Lilongwe, estimated population 597,619 (2003 census), is the capital of Malawi. It lies in the country's central region, being at the junction of the north - south roads and the road heading into Zambia and Southern Africa.
The city is split into 'old town' and 'new town'. Old Town is the bustling heart of the local community with markets spilling over the pavements everywhere. There are some local supermarkets and a great craft market outside the post office - but be prepared to barter hard! There are some good budget level accommodation in old town, but generally visitors don't overnight here, it is a stopping point for supplies and communications.
The 'new town' is where the embassies, large banks and new shops are located with some large more luxury hotels and smaller, quieter guest houses in the leafy suburbs. This end of the city is nearer the airport, about a 20 minute drive north.
The airport has daily connections with Nairobi and most days with Johannesburg and Lusaka. For safaris, light aircraft charter flights operate from here linking vistors to the lodges across Lake Malawi and further afield into neighbouring countries.