Health & Safety

How to Stay Safe and Healthy on Safari

While we specialize in African safaris, it’s important to consult a Travel Doctor or General Practitioner before your departure to ensure you are fully prepared for any medical requirements. Your doctor will make recommendations based on factors like your travel history and personal medical needs.

Yellow Fever

Certain African countries are within the global yellow fever zone, and proof of vaccination is mandatory when entering other countries after visiting a yellow fever zone. For example:

• Traveling from Kenya to South Africa: South Africa requires proof of vaccination because Kenya falls within the yellow fever zone.
• Traveling from South Africa to Kenya: You won’t need a yellow fever certificate to enter Kenya since South Africa is outside the yellow fever zone.

You may also need to show proof of yellow fever vaccination upon returning home from any country in the yellow fever belt.

To get the yellow fever vaccine, visit a specialist travel clinic at least 10 days before departure. This gives you enough time for protection to take effect and to recover from any mild flu-like symptoms that could arise after the shot.

Malaria

Malaria is a common disease in Africa, transmitted by the female Anopheles mosquito. The risk is highest during the hot and humid summer months, but it decreases significantly during the dry, cooler safari season in both East and Southern Africa.

While there is no vaccine for malaria, you can take anti-malarial prophylactics and follow these precautions to reduce mosquito bites:

• Cover up at dusk: Wear long-sleeved shirts, socks, and closed shoes.
• Reapply insect repellent: Apply after every shower or bath, and when you change clothes.
• Spray your room: Use insect spray in your room before dinner to allow any fumes to dissipate.
• Keep doors and windows closed: Ensure your tent or lodge doors and windows are closed or zipped up from dusk onwards.

By following these tips and consulting with a healthcare professional before your trip, you can enjoy a safe and healthy safari experience!