15 Best Things To Do In Lilongwe, Malawi - Updated 2024

1. Experience the local life and culture by visiting Kumbali Cultural Village

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Fully experience the Malawian life and culture by visiting the Kumbali Cultural Village. The place showcases the typical traditional village where you get to see and experience plenty of educational and recreational activities including pottery, painting, and biking. A guided tour will take you through the village as you learn about the local way of life. You also get the chance to sample some of the tastiest and exotic African delicacies including kachumbari, nthochi, chambo, and the Malawian staple nsima.

Kumbali Cultural Village

Address: 3R6R+78J, Lilongwe, Malawi

Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)

2. Travel back in time at Chongoni Rock Art Area

Travel back in time by touring Chongoni Rock Art Area. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features numerous natural rock shelters where the late Stone Age hunter-gatherer community of Batwa and the subsequent Iron Age farming communities created their rock paintings. Many of these pre-historic paintings depict animals and geometrical patterns as well as women’s initiation, rainmaking, and funerary rites that are often in red or white paints.

These images not only offer a sneak peek at the pre-historic community’s way of life but show their artistic aptitude as well. The Chongoni Rock Art Area is located in scenic forested granite hills just northwest of Dedza, in Central Malawi.

Chongoni Rock Art Area

Address: Dedza District, Central Malawi

3. Enjoy a fun-filled day with the fam at FunCity Amusement Park

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Take your family on a fun-filled trip to FunCity Amusement Park. It is perfect for kids as it features fun and exciting rides including a merry-go-round, an airplane kiddie ride, a playground, and an inflatable bounce and slide area. There are plenty of fun events that happen throughout the year including Malawian traditional games, fun runs, and a lot more. You can grab a bite at the food stalls located within the park that offer tasty snacks and refreshing drinks.

FunCity Amusement Park

Address: Chayamba Drive, Lilongwe, Malawi

Website: FunCity Amusement Park

Opening hours: 8am - 5:30pm (daily)

4. Enjoy a relaxing day at Kulemeka Gardens

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Kulemeka Gardens is a botanical garden right in the heart of the city of Lilongwe. This urban oasis features a landscaped outdoor area with beautiful flowers, plants, trees, and grassy areas. The park is perfect for hanging out with family or friends under the sun. It’s also open for private events such as weddings, birthdays, photoshoots, and more. Check out Kulemeka Gardens and enjoy a relaxing day with beautiful sceneries all around—truly a place deserving of a visit!

Kulemeka Gardens

Address: Mphonongo, Lilongwe, Malawi

5. Wine, dine, and relax at Orchid Café & Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Orchid Café & Restaurant is a casual dining spot that offers a diverse menu that highlights authentic Persian and Middle Eastern dishes, which include Hummus, Falafel sandwich, Kebobs, and different stews. The place also boasts the best cocktail bar in the city with a wide array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from coffees and sodas to beers, ales, hard liqueurs, and wines. And did we mention that the cozy spot turns into a party place with live music come nighttime?

Orchid Café & Restaurant

Address: Lilongwe, Malawi

Website: Orchid Café & Restaurant

Opening hours: Mon - Thurs: 5pm - 10pm; Fri - Sun: 2pm - 10pm

6. Visit the historic Kamuzu Mausoleum

Lilongwe is a captivating African city that is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, but not only that, it also boasts marvelous landmarks that are significant in the city’s rich history. One of them is Kamuzu Mausoleum. This museum is the first president of the country’s resting place, Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda. It is built with marble and granite, creating strong foundations and an elegant facade. Kamuzu Mausoleum showcases four pillars, and between each of them, you’ll find initials that mean unity, loyalty, obedience, and discipline - his distinguished principles.

Kamuzu Mausoleum

Address: Capital Hill, Presidential Way, Lilongwe, Malawi

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

7. Spend an afternoon at Four Seasons Nursery and Garden Shop

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

An adventure to a foreign country or city would not be complete without an exciting food trip. If you are looking for a fantastic and unique restaurant to try in Lilongwe, Four Seasons Nursery and Garden Shop might pique your interest. Located in Presidential Way, close to Kamuzu Mausoleum, this dining spot is a popular hangout spot among tourists and locals alike. It boasts a refreshingly natural atmosphere that will make you feel reconnected with nature while enjoying the scenery. Additionally, aside from dining, guests can explore the area and see fascinating flora, majestic landscapes, and lovely water features. On top of those, they can purchase crops, plants, and fertilizer in the garden shop on-site.

Four Seasons Nursery and Garden Shop

Address: Presidential Way, Lilongwe, Malawi

Website: Four Seasons Nursery and Garden Shop

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 7:30am - 4:30pm

8. Admire wildlife in their natural habitat in Lilongwe Wildlife Centre (from USD 370.0)

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If there’s one thing Lilongwe is most popular for, it’s the Lilongwe River. Stretching 200km (124mi) long, this river crosses different cities in Malawi, especially the capital city of Lilongwe. Aside from its magnificence and picturesque views, it is visited for the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, an exceptional refuge for injured wildlife since 2007. Here, you’ll find lots of fascinating creatures, such as elephants, tigers, monkeys, and others. Aside from taking care of these precious animals, Lilongwe Wildlife Centre educates people on their cause through campaigns and ecological initiatives.

