Blantyre
Although it is not the capital, it is by far the biggest town in Malawi with a population of nearly half a million people. It is named after the famous explorer, Dr. Livingstone's birthplace in Scotland and is a located in the beautiful southern part of the country providing easy access to surrounding attractions like Zomba Plateau, the Mulanje Mountains and Lengwe National Park. The buildings worth visiting in the town include the National Museum, the All Angels Church and St. Michael's Church.

Cape Maclear
The quiet beautiful beach resort can be reached via a rough road from Monkey Bay. It is a good base for hiking, diving (be aware of bilharzia) amongst many colourful fish, visiting nearby islands and the Lake Malawi National Park. It is advised to bring one's own food supplies.

Lilongwe
This pretty, tree-filled capital of Malawi, is often just a stopover point for visitors to replenish food stock before heading into the countryside. There is a market near the post-office with a variety of exquisite woodcarvings and other curios.

Livingstonia
For some of the most spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and the lake, head up this steep escarpment to visit the old Scottish missionary station. There is a small hotel, a museum and the 60 meter high Manchewe Waterfalls with caves hidden behind it. This village can only be reached with a sturdy vehicle that can navigate the 22 hairpin bends and a stony dirt road. Senga Bay
Another popular village situated on the lake's shore and east of Lilongwe, offers day trips to the nearby Lizard Island with its population of monitors (huge lizards) and other water-sports.

National Parks
Although Malawi cannot compete with the abundance of game found in many neighboring countries, the reserves are less crowded, offer wonderful scenic panoramas and often allow hiking.

Nyika National Park
Situated in the northern part of the country on top of the Nyika Plateau, this 3200 km2 park provides the visitor with unforgettable views and the opportunity to explore the grass-covered wilderness on foot. Hikes lasting up to five days can be booked through the Tourism Offices in Lilongwe. The animal life includes the rare roan antelope, eland, zebra, hyena, leopard, porcupine, jackal, a rich variety of birds and plenty fish in the rivers. 4x4 vehicles are advisable in this park especially during the rainy season and although there is accommodation, visitors should be self-sufficient otherwise.

Kasungu National Park
This 2000km2 park is situated in the middle of the country, north of Lilongwe. It has a magnificent variety of wildlife including elephant, buffalo, lion, cheetah, leopard, sable, kudu, oribi, eland and some 250 different bird species. The best time for animal viewing is during the drier months of August through to November when the foliage is thin. There are also some rock paintings and archaeological sites. Accommodation is available at the Lifupa Wildlife Lodge, which offers chalets, bedded tents, a restaurant and swimming pool.

Lengwe National Park
This small park which also allows hiking and watching game from well-disguised hides, has some rare wildlife including the tiny Suni antelope and Samango monkey. Other game includes nyala antelope, impala, sable, buffalo, leopard, hyena, warthog and many others. Birders will not be disappointed in this park that also offers limited accommodation.

Lake Malawi National Park
This is the newest addition to the national parks of Malawi and situated on the southern edge of the lake. Although there is currently only camping facilities available, there are plans to build a lodge in the near future. Visitors can view the variety of tropical fish with the use of scuba equipment, but be aware of the risk of Bilharzia. There are also hippos, monkeys, baboons and plenty birds in this park that is open all year round. Nearby lodges include Nkopola Lodge, Club Makokola and Palm Beach.