best malaria free safari

The 20 Best Malaria-Free Safari Destinations

Find the ultimate malaria free safari.

Malaria-free safaris are increasing in popularity as young families, pregnant ladies, and others unable or unwilling to take anti-malarial medication still want to experience an African safari.

Whatever the reason for wanting to avoid taking anti-malarial precautions or medications, the good news is that there are many excellent malaria-free safari destinations open to you. These malaria-free safari destinations are spread across ecologically diverse regions of South Africa and Namibia, with some of the best national parks in the world and world-class game viewing.

So, if you want to have a true safari experience and see the big five without worrying about malaria medication or precautions, here’s our list of the very best destinations for malaria-free safaris:

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About malaria

South Africa malaria-free safaris

• Eastern Cape malaria-free safaris
• Northern Cape malaria-free safaris
• Waterberg (Limpopo) malaria free safaris
• North West Province malaria-free safaris

Namibia malaria-free safaris

Map of all malaria-free safari destinations

Book a malaria-free safari

What is malaria?

Malaria is an infectious disease carried by female mosquitos that affects humans and other animals, and can be transmitted by just one mosquito bite. Symptoms usually begin ten to fifteen days after being bitten by an infected mosquito, and typically include fever, tiredness, vomiting, and headaches. ( Read one travellers’ experience of getting malaria in Uganda .)

I n severe cases, malaria can cause yellow skin, seizures, coma, or death, though the high mortality figures of malaria are primarily a reflection of the poor health care in many parts of Africa. The vast majority of tourists who get malaria have fast access to medicine, doctors, clean water and food, and make a complete recovery.

Malaria Free Safari Destinations in South Africa

Malaria is present in many parts of South Africa, and some of the best national parks and game reserves in South Africa – such as the Kruger National Park and others in the north-eastern regions of Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal – are not in the malaria-free zone.

However, many award-winning game reserves in South Africa have been established in other regions over the years, relocating large numbers of animals with healthy populations of the big five, wild dog and cheetah, resulting in some phenomenal game-viewing.

South Africa’s Eastern Cape

A safari in the Eastern Cape offers the ideal opportunity to combine a drive along South Africa’s world-famous Garden Route with a malaria-free safari experience at one of the many high-quality private reserves.

All game reserves in the Eastern Cape are completely malaria-free and tend to be fully inclusive. This means that meals, game drives , and other safari activities are included in the per night cost.

1. Addo Elephant Park, South Africa

A herd of elephants enjoying a sundowner at Addo Elephant Park, South Africa

One of South Africa’s most scenic national parks with rolling green hills and lush, evergreen forest make this a perfect year-round malaria-free safari destination. Addo Elephant Park is home to around 500 elephants roaming freely across the 125,000-hectare reserve; the greatest density of elephants per square kilometer in Africa.

Other wildlife includes the rest of the big five, zebra, kudu , red hartebeest, over 400 bird species, and the endemic, protected flightless dung beetle . The park extends to the coast where South Africa’s second-largest African penguin colony can be seen, and sightings of whales, great white sharks, and southern right whales are common.

Accommodation around Addo: There’s a good choice of accommodation in and around the park, from luxury lodges and forest cabins and chalets to pitched tents or camping spots. Find prices & book >>

2. Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, South Africa

A male lion strolls the bush of Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Big 5 destination Kwandwe Private Game Reserve covers 54,000 acres of private wilderness area. The reserve includes 30 kilometers of the Great Fish River, meaning a diverse landscape and varied wildlife sightings.

The reserve has some great family-friendly safari options offering child-focused wildlife activities such as making plaster casts of animal footprints and visits to animal orphanages, to help make your South African family safari more meaningful.

Accommodation at Kwandwe: There are four properties in the reserve with 22 beds in total, meaning not too many other people or safari trucks around when you’re doing your game drives. Melton Manor and Uplands Homestead are exclusive-use lodges for families or small groups. Find prices & book >>

3. Samara Private Game Reserve, South Africa

A herd of Eland at Samara, South Africa, looking for danger

Set amongst wildlife-rich rivers, mountains, and open plains, luxury private game reserve Samara offers guests some of the most breath-taking landscapes in South Africa.

Home to a very successful cheetah regeneration program, the reserve gives a good chance of spotting these beautiful cats, alongside the big 5 and large herds of eland.

Accommodation at Samara: Samara offers two exclusive onsite lodges – the Karoo Lodge and Manor House. Find prices & book >>

4. Amakhala Game Reserve, South Africa

Giraffe-spotting on a game drive

The Amakhala Game Reserve is an 18,000-acre joint conservation effort where a former farming area has been rewilded. Wildlife likely to be encountered on game drives in the reserve includes the big five, as well as cheetah , giraffe , zebra, wildebeest, and plenty of antelope species.

Accommodation options: There are 10 owner-managed properties across the reserve, ranging from restored country homes to tented camps, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

An all-inclusive safari experience and a range of wildlife-focused activities are offered at each property. Find prices & book >>

5. Kariega Game Reserve, South Africa

Three luxury safari lodges at Kariega, South Africa

Kariega is a family-owned and run big five reserve incorporating 10,000 hectares of pristine African wilderness and two large rivers – the Kariega and the Bushmans rivers – giving access to the sea.

The reserve offers abundant game viewing, and in addition to the big 5, game to spot at Kariega includes hippo, hyena, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, eland, kudu, waterbuck and a variety of other antelope, as well as a myriad of bird species.

