MALAWI WEATHER & CLIMATE 

Malawi experiences a subtropical climate—it has dry and wet seasons. The warm, rainy season spans from November to April. May to October are dry season months. Malawi weather is best for travel. You will enjoy the country whether you are going on a safari, swimming in Lake Malawi, or exploring the villages and cities such as Lilongwe and Blantyre. 

From May to August, Malawi experiences a cool, dry winter. Temperatures average between 63°F (17°C) and 81°F (27°C), occasionally dropping to 39°F—50°F (4°C–10°C). June and July are the coldest months in Malawi. This weather would not be considered as cold winter by someone visiting from the US and Europe, where winter can be brutally cold.

The hottest months of the year in Malawi are September and October. Temperatures range from 77°F to  98°F (25°C to 37°C). October is the hottest month. 

The rainy season months are between November and April. 95% of the country’s annual rain falls during these months. However, the weather is warm. Humidity is at the most in the wetter months of January and February. Fresh breeze propelled by many trees all over the country gives relief. I visited and lived in many parts of the world, including Oklahoma (where humidity is a big nuisance)—I would say humidity is not an issue in Malawi. 

SO WHEN SHOULD YOU VISIT MALAWI

Malawi is most pleasant to visit between May and August. These months have cooler temperatures and dry weather. 

It is a perfect time to see animals at places like Liwonde National Park, visit Lake Malawi, hike mountains like Mulanje Mountain, and mingle with local people in Lilongwe, Blantyre, and many rural villages.

In areas of higher grounds like mountains, nights can be quite chilly but not too windy. Still, this period is a good time to go because it is perfect during the day.

When it comes to the December month, Lake Malawi weather is very good and ideal. I have visited Lake Malawi and Liwonde National Park in December a few times and enjoyed the experience immensely. 

If you don’t mind the heat, September and October would be okay to visit as well. Some people find this weather perfect for swimming and water activities at Lake Malawi. Popular lakeside areas include Mangochi, Monkeybay, Cape Maclear, Nkhata Bay, and Salima. 

Also, if you plan to take a Malawi safari, dry hot months have alot of animals congregating near the rivers. But if you intend to hike mountains, these months might not be ideal.