Dzaleka Refugee Camp Travel Guide
Discover the rich cultural heritage, educational opportunities, and community initiatives at Dzaleka Refugee Camp, Malawi's largest refugee settlement.
Population
52,000+
Languages
English & Chichewa
Time Zone
CAT (UTC+2)
Currency
Malawian Kwacha
Getting Here
Travel options and directions
Location
- 41 kilometers from Lilongwe city center
- 30 kilometers from Kamuzu International Airport
- Located in Dowa District, Central Region
From Kamuzu International Airport
- Taxi services available directly from the airport
- Car rental options at the airport terminal
- Approximately 45 minutes drive
Public Transport
- Regular minibuses from Lilongwe to Dowa
- Local transport available from Dowa to the camp
- Journey time: 1-1.5 hours total
Tour Guide Services
Make your visit more meaningful with our experienced local guides who can:
- Share in-depth knowledge of camp history and culture
- Facilitate community interactions
- Provide translation services when needed
About Dzaleka Refugee Camp
Established in 1994
Dzaleka Refugee Camp, situated in Malawi's Dowa District approximately 41 kilometers from Lilongwe, was established in 1994 by the Government of Malawi and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Originally a political prison during Hastings Kamuzu Banda's presidency (1964-1994), it now hosts a population exceeding 52,000 refugees and asylum seekers, primarily from the Democratic Republic of Congo (62%), Burundi (19%), and Rwanda (7%), with additional representation from Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, and other nationalities.
Location
41km from Lilongwe, Malawi's capital city
Establishment
Founded in 1994 by Malawi Government & UNHCR
Demographics
Diverse population from multiple African nations
Practical Information
Getting There
Located 41 kilometers from Lilongwe, Dzaleka is accessible via public transport or private vehicle. Travelers can take a bus or minibus from Lilongwe to Dowa (about 30 km), then hire a taxi or walk the remaining distance to the camp.
Accommodations
For an immersive experience, consider the Tumaini Letu Homestay program, allowing visitors to stay with local families. This initiative offers simple accommodations and unique opportunities for cultural exchange while supporting local livelihoods.
Safety & Health
While generally safe, visitors should exercise caution, especially at night. Travel with a guide or in groups, and be aware of your surroundings. Medical facilities are limited, so ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance and necessary vaccinations.
Cultural & Artistic Experiences
Tumaini Festival
An annual cultural event initiated in 2014 by Tumaini Letu, featuring music, art, and performances from Malawi, Africa, and worldwide. Previous editions attracted over 24,000 attendees and featured 153 acts, making it a significant platform for cultural exchange.
Dzaleka Art Project
Explore the artistic talents of camp residents through photography, paintings, and crafts. Visitors can view exhibitions, hear artists' stories, and purchase work directly from creators, supporting their livelihoods.
Tuesday Market (Mardi marché)
Experience the vibrant weekly market, offering local goods like chapati and other traditional foods. This communal event provides insight into daily life and supports local vendors.
Animal Welfare
Engage with the Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS) to learn about animal care in the camp. The service provides care for various animals, supporting residents' livelihoods through their outreach project.
Educational & Technological Opportunities
TakenoLAB
Founded in 2015 by Burundian refugee Remy Gakwaya, who lived in the camp for over two decades before resettling in the United States in 2022, TakenoLAB offers free courses in digital skills, e-lancing, and entrepreneurship. The school has trained over 2,000 individuals in programming (Python, PHP, Java, JavaScript, Android) and leadership development.
Vocational Training
Organizations like There Is Hope provide vocational training in skills such as bricklaying, helping residents address housing and sanitation needs while developing income-generating activities.
Community Engagement
Religious & NGO Initiatives
Community churches and organizations like IAFR provide trauma care training, reconciliation programs, and educational support. Visitors can participate in events or observe these activities, fostering connection and hope.
Support Services
Various organizations offer support for orphans, widows, single mothers, and the disabled. These initiatives provide counseling, education, and income generation opportunities, creating a supportive community environment.
Ethical Considerations
When visiting Dzaleka, consider these important ethical guidelines:
- Respect residents' privacy and dignity at all times.
- Always ask for permission before taking photos.
- Support local businesses and community initiatives.
- Be mindful of the camp's challenges and limitations.
Things to Know About Malawi
Language & Currency
English is the official language, while Chichewa is widely spoken. The official currency is the Malawian Kwacha (MWK).
Climate & Transportation
Malawi has a subtropical climate with distinct rainy (November-April) and dry (May-October) seasons. Public transport is affordable but often crowded.
Food & Culture
Traditional dishes include nsima (maize porridge), fresh fish from Lake Malawi, and hearty stews. Malawians are known for their warmth and hospitality.
Internet & Mobile
The two main networks in Malawi are Airtel and Telecom. Mobile data and internet services are available but may be limited in some areas.
Water & Health
It is not advised to drink tap water in Malawi. Visitors should use bottled water or a filtered water bottle for drinking. Medical facilities are limited outside major cities, so secure comprehensive travel insurance and consult a doctor about necessary vaccinations before visiting.
Travel Essentials
What to Pack
For a comprehensive packing list, check out Helen's complete Africa Packing List.
View the Africa Packing ListPower & Plugs
Malawi uses Type G, British 3-pin style plugs. Bring appropriate adapters for your electronic devices.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Most nationalities need a visa to enter Malawi:
- 30-day Single Entry Visa: $75 (can be extended for 30 days)
- Transit Visa (less than 7 days): $50
- Some nationalities can get visas on arrival, while others need to apply in advance
Airports
Malawi has two main international airports:
- Lilongwe/Kimuzu International Airport (Lilongwe)
- Chileka International Airport (Blantyre)
Legal Resources & Advocacy
Malawi Refugee Guide
A comprehensive resource providing an overview of historical and current circumstances of refugees at Dzaleka, covering legal frameworks, living conditions, and stakeholder roles. The guide dispels myths and fosters informed dialogue about refugee rights and advocacy.
Legal Advocacy
Learn about ongoing efforts to reform the 1989 Malawi Refugee Act, focusing on removing indefinite encampment and restrictions on work, movement, and integration. These reforms align with the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF).
Keeping Information Current
This travel guide is continuously updated with new information, resources, and opportunities. We regularly review and enhance our content to ensure visitors have access to the most current and accurate information about Dzaleka Refugee Camp.