Lilongwe City Tour (full day)

Duration: 8 hours

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370.0

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9. Buy some wood-carvings at the Lilongwe Craft Market

Sightseeing, city walks, and shopping are a big part of any tour. If you like scoring interesting local goods and buying souvenirs, you should make sure to visit Lilongwe Craft Market. It is a lovely little shopping district that features numerous stalls that sell arts and crafts. Here, you’ll find interesting wood carvings that make really charming home decor. There are also plates, cups, and other kitchenware that are made from wood. Plus, keychains and pieces of jewelry are available in this flea market, and they are popular souvenir items among tourists.

Lilongwe Craft Market

Address: Old Town, Lilongwe, Malawi

10. Catch a performance at Umunthu Theatre

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Interested in immersing yourself in the vibrant African art scene of Lilongwe? Umunthu Theatre is the place to be. Located along Paul Kagame Road, this entertainment hub features a charming renovated warehouse as its venue. It hosts different types of art, from live music to film, plays, comedy, social arts, and more. Its main objective is to provide a platform for local Malawian artists to showcase their craft. Every Friday night, a variety show is held in Umunthu Theatre, and everyone is free to witness the spectacle.

Umunthu Theatre

Address: Paul Kagame Road, Lilongwe, Malawi.

11. Drop by the iconic Parliament Building

Located on the outskirts of Lilongwe, the Parliament Building is the seat of the government of the country. Once found in Zomba, this center for power was transferred to Lilongwe in 1994. The Parliament Building has now become one of the features of the extravagance of the ex-President Banda. It is a modern architectural wonder that was built by the Chinese, and its interiors are just as magnificent as its outside facade.

Parliament Building

Address: Presidential Way, Lilongwe, Malawi,

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 4:30pm (tour hours)

12. Learn about the country's tobacco industry at Tobacco Auction Floors

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Another notable and must-see place that you should not miss on your Lilongwe adventure Is the Tobacco Auction Floors in the spacious Auction Holding Warehouse. This remarkable attraction represents the vibrant economy of the country. During the auction season, lots of tobacco suppliers gather in Tobacco Auction Floors to present their craft and possibly make business with other vendors and potential buyers.

Tobacco Auction Floors

Address: Auction Floors Road, Lilongwe, Malawi

Website: Tobacco Auction Floors

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

13. Purchase some art pieces at La Galleria Africa

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Situated in Area 4, La Galleria Africa is another art hub in Lilongwe. This venue for art features stunningly quaint interiors, highlighted by brick walls, expansive glass windows, and sleek rustic accents. It showcases breathtaking pieces from a multitude of local talents, providing them with new networks and potential buyers. La Galleria Africa has paintings, wooden sculptures, jewelry, garments, and other locally made crafts. Be sure to bag as many souvenir items as your budget can, as most goods here are really unique and authentic to Malawian artists.

La Galleria Africa

Address: Area 4, Lilongwe, Malawi

Website: La Galleria Africa

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8:30am - 10pm; Sun: 10am - 10pm

14. Relish delicious American cuisines at Ad Lib Executive Diner

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Done with all the sightseeing, landmarks visit, and nature escapades in Lilongwe? You might want to treat yourself and your travel buddies to some delicious dining experience in Ad Lib Executive Diner. Located in Mandala Road Area 3, this dining spot serves sumptuous American food that you will surely love. Lots of people drive all the way to this restaurant for its gourmet burgers, which are a sure blockbuster hit. Aside from excellent food, Ad Lib Executive Diner crafts sophisticated cocktails that work well with their culinary delights.

Ad Lib

Address: Mandala Rd, Area3 Lilongwe, Malawi

Website: Ad Lib

Opening hours: 7:30am - 11:15pm (daily)

15. Enjoy bites and drinks at Chameleon Bar

Editor’s note: Establishment is Permanently closed.

Wrap up your Lilongwe escapade with some quality time with your loved ones at Chameleon Bar. A popular hangout among locals and visitors alike, Chameleon Bar attracts different crowds. As long as you’re in the legal drinking age, you are welcome to join the fun in this lovely social place. Its charm reflects in its outdoorsy setting and relaxed vibe. Table settings are curated in the middle of a leafy environment, and fresh air adds relaxation to customers. Open every day of the week, Chameleon Bar hosts karaoke nights on Thursdays. Aside from bites and drinks, this bar’s delightful live music attracts customers.

Chameleon Bar

Address: Four Seasons Centre, Presidential Way

Website: Chameleon Bar

Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 4pm - 11pm; Thu: 4pm - 12pm; Fri - Sun: 2pm - 11pm

Make the most of your Lilongwe vacation

Lilongwe is a stunning city in the African country of Malawi. It is known for its breathtaking natural wonders and pleasant people. More so, this city has landmarks that are worth a visit, a vibrant art scene, and fantastic flea markets where you can score local arts and crafts. For tourists who are planning to spend a much-deserved vacation on this side of Malawi, use this list of the best things to do in Lilongwe as your guide.