By road
Main roads between Lilongwe, Blantyre, and Mzuzu are paved and in reasonable condition. The M1 highway runs the length of the country from north to south and is the backbone of road travel. Secondary roads vary: some are fine, many are unpaved, and rural tracks can become impassable during the rains. Do not rely on GPS for secondary roads — mapping is poor and road signs are sparse.
Avoid driving after dark. Roads are unlit, pedestrians and cyclists don't use lights, and livestock wander onto the tarmac. Accidents at night are common.
Minibuses
Minibuses (locally called "minibuses" or "matolas") are the main form of public transport for most Malawians. They connect all significant towns and are cheap. They run when full rather than on fixed schedules, depart from central bus stands in each town, and can be crowded and slow. For shorter inter-town journeys they work well enough.
Long-distance coaches
Several coach companies run scheduled services between Lilongwe, Blantyre, Mzuzu, and some cross-border routes. These are more comfortable and reliably faster than minibuses. AXA and Shire Bus Lines are among the established operators. Book ahead for long routes.
Car hire
Car hire is available in Lilongwe and Blantyre. For national park visits and highland routes, a 4WD is strongly recommended, especially outside the dry season. Daily rates for a 4WD are in the range of $80–$150 USD from reputable agencies. Fuel costs and road conditions should be factored in carefully. Drive on the left.
Domestic flights
Malawi Airlines operates scheduled domestic services between Lilongwe and Blantyre (around 40 minutes), and charter services reach Nyika Plateau, Likoma Island, and some safari camps. Charter flights are not cheap but can save substantial overland travel time when reaching remote destinations.
On the lake
The MV Ilala ferry runs the length of the lake weekly in each direction — a slow, character-filled journey best treated as a destination in itself rather than efficient transport. Water taxis and local boats connect smaller lake villages and are used by travellers for day trips and short hops.