Malawi

Malawi

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If it’s grins you’re after--big, unabashed ones--head to Malawi, dubbed the ‘warm heart of Africa’. The country’s people are renowned for the effusive welcome they give travelers, despite living in one of the poorest nations. From the woodcarving markets of capital Lilongwe to the sandy shores of Lake Malawi and the elephant-grazed bush of Liwonde National Park, you’ll be accosted with smiles at every turn. To make this happiness a two-way street, sign up for a volunteer project. Doing your bit to help the locals – 85% of the population lives in traditional settlements – will put a smile on everyone’s face.
Dry season lasts from April to October; for a list of charity organizations in Malawi see www.malawitourism.com.