Hiding in the more famous countries of Zambia, Tanzania and Mozambique, are small, inland countries that are not as famous as their neighbours, despite being chosen as one of the safest countries in Africa.
Malawi is an inland country in southeastern Africa, but still boasts some of the most incredible beaches in the world, but is very different from the Seychelles beaches.
Malawi is home to Lake Malawi, one of the world's largest freshwater lakes.
Often called the “warm heart of Africa,” Malawi is one of Africa's most beloved travel destinations by people who venture beyond the more famous options in the southern part of the continent.
The country's landscape is very diverse, with four different regions. Most dominant are East Africa's Lift Valley, large valley-like depression that runs throughout the country, central highlands, highlands, and isolated mountains.
Lake Malawi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a gem of the nation's tourist crown, stretching over 300 miles. It is the fourth largest freshwater lake in the world and the second deepest lake in Africa after Lake Tanganyika.
Lake Malawi is home to more fish species than any other lake in the world, including only at least 700 species of cichlids. So this vast, clear water is one of the best freshwater diving and snorkeling spots in Africa.
Additionally, it is bordered by a golden sandy beach with no crowds and can be easily combined with a safari. One of the best is Nkhata Bay, a relaxing resort village with two sandy beaches and a peninsula. Perfect for walking, kayaking and diving.
In the north is Nika, Malawi's oldest and largest national park. Boasting breathtaking mountain scenery, the park is home to a wide variety of animals and plants, including zebras, sable antelopes, leopards and large flocks of hundreds of wild flower species.
Meanwhile, Liwonde National Park is full of wildlife, including elephants, birches, black rhinos, crocodiles and more than 600 species of birds.
Malawi has few urban areas, with the capital and largest city being Lilongwe, followed by Blantyre, Muzuzu, Zombas and Zombas.
With an estimated 21.2 million people, Malawi remains one of the most developed countries in the world, with an economy that relies heavily on agriculture.
It also has low life expectancy, high infant mortality rates, and HIV and AIDS are very prevalent, affecting the workforce and accounting for a significant amount of government spending.
Nevertheless, Malawi is renowned for its warm and friendly atmosphere created by its people. The Malawians describe themselves as Africa's most friendly people and live in the “warm heart” of the continent.
Malawi is also known to be one of the safest countries in Africa, and has a reputation for being a peaceful destination with low crime rates, especially in tourist destinations. Like other countries around the world, there have been reports of crimes in major cities, mainly including small crimes such as pickpockets and robberies.
