Visit Dzaleka
Refugee Camp
Discover the vibrant culture, resilient spirit, and inspiring stories of Malawi's largest refugee community
Featured Activities
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural experiences and community initiatives that make Dzaleka unique
Tumaini Festival
Annual cultural festival showcasing music, art, and performances
Community Initiatives
Engage with various community-driven projects
Educational Workshops
Participate in programs focusing on entrepreneurship and skills development
About Dzaleka
Dzaleka Refugee Camp, located approximately 50 km from Lilongwe in Malawi's Dowa District, is the country's sole permanent refugee camp. Established in 1994 by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), it now hosts over 52,000 refugees from nations including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, and Somalia.
About the Tour
Everything you need to know to prepare for your visit
Tour Experience
Your journey through Dzaleka with knowledgeable guides who know the community well
Explore Dzaleka Refugee Camp with a knowledgeable guide who will take you through the camp's historical sites and vibrant community areas. During the tour, you'll gain insights into the camp's rich cultural heritage, the lives of its residents, and the history of the camp itself. Our tours are designed to be engaging, educational, and respectful of the community.
Tour Duration
- 2h
Standard Tour
Our standard tour covering the main areas of interest
- 3-4h
Extended Tour
More comprehensive experience with additional areas and activities
Standard tours are 2 hours in duration. Additional hours can be arranged at MWK 5,000 per hour.
Meeting Points & Times
Recommended Meeting Locations:
- UNHCR Office
- Appfactory
- JRS (Jesuit Refugee Service)
Start Times:
Please arrive 10-15 minutes before your tour start time to ensure a prompt departure.
What's Included & What's Not
Included
- Guided walking tour of Dzaleka Refugee Camp
- Insights into camp history, culture, and community
- Community interaction and Q&A opportunities
Not Included
- Transportation to/from the camp
- Meals or refreshments
- Entrance fees to other locations
Visitor Guidelines & Etiquette
- 1
Respect the community
Ask permission before taking photos of people and be mindful of local customs
- 2
Dress appropriately
Wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and bring water and sunscreen
- 3
No smoking or littering
Help us keep the environment clean and healthy for residents
- 4
Be patient and respectful
Remember that Dzaleka is home to many families and communities
Camp Zones
Explore the different areas within Dzaleka
Lisungwi
Kawale 1 & 2
Likuni 1 & 2
Zomba
Blantyre
Katubza
New Katubza
Dzaleka Hill
Plan Your Visit
Let us help you organize your visit to Dzaleka. Our team will get back to you within 24-48 hours.
Experience Dzaleka
Take a virtual tour of our vibrant community and get a glimpse of daily life in Dzaleka.
Video courtesy of Perfect Afrika
Pricing & Bookings
Plan your visit with our transparent pricing and simple booking process
Tour Pricing
For up to 2 hours
For up to 2 hours
For up to 2 hours
For up to 2 hours
For any group size, if the tour exceeds 2 hours
Note: Tours are conducted on foot, and we do not provide transport.
How to Book
Fill out our booking form with your preferred date, group size, and contact details.
We will confirm your tour and provide the guide's contact information.
Payment can be made on the day via:
- Airtel Money
- TNM Mpamba
- Cash: Accepted upon arrival
Need to Reschedule?
If your plans change, let us know as soon as possible, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
For inquiries, contact us at dzalekaconnect@gmail.com.
Become a Local Guide
Share your knowledge and stories while enjoying these benefits
Earn Income
Receive fair compensation for each tour you lead and develop a sustainable income source as a guide.
Cultural Exchange
Connect with visitors from around the world, sharing your experiences while learning about different cultures.
Skills Development
Enhance your communication and leadership skills through our comprehensive training program.
Community Representation
Serve as an ambassador for your community, helping to share authentic stories and change perceptions.
Professional Growth
Access continued learning opportunities and develop transferable skills valuable for future career paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about visiting Dzaleka
What types of tours do you offer?
We offer guided walking tours of Dzaleka Refugee Camp, where visitors can explore key areas, learn about the camp's history, and engage with the community.
Do you offer group discounts?
Yes! We provide discounts for groups larger than 10 people. Contact us for more details.
Can I change my tour date?
If your plans change, you may be able to reschedule based on availability. Let us know as soon as possible so we can assist you.
Are the tours family-friendly?
Yes, our tours are suitable for all ages. However, please note that they involve walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
How do I book a tour?
Simply fill out our enquiry form with your preferred date and details, and we will confirm your booking.
What is your cancellation policy?
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel, please let us know in advance.
What should I bring?
We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Our tours run in most weather conditions, but in case of extreme weather, we may reschedule or cancel. We will notify you if any changes occur.
Do you provide transport for the tour?
No, we do not provide transport. All tours are conducted on foot within the camp.
How can I contact you?
You can reach us via email or phone. Once your tour is confirmed, we will also provide the contact details of your tour guide.