Filming in Lake Malawi National Park is an interesting experience. Lake Malawi National Park is located south part of Lake Malawi. With the Lake Malawi being the main attraction in the park, its known for being one of the deepest freshwater lake in the world. Playing a major role in the protection and conservation of the freshwater biodiversity. The lake has more than 300 species of endemic cichlid fish species that to the locals are know as Mbuna. For other filming attractions, the lake also has several sand beaches and rocky shorelines and islands that can easily be accessed for filming. Diving and fishing experiences can be filmed here due to the clear waters in the lake.
Birds in the park
The park is also home to several bird species that add beauty to the film with several waterbirds and migratory birds found here. This makes it a complete habitat for filming crews. Notable birds to look out for include African fish eagle, collared pal thrust, African palm swift, southern brown throated weaver, pied kingfisher, giant marabou stork and many others. Birding experiences are in for a treat.
Requirements to film on Lake Malawi
Filming in Malawi for any kind of shoot requires you to get a filming permit and media accreditation. The filming permit has to be obtained from the Malawi Ministry of Information along with media accreditation for your crew. Application involves submitting key documents: a project synopsis, production schedule, crew list with passport copies, passport photos, an equipment list with serial numbers and a letter of intent from the production company. Once they approve your application, you will need to make payment for the application. In addition to this, all foreign crew members must secure entry visas, which can be obtained online. Our local fixer in Malawi will ensure all your paperwork is handled in time and your permit is out. our relation with authorities makes handling and arranging these logistics on the ground easy.
National park fees and charges are also required of you if you intend to film in national parks which Lake Malawi is one of those hence an application to the National parks Authority.
Media accreditation is also vital document for filming in Malawi and the application is made to the media council of Malawi and payment made once the application is received and confirmed. Contact film crew fixers to help you will filming permits and media accreditation.
Drone filming is allowed when filming in Malawi but you have to do the procedure of getting approvals and flight permit. For those intending to film with a drone into Malawi, you will need to share documents with us and we submit them to Malawi’s Department of Civil Aviation.
Key factors to note if you’re planning to use a drone
- Permission is needed for each flight
- Do not fly near aircraft airports and airfields. if operating near these spaces stay 10 kilometers away
- Do not fly near groups of people, social gatherings, private property, schools and road races unless you have been given permission
- You’re not allowed to fly the drone vertically higher than 45 meters
- The drone should be registered with the Department of Civil Aviation
- The operator should obtain an operator certificate from the Department of Civil Aviation
Customs equipment clearing in Malawi.
Malawi is not under the carnet system countries as such you need to create a temporary import permit to bring in filming gear and be able to use it. We will help you clear the gear in the country with the help of a bonded clearing securing a non-refundable 5% percent of the value of the equipment. Malawi Fixers has all the necessary connections with a number of bonded agents that can clear your equipment on entry and exit. Contact us for any help with kit clearing.
Malawi visa and work permit advice
A tourist visa will be enough to grant you entry into the country. Film crews are advised to apply for their visas online prior to their travel dates to avoid issues faced by those who apply on arrival. Carry with you proof of yellow fever certificate when traveling into Malawi. The prices of visas and work permits change regularly so for updated information regarding travel to Malawi, you can contact us and get help from one of our consultants.
Requirements for visa application.
- A passport is required for all foreign visitors valid for at least six months
- Passports must have at least three empty pages
- A list of countries who don’t require visa here .
- A list of countries who need a visa can be found here , make your application online.
- A yellow-fever vaccination certificate is required
Malawi Transport Services
Malawi Fixers organizes transportation for film crews shooting around the country and be it on the road, water, air and rail transport are all possible to arrange for you. This is done in consideration of both interest and budget of our clients and the nature of roads to the destination. For Road transport, we recommend using our customized 4×4 land cruisers. Fuel is estimated on the number of days that are scheduled by the filming crew. We will need to look at the schedule for establishing the mileage and distance to be traveled.
What is the best time to film in Lake Malawi National Park
The best time to visit this park is during the dry months from June to October, during this time the sky is clear and there is little rainfall chances. However, for those interested in birds the wet season is a better choice because migratory birds are in plenty and they have enough food.
How to get there
As international travelers, fly into Lilongwe international airport or Chileka International Airport. From here you can chose to fly to Lake Malawi or drive to the park. Other options to enter into the country is via land borders which are 8 of its neighboring countries to arrive through.
Where to stay when filming in Lake Malawi National Park
Accommodation options are many and vary in price range when are filming in Lake Malawi National Park. These range from budget, midrange and luxury. Your choice of accommodation depends on your interest and budget. Lodge options include Domwe island, Blue Zebra Island Lodge, Mumbo Island Camp and many others. Contact us for help with reservation and more information on accommodation.
Why use film crew fixers to film in Malawi
Africa Fixers is a local company that will handle all fixer services required with our professional team of local fixers and driver guides. All our vehicles come with drivers who are as well location fixers; they have been to most of the parts in Malawi and are very conversant with local languages spoken. They also act as intermediaries between you and our office while on location. Securing you access and passage while on ground. Contact us if you need a film fixer in Malawi.