Kariega is a particularly family-friendly game lodge offering a daily children’s programme at the Kids on Safari center.

Accommodation at Kariega Game Reserve: The reserve offers five safari lodges at a variety of price points, though all are at the high end, with quality and service to match. Find prices & book >>

6. Shamwari Game Reserve, South Africa

One of Shamwari’s waterside lodges

Big five reserve Shamwari prides itself on being both friendly (the name means “my friend” in Shona), and child-friendly.

Childminding services are available on request, along with a host of kid-specific activities to keep them occupied – including the conservation focused ‘Kids on Safari’ program.

What’s particularly nice (and somewhat unusual) about Shamwari for young families is that children from four upwards are permitted on game drives. Just a 2 hour drive from Port Elizabeth, Shamwari is easily accessible.

Accommodation options: Shamwari has seven lodges and one explorer camp, each with a distinct vibe. From exclusive tranquillity, effortless family enjoyment, or the back-to-nature appeal of a luxury tented camp. Find prices & book >>

South Africa’s Northern Cape

South Africa’s Northern Cape offers tranquility and huge open spaces with some of the largest national parks in Africa. The legendary Kalahari Desert makes up a large portion of the Northern Cape, with the Gariep River winding to the Atlantic and providing a water source to the varied wildlife in the region.

7. Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve, South Africa

The pool area at Tswalu, South Africa

Tswalu Kalahari is the largest privately owned game reserve in South Africa – 100,000 hectares located in the Southern Kalahari, close to the Botswana border. Although the reserve is huge, visitor numbers are kept to just 30 at a time, with all guests enjoying a private guided experience to optimise their time there.

Aside from the excellent game drives, activities include horse riding, habituated meerkat colony walks, sleep-outs under the stars, and black rhino walking safaris. Children of all ages are welcome, and for families, Tswalu makes for a truly unique and memorable (malaria-free!) safari experience.

Accommodation options: Accommodation is luxurious with a choice of two lodges, the secluded Tarkuni (a private home with 5 suites), and The Motse (a spacious lodge with nine suites). Find prices & book >>

8. The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa

Desert scenery at Kgalagadi National Park, South Africa

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is one of Southern Africa’s largest and is shared between both Botswana and South Africa.

Wildlife includes some of the largest lions and antelope in the world, plus leopard, cheetah, and both brown and spotted hyenas – along with plenty of meerkat colony activity! Self-drive safaris are very much on offer in this park, making for flexible and self-paced game drives.

Accommodation options: There are three rest camps in the park with a range of accommodation types to suit a variety of tastes and budgets including, chalets, family chalets, and campsites. Find prices & book >>

9. Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, South Africa and Namibia

A zebra family at Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier National Park

Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier National Park is a beautiful desert park on South Africa’s far northern border with Namibia. The landscape is barren at first glance, but on closer inspection, home to an abundance of wildlife adapted to the harsh terrain.

With some good luck over 50 species of mammals – including leopard, hyena, and zebras – lizards, tortoises, scorpions and 200 species of birds can be spotted!

Accommodation options: SANParks run a handful of basic rest camps across the park, some with cabins and others with campsites only. You’ll need to bring your own supplies and drinking water. Find prices & book >>

South Africa’s North West Province

One of South Africa’s smallest provinces, the North West Province is bordered by Botswana to the north and is made up of scattered trees and grassland, providing the ideal habitat for a big 5 South African safari.

10. Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa

Views of the bush from a Madikwe balcony

Located on the Botswana border a 3.5-hour drive from Johannesburg, Madikwe is a wild and remote reserve that’s home to the big five, and is famous for its thriving population of wild dog, as well as gemsbok, springbok, zebra, giraffe and over 340 species of birds.

Accommodation options: The reserve has a large selection of camps and lodges, including the lovely Jaci’s Lodges, Mateya Safari Lodge, Madikwe Safari Lodge, and Little Madikwe Hills. Find prices & book >>

The Waterburg Region, Limpopo Province, South Africa

The Waterberg Region is a malaria-free district of Limpopo Province, in an area teeming with wildlife, spectacular scenery, and many private game reserves with excellent accommodation offering truly intimate safari experiences. Here’s our pick of the best:

11. The Ant Collection, South Africa

Horseback safari at the Ant Collection, South Africa

Two family-owned and operated lodges – Ant’s Nest and Ant’s Hill – located in their own spectacular private game reserve. The reserve is a real haven for animals (over 40 species) and people looking for a wonderful, malaria-free safari. As well as game drives, there’s horse riding, elephant safaris, and swimming available, amongst other activities.

Accommodation options: The Ant’s Nest and Ant’s Hill offer very family-friendly, luxurious accommodation that is intimate and homely. Find prices & book >>

1 2. Entabeni Safari Conservancy, South Africa

Three of Entabeni’s rhinos grazing in front of a signature rocky outcrop

Entabeni means ‘place of the mountain’, a private reserve spread over five ecosystems including wetlands, grass plains, craggy escarpments, and cliffs. Large animals such as elephants and rhinos are plentiful, along with leopards, cheetahs, and buffalo.

There’s a choice of activities other than game drives to keep you entertained, such as bush walks, sunset lake cruises, horse riding, and helicopter air safaris. Children are welcomed but must be six or over to join a game drive.

