Blantyre
Blantyre, named after the birthplace of Dr David Livingstone, a Scottish explorer and missionary, who played a significant role in the exploration of Africa, Blantyre is the second largest city and serves as a commercial capital of Malawi. Over the years, Blantyre has grown into a bustling city with a rich cultural heritage that reflects the influence of various ethnic groups including the Chewa, Yao and Ngoni.
This vibrant city offers a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty and diversity. From its colonial architecture and bustling local markets to stunning landscapes and friendly locals, Blantyre is a destination that will captivate and inspire travelers seeking a unique and enriching experience.
Accommodation In Blantyre
Blantyre offers diverse accommodation option, ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses, making it suitable for various budgets and preferences. Guests can enjoy a unique blend of comfort and local charm, ensuring a memorable stay in this vibrant city.
The Leslie Executive Hotel
The Leslie Executive Hotel has a long-standing reputation for excellence, consistently receiving glowing reviews from satisfied guests. Originally built in the early 1997, the hotel has undergone extensive renovations to maintain its elegant charm while incorporating modern conveniences. Known for its exceptional customer service and attention to detail, the Leslie Executive Hotel prides itself on providing a memorable and luxurious experience for all who walk through its doors.
Mijn Kitchen Bed & Breakfast
Located centrally in the business district of Blantyre. Mijn Kitchen Bed and Breakfast is a charming establishment nestled in the heart of Blantyre.
This small family-owned business boasts a cosy coffee shop, unique in its range of artisanal foods and freshly brewed coffee, as well as fully furnished bed and breakfast.
Activities in Blantyre
Blantyre is in close proximity to a few really good destinations you would not even need to stay overnight. You can make day trips from the commercial city. Here are a few recommendations of trips you can make while doing other things in Blantyre.
Blantyre City Tour
Join us on a city tour around Blantyre. The city offers a vibrant tapestry of experiences that captivates every guest who ventures through the streets. From the rich history embodied in its architectural gems to lively markets brimming with local culture, each aspect of the city tour serves to engage and delight visitors.
The unique blend of enjoyment and enrichment not only showcases Blantyre’s charm but also leaves travelers with a profound appreciation its heritage and community spirit.
Visit Majete Wildlife Reserve
Majete is Malawi’s premier wildlife destination. Experience the full wonder of Malawi’s Majete Wildlife Reserve, restored to diverse abundance with thriving animal populations and plentiful birdlife.
Majete lies just 71 km, an hour and half drive from Blantyre. The drive follows the escarpment road down to the lower shire valley. It offers a spectacular view of the mighty Shire River and the elephant marsh. Majete is the perfect reserve for day visitors.
Visit Zomba Plateau
Zomba City (Malawi’s old Capital) is only 70 km from Blantyre. Zomba offers a number of activities including hiking on the Zomba Plateau. Enjoy spectacular views from the Queens View on the eastern side of the plateau.
The Emperor Haile Salassie view, from the view you can gaze down on Zomba town and out towards Mulanje.
On a clear day, the majestic Mount Mulanje is visible. Enjoy the beautiful Williams Falls as you walk back to the hotel through the Mulunguzi Dam.
Visit Satemwa Tea Estate
Located just 40km outside Blantyre, in Thyolo District, Satemwa Tea Estate is Malawi’s first fair-trade estate. Founded in 1923 by the Maclean Kay, a Scottish immigrant and former rubber planter, and has since been passed down from generation to the current 3rd generation of the family.
For a typical day trip to Satemwa Tea Estate, you would visit the factory for the famous tea tasting experience. This is a definite for tea enthusiasts and simple occasional tea drinkers. After tea tasting, you can treat yourself to some high tea or lunch at the Huntingdon House before returning to Blantyre in the afternoon.
Visit Mount Mulanje
Mount Mulanje is locally known as ‘Island in the Sky’. It lies 80 km east of Blantyre and offers a range of hiking possibilities. One of the popular places on the must and a must-visit is the Dziwe La Nkhalamba (Old man’s pool) a pool formed on the Likhubula river on the west side of the mountain.
A typical day trip would include arrival in Mulanje at 10:00am and proceeding to the waterfalls, arriving just before 11:00am. Spend a few hours and trek back at 15:00hours latest, for arrival back in Blantyre late afternoon.
Best Time To Visit Blantyre
The best time to visit Blantyre, Malawi is during the dry season, from May to October, for pleasant weather and cooler temperatures, with the wet season occurring from November to April.