Air Travel
- Companies: South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines
- Duration: Approximately 9 hours (including layovers)
- Distance: 1,300 km
- Costs: Approximately €450-€600 (round trip, depending on season and booking time)
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable
Pro Tip: When booking with Ethiopian Airlines, consider opting for a long layover in Addis Ababa to explore the city.
Recommendation: For the most comfortable and efficient journey from Durban to Mzuzu, I recommend flying. Make sure to book your tickets in advance for better rates, and check for any available promotions. Additionally, keep an eye on seasonal weather patterns in Malawi, as it may affect flight availability.
Road Travel
- Companies: Local Bus Operators (e.g., Greyhound, Intercape)
- Duration: Approximately 24-30 hours
- Distance: 2,200 km
- Costs: Approximately €100-€150 (one-way)
- Roads/Routes: N3 from Durban, then N1 and A1 through Zimbabwe into Malawi
Pro Tip: Always carry extra water and snacks for the bus journey, as well as be ready for border delays at the border crossings.
Recommendation: Road travel is certainly more budget-friendly but is significantly longer. If you're up for an adventure and wish to see the countryside, this could be an option. Be mindful of road conditions and safety precautions, especially in Zimbabwe.
Combination of Air and Road
- Companies: Fly from Durban to Lilongwe and then take a shuttle or bus to Mzuzu
- Duration: Approximately 11 hours (including flight time and road travel)
- Distance: 1,500 km (including road from Lilongwe to Mzuzu)
- Costs: Approximately €300-€400 for flights + €20-€30 for road transfer
- Roads/Routes: A1 from Lilongwe to Mzuzu
Pro Tip: Pre-book your shuttle from Lilongwe to Mzuzu to ensure timely transport upon arrival.
Recommendation: A combination of air travel to Lilongwe followed by a short road trip to Mzuzu might offer the best balance of cost and time efficiency. This way, you avoid the lengthy bus journey and still experience the scenery of Malawi.