Wine & drink in Malawi
Including Lilongwe Craft Brewing District and Thyolo Tea and Coffee Estates. On the map.
The vibe
Sipping a locally brewed beer while the sun sets over the great lake feels more like a riverside toast than a cellar tasting. The cooler dry season keeps the breweries humming and outdoor patios comfortable, especially June to August. The bars are modest, frequented by residents, and you’ll often be the only foreign face at a wooden table.
Lilongwe Craft Brewing District
Lilongwe
Hans Hillewaert / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lilongwe has become the epicenter of Malawi's burgeoning craft beer movement, with several independent microbreweries setting up shop in the capital. Travelers can sample unique brews infused with local ingredients like baobab and wild honey in relaxed, industrial-style taprooms.
Access. Located within the central city area, easily reachable by local taxi or ride-hailing services between the various independent breweries.
Notes. Most taprooms are open Thursday through Sunday; checking social media pages for event-based releases is recommended.
Thyolo Tea and Coffee Estates
Thyolo
David Davies from Birmingham, UK / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
While primarily known for world-class tea, the Thyolo highlands have developed a sophisticated boutique spirits and craft beverage scene. Visitors explore lush colonial-era estates that now produce artisanal coffee liqueurs and small-batch spirits using local botanicals.
Access. Accessible via a scenic 45-minute drive from Blantyre, with most estates offering guided plantation tours and tasting sessions by appointment.
Notes. Best visited during the cooler months from May to August for comfortable touring weather.