Lilongwe is split between City Centre offices and the older trading areas around Old Town. Minibuses, taxis, and private cars share roads that flood quickly in the rains and clog at school closing time.
For errands, many residents still treat Area 18, City Centre, and Old Town as three separate trips rather than one loop. Allow extra time on Fridays and month-end when banks and markets are busiest.
Check local radio before a long cross-town trip if you have heard of a diversion or a fuel queue on your route.
