Wondering if I need cash for taxis in Malawi or if I can just pay with card or app like in other countries?
My taxi driver in Malawi was a fantastic guy who drove me around Blantyre. He didn't have a card reader, and when I asked, he simply said, We don't need fancy machines, we do business the old-fashioned way. He was friendly and honest, and the whole transaction was smooth and simple. He showed me some beautiful parts of the city and even helped me with my luggage. It was an authentic experience, and it just made sense that a cash transaction would be the best way to get around there.
Cash is king for taxis in Malawi, so plan your spending accordingly. A lot of travelers use a combination of cash and card. I used my Revolut card to withdraw local currency from a bank ATM, which helped me avoid high fees. You can find ATMs at most major banks like FNB, but they can be temperamental. My advice is to pull out enough cash to last you for a couple of days to avoid the hassle. Taxis are generally affordable, but always agree on a price before you get in the car.
Having recently been to Lilongwe, I can tell you that you absolutely need cash for taxis. Don't rely on being able to use a card. I tried to use a ride-hailing app, and my driver told me the payment system was unreliable and that he preferred to be paid in Kwacha. The fare from Kamuzu International Airport to the city center was around 15,000 MWK, and I was glad I had a good amount of cash on me. It's a good idea to have some smaller denominations for shorter trips, as getting change can be a bit of a challenge sometimes.
In Malawi, cash is the primary form of payment for taxis. The local currency is the Malawian Kwacha (MWK). While a few larger, pre-booked transfer services might accept online payments, hailing a taxi on the street will be a cash-only transaction. There are a few ride-hailing apps like inDrive and Weafrica that are gaining popularity in major cities like Lilongwe and Blantyre, but many drivers still prefer cash. Your best option is to withdraw cash from a reputable bank like Standard Bank or the National Bank of Malawi as soon as you arrive.