Accommodation options: Lodging includes Lakeside Lodge on the shores of Lake Entabeni and Wildside Safari Camp. Find prices & book >>

13. Jembisa Bush Home, South Africa

Forest views at Jembisa, South Africa

Multi-award winning Jembisa is a stylish bush home in its own private wildlife reserve, offering a unique safari experience in the beautiful Palala River wilderness. There’s a plethora of wildlife (though no elephant or lion from the big five, which can be viewed on an off-site excursion), and a wide range of wildlife and safari activities (mountain biking, river walks, and tracking classes) that are flexible to suit all ages and interests.

Accommodation options: Jembissa Bush Home has a colonial safari atmosphere with excellent staff and guides providing a flexible, family-friendly bush experience. Find prices & book >>

14. Leobo Private Reserve, South Africa

Bush views from open lounge area at the Leobo lodge

Leobo Private Reserve  is encompassed by rugged rocks, mountains, bushveld savannah, rivers, gorges, and an abundance of wildlife, and is one of only a handful of sole-use private reserves in Africa – allowing guests full access to the entire estate and all its facilities. Teeming with plains game, as well as hippo, there’s also a wide array of activities for all ages including paintballing, quad bikes, shooting, fishing, and more.

Accommodation options: The lodge has luxury 9 chalets with views over the Palala valley – and a stunning swimming pool built into the side of the mountain. It’s fully staffed and rented exclusively, so is perfect for families or groups of friends. Find prices & book >>

15. Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, South Africa

Main Mabalingwe lodge at sunset

The Mabalingwe biome , made up of 8,500 hectares of bushveld, provides wonderful game-viewing opportunities year-round. The reserve is very family-friendly, and the rolling grasslands make game-viewing a breeze. Home to the big five, and also hippo, giraffe, hyena, and sable, the reserve has a variety of family and child-friendly activities to go alongside their day and night game drives.

Accommodation options: There are many types of accommodation available including chalets, campsites, and bush lodges. Find prices & book >>

16. Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa

Hot air ballooning over Pilanesberg National Park

A beautiful 50,000-hectare malaria-free national park just a few hours’ drive north-west from Johannesburg. Centered around an extinct volcano crater, its setting is unique and home to the big five along with plenty of other game. You can choose between a self-drive safari and DIY accommodation, or private lodge safari. Either way, the Pilanesberg National Park is a mesmerizing location to take advantage of hot air balloon safaris over the bush at dawn.

Accommodation options: Due to its location near Sun City, there’s a huge range of accommodation options in and around Pilanesberg to suit all tastes and budgets. Find prices & book >>

17. Welgevonden Game Reserve & Marakele National Park, South Africa

Drinks time at Welgevenden’s pool area

Adjoining areas Welgevonden Game Reserve  and Marakele National Park are in the process of removing their fences to allow the game to roam in a larger area. Both parks are home to the big five, as well as 30 more mammal species and over 250 species of birds. Marakele is more for intrepid safari-goers than luxury safari seekers – you’ll definitely need your own four-wheel-drive car, whilst Welgevonden as a private game reserve has a focus on high-end luxury.

Accommodation options: Are plentiful and varied inside the reserve, with a host of luxurious and extremely hospitable lodges and camps to choose from. Find prices & book >>

Malaria Free Safari Destinations in Namibia

Malaria is prevalent in eastern and northern Namibia from November to June, but from July to September there’s no malaria risk in Namibia’s northern regions of Etosha or Damaraland.  This means that with the right timing, it’s possible to visit two of Namibia’s standout safari destinations with the guarantee of no malaria. Further south in Namibia the Namib-Naukluft National Park is malaria-free year-round.

18. Etosha National Park

An encounter with Etosha’s huge elephants

Whilst you’ll need to time your trip to Etosha between July and September to ensure a malaria-free safari, these are also the dry months with water sources drying up and wildlife congregating around waterholes – making it an excellent time to spot game. The white salt pan makes for a dramatic game-viewing backdrop, and along the pan’s southern edge is a collection of waterholes that are a magnet for wildlife. Common sightings are herds of zebra and huge elephants, rhinos and giraffe, with the big five all present. Read more about Etosha National Park .

Accommodation options in Etosha: There are three main camps in Etosha giving a range of options –  from great camping facilities to mid-range chalets and a few high-end bungalows. Close to the main gates of the park, there is also a range of mid-range accommodation options and full-on luxury lodge-type nature reserves such as Onguma. Find prices & book >>

19. Damaraland

Elephants congregating around a large watering hole in Damaraland

One of Namibia’s lesser-known gems, Damaraland is a dry, mountainous region in northern Namibia with desert-adapted wildlife including elephant, rhino, giraffe, and lion wandering the fenceless terrain.  Seeing wildlife in this beautifully stark environment is a thrilling addition to any safari, and combines well with time in nearby Etosha National Park.

Accommodation options in Etosha: Damaraland is a large area with a handful of luxurious lodges dotted around. Find prices & book >>

20. Sossusvlei

The orange dunes of Sossusvlei sand dunes in Namibia’s Namib-Naukluft National Park

At first glance, Sossusvlei and the surrounding Namib-Naukluft National Park seems like a lifeless pan in the south of Namibia. Aside from the shape-shifting red sand dunes and nearby photographer’s dreams of Deadvlei and Sesriem Canyon, there’s actually lots of wildlife on view across the park. Namib-Naukluft provides sanctuary to large mammals such as the black rhino and herds of gemsbok, Hartmann’s mountain zebra, springbok, ostrich and giraffe, and to predators such as spotted and brown hyena, leopard and cheetah.

