Malaria Free Safaris

Tips for Booking a Malaria-Free Safari

1. Choose Malaria-Free Destinations

Malaria is present throughout much of Africa and many of our African travel destinations fall inside its range. That said, the risk of actually contracting malaria in places that fall within the malaria belt such as the Kruger National Park, Etosha, Mozambique's Bazaruto and Zanzibar's Quirimbas Archipelagos, the Masai Mara and Serengeti is minimal – even more so during the dry seasons and when appropriate precautions are taken.

Nevertheless, the risk remains, and to remove the threat entirely we have identified malaria-free destinations:

Madikwe Private Game Reserve

Sitting on the edge of the Kalahari, Madikwe Private Game Reserve is a genuine Big 5 malaria-free destination and perfect for families as well as honeymooners and romantics. Madikwe is also home to some of the most luxurious malaria-free safari accommodation in South Africa.

Pilanesberg National Park

A Pilanesberg safari promises sightings of the Big 5, particularly elephants, lion and rhino, as well as cheetah and brown hyena. Explore the national park on morning and afternoon game drives, spot-lit night drives, and from a bird's-eye view on hot air balloon rides.

Eastern Cape

An Eastern Cape safari delivers abundant wildlife, untouched wilderness and fewer crowds in big game reserves. Visitors can expect reliable Big 5 sightings, exciting game drives, river cruises, walking safaris, and horseback game viewing.

2. Add Barefoot Luxury to Your Malaria-Free Safari Itinerary

South Africa's malaria-free safari spots are all perfectly located to pair up with some of the continent's top beach and island destinations. The below beach holiday destinations are both malaria-free and easily combined with the above wildlife areas:

Mauritius 

Mauritius is an exceptionally diverse destination and is adept at delivering a wide range of holidays for families, golfers, honeymooners and romantics as well as sports enthusiasts and scuba divers.

Seychelles

The Seychelles – one of the world's most indulgent beach holiday destinations – is more exclusive and focuses on deluxe beach experiences, ideal for honeymooners and discerning travellers who want genuine barefoot 5-star luxury.

Cape Town

A Cape Town holiday is a must when visiting South Africa. This urban paradise is easily one of the world's most beautiful cities thanks to its Blue Flag beaches, lush greenery, sprawling vineyards, and iconic mountains. Enjoy some time in the vibrant ‘Mother City' before or after your malaria-free safari, taking in the many attractions, sampling gourmet meals and fine wines, and indulging in retail therapy at beautiful boutique shops.

Garden Route

The Garden Route is a firm family favourite and home to endless beaches and dramatic scenery. Ideal for a self-drive getaway, this scenic route promises beach holidays without crowds, whale watching (June to October), hiking up picturesque trails, and charming towns dotting the way.

3. Consider Travelling in the Dry Season

More than ninety percent of South Africa falls outside the malaria risk map, but the disease is most prevalent in the country during the region's green season (November to April). During the dry season (May to October), there's no need to use any mosquito protection in low-risk and no-risk areas.

4. Stay at Well-Managed Accommodation

In low-risk and even no-risk malaria areas in South Africa, it's still recommended to stay at properties that offer mosquito control measures, such as insect screens, bed nets, and conducting regular insecticide treatments to reduce mosquito presence.

5. Pack Mosquito Protection

For extra peace of mind, we suggest packing natural mosquito repellents and light long-sleeve tops to wear at night to keep any insects at bay.

6. Consult a Safari Specialist

Partnering with a seasoned travel expert who truly understands malaria-free safari destinations brings ease and efficiency to your trip planning. An experienced advisor can tailor suggestions for ideal locations, lodges, and activities that align perfectly with your preferences. With their support, you'll feel more at ease, knowing that everything from visa arrangements and flight bookings to local assistance and round-the-clock support is expertly handled throughout your journey.

Ready to Plan Your Malaria-Free Safari in South Africa?

Connect with one of our well-travelled experts who use their first-hand knowledge of South Africa's malaria-free safaris to create a tailor-made itinerary that ticks all your boxes.