Souvenirs from Malawi to buy on your way back
If you're planning a vacation in Malawi and are wondering what to buy as souvenirs, here is where your search ends. The bustling markets in this beautiful country offer so many local products that are meticulously created by its skilled artisans and speak volumes about its traditions and culture. Here are five souvenirs that will make your Malawi shopping experience memorable.
Malawi gin
Malawi gin dates back to 1965 and has been an important part of the country's gastronomy. Featuring an ABV of 43%, it is smooth and slightly hot with a mildly warm finish. You can use it to prepare many cocktails, however, check with your homeland's travel laws before flying home with a bottle or two of this gin.
Mzuzu coffee
For all coffee lovers, Malawi has a local variant called Mzuzu coffee which has gained global popularity as it is also exported to Japan, Europe, and the USA. Produced primarily in the northern region of the country by The Malawi Mzuzu Cooperative, this coffee undergoes meticulous processing using the fully washed method, followed by sun-drying. You can easily buy this brew from local markets.
Nali sauce
One of the most popular offerings from Malawi is its local chili sauce called nali, which is believed to be too hot to handle. Famous for its composition and heat, it is also known as Africa's hottest peri-peri sauce and is available in a host of flavors including barbecue, ginger, garlic, curry masala, mild, and hot. So which one are you planning to buy?
Bawo game
While traveling around Malawi, you are likely to spot groups of locals playing a board game. It is called Bawo and has been a source of entertainment for them for centuries. It is a fun-filled, count-and-catch game that is easily available in souvenir shops. You can also ask a carpenter to make a custom Bawo board game for you.
Tea
Here is a 'tea'sing souvenir for all cuppa lovers! Malawi is home to Satemwa Tea Estate which was set up back in 1923 and is touted as the oldest of its kind in the country. From black and white to green, dark, and oolong, there are many flavors to pick from, so be prepared to become spoilt for choice.
