Sub Saharan Africa

• Travel Summary
• Safety and security
• Local laws and customs
• Entry requirements

• Health
• General
 

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of the A (H1N1) virus (Swine Flu) in Malawi.  The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 6. The WHO website has further details. You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. See our swine flu page for further information. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can also be obtained on the UK Department of Health website.
  
  
• Driving can be hazardous. Drive carefully,  avoid travel after dark and in public minibuses. Always wear seat belts. Lock your doors and keep windows closed.
  
  
• It is recommended that you a carry a photocopy of your passport and visa with you at all times.
  
  
• Most visits to Malawi are trouble-free. 14 British nationals required consular assistance in Malawi in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (4 cases); hospitalisations (5 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (1 case). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (30 cases).
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.