Accommodation options in Sossusvlei: The only accommodation in the park comes in the form of several campsites in the north, though with minimal facilities – you’ll need to be 100% self-sufficient, with firewood, water, and food. There are plenty of accommodation options around the fringes, particularly Sesriem, which is the best base for trips to Sossusvlei. Find prices & book >>

Map of where to enjoy malaria free safaris

That’s our pick of the very best malaria-free safari options in Africa. Are there any other parks or game reserves you would add to this list? Please let us know in the comments section below!

Top countries for safaris

• Botswana safaris
• Kenya safaris
• Namibia safaris
• South Africa safaris
• Tanzania safaris
• Uganda safaris

Safari basics

• Safari animals
• How to find the right safari company
• When to go on safari
• What to take on safari
• Safari clothing – what to wear
• Safari rules & etiquette
• Wildlife spotting tips

Most read articles

• All about the ‘big five’ animals
• Collective nouns for animals
• Safari movies to watch before you go
• The world’s fastest land animals
• Apex predators
• 10 Fascinating African tribes
• The biggest animals in the world
• 17 Epic hybrid animals
• The world’s ugliest animals
• Why are flamingos pink?

Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
• Etosha National Park, Namibia
• Kruger National Park, South Africa
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
• Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

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The 10 Best Malaria-Free Safari Destinations in South Africa

Although malaria is almost entirely preventable thanks to prescription prophylactics, some travelers choose to avoid medication by steering clear of malaria risk zones. Side effects and cost are chief among the reasons, but it’s often the case for families traveling with children who aren’t keen on swallowing pills. For these travelers, the best option for a malaria-free safari is South Africa . While not zero-risk, many phenomenal game-viewing locations are completely absent of the mosquitoes that carry parasite-causing malaria. In the 10 game reserves listed below you won’t have to sacrifice to enjoy a malaria-free safari in South Africa.

What is malaria?

Malaria is a disease transmitted by certain types of parasite-carrying mosquitoes. Especially prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, this serious and sometimes fatal disease often presents as a high fever, chills, muscle aches or flu-like symptoms. Symptoms begin seven to 10 days after a person is infected, or even weeks after. In some recorded cases—up to a year later. Severe illness and fatalities are most common in children under five years of age who are not able to readily access health care. Pregnant persons traveling to countries of transmission will also want to take special precautions. A diagnostic blood test can confirm malaria and treatment requires prescription drugs. Anyone can be infected with malaria, and you can not be vaccinated against it.

Why some travelers dislike taking antimalarial drugs

No antimalarial is 100 per cent effective and there are many reasons travelers may prefer to avoid taking them. The biggest downside to preventative prophylactics is the potential side effects which range from heightened photosensitivity and insomnia to yeast infections and upset stomach.

There are a handful of antimalarial drugs available to travelers , each with their own side effects and dosages. Some are taken daily, others weekly. Some can be taken a day or two before a trip while others require a few weeks. Some drugs should be taken for seven days after travel, others for four weeks. It’s also important to know that some drug types are not appropriate for children, pregnant persons or those who are breastfeeding. What’s more, if you take prescription medications, some antimalarials may cause potential drug interactions or contraindications. Your doctor is the best person to discuss which antimalarial tablets are best for you.

Otherwise, remembering to take a pill can be a nuisance for some people or wholly impractical for others—think: children and infants. And depending on the duration of your trip, tablets can be a costly added expense—especially when the dosage is daily, or if you’re required to take them for weeks after your return home.

Is there malaria in South Africa?

South Africa is not entirely malaria-free, but it is considered low risk and, in some pockets, no-risk. To understand why, it’s helpful to think about climate.

Two things need to occur for malaria transmission to transpire: the presence of Anopheles mosquitoes carrying the plasmodium falciparum parasite, and for the parasite to fully incubate to maturity. Both thrive in the high temperatures and humidity of tropical and subtropical climates where rainfall contributes to standing water. (Mosquitoes lay eggs near water.) Below 68°F (20°C), the parasite will not survive which is why we can observe varying levels of transmission within a single country. Gaining elevation, traveling during the cooler seasons, and in arid landscapes all reduce the risk of malaria.

Unlike some of its sub-Saharan neighbors that experience malaria year-round, South Africa’s distance from the equator results in distinct seasons where the average temperature dips below the critical 68°F threshold. From April through October, the mean temperature fluctuates between 52°F and 66°F (11°C – 19°C). With varied terrain and elevation, more than 90 per cent of South Africa falls outside of the malaria risk map, making it an appealing destination for travelers who don’t want to bother with medication.

When malaria is transmitted in South Africa, it’s mainly along the country’s northeastern borders with peak cases observed in January and February.

In the moderate risk zone that borders Zimbabwe and Mozambique, antimalarial drugs are recommended, but just seasonally (September through May). In the low-risk areas, mosquito avoidance is sufficient (using repellent, covering your skin and if necessary, sleeping beneath a net) and only recommended seasonally.

Top picks for the best malaria-free safari in South Africa

With most of South Africa falling well beyond the risk zone, travelers have a wide range of options when choosing a malaria-free safari destination. Here are Extraordinary Journeys’ top picks.

1. Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Located in the Eastern Cape province , Kwandwe Private Game Reserve boasts 54,000 acres of private wilderness area. It’s a Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, African buffalo, and rhinoceros) destination, home to both black and white rhino. Within Kwandwe’s borders are 19 miles of the Great Fish River, lending itself to a more diverse landscape and great wildlife sightings. There are only four properties in the Reserve (Great Fish River Lodge, Ecca Lodge, Uplands Homestead, and Melton Manor ) totaling just 26 beds, making for an excellent guest-to-wilderness ratio. Melton Manor, Uplands Homestead, and Fort House are exclusive-use properties perfect for families and small groups.

2. Amakhala Game Reserve

The Amakhala Game Reserve encompasses 18,000 acres of protected bushveld located in the Eastern Cape province. The area was settled in the 1800s by a handful of families who farmed sheep and cattle right up until the turn of the century. In 1999, a joint conservation effort of lodge owners, all of whom were direct descendants of the original Frontier settlers, was established. The efforts have reintroduced indigenous flora and fauna with great success. Now, safari-goers might spot the Big Five, hyena , black wildebeest, giraffe, zebra, and antelope. There are 10 dreamy properties on the Reserve, offering a broad range of lodgings from restored country homes to tented camps. Located in a secluded corner of the Reserve and set on the banks of the Bushman’s River, the family-operated HillsNek Lodge is EJ’s top pick. We love the luxurious tented chalets for their deep soaker tubs, splendid open-air bush showers, and the wraparound decks that offer commanding views of the plains.

3. Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Another fantastic Eastern Cape safari destination, the 61,776-acre Shamwari Private Game Reserve spans five South African biomes, attracting a diversity of wildlife and flora. The Albany thicket that predominantly carpets the Reserve appeals to the Big Five, kudu, black rhino, monkeys, and bushbuck. Abundant biodiversity wasn’t always a given at Shamwari; the Reserve was established in the early 1990’s to reverse nearly three centuries of human activity that had negatively impacted indigenous wildlife. Today, there are seven superb accommodations to choose from, ranging from the private Sarili villa to the family-friendly Riverdene to the prim Long Lee Manor. Intrepid travelers who visit between October and May can take a stroll on the wild side by booking a stay at Shamwari’s seasonal bush camp, Explorer Camp, which celebrates walking safaris .

4. Kariega Game Reserve

Before Kariega Game Reserve’s 1989 inception, the overburdened land had been owned by 21 private farmers. It has taken more than three decades and immense consolidation to have grown the initial 1,230-acre land purchase to what we see today: 28,417 acres of spectacular Eastern Cape reserve land where lions , elephant , rhino , buffalo , leopard , hippo, hyena, giraffe and zebra thrive. Game drives and bush walks bring safari-goers through varied ecosystems such as fynbos, riverine forests, valley bushveld, and acacia woodlands. Uniquely, the Reserve is threaded by two rivers, inviting guests to enjoy boat cruises , paddle a canoe , or cast a line. Kariega offers a five-star tented experience (Settlers Drift), 24 log chalets (at Main Lodge), a private-use villa (The Homestead), 10 suites at River Lodge (which connects to the sea), and the rustic-meets-luxurious Ukhozi Lodge.

5. Waterberg Region

The Waterberg Region is an exceptional wilderness area in the northern Limpopo province that has earned UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve status. The 5,600 square-mile expanse is graced with outstanding vistas, clear streams, rolling bushveld hills, and mountain gorges. There are just two accommodations: Ant’s Hill and Ant’s Nest —both owned and operated by the Baber family—set within a 12,500-acre private game reserve within the Waterberg bushveld. (Either lodge can be booked for exclusive-use, or parties can book single rooms.) Rife with biodiversity and home to the Big Five, guests can explore the varied topography via game drives or on foot, but the signature offering here is horse safaris . Home to a stable of 90-plus horses that have been adapted to the environment, viewing African wildlife over the ears of a pony is unlike any other safari experience. Groups are limited to six riders per departure and cater to all riding abilities.

6. Marataba Contractual National Park

Also located in Limpopo province’s Waterberg Region is Marataba, a 52,000-acre privately managed section of the Marakele National Park. Here, at the foot of the Waterberg Mountains with the winding Matlabas River in the foreground, bushveld gives way to Kalahari sands. This remarkable landscape is home to the Big Five and a globally consequential population of white and black rhino. With just four lodging options, Marataba is an intimate safari destination. The four-suite, exclusive-use Founders lodge and six tented suites at Explorers are dubbed “ conservation camps ” where guests can lean into experiences not limited to rhino research and notching, elephant monitoring , and setting camera traps. For a more refined stay, Marataba Mountain Lodge ’s five eco-suites and Safari Lodge’s 15 tented suites are exactly what travel dreams are made of.

7. Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve

Spanning 247,000 acres, Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve is South Africa’s largest private game reserve. Located in the heart of the Northern Cape province, Tswalu was built on the principles of conservation. Thanks to the safeguarding of vital habitat and the restoration of biodiversity, the Reserve offers superlative game viewing: desert black rhino, white rhino, black-maned Kalahari lions, leopards, cheetah, meerkats, giraffe, antelope, and more.

To keep Tswalu wild, the Reserve features just three boutique safari camps: The Motse with nine suites; Tarkuni , a private, exclusive-use homestead; and Tswalu Loapi Tented Camp , six privately staffed pavilion-style safari homes. (Considered among the best South Africa safari lodges .) Translation: even at full capacity (~40 adults), Tswalu represents the lowest ratio of guest-to-wilderness in a privately protected area in South Africa. Star beds, a dining boma, a restaurant stewarded by a celebrated chef (Klein JAN), and suites constructed of earthy materials in organic shapes make leaving Tswalu difficult. Bespoke daily itineraries are the cherry on top.

