What our local film has to say about filming on location in Malawi
Malawi, often referred to as the “Warm Heart of Africa,” is a hidden gem for filmmakers. The country’s diverse geography, ranging from the expansive Lake Malawi to rugged highlands, rainforests, and dramatic river valleys, provides an array of unique filming locations. Whether you’re looking for lush plantations, pristine beaches, wildlife reserves, or vibrant cityscapes, Malawi offers an authentic African setting for any production.
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ICONIC FILM LOCATIONS IN MALAWI
LAKE MALAWI AND SURROUNDING LANDSCAPES
- Lake M, Africa’s third-largest lake, stretches along the country’s eastern border, offering spectacular backdrops of crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and dramatic rock formations.
- The lake is home to more species of fish than any other lake in the world, making it ideal for nature documentaries.
- Likoma Island, situated within the lake, features St. Peter’s Cathedral, an unexpected architectural marvel with colonial history.
- Cape Maclear, a popular filming destination, is part of Lake Malawi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity.
CENTRAL MALAWI: WILDLIFE AND FORESTS
The Central Region offers a mix of wildlife reserves, forests, and cultural sites.
- Lilongwe, the capital, provides a bustling cityscape with markets, colonial-era architecture, and modern urban settings.
- Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve features vast miombo woodlands and is home to elephants, leopards, buffalo, and zebras.
- Ntchisi Forest Reserve preserves one of southern Africa’s last remaining tropical rainforests, with rare flora like wild orchids and forest mushrooms.
NORTHERN MALAWI: MOUNTAINS, BEACHES, AND WATERFALLS
- Chintheche boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on Lake, with palm-fringed shores and fishing villages.
- Manchewe Waterfalls, dropping 125 meters into a lush valley, provide a breathtaking cinematic backdrop.
- Nyika National Park, Malawi’s largest park, offers rolling grasslands, wooded valleys, and high-altitude plateaus, home to elephants, zebras, leopards, and over 200 species of orchids.
SOUTHERN MALAWI: NATIONAL PARKS, TEA ESTATES, AND URBAN SETTINGS
- Zomba Plateau, a highland massif covered in cedar, pine, and cypress forests, is perfect for scenic aerial shots. Nearby Williams Falls and Mandala Falls offer stunning waterfall locations.
- Mount Mulanje, the country’s highest peak, offers dramatic cliffs, rocky outcrops, and misty forests, ideal for adventure and fantasy films.
- Thyolo Tea Estates, located between Mulanje and Blantyre, provide rolling green landscapes reminiscent of colonial-era plantations.
- Majete Wildlife Reserve and Liwonde National Park are home to the Big Five (elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos), as well as hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, and cheetahs.
- Blantyre, Malawi’s financial hub, features historic sites like St. Michael and All Angels Church, a rare example of 19th-century African architecture.
FILMS SHOT IN MALAWI
This regions natural beauty and authenticity have attracted filmmakers from around the world. Notable productions include:
- The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (2019) – A critically acclaimed drama filmed in Kasungu, Central Malawi.
- Gabriel and the Mountain (2017) – A travel adventure film that showcases Mulanje Mountain and Lake M.
WHY FILM IN MALAWI?
- Diverse Locations – From savannahs to lakes, mountains to forests, this region offers a variety of cinematic landscapes.
- Wildlife Filming – National parks and reserves provide opportunities for Big Five and primate-focused productions.
- Authentic African Settings – Traditional fishing villages, tea estates, colonial-era towns, and bustling markets create rich cultural visuals.
- Supportive Film Environment – This region is an affordable and film-friendly country, with experienced local fixers and production crews.
READY TO FILM IN MALAWI?
Our expert film fixers can assist with location scouting, permits, logistics, and production support to ensure a seamless filming experience. Contact us today to bring your vision to life in one of Africa’s most visually stunning destinations!
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