The Hidden Gem of Lilongwe: Area 47

Discover the vibrant heart of Lilongwe in Area 47, where local markets, lush parks, and cultural treasures await to offer you an authentic Malawian experience.

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
Malawi
Lilongwe
Area 47

Nestled in the heart of Lilongwe, Area 47 is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that offers a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty. Known for its friendly locals and bustling marketplaces, this area provides a genuine Malawian experience that is both enriching and memorable. Take a leisurely stroll through the local markets where you can find an array of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and authentic Malawian cuisine. The aroma of grilled meats and the sound of local music create an atmosphere that is both lively and welcoming. Don't miss the opportunity to try 'nsima,' a traditional staple made from maize flour, which is a must-try for any visitor. Area 47 also boasts several parks and recreational areas where you can relax and unwind. The lush greenery and serene environment make it a perfect spot for picnics and leisurely walks. For those interested in culture and history, the neighborhood is home to various cultural centers and museums that offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of Malawi. Whether you are a foodie, a nature lover, or a culture enthusiast, Area 47 has something to offer. Its blend of modern amenities and traditional Malawian culture makes it a must-visit destination in Lilongwe.

Local tips in Area 47

Visit the local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and best selection of handmade crafts.
Try local dishes such as 'nsima' and 'chambo' at street food stalls for an authentic taste of Malawi.
Bring cash, as many local vendors do not accept credit cards.
Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the parks and markets easily.
Engage with the locals; they are friendly and can offer valuable insights and recommendations.

File:Lilongwe Wildlife Centre - entrance - Jan 2018.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Kamuzu Mausoleum.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Malawi Parliament Building.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

TLScontact – Visa Application Centre Lilongwe

Navigate your visa needs effortlessly at TLScontact in Lilongwe's Gateway Mall, ensuring a smooth start to your Malawian adventure.

World War I Memorial

Discover the World War I Memorial in Lilongwe, a serene park honoring bravery and sacrifice in Malawi's history amidst lush landscapes.

Edge Water Court

Experience the tranquil beauty and warm hospitality of Edge Water Court, a serene lodge in the heart of Lilongwe, Malawi.

Havilah Park

Explore Havilah Park in Lilongwe, a lush oasis with scenic paths, vibrant wildlife, and serene spots perfect for relaxation and family outings.

Kulemeka Gardens

Discover the serene beauty of Kulemeka Gardens in Lilongwe, Malawi, an enchanting botanical garden perfect for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.

Maula Cathedral

Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of Maula Cathedral, a cultural landmark in the heart of Lilongwe, Malawi.

Kamuzu Mausoleum

Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of the Kamuzu Mausoleum, a tribute to Malawi's first president in Lilongwe's tranquil gardens.

Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary

Discover the tranquility of Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary, a serene park filled with wildlife, walking trails, and beautiful picnic spots in the heart of Malawi.

Rose garden

Explore the Rose Garden in Lilongwe, a tranquil park filled with vibrant blooms and serene landscapes, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's beauty.

Korea Gardens

Discover the serene beauty of Korea Gardens in Lilongwe, a tranquil oasis perfect for relaxation, family outings, and cultural experiences.

Damron Suites

Experience comfort and relaxation at Damron Suites, a charming lodge in the heart of Lilongwe, perfect for unwinding after your Malawian adventures.

Green View Garden

Discover tranquility at Green View Garden in Lilongwe, Malawi—a lush oasis perfect for relaxation, photography, and family fun.

Revival Square Gardens

Explore the serene Revival Square Gardens in Lilongwe, Malawi, a perfect blend of nature and tranquility amidst urban life.

Mahomed’s complex

Experience the essence of local life at Mahomed's Complex in Lilongwe, a vibrant housing community reflecting Malawi's rich culture.

Museums and Monuments Depertment

Explore Malawi's rich heritage at the Museums and Monuments Department in Lilongwe, where history and culture come to life through captivating exhibits.

Unmissable attractions to see

Havilah Park

Discover Havilah Park: Your serene escape in Lilongwe's lush natural landscape, perfect for relaxation and family outings.

