Things To Do
in Salima
Salima is a lakeside town on the southern shore of Lake Malawi, known for its warm hospitality and fishing communities. It serves as a gateway to the lake's clear waters, colorful boats, and relaxed beachside life. The town blends rural Malawi charm with easy access to water-based activities, markets, and villages nearby.
Across the town, you’ll find friendly locals, modest lodges, and a pace that invites you to slow down and observe daily life by the lake.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Lilongwe International Airport and take a scenic drive to Salima, soaking in the beautiful landscapes of Malawi along the way. Settle into your accommodation and refresh yourself after the journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe, trying traditional Malawian dishes.
Explore the vibrant local market in Salima, where you can interact with friendly vendors and purchase unique handicrafts. Visit the nearby Lake Malawi and take a moment to appreciate the stunning views. Engage in some swimming or simply relax on the shores, listening to the gentle waves.
Indulge in a delicious dinner at a lakeside restaurant, sampling fresh fish caught from the lake. As the sun sets, enjoy the breathtaking views and take photographs of the colorful horizon. End your day with a charming night walk along the beach, under the starry Malawian sky.
Begin your day with a traditional Malawian breakfast, complete with nsima and local fruits. Join a cultural tour to a village where you can participate in daily activities alongside local residents. Learn about the customs and traditions of the Chewa people through storytelling and traditional dances.
Visit a community project that focuses on sustainability, where you can engage with artisans and see how they create beautiful crafts. Have lunch in the village, featuring locally sourced ingredients and dishes that reflect Malawian culture. Experience a cooking class, learning to prepare traditional meals using local spices.
Return to your accommodation and refresh before heading out for a special dinner. Try a local restaurant that offers traditional food, celebrating the flavors of Malawi. Spend the rest of the evening reminiscing about the day’s experiences around a bonfire, sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 💧1.5L bottle of water | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Lake Malawi access and warm hospitality
- Affordable travel experience
- Accessible nature and fishing culture
- Limited nightlife
- Rural infrastructure can be basic
- Distance from major international hubs
- "Moni" - Hello
- "Muli bwanji?" - How are you?
- "Zikomo" - Thank you
- "Pepani" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Dzina langa ndi [name]." - My name is [name].
- "Ndikufuna [item], chonde." - I would like [item], please.
Places to Visit in Salima
Visit one of these nice places.
The early light over Lake Malawi creates a soft, pink-hued horizon perfect for wide lake panoramas.
Colorful boats and nets tell a real-life story of daily fishing life with authentic characters and candid moments.
Calm waters and fishing boats silhouetted against a blazing sky offer classic sunset compositions.
Food in Salima
Salima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tilapia grilled or fried fresh from the lake, often served with nsima and a tomato-onion sauce.
Must-Try!
Small dried fish fried or fried with bits of onion and tomato; a salty, flavorful snack or meal accompaniment.
Cornmeal porridge served with a vegetable relish (ndiwo), a staple pairing for many dishes.
Dried fish often eaten with maize or added to stews for extra protein and flavor.
Traditional maize-based fermented drink enjoyed as a refreshing beverage with meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market where you can buy fresh fish, greens, maize meal, and prepared snacks like fried fish and roasted maize.
Street-side vendors along the promenade selling grilled fish, chips, and simple snacks with a view of the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake and eye contact are appreciated; take a moment to greet people in Chewa or English.
Dress modestly, especially in villages and places of worship; lightweight clothing is practical in the heat.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially children; avoid taking photos of sensitive areas.
Safety
Tipping in Salima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% in restaurants when service is good; small tips for guides and drivers are common.
Cash in Malawian Kwacha is widely used; card acceptance is limited outside major lodges; ATMs are more common in larger towns and cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and humid with frequent afternoon showers; water temperatures rise, making swimming appealing, but mosquitoes are common—pack repellent and a light rain jacket.
Cooler mornings and sunny days with little rain; ideal for outdoor walks, markets, and boat trips, though dusty roads can be tough in dry winds.
Heavy rains and higher humidity; occasional flooding can affect some roads and access to outlying villages; plan flexible itineraries and expect lush, green scenery.
Salima at Night
Hiking in Salima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle, scenic walks along the Lake Malawi shoreline with occasional viewpoints; suitable for sunrise or sunset photography.
Moderate hikes from village areas into nearby gentle hills, offering views of farmland and lake.
Airports
How to reach Salima by plane.
Main international gateway; about a 2-3 hour drive from Salima depending on road conditions.
Regional airport serving northern Malawi; less convenient for Salima but within reasonable travel time from the north.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Malawi’s population includes Chewa as the largest group in the region, with Ngoni and Lomwe communities present in parts of the country including the Salima area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; informal games are common in towns and villages.
Swimming, canoeing, sailing and boat trips attract visitors and locals alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Salima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on nsima with ndiwo (vegetable relishes) and beans or pulse dishes; ask for vegetable-based sauces and fresh greens.