8. Madikwe Game Reserve

Located in the North West province bordering Botswana , Madikwe Game Reserve spans 185,329 acres and represents a tremendous wildlife comeback story. After failed attempts to farm the land, the Reserve was established in 1991. Under the banner of “Operation Phoenix,” 10,000 animals across 27 species were successfully reintroduced over a six-year period. Today, Madikwe is a hot spot for the Big Five, in addition to a thriving population of wild dogs. The Reserve also falls upon the junction of two unique ecosystems—Kalahari thornveld and bushveld—and examples of sentinel inselbergs (“island mountains”) can be seen to the west. Despite it being just a four-hour drive from Johannesburg /Pretoria, Madikwe remains a lesser-touristed reserve. Featuring a higher number and density of camps and lodges than the other private reserves on this list (more than two dozen), EJ safari specialists recommend Jaci’s Safari Lodge and Mateya Safari Lodge for exceptional guiding.

9. Samara Private Game Reserve

Overlaying four of South Africa’s provinces, The Karoo is a semi-desert region larger than the size of Germany. Sometimes likened to Australia ’s Outback, the landscape is one of vast open plains hemmed by mountains. Snug in the Karoo is the 67,000-acre Samara Private Game Reserve, a place where an ambitious but successful conservation story has been unfolding since 1997 when the land was purchased by Mark and Sarah Tompkins. A painstaking rewilding project was undertaken, first eradicating invasive plant species, removing fences, and resting depleted farmland, followed by the reintroduction of indigenous, iconic, and endangered species. Guests of the two intimate on-Reserve properties (The Manor and Karoo Lodge) are situated at the convergence of five unique vegetation biomes—grasslands, Nama Karoo, savannah, thicket, and forest—which support thriving populations of nearly 60 mammals. In this born-again wilderness, safari-goers can spot the Big Five and enjoy the Reserve’s signature experience, tracking cheetahs on foot.

10. Phinda Private Game Reserve

Phinda Private Game Reserve is located in KwaZulu-Natal , a province known for its swimmable and surfable coast, tall mountains and big game savannah. We love Phinda for its diverse habitats (seven ecosystems within 66,133 acres) that support wildlife including the Big Five, elusive cheetah, rare black rhino and 436 bird species. Phinda is owned by &Beyond and represents the company’s flagship property. There are six swoon-worthy luxury lodges peppered throughout the Reserve; EJ’s favorites are Phinda Zuka and Phinda Vlei . Guests interested in conservation-focused safari experiences can assist with rhino tracking and (painless) dehorning, elephant collaring, or pangolin monitoring to better understand the world’s most trafficked animal. Choosing Phinda as your safari destination also means easy Indian Ocean beach excursions like scuba diving and seasonal turtle nesting.

It is important to acknowledge that Phinda is in a low-risk malaria zone. Antimalarial tablets are not recommended, but travelers visiting between September and May should practice mosquito avoidance. 

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Top 8 Best Malaria-free Game Reserves in South Africa

Harriet is a zoologist with more than 20 years’ experience. She has the privilege of working with the world’s top wildlife photographers and photo-guides.

One of the big advantages of traveling to South Africa, compared to other African safari destinations, is that a number of game reserves where you can see the Big Five are in malaria-free areas. This is fantastic if you’re traveling with small children or want to avoid taking anti-malarials.

Key areas to look at are the Eastern Cape (handy if you want to combine a safari with the Garden Route), Pilanesberg Game Reserve (only a couple of hours drive from Johannesburg) and Madikwe Game Reserve – a 4-hour drive or 1 hour flight from Johannesburg. If your budget allows it, you may also like to consider Tswalu in the far northwest of South Africa. Below are recommendations for malaria-free game reserves in South Africa.

129 Malaria-free Safaris

1. Madikwe Game Reserve

One of the best options for a visit to a malaria-free game reserve in South Africa is Madikwe. Madikwe Game Reserve offers a classic Big Five safari experience, and also has a great reputation for wild dog sightings. It should be noted that leopards are more difficult to see here than in the Greater Kruger reserves. Although state owned, Madikwe is privately run, which means you can’t self-drive and you need to stay in one of their all-inclusive lodges. Aside from the usual game drives, night drives and walking safaris are offered.

The safari vehicles can travel off-road, which hugely enhances the quality of sightings. There are a variety of up-market lodges to choose from, some specialising in catering for children. In my opinion, Madikwe offers the most consistent game viewing of the malaria-free game reserves, and with its classic bushveld terrain, it really feels like you’re on safari. Madikwe is a 4-hour drive from Johannesburg. Alternatively, you can fly in on a charter flight, although this can be pretty expensive, especially for a family.

23 Madikwe Safaris

2. Pilanesberg National Park

The Pilanesberg Game Reserve is set in an ancient volcanic crater and is one of the most beautiful malaria-free safari parks in South Africa. As it is only a 2-hour drive from Johannesburg, it makes for a great add-on trip to other South African destinations. It is conveniently located next door to the Sun City complex. Although the Big Five are present, you will need to be lucky to see any big cats. You should however see elephants, buffalo and white rhino, and I have seen brown hyena here on every visit. The Pilanesberg is also a good bird-watching destination, with 350 species on its checklist. There are a number of hides where you can get out of your car, and these provide great opportunities for bird photography.

