Malaria Free Safaris

What is a malaria free safari? 

A ‘malaria free’ safari is a safari in a region within South Africa that has been declared free of malaria.  Malaria is a disease that is contracted through mosquito’s, predominantly in sub tropical areas.  A malaria free safari means that you can enjoy the exhilarating experience of a Big 5 safari without the risk of contracting the disease or taking the medication (prophylactics).  This is particularly popular if you are elderly, pregnant, traveling with children or for travelers who have concerns about the risks of taking medication for, or contracting malaria.

Which areas in South Africa are malaria free?

There are three main areas in South Africa that have been declared free of malaria; The reserves in the Eastern Cape, the Western Cape area and Madikwe and Pilansberg reserves located in the North West of South Africa. 

Lodges in the Eastern and Western Cape combine well with a trip to Cape Town and the Garden Route.  Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is located on route 62, which combines well with Cape Town and the wine region.  Shamwari Game Reserve which is much further up the east coast, is popular with travelers who combine their safari with the garden route.  Lodges in the Madikwe or Pilansberg Reserves combine well with a few nights in Johannesburg and a trip to the bright lights of Sun City. 

Do malaria free areas limit your safari experience?

Not in any way.  The lodges in the malaria free reserves all offer the same luxury, facilities and overall experience.  They often cater more for families and children but some lodges also offer the same privacy, romance and tranquility as lodges in malaria areas (Kruger National Park and KwaZulu Natal).  All the game reserves that we offer here at SAA Vacations are ‘Big 5’ areas with an abundance of giraffe, zebra, various antelope, crocodiles, hippos, bird life and much more.  Reserves that are malaria free only lack malaria carrying mosquitos, they do not lack any other animals!