Malaria Areas in South Africa
Last checked 15 October 2026
Most of South Africa is malaria-free, including Cape Town, the Garden Route, Johannesburg, Durban and the Drakensberg. A seasonal, generally low risk exists in a few areas in the north-east, including some of the most popular safari destinations. This page explains where and when, but your doctor or travel clinic should advise on your own needs.
Where is the risk?
The areas with a malaria risk are in the north-east of the country: the Kruger National Park and the surrounding Lowveld in Mpumalanga and Limpopo, the far north of Limpopo along the Zimbabwe and Mozambique borders, and the far north of KwaZulu-Natal near the Mozambique and Eswatini borders.
When is the risk highest?
Risk is highest in the warm, wet summer months, roughly October or November to May. The dry winter months carry a much lower risk, which is one reason winter is a popular time for safaris in these areas.
Malaria-free safari options
If you'd rather avoid malaria areas, for example when travelling with young children or during pregnancy, there are excellent malaria-free safari options. These include the Madikwe and Pilanesberg reserves in North West Province and several Big Five reserves in the Eastern Cape.
How to protect yourself
Avoid bites: use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers in the evening, and sleep under a net or in screened rooms. Ask a travel clinic whether you need antimalarial tablets for your route and season. If you develop a fever during or after your trip, see a doctor straight away and mention where you travelled.
Frequently asked questions
Is there malaria in the Kruger National Park?
Yes, Kruger and the surrounding Lowveld are in a seasonal low-risk malaria area, with the highest risk in the summer rainy season. Ask a travel clinic for advice before you go.
Is St Lucia a malaria area?
St Lucia is generally considered very low risk. The seasonal risk in KwaZulu-Natal increases towards the far north, around Kosi Bay, Tembe and Ndumo. Ask a travel clinic for advice on your exact route.
Is Cape Town a malaria area?
No. Cape Town, the Western Cape and the Garden Route are malaria-free.
Where can I go on a malaria-free safari in South Africa?
Popular options include Madikwe and Pilanesberg in North West Province and the Big Five reserves of the Eastern Cape.
Official sources
Rules and advice change. Always confirm with the official source before you travel.