Things to Do in Lilongwe in March

March Weather in Lilongwe

26°C (79°F) High Temp

17°C (62°F) Low Temp

127 mm (5.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Peak shoulder season - accommodation prices drop 30-40% from December/January peak, yet weather remains excellent with only 10 rainy days
March marks the end of rainy season with manageable 127mm (5.0 inches) rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities like Lake Malawi trips and Dzalanyama Forest hikes
Tobacco auction season brings authentic local energy to the city - witness Malawi's largest industry in action at Limbe and Kanengo auction floors (weekday mornings)
Ideal wildlife viewing conditions as animals gather near water sources before dry season intensifies - Lilongwe Wildlife Centre and day trips to Kasungu National Park are at their best

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms occur 60% of days, typically 2-4pm lasting 45-90 minutes - can disrupt outdoor plans and make red dirt roads temporarily muddy
Humidity peaks at 70% making midday temperatures feel closer to 32°C (90°F) - energy levels drop significantly between 11am-3pm
End of green season means landscapes start browning by late March - not the lush scenery visitors expect from photos taken in January-February

Best Activities in March

Lake Malawi Beach and Snorkeling Excursions

March offers perfect conditions for Lake Malawi trips with calm waters and excellent visibility. The lake temperature reaches comfortable 25°C (77°F) while cichlid fish are most active before cooler months. Morning departures avoid afternoon storms that can make the 2-hour drive challenging.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through established operators offering insured transport. Day trips typically cost MK45,000-65,000 ($55-80). Look for packages including lunch and snorkeling gear. Reference booking widget for current tour options.

Lilongwe Wildlife Centre Conservation Tours

March is prime viewing season as rescued animals are most active in cooler morning temperatures. The centre's rehabilitation programs are in full swing, offering genuine insight into Malawi's conservation efforts. Afternoon visits work well as covered walkways provide shelter during brief storms.

Booking Tip: No advance booking required for standard visits (MK8,000/$10 entry). Guided conservation tours cost MK15,000-25,000 ($18-30) and should be arranged 2-3 days ahead. Morning slots (8-10am) offer best animal activity.

Dzalanyama Forest Reserve Hiking

End of rainy season creates ideal hiking conditions - trails are accessible but vegetation remains lush. March temperatures of 17-26°C (62-79°F) make full-day hikes comfortable. Morning mist creates dramatic photography conditions while afternoon storms provide natural cooling.

Booking Tip: Arrange guides through local operators 5-7 days ahead (MK25,000-40,000/$30-50 per day including transport). Bring waterproof gear as trails can be slippery. Half-day options available for MK15,000-20,000 ($18-25).

Traditional Market and Cultural Tours

March harvest season brings peak variety to Lilongwe's markets. Area 18 and Kawale markets overflow with fresh maize, sweet potatoes, and seasonal fruits. Morning tours (6-9am) avoid midday heat and afternoon storms while experiencing authentic daily life.

Booking Tip: Cultural tours typically cost MK20,000-35,000 ($25-43) for half-day experiences. Book through registered cultural guides 3-5 days ahead. Independent market visits are safe during daylight hours - bring small denominations of kwacha.

Tobacco Auction Floor Experiences

March is peak tobacco auction season - witness Malawi's economic backbone in action. Limbe and Kanengo auction floors operate weekday mornings (6am-11am) with fascinating displays of tobacco grading, bidding, and farmer negotiations unique to this season.

Booking Tip: Arrange access through hotel concierges or local guides 2-3 days ahead (MK15,000-25,000/$18-30 including transport). Photography restrictions apply. Combine with Old Town Lilongwe tours for full cultural immersion.

Kasungu National Park Day Safaris

March offers excellent wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around permanent water sources. The 2-hour drive from Lilongwe is manageable before heavy rains begin in April. Antelope, warthogs, and bird species are easily spotted during morning game drives.

Booking Tip: Full-day safaris cost MK55,000-85,000 ($67-104) including park fees, guide, and lunch. Book 10-14 days ahead through operators with 4WD vehicles. Morning departures (6am) essential to maximize wildlife viewing and return before afternoon storms.

March Events & Festivals

Early March

Tobacco Marketing Season Opening

March marks the official opening of tobacco marketing season with ceremonial auctions and traditional celebrations. Local farmers dress in their finest attire as this represents their primary income for the year. Visitors can witness authentic Malawian agricultural culture.

Mid March

Lake of Stars Festival Preparation Events

While the main festival occurs later, March features community preparation events and artist showcases in Lilongwe venues. Local musicians perform at venues like Chez Ntemba and Mamma Mia, offering preview performances of festival acts.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket with hood - afternoon storms last 45-90 minutes and can be intense with 70% humidity making plastic ponchos uncomfortable

Quick-dry hiking pants in neutral colors - red dirt roads create dust clouds that stain light clothing permanently

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 despite cloud cover, and reflection off Lake Malawi intensifies exposure

Waterproof daypack cover - sudden downpours can soak through regular backpacks within minutes

Breathable cotton or linen shirts - avoid polyester which becomes unbearable in 70% humidity and 26°C (79°F) temperatures

Sturdy waterproof hiking boots - trails in Dzalanyama Forest become slippery, and city sidewalks flood during storms

Insect repellent with DEET - March humidity increases mosquito activity, especially during evening hours

Portable umbrella for city walking - provides sun protection and storm shelter when exploring markets

Quick-dry towel - essential for Lake Malawi excursions and dealing with unexpected rain

Power bank and waterproof phone case - afternoon storms can cause power outages lasting 2-4 hours

Insider Knowledge

Locals call March 'Chisanu season' (harvest time) - markets have best prices and variety, especially for fresh maize, sweet potatoes, and groundnuts

City water pressure drops significantly during afternoon storms due to power outages - fill bottles in the morning

Minibus fares increase by 20-30% during rainy weather as drivers adjust for road conditions and delays

Best currency exchange rates are found at forex bureaus on Presidential Way between 9am-12pm before afternoon closures

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities between 2-5pm when afternoon storms are most likely - morning activities have 90% success rate versus 40% afternoon

Wearing white or light colors in the city - red laterite dust stains permanently and locals immediately identify you as tourist

Expecting Lake Malawi day trips to run on schedule during stormy weather - build flexibility into itineraries and have backup indoor plans