Eden Gardens

Discover the tranquility of Eden Gardens in Lilongwe, Malawi—a lush retreat filled with vibrant flora and serene pathways.

Rose garden

Discover the serene beauty of the Rose Garden in Lilongwe, a vibrant park that showcases stunning roses amidst a peaceful setting perfect for relaxation.

Estate of Bliss Garden

Discover tranquility amidst nature at the Estate of Bliss Garden in Lilongwe, Malawi, a retreat filled with vibrant flowers and serene landscapes.

Here

Explore Here Garden in Lilongwe, a serene escape brimming with lush greenery, diverse flora, and the perfect ambiance for relaxation.

Essential places to dine

M'dede Restaurant

Experience authentic Malawian flavors at M'dede Restaurant in Lilongwe – where every dish tells a story.

Havemore Restaurant

Experience authentic Malawian cuisine at Havemore Restaurant in Lilongwe, where every dish tells a story of local flavors and traditions.

Elly B’s African Diner

Discover authentic African cuisine at Elly B's Diner in Lilongwe's Gateway Mall, where local flavors come alive in every dish.

ACRES Bar & GRILL

Discover the vibrant flavors of Malawian cuisine at ACRES Bar & GRILL in Lilongwe – where every meal is a celebration.

CasaLinda

Experience authentic Malawian cuisine and global flavors at CasaLinda in Lilongwe - where every meal is a celebration of taste.

D’s KITCHEN

Experience local Malawian flavors and international dishes at D’s Kitchen in Lilongwe's vibrant Queens Mall.

Chill Food Point

Discover family-friendly dining at Chill Food Point in Lilongwe – where delicious meals meet warm hospitality.

Crave

Experience the best of local and international cuisine at Crave in Lilongwe—where every meal is a delightful journey for your taste buds.

MamaDees Restaurant

Discover authentic Malawian cuisine at MamaDees Restaurant in Lilongwe - where every meal tells a story.

African Fusion

Experience authentic African cuisine at African Fusion in Lilongwe - where tradition meets modernity in every delicious bite.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Queens Mall

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Queens Mall in Lilongwe, where local culture meets modern retail and dining excellence.

Afripeejay bracelets Lilongwe

Explore the vibrant designs at Afripeejay Bracelets in Lilongwe, where local craftsmanship meets unique jewelry creations.

FASHIONFITBOUTIQUE

Explore the essence of Malawian fashion at FashionFitBoutique in Lilongwe, where local style meets contemporary flair.

Preloved Threads Emporium

Explore sustainable fashion at Preloved Threads Emporium in Lilongwe, offering unique second-hand clothing and accessories that reflect Malawi's vibrant culture.

HENDIE'S SHOP

Discover unique Malawian fashion at Hendie's Shop in Lilongwe, where local craftsmanship meets contemporary style.

Creations by Malawi

Explore Creations by Malawi for unique clothing that embodies the spirit and culture of Malawi, perfect for travelers seeking authentic local fashion.

Malawi Shopstore

Explore Malawi's rich flavors and vibrant local culture at Malawi Shopstore, your gateway to authentic Malawian groceries and culinary delights.

Nouveau Style

Discover unique fashion at Nouveau Style, the go-to clothing store in Lilongwe, blending local artistry with contemporary trends for every wardrobe.

Sabo shop

Explore vibrant Malawian fashion at Sabo Shop in Lilongwe, where local culture and modern aesthetics unite in a unique shopping experience.

Kliff CULTURE

Explore authentic Malawian fashion and unique designs at Kliff CULTURE, a must-visit clothing store in Lilongwe.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Epic Club and Liquor store, charles nyanda living room

Discover vibrant nightlife at Epic Club and Liquor Store in Lilongwe, where great drinks and lively ambiance create memorable evenings.

ACRES Bar & GRILL

Experience the vibrant flavors of ACRES Bar & GRILL in Lilongwe, where local and international tastes blend in a welcoming atmosphere.

