Map of Malawi – Regions, Cities & Location Guide
Explore Malawi with this interactive map showing Lilongwe, Blantyre, Mzuzu, Lake Malawi and the country's main roads, towns and landscapes. Zoom in to examine lakeshore settlements, national parks and the border areas shared with Zambia, Tanzania and Mozambique.
Malawi is a long, narrow, landlocked country in southeastern Africa. Its geography is strongly shaped by the East African Rift system and Lake Malawi, which extends along much of the eastern side of the country.
Malawi is in southeastern Africa, bordered by Zambia to the west, Tanzania to the north and northeast, and Mozambique to the east, south and southwest. Its capital is Lilongwe. The country has three main administrative regionsâNorthern, Central and Southernâand is known for Lake Malawi.
Interactive map | Regions and cities | Landmarks | FAQs
Zoom and move around to explore major cities, the lake, roads, mountains and nearby countries.
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Labels, boundaries and road information may change.
Where Is Malawi Located?
Malawi lies between the highlands of southern Africa and the Great Rift Valley. Unlike coastal neighbours, it has no direct ocean access. Lake Malawi forms a prominent natural feature along the country's eastern side, while the Shire River drains the lake southwards into Mozambique.
- North and northeast: Tanzania, including the northern lakeshore area.
- West: Zambia and inland plateau landscapes.
- East and south: Mozambique, surrounding much of Malawi's southern extent.
The country's elongated shape makes northâsouth travel and the lakeshore corridor important parts of understanding its geography.
Malawi's Regions and Major Cities
Malawi has three administrative regions, divided into 28 districts. The regions are useful for locating settlements and understanding different landscapes, although district boundaries may not appear at every map zoom level.
| Region | Major places and features |
|---|---|
| Northern | Mzuzu, Karonga, Rumphi, Nkhata Bay and the Nyika Plateau. |
| Central | Lilongwe, Kasungu, Salima, Dedza and the central lakeshore. |
| Southern | Blantyre, Zomba, Mangochi, Mulanje and the Shire Valley. |
Lilongwe is the national capital and administrative centre. Blantyre is a major commercial city, while Mzuzu is an important urban centre in the north. Zomba, a former capital, remains a significant historic and educational centre.
Natural Landmarks to Find on the Map
- Lake Malawi: A large freshwater lake known for its distinctive fish and lakeshore communities.
- Lake Malawi National Park: A UNESCO-listed protected area around Cape Maclear and nearby islands in the lake's southern section.
- Mount Mulanje: A dramatic southern mountain massif with Sapitwa Peak rising above surrounding plains.
- Liwonde National Park: A wildlife area associated with the Shire River and river-based safaris.
- Nyika National Park: A northern upland landscape of grasslands, valleys and rolling plateaus.
- Zomba Plateau: A highland feature near the historic city of Zomba.
Some natural areas are remote and have changing entry arrangements. Use the map for orientation, then check official visitor information before planning a trip.
Roads, Airports and Lake Transport
The M1 road corridor links major population centres across Malawi, including areas around Lilongwe, Mzuzu and Blantyre. Road conditions and journey times can vary substantially with weather and the type of road.
Major international air gateways include Kamuzu International Airport near Lilongwe and Chileka International Airport near Blantyre. Boats and ferries also serve selected communities along Lake Malawi, but routes and timetables may change.
Malawi's wet season can affect some rural roads. Use an up-to-date routing or transport service rather than relying solely on the embedded map for a journey.
What This Malawi Map Helps You Explore
- Find the capital, major regional centres and smaller towns.
- Understand where Lake Malawi meets the rift valley and uplands.
- Compare distances between the northern, central and southern regions.
- Locate national parks, mountain areas and lakeside destinations.
- See Malawi's position between Zambia, Tanzania and Mozambique.
Related Maps and Location Guides
Malawi Map FAQs
What is the capital of Malawi?
Lilongwe is Malawi's capital, in the Central Region.
Which countries border Malawi?
Malawi borders Zambia, Tanzania and Mozambique.
Does Malawi have a coastline?
It has no ocean coastline, but Lake Malawi provides an extensive freshwater shoreline.
How many regions are in Malawi?
There are three administrative regions: Northern, Central and Southern.
Where is Blantyre?
Blantyre is a major commercial city in southern Malawi, southwest of Zomba.
Where is Lake Malawi National Park?
It lies around Cape Maclear at the southern end of Lake Malawi, including nearby islands and lake waters.
Can this map be used for driving directions?
Use it to identify places and routes, but check a current navigation service and road conditions before travelling.
Disclaimer
For general geographic information only. Maps, boundaries, roads and landmarks may be approximate or outdated. Do not rely on this page for navigation, emergencies or official decisions. Verify current travel information independently. External links do not imply affiliation or endorsement.