Cheap Flights To Blantyre

The commercial centre of Malawi, home to more than one million inhabitants and a delightful region steeped in history and culture, Blantyre is becoming an increasingly popular tourist attraction boasting an array of interesting activities and things to do. Founded in 1876 by Scottish Missionaries and named after a town in south Lanarkshire, the region became attractive to traders as a hub for the colonial trade of ivory.

The area features a tropical climate, with two distinct seasons: the rainy and dry season. Nonetheless, irrespective of the season, the region enjoys a warm and temperate climate throughout the year. As the oldest urban centre in southern, east and central Africa, Blantyre is littered with historical and cultural sites. Visit the city's National Museum, with its intriguing display of Gule Wamkulu dances and array of locomotive engines dating back to 1900. With such a rich and diverse culture, the city also hosts a fine selection of festivals to celebrate a myriad of occasions. Plan your trip to coincide with the Manda Wilderness Dug-Out Canoe Race in April. The event begins with swimming races where children from local villages compete and this is followed by an exciting canoe race and traditional dancing.

Things To Do

Blantyre and the charming region around boasts an interesting and varied number of attractions and activities. From shopping in one the city's newest malls or exploring one of the many markets to trekking in the national parks. Blantyre has something for everyone.

• For the water sports enthusiasts

Head to beautiful Monkey Bay. This picturesque harbour and port is a favourite with water sports enthusiasts and the selection of marine life entices divers and snorkellers. Water skiing is also available.

• For the shopaholics

Grab your wallet and head to Chichiri Shopping Mall. The shopping centre boasts craft shops, book shops, boutique stalls and hand crafted products created by local artisans.

• For nature enthusiasts

Spend the day at Majete Wildlife Reserve, one of Malawi's most important conservation areas. Spot elephants, tigers, leopards and various species of monkeys.

Calendar Of Events

The residents of Blantyre know how to celebrate and the city hosts a fine variety of events throughout the year. Expect flamboyant costumes, ethnic dance and a warm and friendly welcome.

• Manda Wilderness Dug-Out Canoe Race: The Manda Wilderness Dug-Out Canoe Race is hosted in April and brings together children and adults from the villages in the Manda Wilderness. The event begins with a boys' and girls' swimming race and is followed by an exciting canoe race.

• Malipenga Dance Season: Hosted in August, the Malipenga Dance Season celebrates the region's traditional dance. The residents of Malawi compete and host demonstrations in the cities across the country. The event also features workshops and live music.

• Lake of Stars: Occurring in September, the Lake of Stars is a highly popular music festival that features musicians of all genres, including traditional Malawi performers. In addition to live music, festival-goers are treated to firework displays and workshops.