malawi
Filming in
Malawi’s film industry may be in its early stages, but the country’s natural beauty and warm hospitality make it an enticing destination for filmmakers. Explore the cinematic potential of film production in Malawi, including stills photography and the support of our Malawian film fixer, in this comprehensive guide.
Discover Malawi's Unexplored Cinematic Potential
Malawi may not be the first country that comes to mind when choosing filming locations in Africa, but this small, landlocked nation has much to offer for filmmakers. Nestled in the south-eastern part of Africa, Malawi is gradually gaining recognition in the world of film production. Discover its hidden gem and let its warm hospitality and natural beauty enrich your storytelling.
Capital City
Lilongwe
languages
English, Chewa, Chichewa & more
Currency
Malawian Kwacha (MWK)
Weather
Subtropical Climate
Film in malawi
Film Permits
Filming permits in Malawi vary based on location types. Special permits may be required for national parks and nature reserves. Apply for permits well in advance to ensure a smooth process.
Best time to film
While Malawi offers favourable filming conditions throughout the year, the dry season is preferred for most outdoor shoots due to more predictable weather.
film locations
Despite its small size, Malawi boasts diverse locations, from Lake Malawi’s serene shores to lush national parks like Kasungu. The Zomba Massif offers a unique mountain backdrop, and Zomba town’s colonial architecture adds historical charm to storytelling.
Film Industry
Although Malawi’s film industry is emerging, local filmmakers gain recognition for their work. Productions like ‘The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind’ have put Malawi on the international film map. Distribution remains a challenge, but the industry shows promise.
Exploring malawi
Film crews often choose Malawi as a relaxing stopover during Southern Africa productions. Excellent road infrastructure and regular flights to major neighbouring cities make it accessible for film equipment and crew sourcing.
Lake malawi retreats
Lake Malawi provides picturesque settings, and luxury retreats like Kaya Mawa offer relaxation and potential film equipment supplies for local productions.
Zomba massif adventure
A day trip to the Zomba Massif offers filmmakers a unique contrast to Malawi’s landscape. The summit’s panoramic views and diverse plant life make it an oasis for storytelling.
Stills photogrphy
Capturing the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Malawi through stills photography is an artistic journey filled with breath taking moments and authentic storytelling.
Permits & Accreditation
Depending on your location choice, film permits are required. Media Accreditation Cards are essential and can take up to six weeks to process. Partnering with African Fixer ensures a smooth production process, from permits to sourcing equipment and local expertise.
Top filming locations
Lake Malawi
Africa's third-largest lake with crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, ideal for underwater and nature-focused films.
Liwonde National Park
A wildlife-rich park with elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, perfect for wildlife and safari productions.
Mount Mulanje
A massive granite mountain with dramatic landscapes, ideal for adventure or hiking-themed films.
Zomba Plateau
A scenic highland area with forests and waterfalls, offering stunning backdrops for nature and outdoor productions.
A Film Industry in the Making
Malawi’s film industry may be young, but it’s making strides and gaining international recognition. The success of films like “The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind,” shot on location in Malawi, showcases the country’s authentic beauty and potential.
A Diverse Landscape
Malawi’s appeal to filmmakers lies in its diverse landscape. Despite its small size, Malawi offers a wide range of settings, from the tranquil shores of Lake Malawi to lush national parks and the striking Zomba Massif. Lake Malawi, often referred to as the “Lake of Stars,” provides a breathtaking backdrop. Luxury retreats like Kaya Mawa offer both relaxation and potential film equipment supplies.
The Zomba Massif Adventure
For a change of scenery, a day trip to the Zomba Massif offers a unique contrast to Malawi’s landscape. Its summit offers panoramic views and showcases rare plant varieties, providing a unique setting for storytelling. Zomba town adds colonial history and further filming opportunities.
Film Permits and Accreditation
To ensure a smooth production process in Malawi, filmmakers need to navigate permit and accreditation requirements. Permits vary depending on location types, and obtaining Media Accreditation Cards can take time. Planning well in advance is crucial, and partnering with African Fixer simplifies the process.
Partner with African Fixer
Working with experienced partners like African Fixer can simplify the process. We can assist in securing permits, sourcing film equipment, and providing local expertise, ensuring that your production in Malawi goes off without a hitch.
Get in touch and discover the cinematic potential of Malawi today!