Lush Café

Discover the serene ambiance and delightful drinks at Lush Café, a must-visit bar in Lilongwe for a relaxing escape.

Club 47

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Club 47 in Lilongwe, Malawi, where locals and travelers come together for great drinks and live music.

c2k Bar & Grill

Discover the vibrant nightlife at c2k Bar & Grill in Lilongwe, where delicious food and refreshing drinks meet local entertainment.

SATURDAY SIPS

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Lilongwe at Saturday Sips, where delicious drinks and a friendly atmosphere await you.

Infinity Sports Bar & Grill

Discover the thrill of live sports and delicious cuisine at Infinity Sports Bar & Grill in Lilongwe, where fun and flavor come together.

Plot47

Explore the vibrant nightlife of Lilongwe at Plot47, a lively bar offering local drinks and a warm atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.

Red & Blue Sheesha Lounge

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and flavorful sheesha at Red & Blue Sheesha Lounge in Lilongwe's Lucky One Mall.

Drunken Lizard Bar

Discover the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Drunken Lizard Bar in Lilongwe, the perfect nightlife spot for tourists.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Area 47

Discover Area 47 with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloMoni
  [moh-nee]
- GoodbyeTionana
  [tee-oh-nah-nah]
- YesEya
  [eh-yah]
- NoAyaya
  [ah-yah-yah]
- Please/You're welcomeZikomo
  [zee-koh-moh]
- Thank youZikomo
  [zee-koh-moh]
- Excuse me/SorryPepani
  [peh-pah-nee]
- How are you?Muli bwanji?
  [moo-lee bwan-jee]
- Fine. And you?Ndili bwino. Kaya inu?
  [ndee-lee bwee-noh. kah-yah ee-noo]
- Do you speak English?Mukhulupilira chiyankhulo cha Chingerezi?
  [moo-khoo-loo-pee-lee-rah chee-yahn-koo-loh chah chin-geh-reh-zee]
- I don't understandSindikudziwa
  [seen-dee-koo-zweh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNdikufuna kuona menu, chonde
  [ndee-koo-foo-nah kwoh-nah meh-noo, chohn-deh]
- I don't eat meatSindinadya nyama
  [seen-dee-nah-dee-yah nyah-mah]
- Cheers!Zikomo!
  [zee-koh-moh!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseNdikufuna kuyimba, chonde
  [ndee-koo-foo-nah koo-yim-bah, chohn-deh]
- Help!Mulongose!
  [moo-lon-goh-seh!]
- Go away!Pita!
  [pee-tah!]
- Call the Police!Dzitsilani Police!
  [zee-tsee-lah-nee poh-lee-ceh!]
- Call a doctor!Dzitsilani dokotala!
  [zee-tsee-lah-nee doh-koh-tah-lah!]
- I'm lostNdimadutsa
  [ndee-mah-doot-sah]
- I'm illNdine wopanda mtima
  [ndeen-eh woh-pahn-dah mtee-mah]
- I'd like to buy...Ndikufuna kugula...
  [ndee-koo-foo-nah koo-goo-lah...]
- I'm just lookingNdikufuna kuona
  [ndee-koo-foo-nah kwoh-nah]
- How much is it?Ndalamayo ndi zaka zingati?
  [ndah-lah-mah-yoh ndee zah-kah zin-gah-tee?]
- That's too expensiveIzi ndi zambiri
  [ee-zee ndee zahm-bee-ree]
- Can you lower the price?Mungandiyankhule pamene mukuyerekera?
  [moon-gahn-dee-yahn-koo-leh pah-meh-neh moo-koo-yeh-reh-keh-rah?]
- What time is it?Mawa ndi masiku angati?
  [mah-wah ndee mah-see-koo ahn-gah-tee?]
- It's one o'clockNdi ka sa
  [ndee kah sah]
- Half past (10)Kupita ndi (kanthawi)
  [koo-pee-tah ndee (kahn-thah-wee)]
- MorningUsiku wabwino
  [oo-see-koo wah-bwee-noh]
- AfternoonMwachilungamo
  [mwah-chee-loo-ngah-moh]
- EveningMawa
  [mah-wah]
- YesterdayLero
  [leh-roh]
- TodayUfulu
  [oo-foo-loo]
- TomorrowMawa
  [mah-wah]
- 1Mosi
  [moh-see]
- 2Ziwiri
  [zee-wee-ree]
- 3Zilathu
  [zee-lah-thoo]
- 4Zinayi
  [zee-nah-yee]
- 5Zitsatatu
  [zee-tsa-tah-too]
- 6Zisano
  [zee-sah-noh]
- 7Zisanu
  [zee-sah-noo]
- 8Ziwiri
  [zee-wee-ree]
- 9Zisatatu
  [zee-sah-tah-too]
- 10Ziwiri
  [zee-wee-ree]
- Where's a/the...?Muli bwanji...?
  [moo-lee bwan-jee...?]
- What's the address?Adilesi ndi yani?
  [ah-dee-leh-see ndee yah-nee?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Mungandikonzere (pamapu)?
  [moon-gahn-dee-kohn-zeh-reh (pah-mah-poo)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Busi ino ikanakhala liti?
  [boo-see ee-noh ee-kah-nah-kah-lah lee-tee?]
- A ticket (to ....)Tikiti (ku ....)
  [tee-kee-tee (koo ....)]

