- 0 h during our summer time
National language
Official language
English and Chichewa
Capital
Lilongwe
Country code for calling Switzerland
101 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)
Voltage
220 volt / adapter required for 3-pronged plug
Travel documents for Swiss citizens
Passport still valid 6 months or more after arrival with visa, return or onward travel ticket and proof of sufficient funds.
Opening hours
Banks
8.00 - 14.00 h (Mon - Fri)
Stores
7.30/8.00 - 12.00 h and 13.00 - 16.00/17.00 h (Mon - Fri)
7.30 - 12.00 h (Sat)
Driving
Left-hand driving.
International driver's licence required for car rentals.
Minimum age for car rentals: 21 to 25 (varies by company).
Swiss Embassy / Consulate
Lilongwe, Fracht (Africa) Ltd., Mtendere Drive 10/334
Tel. +265 1 712 222
Travel is the secure prepaid card for use away from home – without any annual fees. In the event of loss, the card including the balance will be replaced worldwide.
Find out more about TravelWhile every precaution has been taken to verify the information provided, Swiss Bankers Prepaid Services Ltd does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of Country Information. Swiss Bankers therefore shall not be held liable for any damage or loss sustained in connection with any errors or omissions contained therein.
© Swiss Bankers 2025
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