Malawi Basics

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Time: Local time is GMT +2.

Electricity: Electrical current is 220/240 volts, 50Hz. Three-pin, rectangular blade plugs are standard.

Language: English is the official language, but Chichewa is more commonly spoken.

Health: Malaria is a risk throughout the year and is highest on the coast. Cases of dengue fever and chikungunya fever were reported in February 2006 and are transmitted by mosquitoes; precautionary measures against being bitten should be taken at all times. In April 2008, an outbreak of Rift Valley fever was reported in five regions; contact with domestic animals and mosquitoes should be avoided. All travellers coming from a country with yellow fever require inoculation against the disease. Other risks include bilharzia, tuberculosis and rabies. Tap water should not be drunk unless it has been boiled or chemically treated. Medical facilities are limited, and outside of the capital medical care may be difficult to find. Limited French medications are available in Tana and it is advisable to bring along a medical kit for private use. Comprehensive medical insurance is advised.

Tipping: Service charges are not included in hotel and restaurant bills, and tipping is at the client's discretion. It is common practice to tip guides in the national parks.

Safety: Malawi is considered a safe country in which to travel and the majority of visits are trouble-free, but sensible precautions should be taken with regards to personal possessions and security, particularly after dark. There have been reports of robberies, money scams involving tourists, and 4x4 vehicles being hijacked; also be alert for muggers and bag snatchers. In Lilongwe the majority of incidents take place on Kenyatta Drive and around the bus station, so visitors should be particularly vigilant in these areas.

Customs: It is courteous to ask permission before taking photographs of people. Homosexuality is illegal. Women, in particular, should cover their legs and upper arms when travelling outside of the main tourist areas.

Business: Business in Malawi is quite formal; business cards are usually exchanged on meeting, accompanied by a firm handshake. Punctuality is important and dress should be formal; lightweight suits with a tie are acceptable. English is Malawi's official language and all business is conducted in English. Malawians tend to be very polite and thoughtful, and expect the same treatment in return. Business hours usually start fairly early; from 7.30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday.

Communications: The international dialling code for Malawi is +265. The outgoing code is 101 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 10127 for South Africa). There are no city/area codes required. The telephone system is not very reliable, but Internet, email and fax are available in most towns and tourist areas. The GSM 900 cell phone network gives coverage to most of the country and is compatible with most international operators.

Duty Free: Travellers to Malawi do not have to pay customs duty on 200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco. For travellers over 16 years 1 litre spirits, 1 litre beer and 1 litre wine can be brought into the country without incurring duty fees.