Written by Zeldi Smulders

Whether you are looking for a rugged, adventurous or luxury malaria-free safari, you can’t do better than going to South Africa. Yes, it is possible to avoid malaria areas in South Africa and, no, you will not have to give up on an authentic safari experience. South Africa has a wide variety of luxurious stays that offer guests the opportunity to experience the Big 5 on guided game drives or self-drive safaris.

There’s nothing more annoying than that familiar high-pitched zooming sound, but it’s a whole other story when it comes to safety. Malaria is a serious mosquito-borne disease that affects thousands of people every year. Although malaria is preventable and curable, it makes sense if you want to avoid the risk. Perhaps you are travelling with vulnerable people like the elderly or young children, or you would rather not take antimalarial medication when you are in vacation mode. No matter the reason, we’ve got you covered. Read on for our list of unforgettable malaria-free safaris in South Africa.

Is South Africa malaria-free?

If you are visiting areas in the far north of South Africa like Limpopo, Mpumalanga and north-eastern KwaZulu-Natal (i.e. mainly along the border areas) between the months of October and May, there might be a malaria risk. 

While South Africa isn’t completely free from malaria, it has certain areas that are renowned as exceptional malaria-free experiences. Areas to the south and west of the country like the Eastern Cape and Western Cape (including the Garden Route, Cape Town and surrounds) have no known malaria risk. These good-to-go areas have excellent game reserves and national parks, with the added bonus that there aren’t mosquitoes that carry the disease. 

South Africa’s malaria-free areas are easily accessible from the major airports and also cater to different budgets. Not to mention the added bonus that visitors don’t need to fret about taking antimalarial medications. Have a look at this malaria map shared by the CDC to see if there is a malaria risk in the area you plan on visiting.

Here’s a spotlight on malaria-free safari destinations in South Africa:

Cape Town and surrounds

Opt for a malaria-free safari near Cape Town to make the best of exploring the Mother City and admiring the diverse wildlife South Africa is known for. You can enjoy this much-loved area as well as the game reserves in the Klein Karoo along the world-famous Route 62, all easily accessible from Cape Town International Airport. If you are looking for a place to stay, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve will present you with 58.000 ha of Cape Fold Mountains, Karoo plains, indigenous flora and fauna, and ancient San rock art. Alternatively, Melozhori Game Reserve is a remote getaway a mere 2-hour drive from Cape Town that can be explored on foot and bike, ideal for any nature lover.

Garden Route

The Garden Route’s game reserves boast rich biodiversity in the form of ancient mountain ranges, sandy beaches, bountiful birdlife, predatory mammals, and the Big 5. Picture game drives, bush walks, boat cruises, and horseback rides, all led by experienced guides. After a long day of safari adventures, take a rest in one of the luxury rooms and suites of Botlierskop Private Game Reserve while being surrounded by the Outeniqua Mountain range and Indian Ocean views. A short distance away, Hartenbos Private Game Lodge also offers luxury accommodation surrounded by evergreen fynbos and is only 15 minutes drive from Mossel Bay’s stunning Blue Flag beaches.

Eastern Cape

As you travel up South Africa’s southern coast, you can incorporate the Eastern Cape into your trip with ease. The game reserves in the Eastern Cape are favoured for their friendly hospitality and accommodation options perfect for any budget.

Visit South Africa’s third-largest national park, Addo Elephant National Park, where you will find one of the densest populations of African elephants on earth and the opportunity to discover the Big 7 (elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo, leopard, whale, and great white shark). Let your adventure with the gentle giants continue at the luxury tented suites of Gorah Elephant Camp. At Amakhala Game Reserve, you are surrounded by mountainous greenery that supports diverse wildlife, including the Big 5. Nestled in a secluded corner of the reserve, Hillsnek Safari Camp offers an opulent stay with incredible views.

There are more than enough animals to see on an Eastern Cape safari and choosing this uncrowded area as the destination for your safari adventure will give you a taste of seaside towns dotted with blissful beaches as well as traditional villages with colourful Xhosa homesteads. Time to go on a wild adventure - spot an incredible number of free-roaming lions at Lalibela Game Reserve or magnificent rescued lions at Shamwari Game Reserve, and don’t miss the graceful cheetahs at Kwandwe Private Game Reserve!

Further afield malaria-free destinations

South Africa’s North West Province is another area that has a few unforgettable malaria-free destinations. Consider the unique and conveniently located Pilanesberg National Park, as well as the remote Madikwe Game Reserve, which is known for its classic bushveld terrain and Big 5 and African wild dog sightings. Both parks are within driving distance of O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. If you are keen to experience a bespoke safari stay suitable for all ages, check out Morukuru Family Madikwe, which is located in the North West Province near the border of Botswana.

Even more off the beaten track, the expansive sights and astonishingly rare wildlife of the Northern Cape will leave you amazed. The KwaZulu-Natal Province is also an unforgettable safari experience, with the Big 5 and an abundance of birdlife to be found between marvellous mountain ranges and sub-tropical beaches (although keep in mind that the north-eastern parts of this province have a malaria risk). Stretching over the Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces, the iconic Kruger National Park is yet another worthwhile safari destination, although it has a malaria risk if you visit its beautiful flat savannahs between October and May, so make sure to check before you visit this popular park.

Your malaria-free safari adventure starts here

Always remember to be safe on your safari. While you steer clear of malaria areas, you can avoid itchy mosquito bites by taking precautions like applying insect repellent to exposed skin or wearing long-sleeved clothing when exploring the great outdoors. Always remember to consult your doctor before you leave on your trip to find out whether you need to make use of antimalarial medication. Keep in mind that, depending on the type of medication, you need to start taking it multiple days before your trip as well as during and after.

Don’t let the mozzies get you down when a safari adventure is well within your reach! Book a malaria-free safari trip to South Africa with Viatu Travel, and return home with fascinating stories to tell!