Risk of malaria in South Africa
What you need to know about the risk of malaria in South Africa and how to prepare for your travels.
Risk of malaria
in South Africa
What you need to know about the risk of malaria in South Africa and how to prepare for your travels.
South Africa is a country of diverse landscapes, culture, and wildlife. From the surf-lined shores of the Eastern Cape to the dramatic Drakensberg escarpments and rolling vineyards of the Western Cape, it offers a rich range of experiences. Whether you’re tracking the Big Five in renowned national parks or soaking up the energy of cities like Cape Town and Durban, South Africa has something special at every turn.
The climate varies by region – from temperate conditions in the south, to humid subtropical zones in the northeast, and drier, semi-arid areas inland. These differences also influence the presence and seasonal risk of malaria.
While much of the country is low to no risk for malaria, certain areas carry a higher risk, particularly during the transmission season. The information below outlines where precautions may be needed and how to stay protected while travelling in South Africa.
Wherever you’re travelling, you can find up-to-date malaria risk information for your destination on TravelHealthPro.
If you’re visiting a country where malaria is present, a full travel health consultation is recommended. To reduce your risk of infection, you’ll also need to take preventive measures for maximum protection against mosquito bites.
Mosquito bite prevention advice
Even if you’re taking antimalarials, bite prevention is a key part of staying protected. Find simple, practical advice on:
Want more region-specific guidance?
For detailed malaria information in South Africa, visit TravelHealthPro.
Get travel-ready with Maloff Protect
If you’re visiting high-risk areas in South Africa, antimalarial tablets can help protect you. Maloff Protect is available online without a prescription, no GP appointment needed.
Want more region-specific guidance?
For detailed malaria information in South Africa, visit TravelHealthPro.
Get travel-ready with Maloff Protect
If you’re visiting high-risk areas in South Africa, antimalarial tablets can help protect you. Maloff Protect is available online without a prescription, no GP appointment needed.
Want more region-specific guidance?
For detailed malaria information in South Africa, visit TravelHealthPro.
Get travel-ready with Maloff Protect
If you’re visiting high-risk areas in South Africa, antimalarial tablets can help protect you. Maloff Protect is available online without a prescription, no GP appointment needed.
References
1. TravelHealthPro. South Africa: Malaria. UK Health Security Agency. Available at: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/201/south-africa#Malaria (Accessed: July 2025).
PP-UK-MLF-0454