PLAN WITH CONFIDENCE
Everything you need before you travel
Whether you're joining us from within Malawi or internationally, this page provides the essential information to help you prepare for the Legume Tour. From travel planning and accommodation to transportation and event logistics, you'll find everything needed to plan your visit with confidence.
TRAVEL
GETTING TO MALAWI
Planning your journey
International participants travelling to Blantyre should plan to arrive through Chileka International Airport (BLZ).
Chileka International Airport is approximately 16 km from Blantyre City Centre, with an estimated road travel time of 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Participants are responsible for arranging and paying for their airport transfers.
IMPORTANT:
Flight routes and schedules may change. Participants should confirm current schedules, baggage requirements, and connection details directly with the relevant airline before booking.
Regional Flight Information
The following airline websites may assist participants travelling to Malawi from Kenya, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Depending on the route and travel date, flights may arrive in Blantyre or connect through Lilongwe.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Participants should verify the latest entry requirements and apply well in advance of travelling.
Participants are responsible for obtaining the appropriate visa, ensuring that their passport is valid, and meeting any other immigration or health-entry requirements applicable to their journey.
ACCOMMODATION
STAYING IN BLANTYRE
Accommodation options
Participants are responsible for booking and paying for their own accommodation. The following options are provided for planning purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement. Rates and availability should be confirmed directly with each property.
Suggested Hotels:
-
Amaryllis Hotel Blantyre – Official website
-
Protea Hotel by Marriott Blantyre Ryalls – Official Marriott page
-
Sunbird Mount Soche Hotel – Sunbird Hotels official website
-
Crossroads Hotel Blantyre – Official hotel website
-
Lotus by Serendib – Serendib Hotels official website
-
Casa Mia Lodge & Restaurant – Official website
-
Malawi Sun Hotel & Conference Centre – Accommodation search link
-
Cedar Place – Official website
-
Insta Homes – Official website
BOOKING GUIDANCE:
Before confirming your reservation, we recommend checking cancellation policies, breakfast inclusion, airport transfer availability, security arrangements, and proximity to the designated event staging points.
TRANSPORTATION
GETTING AROUND
Transportation during the tour
The Tour will provide transportation from a central staging location in Blantyre to the Field Day site on the 25th, and to the Site Visits on the 26th.
However, attendees are responsible for transportation to the staging location and to the conference location on the 27th. International visitors will also be responsible for arranging their transportation to and from the airport; it is advised to arrange rides in advance and confirm prices before travel.
Local Transportation Options
1. Private taxi
For a private taxi service, we recommend Nels Cabs at +265 995 08 29 72
2. rental cars
Avis offers airport pick-up services. Advance booking is recommended.
3. hotel transportation
Some hotels may be able to arrange transportation for their guests.
4. airport taxis
Taxis are generally available at the airport. However, taxis are not readily available throughout most of Blantyre, so arranging transportation in advance is recommended.
TRAVEL TIPS
Before You Go
Helpful travel information
CURRENCY
The local currency is the Malawian Kwacha (MWK).
Credit cards are accepted at many hotels and larger establishments, although participants may wish to carry some local currency for smaller purchases.
Please note that non-residents are generally required to pay for hotel services in foreign currency. Both cash and card payments are commonly accepted.
August falls within Malawi's cool, dry season. Days are generally warm, while mornings and evenings may be cool.
The Field Day takes place in Chikwawa, where daytime temperatures may be considerably warmer. Participants are encouraged to wear lightweight clothing, comfortable footwear, and sun protection, while also bringing a light jacket or sweater for cooler periods.
Rain is highly unlikely during this time of year.
WEATHER
Participants are encouraged to obtain appropriate travel and medical insurance before departure.
An emergency focal person will be available to assist participants during each day of the event.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
EVENT LOGISTICS
WHAT TO EXPECT
What's included and what you'll arrange
To help you prepare for the event, here's a quick overview of what the organising team will provide and what participants are expected to arrange independently.
Included with Your Participation:
Participant responsibilities:
✓ International and domestic travel to and from Malawi
✓ Airport transfers
✓ Accommodation
✓ Daily subsistence and personal allowances
✓ Visa fees, where applicable
✓ Travel and medical insurance
✓ Any personal or incidental expenses not specifically provided by the organisers
✓ Refreshments throughout all three days of the event
✓ Transportation between designated staging points and Field Day and Site Visit locations (Days One and Two)
✓ Event materials, including participant badges and programme information
✓ On-site logistical coordination and support throughout the event
NEED ASSISTANCE?
We're here to help
If you have questions regarding travel planning, accommodation, transportation, or event logistics, please contact us.
Disclaimer
Travel Information
The information provided on this page has been compiled with due care by the Legume Tour Organising Committee to assist participants in planning their travel. While every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate and up to date at the time of publication, airline schedules, hotel information, visa requirements, fees, contact details and other travel arrangements may change without notice.
Participants are strongly encouraged to verify all travel, accommodation, visa and related information directly with the relevant service providers before making bookings or travelling. The Legume Tour Organising Committee, its partners and affiliates accept no responsibility or liability for any changes, inaccuracies, omissions, cancellations, delays, losses, costs or inconvenience arising from reliance on the information provided on this page or from changes made by third-party service providers.