When to Malawi
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-Month Guide
January
January falls in the heart of the wet season with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and lush green landscapes. Temperatures are warm and humidity is high, making it feel quite tropical. This is a quieter time for tourism, though wildlife viewing can be challenging as animals disperse with abundant water sources.
February
February continues the rainy season with heavy downpours, particularly in the afternoons. The countryside is at its most verdant, and migratory birds are present. Roads in remote areas may become challenging, but Lake Malawi remains warm and inviting for those seeking a quieter beach experience.
March
March marks the transition toward the end of the wet season, though substantial rainfall continues. Temperatures remain warm and the landscape is beautifully green. This is one of the quietest months for tourism, offering excellent value for budget travelers who don't mind occasional rain.
April
April sees rainfall beginning to taper off, though showers still occur regularly. Temperatures start to cool slightly, making conditions more comfortable. The landscape remains lush, and this shoulder month offers good value with improving weather conditions and fewer tourists.
May
May ushers in the dry season with significantly reduced rainfall and pleasant temperatures. Skies clear up, making it excellent for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. This is the beginning of peak tourist season with comfortable weather conditions.
June
June offers some of the most pleasant weather of the year with cool, dry conditions and clear skies. Nights can be chilly, especially in highland areas, so warmer clothing is recommended. This is prime time for safaris, hiking, and Lake Malawi activities with excellent visibility and comfortable temperatures.
July
July is the coolest and driest month, with crisp mornings and warm sunny days. This is peak tourist season with excellent conditions for all activities. Wildlife viewing is outstanding as animals gather at waterholes, and the clear skies provide perfect conditions for photography and outdoor adventures.
August
August continues the cool, dry season with similar conditions to July. Days are sunny and warm while nights remain cool. This remains peak season for tourism with optimal weather for safaris, hiking, and water activities on Lake Malawi. Advance bookings are recommended for popular lodges.
September
September marks the transition to the hot, dry season with temperatures rising noticeably. Skies remain clear and rainfall is still minimal. Wildlife viewing remains excellent as water sources become scarcer. This is a great shoulder month with good weather and slightly fewer tourists than July-August.
October
October is the hottest month of the year with temperatures peaking before the rains arrive. Conditions are dry and dusty, though wildlife viewing can be exceptional as animals concentrate around remaining water sources. The heat can be intense, particularly in low-lying areas, but Lake Malawi offers refreshing relief.
November
November sees the first rains of the wet season, bringing relief from the October heat. Showers are typically short and sporadic, often occurring in the afternoons. The landscape begins to green up, and migratory birds start arriving. Tourist numbers decrease as the wet season approaches.
December
December is firmly in the wet season with regular rainfall, though sunny periods still occur. Temperatures are warm and humidity increases. The landscape is lush and green, and this is the breeding season for many animals. Tourism is quiet except for some holiday visitors, offering good value for those who don't mind occasional rain.