Blantyre is a small city in Malawi, located on the banks of the Shire River. It is the commercial and industrial center of the country and the second largest city in Malawi. Although it is not a large city, Blantyre has a rich history and culture, and is home to many attractions, activities, and historical sites. In this text, we will discuss the history, culture, and attractions of Blantyre, as well as advice and tips for those looking to visit the city.
Getting to Know Blantyre
Blantyre is the second largest city in Malawi and the commercial capital of the country. It has a population of 662,165 people according to the 2018 census. Blantyre is situated in the Central/Southern African Time Zone. The official language in Blantyre is English but Chichewa is also widely spoken. The currency used in Blantyre is the Malawian Kwacha.
Climate and Weather
Blantyre is the second largest city in Malawi. Located in the south of the African country, close to Mozambique, Blantyre has a tropical savanna climate that sees temperatures remain hot throughout the year.
The dry season typically occurs between May and October, with August being the hottest month. Average high temperatures during this period range from 26-29 °C (78-84 °F). The rainy season begins in November and ends in April, and heavy rain is expected each day. The wettest month is usually January, when on average 20-24 inches of rain falls. Despite the high rainfall, temperatures remain fairly consistent, with highs ranging from 23-26 °C (73-79 °F).
Overall, Blantyre has a warm, pleasant climate for most of the year. However, strong winds can occur during the rainy season, so adequate shelter is recommended.
Touring Blantyre: Airport and Transportation
There is only one active airport in Blantyre, called Chileka International Airport. You can get from the airport to downtown Blantyre by taxi. The fare to downtown Blantyre is around ZMW 800. Currency exchange is available at the airport, however the exchange rate there are not as favorable as the one in the city.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Blantyre
- Blantyre is located in the southern region of Malawi and is the second largest city in the country. It is the commercial hub of the region and the centre for education and commerce for the country
- Blantyre is well-known for its vibrant and diverse culture, which is evident in its art, music, and food. There are many handicrafts and traditional festivals that take place throughout the year
- Some of the important landmarks in the city include the Memorial Tower, the Chichiri Shopping Centre, and the Chichiri Museum of Culture and History. Blantyre is also home to a number of interesting monuments and churches from the colonial era