Air
- Companies: Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways
- Duration: Approximately 13 hours including layovers
- Distance: 1,500 miles (2,414 km)
- Costs: €500 - €700 (depending on booking class and time of booking)
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable
Pro Tip: Consider booking a flight with Ethiopian Airlines as they provide more flexible layover options in Addis Ababa, allowing you to explore the city.
For this journey, I recommend flying as it is the most efficient way to cover the considerable distance between Durban and Mzuzu. Although there are land options available, they can be significantly slower and more cumbersome due to border crossings and road conditions.
Bus
- Companies: Intercape, Greyhound
- Duration: Approximately 36-40 hours
- Distance: 1,400 miles (2,253 km)
- Costs: €120 - €180 (depending on service class and seat selection)
- Roads/Routes: N3 Road (Durban to Johannesburg), N1 and A1 Road through Malawi
Pro Tip: Travel overnight to save on accommodation costs and arrive at your destination during daylight.
While traveling by bus is significantly cheaper, be prepared for a lengthy and sometimes uncomfortable journey. It is best suited for those who wish to see more of the countryside between stops.