Visitor Essentials
Located in the Dowa District of Malawi, approximately 45km from Lilongwe, Dzaleka is home to over 50,000 people from the DRC, Rwanda, and Burundi.
Important Notice
Dzaleka is a humanitarian site, not a standard tourist destination. For those wanting a tour through Visit Dzaleka, arrangements must be made at least 48 hours in advance. Visiting is a privilege that requires careful planning and strict adherence to ethical guidelines.
Essential Requirements
The local currency is Malawi Kwacha (MWK). While cash is still widely preferred for markets and small purchases, banking services are available within the camp.
🏧 ATM Access
Centenary Bank operates a branch and ATM inside Dzaleka, supporting international cards (Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, Maestro). This was established for financial inclusion and humanitarian aid cash transfers.
For ATM locations in nearby areas: National Bank ATM Locator | Standard Bank ATM Locator
Booking & Visitor Information
The Visit Dzaleka initiative manages cultural tours, ensuring that fees directly support the refugee guides and community projects. There is no physical "Booking Centre" outside the camp; all arrangements are handled digitally.
| Package | Cost | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Individual (1) | MWK 15,000 | A personal, one-on-one cultural immersion tailored to your interests. Includes: Fully Personalized Itinerary, Dedicated Local Host, Flexible Pace. |
| Small Group (2-5) Most Popular | MWK 50,000 | Intimate, interactive experience perfect for couples or small families. Includes: Interactive Group Tour, Experienced Guide, Shared Experience. |
| Medium Group (6-10) | MWK 80,000 | Balanced experience for extended families or teams ensuring everyone engages. Includes: Structured Experience, Senior Guide, Custom Focus Options. |
| Large Group (10+) | MWK 100,000 | Designed for schools or delegations with smooth logistics. Includes: Full Logistics Support, Multiple Guides, Q&A Session. |
Sign up on the Visit Dzaleka portal with your name, email, and phone number.
Select your tour type (Standard 2-hour or Extended), group size, and preferred date/time at least 48 hours in advance.
Select zones to visit (Market, Art District, Innovation Hub, etc.) and your interests (Food, Art, Tech, Music).
Choose where you'll meet your guide—main gate, market entrance, or another designated location.
Get an email with your assigned guide's details, contact info, and meeting instructions.
Pay your guide directly via Cash (MWK), Airtel Money, or TNM Mpamba.
Travelling to Dzaleka
Route
From Lilongwe, take the M1 road north towards Kasungu, then turn onto the M16 towards Dowa. The camp is approximately 45-50km from the capital.
By Minibus
Catch a minibus from Lilongwe Bus Depot headed to Dowa. Ask to be dropped at "Dzaleka Turn-off" or the main market gate. This is the most affordable option but can be crowded.
By Taxi
Private taxis can be hired from Lilongwe (approx. 45-60 mins). Arrange a return trip in advance, as finding a taxi at the camp for the return journey can be difficult.
Getting Around & Accessibility
Accessibility Warning
Accessibility is extremely limited. The camp consists largely of unpaved dirt roads that become muddy during the rainy season. There are few, if any, wheelchair-accessible facilities or paved sidewalks. Visitors with mobility challenges should contact Visit Dzaleka in advance to discuss feasibility.
Safety & Health
While generally safe, visitors should exercise caution:
- Always travel with a guide, especially on first visits
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times
- Avoid walking alone after dark
- Keep valuables secure and discreet
Medical facilities are limited within the camp:
- Do NOT drink tap water — use bottled or filtered water only
- Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance
- Consult a doctor about vaccinations before visiting
- Bring any essential medications you need
Ethical Considerations
Please respect the dignity of residents and community at all times:
Ask Permission
Always ask before taking photos of people
Respect Privacy
Be mindful of residents' personal space
Support Locally
Buy from local vendors and artisans
Be Aware
Understand the camp's challenges and limitations
Malawi Travel Info
Chileka International (BLZ) — Blantyre
Major Annual Event
Tumaini Festival
This is the world's only music festival hosted within a refugee camp. It attracts thousands of visitors for music, poetry, and dance. During the festival, a specific Homestay Program allows visitors to stay overnight with refugee families.
Ready to Visit?
Book your authorized tour through our official portal and experience Dzaleka with a local guide.