Safety and emergencies
Areas advised against, risks on the road and in town, scams and numbers to keep with you. Advice varies with the country that publishes it.
On the road
One of the highest road accident rates in Africa and very limited emergency assistance: poor roads, animals, pedestrians and cyclists. Do not drive at night outside towns and avoid minibuses. Drink-driving: up to 5 years in prison. 4x4 thefts are common.
Verified factVerified on 10/2/26High confidenceFrance Diplomatie, Travel advice: Malawi, safetyFrance Diplomatie, Travel advice: Malawi, useful information
Crime
Theft in crowded places (bus stations, markets) and tourist spots (Nkhata Bay, Zomba, Senga Bay, Cape Maclear, Mzuzu). At night, take extra care in Blantyre and Lilongwe (carjackings, assaults). Watch your luggage: drugs may be hidden in it without your knowledge.
Verified factVerified on 10/2/26High confidenceFrance Diplomatie, Travel advice: Malawi, safety
Sea, climate and natural hazards
The Mulanje massif is dangerous: the weather changes abruptly and assaults have occurred. In parks, never leave the vehicle.
Verified factVerified on 10/2/26High confidenceFrance Diplomatie, Travel advice: Malawi, safety
Useful contacts
Contact details taken from the official sources cited. Check them before going.
Emergency numbers
Ambulance 998, fire 999, police 990 or 997.
GOV.UK (FCDO), Malawi travel advice: getting help· Oct 2, 2026
Honorary consul of France in Malawi
Passport: FranceMaison de la France, Blantyre.
France Diplomatie, Travel advice: Malawi, useful contacts· Oct 2, 2026
Sources for this guide
- France Diplomatie, Travel advice: Malawi, safety · Source updated: September 15, 2026 · Checked on October 2, 2026
- France Diplomatie, Travel advice: Malawi, useful information · Source updated: September 15, 2026 · Checked on October 2, 2026
AfriPilot is not an official body. Information comes from the sources cited and may change: each source's date is shown.