Malawi, "the warm heart of Africa" is a small country with a diverse eco-systems, beautiful scenery, a variety of wildlife and an interesting culture. Geographically the country is dominated by Lake Malawi, the third largest freshwater lake in Africa, a trough 360 miles long and 50 miles wide formed where the western arm of the Great Rift Valley cuts into southern Africa.

Major cities are the capital Lilongwe and the commercial center Blantyre. Most tourists head for Lake Malawi with its crystal clear waters surrounded by mountains has one of the greatest selections of freshwater fish in the world (between 600 and 1,000 species of which 350 are endemic). Scuba and snorkeling are excellent, there are good sandy beaches and many activities including water sports, nature walks and drives and visits to local villages. You can also go on a ferry and go to the north of the country and travel back by bus - a popular trip for the independent traveller.