Malawi's commercial and oldest city founded in 1896, it is named after the birth-place of the famous Scottish explorer and Missionary, Dr. David Livingstone. It is served by Chileka International airport, and also has good road and rail links.

Things to see and do

Blantyre Mission officially called the Church of St Michael and all Angels, is in the mission grounds just off Old Chileka Road. It was built by missionaries of the Established Church of Scotland who came to Malawi. The established church of Scotland later became known as the church of central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP), and there are still CCAP churches and missions all over Malawi.

In the same area is a clock tower and a cairn, marking the spot where the original missionaries camped before establishing the mission and church here. The Malawi Museum at Chichiri is of significant interest. The Mandala House, is a one-storey building that was the headquarters of the African Lakes Corporation in the late 19th century. It is the oldest remaining European building in Malawi and now houses a library, an art gallery and a restaurant.

Other historical buildings of significant interest in Blantyre include the Old Boma (colonial administrative office) near the junction of Victoria Avenue and Haille Selassie road. This was originally the centre of government for the whole Protectorate, under the first commissioner, Sir Harry Johnstone, until the capital was moved to Zomba.

Sports facilities are available at Blantyre Sports Club, Limbe Club, Indian Sports Club, Mpingwe Sports Club, Portuguese Club, The College of Medicine Sports Complex, Blantyre Youth Centre and a 60,000 seater stadium at Chichiri.

There is also Michiru Nature Sanctuary and Forest Reserve for day’s outings.

Other major attractions within an hour’s drive are available in tea growing districts of Thyolo and Mulanje for agri-tourism lovers. Majete and Mwabvi Wildlife Reserves, Lengwe National Park, Mount Mulanje are also within an hour drive from Blantyre.

Plenty of accommodation and eating places options are available in the city.