Malawi is widely known for it’s stunning beaches and plethora or wildlife, and she is slowly gaining in popularity. While Malawi has a ways to go to gain touristic traction on nearby countries such as Tanzania, Kenya or South Africa, Malawi boasts some treasures that those mentioned can’t claim. Called the “Warm Heart of Africa,” in the native language, Malawi locals exude friendliness. It’s common for strangers to wave and greet visitors as if they know them. And it’s easy to make them smile with a “moni” (pronounced mo-nee, not money), which means hello in Chichewa, the local language, and “Zikomo” (thank you). Alas, Malawi is much more than it’s beautiful people. 

Lake Malawi, which is fully landlocked, is a fresh lake that is literally the countries life blood. The lake is gigantic, and usually very uncrowded, which is bewildering with how stunning the beaches are and how amazing the fresh water snorkeling and fishing is. Much like her more popular neighbors, Malawi also offers a variety of safari options. The Big 5 (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, buffalo) can all be seen at Majete Wildlife Reserve, as conservation activity has provided a rebirth in the area. One of Malawi’s truest treasures is that you don’t feel like you are in a full-on tourist trap, but you’d better hurry, you know how this goes!