• Search and Compare Icon
    Search & compare prices from leading car hire companies & save!
  • Flexible Rates Icon
    Flexible Rentals, Worldwide locations, No Hidden Fees
  • Social Media Icon
    Get in touch via Facebook
  • Multi Lingual Icon
    24/7 Multi Lingual Customer Service

Car Hire Malawi Guide

Driving in Malawi allows travelers to explore the country's stunning landscapes, including the picturesque shores of Lake Malawi and the diverse wildlife in national parks. The road network varies in quality, with major routes and highways generally well-maintained, but rural roads can be less predictable. It's advisable to use a sturdy and reliable vehicle, such as a 4x4, especially if you plan to venture off the main routes. Traffic in cities like Lilongwe and Blantyre can be congested, so exercise caution and patience while navigating urban areas.

Distances between cities and major attractions in Malawi are relatively manageable. For instance, the drive from Lilongwe, the capital, to Blantyre, the country's largest city, covers around 310 kilometers (193 miles) and takes approximately 4-5 hours. Along the way, you can explore places like the Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve, Liwonde National Park, and the beautiful lakeside town of Cape Maclear. When driving, be aware of wildlife crossings in national parks and rural areas, and drive defensively to ensure safety.

Safety and Places of Interest:

Malawi is generally considered safe for travelers, but it's essential to take precautions while driving. Road conditions can vary, so always be prepared for unexpected obstacles and potential potholes, especially on rural roads. It's advisable to drive during daylight hours and avoid nighttime travel, as visibility may be limited. Additionally, be cautious when encountering pedestrians, cyclists, and livestock on the road, as they are common in rural areas.

Malawi offers numerous attractions for travelers to explore, including:

  • Lake Malawi: Visit this stunning freshwater lake for water sports, snorkeling, and relaxation on its sandy beaches.

  • Nyika Plateau: Discover the unique highland wilderness, with opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.

  • Liwonde National Park: Go on a safari to spot elephants, hippos, and various bird species.

  • Majete Wildlife Reserve: Explore this growing reserve and observe the Big Five in their natural habitat.

  • Cultural Villages: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional villages and experiencing Malawi's warm hospitality.

Driving in Malawi allows travelers to access these attractions while enjoying the freedom to explore the country's natural beauty and rich culture at their own pace.


Cheapest car hire in Malawi

Toyota Corolla

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 114.81 EUR/day
Toyota Corolla

7 Days rental at 803.67 EUR from 17/06/2024

  3 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Toyota Corolla

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 114.81 EUR/day
Toyota Corolla

7 Days rental at 803.67 EUR from 17/06/2024

  3 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Toyota Corolla

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 114.81 EUR/day
Toyota Corolla

7 Days rental at 803.67 EUR from 17/06/2024

  3 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Volkswagen Polo

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 109.34 EUR/day
Volkswagen Polo

7 Days rental at 765.39 EUR from 17/06/2024

  2 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Volkswagen Polo

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 109.34 EUR/day
Volkswagen Polo

7 Days rental at 765.39 EUR from 17/06/2024

  2 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Volkswagen Polo

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 109.34 EUR/day
Volkswagen Polo

7 Days rental at 765.39 EUR from 17/06/2024

  2 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Toyota Land Cruiser

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 164.01 EUR/day
Toyota Land Cruiser

7 Days rental at 1148.09 EUR from 17/06/2024

  6 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Toyota Land Cruiser

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 164.01 EUR/day
Toyota Land Cruiser

7 Days rental at 1148.09 EUR from 17/06/2024

  6 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Toyota Land Cruiser

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 164.01 EUR/day
Toyota Land Cruiser

7 Days rental at 1148.09 EUR from 17/06/2024

  6 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Toyota Hilux Double

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 120.27 EUR/day
Toyota Hilux Double

7 Days rental at 841.93 EUR from 17/06/2024

  0 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Toyota Hilux Double

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 120.27 EUR/day
Toyota Hilux Double

7 Days rental at 841.93 EUR from 17/06/2024

  0 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Toyota Hilux Double

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 120.27 EUR/day
Toyota Hilux Double

7 Days rental at 841.93 EUR from 17/06/2024

  0 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Top tips when hiring a car in Malawi

  • Choose Rhinocarhire: Opt for Rhinocarhire, a reputable provider known for its reliable service and transparent pricing in Malawi.

  • Insurance Coverage: Understand the insurance options provided by Rhinocarhire, including coverage for collision damage, theft, and liability. Consider additional insurance for comprehensive protection, especially for driving in diverse terrains and rural areas.

  • Road Conditions Awareness: Be prepared for varying road conditions in Malawi, from well-maintained highways to rough, unpaved roads in remote regions. Drive cautiously and be mindful of potholes and livestock on the roads.

  • Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with Malawi's traffic laws and regulations, including speed limits, road signs, and parking rules. Respect local driving customs and be cautious of pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in urban areas.

  • Explore Natural Beauty: Utilize your rental car to explore Malawi's stunning landscapes and wildlife, including attractions like Lake Malawi, Majete Wildlife Reserve, and Mount Mulanje. Plan your routes to discover the best of Malawi's natural wonders and cultural heritage.

 

Popular car hire destinations in Malawi

Laws and rules of the road when driving in Malawi

  •  

    L

    Road Driving Side

  •  

    60kph

    Urban speed Limit

  •  

    80kph

    Rural Speed Limit

  •  

    120kph

    Motorway Speed Limit

  •  

    MWK  1188.30/Ltr

    Current Petrol Price

  •  

    80mg

    Drink Drive Limit

  •  

    MWK

    Currency

  •  

    NO

    Tolls

  •  

    23

    Min Rental Age

    18

    Min Driving Age

  •  

    Front and Rear

    Seatbelts

  •  

    Fixed and Mobile

    Speed Cameras

  •  

    Hands Free Only

    Mobile Phones

Average prices per day for car hire in Malawi

ItemPercent
January€ 186
February€ 167
March€ 166
April€ 172
May€ 175
June€ 161
July€ 168
August€ 188
September€ 190
October€ 172
November€ 173
December€ 187
ItemPercent
January€ 137
February€ 135
March€ 134
April€ 142
May€ 145
June€ 135
July€ 137
August€ 154
September€ 154
October€ 139
November€ 134
December€ 139
ItemPercent
January€ 245
February€ 241
March€ 240
April€ 257
May€ 261
June€ 237
July€ 244
August€ 278
September€ 276
October€ 241
November€ 252
December€ 247
ItemPercent
January€ 215
February€ 212
March€ 211
April€ 212
May€ 216
June€ 171
July€ 183
August€ 239
September€ 243
October€ 190
November€ 191
December€ 215
ItemPercent
January€ 292
February€ 288
March€ 288
April€ 288
May€ 296
June€ 279
July€ 277
August€ 300
September€ 307
October€ 288
November€ 289
December€ 290
ItemPercent
January€ 143
February€ 140
March€ 139
April€ 140
May€ 142
June€ 128
July€ 130
August€ 152
September€ 153
October€ 135
November€ 137
December€ 144
ItemPercent
ItemPercent
*average daily rates based on 7 day rental, search for today's best prices.

Fuel prices in Malawi

DieselUnleaded
May , 2023

€ 1.73

€ 1.57

Jun , 2023

€ 1.75

€ 1.59

Jul , 2023

€ 1.66

€ 1.51

Aug , 2023

€ 1.62

€ 1.47

Sep , 2023

€ 1.63

€ 1.48

Oct , 2023

€ 1.71

€ 1.55

Nov , 2023

€ 1.48

€ 1.37

Dec , 2023

€ 1.50

€ 1.39

Jan , 2024

€ 1.48

€ 1.37

Feb , 2024

€ 1.51

€ 1.40

Mar , 2024

€ 1.49

€ 1.38

Apr , 2024

€ 1.45

€ 1.34

Month, YearDiesel €/ltrUnleaded €/ltr
Apr , 2024 1.45 1.34
Mar , 2024 1.49 1.38
Feb , 2024 1.51 1.40
Jan , 2024 1.48 1.37
Dec , 2023 1.50 1.39
Nov , 2023 1.48 1.37
Oct , 2023 1.71 1.55
Sep , 2023 1.63 1.48
Aug , 2023 1.62 1.47
Jul , 2023 1.66 1.51
Jun , 2023 1.75 1.59
May , 2023 1.73 1.57

Car rental price statistics in Malawi

  • Average Price Icon
    € 765.38
    Average price:
    (per week)
  • Highest Daily Price Icon
    € 164.01
    Highest daily price:
    Toyota Land Cruiser
  • Total Vehicles Icon
    32
    Total cars available
     
  • Most Popular Car Model Icon
    8
    Most popular model:
    Toyota Corolla
  • Locations with Most Cars Icon
    8
    Location with most cars:
    Lilongwe Airport
  • Cheapest Daily Price Icon
    € 109.3 per day
    Cheapest daily price:
    AVIS - Lilongwe Airport
FAQs - How can we help?

There are always some points on which you are not sure when hiring a car, so we have done our best to answer the frequently asked questions. Just click this link and you will find the questions are sorted by category for easy navigation.

 


 

Useful links if renting a car in Malawi

Other Car Hire Locations in Malawi

We specialise in car rentals throughout Malawi to find you the best price and that's a promise...

Lilongwe
€159.7
 
 
Economy 5 5 3 from €159.7 per day
Fullsize 4 5 4 from €190.2 per day
Compact 5 5 3 from €182.4 per day