Pilanesberg Game Reserve does not feel as wild as some of South Africa’s bigger reserves, and it can get very busy with day-trippers from Sun City. However, it makes for a great short trip from Johannesburg. There is a variety of lodges as well as self-catering options, and you can self-drive or go on organised game drives.

69 Pilanesberg Safaris

3. Shamwari Game Reserve

Shamwari Game Reserve is one of the most popular reserves in the Eastern Cape. It is a private, family-owned game reserve, and it gives visitors the opportunity to combine the safari experience with luxury accommodation. It is home to the Big Five and offers excellent wildlife viewing with knowledgeable guides. Shamwari has six luxury lodges – two of which specifically cater for families. This malaria-free game reserve in South Africa is 100km from Port Elizabeth Airport and is easy to combine with a Garden Route vacation. Shamwari offers guests the chance to learn more about their conservation efforts and visit their Rhino Education Centre and Born Free Big Cat Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre. There are also a number of interesting volunteering programmes.

Shamwari Safaris

4. Kwandwe Game Reserve

Kwandwe Game Reserve is one of the newest, private malaria-free safari parks in South Africa and is, like Shamwari, located in the Eastern Cape. Its 22,000 hectares of picturesque hills and valleys stretch either side of the Great Fish River. Kwandwe was formerly farmland and has now been restocked with game. It offers the Big Five, however wildlife can be skittish as it isn’t as habituated yet as in some other private reserves. However, Kwandwe is renowned for the opportunity to see black rhino and if you’re lucky, cheetah. Kwandwe has four luxury lodges, two catering for couples and two specialising in families. It is just a 2-hour drive from Port Elizabeth, so it can easily be combined with a holiday exploring the Garden Route.

Kwandwe Safaris

5. Marakele National Park

This malaria-free game reserve in South Africa is in the Waterberg, northwest of Johannesburg. The Waterberg is a Biosphere Reserve, home to a number of upmarket, private game reserves, safari lodges as well as Marakele National Park. Marakele is a relatively new national park, and here you can self-drive and camp or stay in self-catering accommodation. My personal favourite place to stay is Tlopi Tented Camp, overlooking a dam – we had elephants coming to bathe when we stayed here.

Marakele is in the heart of the Waterberg Mountains, with truly beautiful scenery comprising grassy valleys and red cliffs. The park is divided into two sections. The first section contains easy-to-drive gravel roads where we saw several white rhino. The second section feels wilder and access is controlled with a gate. Visitors must not miss the drive to the mountain-top viewpoint, where you can see endangered Cape vultures soaring on the thermals. It is relatively easy to spot both black and white rhino in Marakele, but do not come here expecting to see predators.

Marakele Safaris

6. Mount Camdeboo Private Game Reserve

Mount Camdeboo National Park is based at the foot of the Sneeuberg Mountain Range in the malaria-free Karoo, outside Graaff-Reinet. The reserve is home to white rhino, buffalo, cheetah and the rare mountain zebra – and there are plans to introduce elephant and lion sometime soon. Accommodation is in three beautifully restored, gabled manor houses and two luxury safari tents. As well as game drives and bush walks, the reserve offers cheetah tracking, scenic helicopter flights and star gazing. Informative talks take place at historical Boer-War sites on the property. Mount Camdeboo is a 3-hour drive inland from Port Elizabeth or can be accessed via the airstrip at Graaff-Reinet.

7. Tswalu Kalahari Private Game Reserve

For a totally different experience of a malaria-free game reserve in South Africa, if your budget allows it, Tswalu is another option to consider. Tswalu is South Africa’s largest private game reserve, situated in the southern Kalahari – a vast, pristine wilderness. It is famed for its rare and extraordinary wildlife. Here you can see the magnificent black-maned lions and African wild dogs, encounter habituated meerkats and look for pangolins and aardvark in the winter months. Tswalu Kalahari Reserve offers an exclusive, five-star safari experience and you are allocated your own game drive vehicle, guide and tracker. In addition to game drives, Tswalu offers walking safaris and horse riding. Also on offer are wine tastings, champagne breakfasts, dune picnics and, of course, luxury spa treatments.

8. Samara Private Game Reserve

Samara is a malaria-free luxury private game reserve in the Eastern Cape, close to Graaff-Reinet. The main lodge, the Manor House is a beautiful old Karoo farm house, surrounded by jaw dropping scenery. Samara was one of the first reserves to pioneer cheetah tracking on foot. It is thrilling to go out with your guide and use the radio aerial to hone in on approximately where the cheetahs are and then track them on foot. The cheetahs, although used to humans, are wild and ignored us completely, instead focusing intently on some distant springboks. It was amazing how close we could get without disturbing them – fantastic for photography with the spectacular Karoo scenery behind. In winter, Samara also has a great reputation for aardvark sightings – one of the most elusive and strangest African mammals.

