Hostels in LILONGWE, MALAWI

The Beautiful Urban Conurbation of Lilongwe in Malawi

Even if it is a tropical city, the climate of Lilongwe is mild most of the year. The second largest city is also the political capital of Malawi. It is located near the river Lilongwe in the central region of Malawi. The city is divided into a number of districts. The districts which are also called as areas have numbers associated with it.

Accommodation Options
Many semi-luxurious hotels and bars have sprung up in the recent years along with budget hotels for teachers and touring agricultural agents. Campsites and small guesthouses are popular along the river banks. The city hosts a major chunk of touring executives, so other temporary yet reasonable housing facilities like youth hostels and budget hotels for executives are easily available.

History
Centuries ago, Lilongwe was just a small hamlet near the banks of its namesake, the Lilongwe River. As a British colony around the turn of the 20th century, it became known for its capacity as an administrative centre. The second most populated city became the capital of Malawi in 1974. Earlier the capital of Malawi was Zomba. The city now houses the parliament of the country as well.

Popular Places
Lilongwe has many non-government organisations working and even having their headquarters here. Some famous NGOs are those associated with fight against aids and tobacco. Likewise, the city is popular with its western visitors who come here for organisational work through these international organisations. The old town area near the western side of the river bank is host to many popular shopping centres, restaurants, gift shops and internet service centres making it buzzing with activities. The craft market is also one of the main attractions for tourists and artistically inclined people.

Getting Around
The railways and the local busses are popular modes of transport through the city. The city is well connected with all important cities in Malawi. Minibuses and taxis have witnessed an increase in popularity. The international airport here offers flights to other cities and also to other major African nations. Travel guide are available at the airports but it is not a very popular concept here.

Places of Entertainment
Most of the travellers take a halt in this city to rejuvenate and buy necessary commodities. In recent times, the city has witnessed rise of many eateries of international stature in the shopping malls. The bars which play all types of music including local African music are gaining popularity with travellers and the nightlife is on a high during weekends. The pillow talk sessions which host many poetry recitals, comedy gigs and musical shows are popular with the elite class of Lilongwe as well as the European and South African people living here. 

Languages Spoken
Different ethnic groups have their own versions or dialects of the main language - Chewa (Chichewa) which is also the national language of the country. Due to its administrative importance, English is widely spoken and is the official language.

Currency 
The currency used here is known as the Malawian Kwacha. Better currency conversions are available at the airport than the hotels so keeping an eye on the news and updates is a good idea.

Lilongwe group accommodation | Cheap hostels & budget hotels