Lilongwe - When to Visit

When to Lilongwe

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Lilongwe Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview 3°C 10°C 18°C 26°C 34°C Rainfall (mm) 0 111 223 Jan Jan: 26.0°C high, 17.0°C low, 224mm rain Feb Feb: 26.0°C high, 17.0°C low, 188mm rain Mar Mar: 26.0°C high, 17.0°C low, 127mm rain Apr Apr: 25.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 43mm rain May May: 25.0°C high, 11.0°C low, 13mm rain Jun Jun: 23.0°C high, 9.0°C low Jul Jul: 22.0°C high, 8.0°C low Aug Aug: 24.0°C high, 10.0°C low Sep Sep: 27.0°C high, 13.0°C low Oct Oct: 29.0°C high, 16.0°C low, 10mm rain Nov Nov: 29.0°C high, 17.0°C low, 64mm rain Dec Dec: 27.0°C high, 18.0°C low, 198mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Lilongwe, Malawi experiences a subtropical highland climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season runs from November through March, with peak rainfall occurring in December (7.8 inches), January (8.8 inches), and February (7.4 inches). Temperatures remain relatively stable year-round, with highs ranging from 72°F in July to 85°F in October. The dry season extends from May through September, featuring virtually no rainfall and cooler temperatures, particularly at night when lows can drop to 47°F in July. Humidity remains consistently around 70% throughout the year, contributing to comfortable conditions during the cooler dry months and more muggy conditions during the wet season.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
May through September offer the most comfortable conditions with minimal rainfall and pleasant temperatures. The dry weather ensures clear skies and lower humidity for outdoor relaxation.
Cultural Exploration
April through October provides excellent conditions for sightseeing with little to no rainfall and comfortable temperatures. The dry season allows for better access to cultural sites and outdoor markets.
Adventure & Hiking
May through September are ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, with no rainfall, clear skies, and cooler temperatures. The dry conditions provide better trail access and visibility.
Budget Travel
December through March offer potential savings as this is the wet season with fewer tourists. However, expect frequent rainfall and higher humidity during this period.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

Peak wet season with heavy rainfall and warm temperatures. Expect frequent afternoon thunderstorms and high humidity, making outdoor activities challenging. The landscape is lush and green during this time.

79°F High
64°F Low
8.8 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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February

Continued wet season with significant rainfall but slightly less than January. Warm temperatures persist with high humidity levels. Roads may be muddy and some areas less accessible.

79°F High
63°F Low
7.4 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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March

Late wet season with decreasing rainfall but still substantial precipitation. Temperatures remain warm and humidity high. The transition toward drier conditions begins later in the month.

79°F High
62°F Low
5.0 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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April

Transition month with significantly reduced rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures. Pleasant weather begins to emerge with less humidity and clearer skies becoming more common.

78°F High
58°F Low
1.7 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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May

Early dry season with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures. Excellent weather for outdoor activities with cooler nights and pleasant days. Tourist season begins to pick up.

77°F High
53°F Low
0.5 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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June

Prime dry season with no rainfall and comfortable temperatures. Cool mornings and evenings with pleasant days. Ideal conditions for all outdoor activities and sightseeing.

74°F High
48°F Low
0.0 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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July

Peak dry season with the coolest temperatures of the year and no rainfall. Crisp mornings and comfortable days make this an excellent time for hiking and outdoor exploration.

72°F High
47°F Low
0.0 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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August

Continued dry season with no rainfall and gradually warming temperatures. Still cool in the mornings but pleasant throughout the day. Excellent conditions for all activities.

76°F High
50°F Low
0.0 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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September

Late dry season with warmer days and no rainfall. Temperatures begin to rise but remain comfortable. Clear skies and excellent visibility make this ideal for photography and sightseeing.

80°F High
55°F Low
0.0 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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October

End of dry season with the warmest temperatures of the year and minimal rainfall. Hot days but still pleasant conditions before the rains return. Popular month for visitors.

85°F High
61°F Low
0.4 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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November

Transition to wet season with increasing rainfall and warm temperatures. The first significant rains arrive, bringing relief from the heat but also higher humidity levels.

84°F High
64°F Low
2.5 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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December

Early wet season with substantial rainfall returning. Warm temperatures and high humidity characterize this month. The landscape begins to green up with the returning rains.

81°F High
64°F Low
7.8 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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Activities in Lilongwe