History of Area 47

Area 47 is part of the modern city of Lilongwe, which was designated as Malawi's capital in 1975, replacing Zomba. The city’s planning aimed to provide a central location for government operations and services. Area 47 emerged as a residential neighborhood during this period, reflecting the post-independence aspirations for urban growth and development.
As Lilongwe expanded, particularly in the late 20th century, Area 47 became a hub for urban migration, attracting people from various parts of Malawi seeking better opportunities. This influx contributed to a diverse cultural tapestry, with residents bringing various traditions, languages, and practices, enriching the community’s social fabric.
Area 47 hosts vibrant local markets that serve as cultural and economic centers. These markets are not only places for trade but also venues for cultural exchange, where traditional Malawian crafts, foods, and music thrive. They play a crucial role in maintaining the cultural identity of the neighborhood amidst rapid urban changes.
In recent years, residents of Area 47 have organized various community initiatives aimed at fostering social cohesion and addressing local challenges. These efforts include educational programs, health awareness campaigns, and cultural festivals, highlighting the community's resilience and commitment to improving living conditions.
The 21st century has seen significant investment in infrastructure within Area 47, including roads, schools, and health facilities. This development reflects Malawi's broader national efforts to improve urban living standards and support sustainable growth, making the neighborhood a focal point for both residential and commercial activities in Lilongwe.

Area 47 Essentials

Area 47 is located in the heart of Lilongwe, Malawi. The nearest international airport is Lilongwe International Airport (LLW), approximately 25 kilometers from Area 47. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a private shuttle to reach Area 47. If you are coming from other neighborhoods in Lilongwe, such as Area 3 or Area 10, local minibuses (known as 'matola') are available and can provide an affordable means of transport.
Area 47 is primarily accessible by walking or using local transportation options. Taxis are readily available and can be flagged down on the street or booked via local ride-hailing apps. Bicycles can also be rented from local shops for a more leisurely way to explore the area. Public buses and minibuses connect Area 47 to other neighborhoods, making it easy to navigate the city.
Area 47 is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas. Areas with higher crime rates include sections near the Lilongwe Market; it is best to avoid these spots after dark. Always use reputable taxis and avoid displaying valuables in public.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for police assistance and 998 for an ambulance. The nearest hospital is Kamuzu Central Hospital, which provides emergency services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly to respect local customs. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially in rural areas. Religion: Do respect local traditions; ask for permission before taking photos in religious places. Public Transport: Do be polite and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake. A smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be considered rude.
To experience Area 47 like a local, visit the nearby markets for fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with residents, as they are often welcoming and eager to share their culture. Look out for local events or festivals that may be happening during your visit, as these provide a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the community.

The Hidden Gem of Lilongwe: Area 47

Local tips in Area 47