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Lilongwe

Lilongwe is the capital and largest city of Malawi, located in the central region near the borders with Mozambique and Zambia. As an important economic and transportation hub, the city offers visitors access to Malawi's heart and serves as a gateway to exploring the country.

Quick facts

Population
781,538 (city)
Currency
Malawian kwacha (MWK)
Language
English, Chewa
Timezone
CAT (UTC+2)
Local time now
04:59:55

Hotels in Lilongwe

Lilongwe offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from established hotels like Imperial Town Hotel and Lilongwe Hotel to lodges such as Korea Garden Lodge and Area 3 Lodge. Whether you're travelling for business or leisure, you'll find suitable places to stay throughout the city. See all hotels →

Airports in Lilongwe

Lilongwe is served by two airports: Kamuzu International Airport, which handles most domestic and international flights, and Old Lilongwe Airport. These facilities provide convenient access to Malawi's capital city for travelers arriving by air. See all airports →

Old Lilongwe Airport
7.5 km from centre
Kamuzu International Airport
22.1 km from centre

Car Hire in Lilongwe

Lilongwe offers several car hire options for visitors and residents needing vehicle rentals. Services such as SS Rent A Car, Planet Car Hire, PLANT AND VEHICLE HIRE ORGANISATION, and Sputonik car hire are available to meet your transportation needs. See all car hire →

SS Rent A Car
325 m from centre
Planet Car Hire
516 m from centre
PLANT AND VEHICLE HIRE ORGANISATION 
801 m from centre
Sputonik car hire
819 m from centre

Things to Do in Lilongwe

Lilongwe offers visitors a range of activities, from exploring vibrant local markets like Ziboliboli and the Wood market to enjoying entertainment at venues such as Pirate's Casino. Whether you're interested in shopping, dining, or experiencing local culture, Lilongwe has something to offer. See all things to do →

Market eatery (Ziboliboli)
7 m from centre
Airtel
290 m from centre
Graveyard
678 m from centre
Pirate's Casino
1.0 km from centre
Wood market
1.2 km from centre
Chitenge shops
1.2 km from centre

Restaurants in Lilongwe

Lilongwe offers a diverse dining scene with restaurants catering to various tastes and cuisines. From established venues like Courtyard -By Imperial Hotels to options including Ali Baba, Circle and Square, Papaya, and Bombay Palace, visitors can explore local and international flavors throughout the city. See all restaurants →

Courtyard -By Imperial Hotels
indian · 65 m from centre
Ali Baba
146 m from centre
Circle and Square
korean;crepe;tea;coffee_shop · 158 m from centre

Swimming Pools in Lilongwe

Lilongwe offers several swimming pool facilities for residents and visitors. Options include Golden Peacock swimming pool and pools at establishments such as Lilongwe Hotel and Bishop Mackenzie International School. See all swimming pools →

Lilongwe Hotel
321 m from centre
Bishop Mackenzie International School
2.0 km from centre
Golden Peacock swimming pool
4.4 km from centre

Spas in Lilongwe

We're still gathering spas listings for Lilongwe — check back soon.

Nightlife in Lilongwe

Lilongwe offers a selection of venues for those seeking evening entertainment. Club Discorium is among the options available for nightlife in the capital. See all nightlife →

Club Discorium
6.0 km from centre

Bars in Lilongwe

Lilongwe offers a variety of bars and drinking establishments for visitors and locals alike. Popular venues including Nocturne, Alexander's, Woody Wood Pecker Bar, Centre Point, and Harry's Bar provide options for an evening out in the city. See all bars →

Nocturne
145 m from centre
Alexander's
375 m from centre
Woody Wood Pecker Bar
1.2 km from centre

Cafes in Lilongwe

Lilongwe offers a variety of cafes catering to locals and visitors alike. From Ras Café and Serendipity Lifestyle Cafe to Mugg & Bean, Cuneco - a fusion cafe -, and Uka Coffee, you'll find welcoming spots to enjoy refreshments and light meals throughout the city. See all cafes →

Ras Café
african;asian · 127 m from centre
Serendipity Lifestyle Cafe
coffee_shop · 638 m from centre
Mugg & Bean
2.0 km from centre

Shopping in Lilongwe

Lilongwe offers a range of shopping destinations for visitors and residents alike. From established malls like Alliance Mall and Old Town Mall to department stores and electronics retailers, the city provides convenient options for retail shopping and everyday goods. See all shopping →

lidi Department store
373 m from centre
Alliance Mall
416 m from centre
Globe Star Eletronics
621 m from centre

Nature & Wildlife in Lilongwe

Lilongwe offers several opportunities to experience Malawi's natural beauty and wildlife. Visit the Lilongwe Wildlife Center, explore the Lilongwe Nature Reserve, or relax at Asamez Gardens & Events to connect with the region's diverse ecosystems and flora. See all nature & wildlife →

Lilongwe Wildlife Center
2.4 km from centre
Asamez Gardens & Events
2.4 km from centre
Lilongwe Nature Reserve
2.9 km from centre
Lilongwe Nature Reserve
3.0 km from centre
City Centre Roundabout
4.4 km from centre

Climate snapshot

Lilongwe experiences a subtropical climate typical of central Malawi, with warm temperatures throughout much of the year. The region has distinct wet and dry seasons, with the wet season bringing rainfall and the dry season offering clearer skies and more comfortable conditions for exploration.

Interesting Facts About Lilongwe — Weird & Wonderful

  • Lilongwe is named after the Lilongwe River, which flows through the city.
  • The city's population has grown significantly, from 674,448 in 2008 to over 1.1 million by 2020.
  • Lilongwe serves as a crucial economic and transportation hub for central Malawi.
  • The city is strategically positioned near the borders with both Mozambique and Zambia.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lilongwe

What currency is used in Lilongwe?

Lilongwe uses the Malawian Kwacha (MWK) as its currency, as it is the capital of Malawi.

What is the population of Lilongwe?

Lilongwe is Malawi's largest city with a population of 1,122,000 as of 2020, making it the country's primary urban centre.

What region is Lilongwe in?

Lilongwe is located in the central region of Malawi, in the Lilongwe District, near the borders with Mozambique and Zambia.

Why is Lilongwe important?

Lilongwe is an important economic and transportation hub for central Malawi, serving as the country's capital and largest city.

Is Lilongwe easy to reach by air?

As Malawi's capital and largest city, Lilongwe is well-served by air connections, making it accessible for international visitors.

Map of Lilongwe

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