Mzuzu
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At a glance
- Country
- Malawi
- Region
- Northern Region
- Population
- 220,000
- Best time to go
- May to October
- Main airport
- Mzuzu (ZZU)
- Coordinates
- 11.47°S, 34.02°E
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Overview
Mzuzu is the main town of northern Malawi, set among pine plantations in the hills. It is a busy trading centre with a big market and a university, but few sights of its own.
Its value to travellers is as a hub. From here, roads lead down to the lake at Nkhata Bay, up to the high grasslands of the Nyika Plateau and north to the old mission station of Livingstonia. It is also a good place to stock up and try locally grown coffee.
Things to see
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Photo: Mike W., CC BY-SA 2.0 Mzuzu market
A sprawling market for fresh produce, dried fish from the lake and everyday goods.
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Photo: Stefan Heinrich,, CC BY-SA 3.0 Nkhata Bay
A lakeside town an hour away with clear water, rocky coves and relaxed lodges.
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Photo: Dr. Thomas Wagner, Agricultural and Environmental Consulting, CC BY-SA 3.0 Nyika National Park
High rolling grasslands with zebra, antelope and wild flowers, a long but rewarding drive north-west.
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Livingstonia
A historic mission on an escarpment high above the lake, with stone buildings and huge views.
Things to do
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Taste local coffee
Coffee is grown in the hills around Mzuzu, and you can buy it fresh in town.
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Kayak at Nkhata Bay
Paddle along the shore, snorkel among the colourful cichlid fish and swim off the rocks.
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Photo: Dr. Thomas Wagner, CC BY-SA 3.0 Vwaza Marsh
A quiet wildlife reserve west of Mzuzu, good for hippos, elephants and birdlife.
Where to stay
Town centre
Simple hotels and guesthouses close to the bus station and shops.
Hotels in Town centreNkhata Bay
Many travellers prefer to sleep by the lake and visit Mzuzu as needed.
Hotels in Nkhata Bay
Getting around
Minibuses and shared taxis link Mzuzu with Nkhata Bay and other towns. Hire a car and driver for Nyika or Livingstonia.
Most visitors arrive by road from Lilongwe, around five hours away. Mzuzu's small airport has limited domestic flights.
When to go
The dry season from May to October is best, with cool mornings in the hills. The rains from November to April can make dirt roads to Nyika and Livingstonia difficult.
Plan your trip to Mzuzu
Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.