How to travel to Kenya from Malawi?
Kenya is one of Africa's most diverse vacation destinations. The biggest lure is going on safari in world-class parks like the Masai Mara National Reserve, but this tropical East African country has many other appealing features. The distance from Kenya to Malawi is quite close, so you can conveniently travel to the country.
There are two main ways to travel from Malawi to Kenya:
- By Air
This is the fastest and most convenient option. Two airlines offer direct flights from Lilongwe, Malawi (LLW) to Nairobi, Kenya (NBO): Kenya Airways and Ethiopian Airlines. Flight time is approximately 2 to 3 hours.
- By Road and Public Transport
This is a lengthier and more complicated alternative, requiring 2-3 days and many connections. It is also less pleasant than flying. However, it is a less expensive alternative that allows you to see a variety of scenery along the way.
- Route: The most usual way is to take a bus from Lilongwe to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and then another from Dar es Salaam to Mbeya. From Mbeya, take a rail or bus to Songea, then another bus to Karonga on Malawi's Tanzanian border. Finally, you may get a bus from Karonga to Lilongwe.
- Costs: The overall cost of road travel will vary depending on the routes and businesses you pick, but it is often far less expensive than flying.
- Considerations: Be prepared for long travel times, potential delays, and limited amenities when traveling by road.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when traveling from Malawi to Kenya:
- Check ETA requirements: Malawian passport holders are among those eligible to apply for a Kenya ETA. Kenya ETA allows one entry for tourists, transit, and business. Malawian passport holders are required to enter Kenya within 3 months of the issue date
- Vaccinations: Check that you are up to date on all required vaccines for Kenya. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website provides information about recommended immunizations.
- Currency exchange: Kenya's currency is the Kenyan shilling (KES). You may convert Malawian kwacha (MWK) into Kenyan shillings at any bank or currency exchange in Malawi or Kenya.