Malawi’s climate is subtropical with variations according to location. Low-lying areas receive low rainfall, but are generally warm and comfortable for most of the year. In the dry season, from October to December, temperatures in some low-lying areas exceed 39 centigrade, especially in the southern part of the Shire river basin. Plateau areas are warm and comfortable throughout the year. Highlands on the other hand can be quite cool in winter months of May to August, with temperatures dropping to 4 centigrade.

Rains generally begin in November or December and last through March/April throughout the country. Annual rainfall varies according to location, from 600 to over 3000mm.