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South Africa: Self-drive Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Durban (Start) , Umhlanga (Town) , Drakensberg Mountains (Mountain Range) , Spioenkop GR, Nambiti GR, Johannesburg (End)

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Luxury+ Hotel

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Hoedspruit (Town) , Kruger NP, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Cape Town (End)

MoAfrika Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  1206 Reviews

South Africa: Shared tour (max 13 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Greater Kruger, Kruger NP, Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route) , Johannesburg (End)

Explore Kruger Park   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  1 Reviews

Malaria Free Safaris in Africa

Malaria-free safaris do exist in Africa; they can be found in several ecologically diverse regions of South Africa . If you want to see the Big Five without worrying about taking malaria pills (prophylactics) or other precautions, there are plenty of options available.

Why Choose a Malaria-Free Safari?

Malaria-free safaris are an excellent option if you're traveling with children, if you're elderly, if you're pregnant, or in any way unable to take anti-malaria medication. For some people, even the idea of catching malaria is enough to put them off a trip to Africa. If that's the case, you'll be happy to know you can enjoy an African safari without running a million miles upon seeing a mosquito.

Malaria Free Safaris in South Africa

There are many areas in South Africa that are malaria-free and can offer world-class safari experiences . While some of South Africa's best game parks are unfortunately not in the malaria-free zone (like Kruger National Park and others in the Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal regions) many private game reserves have set up in the Eastern Cape area, Madwikwe, Pilanesberg, and the Waterberg area. These reserves have successfully relocated a large number of animals and besides the Big Five you can also see rare mammals like cheetah and wild dogs.

The Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape region is very popular since you can combine a safari with a visit to Cape Town . Some of the best Game Parks in this region are along the Garden Route and include:

• Kwandwe Game Reserve -- Three lodges provide excellent accommodation in this large private game reserve near Grahamstown. Day and night drives are available to view the numerous lion, cheetah, rhino, elephant, hippo, and leopard in the park. Bush walks, canoeing and fishing are also activities you can enjoy. Children are welcome but the recommended age to enjoy a safari here is 6 and over.
• Addo Elephant National Park -- Soon to be one of the largest national parks in South Africa, Addo offers the visitor not only the Big Five but sightings of whales and great white sharks as well. Situated just north of Port Elizabeth, Addo is home to several luxury lodges as well as the Addo Main Rest Camp which provides more budget style accommodation; chalets, tents, and rondavels. Hiking, horse riding are also popular activities besides safari drives (which you can do in your own vehicle ). Children under 6 are not allowed on drives organized by the park.
• Shamwari Game Reserve -- Situated along the Bushman's River, Shamwari is a private, family-owned game reserve which offers visitors a chance to see the Big Five and much more. Lodges are luxurious and game drives and meals are included with the package. You can enjoy a spa, daily game drives, bush walks and if you fall in love, you can come back and volunteer to help protect the parks' animals.
• Amakhala Game Reserve -- Formerly farmland, the family-owned Amakhala game Reserve is now home to Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino, Buffalo, Cheetah, Giraffe, Zebra and numerous other antelope. Situated just east of Port Elizabeth, Amakhala offers game drives and a variety of very comfortable lodges . Day visits are easily accommodated as are children over the age of 6.
• Kariega Game Reserve -- Situated along the Kariega River the game reserve offers canoeing safaris, fishing, a river cruise and more besides the excellent game drives. The wildlife is abundant and the lodges are luxurious with outdoor pools and decks. A minimum of least 2 nights are recommended at the Kariega Game Reserve to enjoy the activities on offer.

Because the Garden Route is so popular, many packages will combine a few days in a game park, with a visit to the beach and other highlights of the area.

• Safari Packages from locally based tour operators .
• Safari Guide Africa has a great list of packages and deals for malaria-free and family-friendly safaris .
• Rhino Africa offers several safari packages on their own or in combination with the Garden Route.
• Travel Butlers offers specials on nearly every safari available in the Eastern Cape area.

Madikwe Game Reserve

Madikwe is in the north of South Africa's North West province on the edge of the great Kalahari Desert, bordering Botswana . Madikwe used to be private farmland but with the successful relocation of more than 8000 animals ( Operation Phoenix ) in the 1990's, Madikwe is now winning awards as a conservation success story.

The best way to get to Madikwe is either by charter flight or car from Johannesburg (3.5 hours) and Gaborone in Botswana (1 hour). A popular add-on for visitors to Madikwe includes a trip to Victoria Falls (but the Falls are not in a malaria-free zone!) and some of Botswana's fine National Parks.

Madikwe is home to some truly wonderful private lodges and camps, some of the best are listed below. Note that visitors cannot enter the park without staying at one of the lodges. The lodges are luxurious, but with favorable exchange rates you may be pleasantly surprised with what you can afford.

Best Lodging in Madiwke includes:

• Jaci's Tree Lodge is a perfect choice for families since the 8 rooms are actually tree houses built around a giant Leadwood tree. There are outdoor jungle showers as well as en-suite bathrooms. Raised wooden walkways lead to a restaurant and bar.
• Madikwe Safari Lodge is situated in the heart of the reserve and has nice sweeping views of the plains. The lodge is small, with 16 suites and is very family-friendly. A pizza oven and several plunge pools will certainly please the kids.
• Madikwe River Lodge is beautifully situated on the Marico River in a riverine forest. There's a lodge with family rooms as well as 16 chalets. Children of all ages are welcome.
• Thakadu River Camp is a community owned luxury tented camp that is very child-friendly. A lovely swimming pool overlooks the Marico River. Each tent has its own private viewing deck.
• Etali Safari Lodge is very luxurious and intimate with just 8 suites available, each with its own private sundeck and whirlpool.

Pilanesberg Game Reserve

Pilanesberg  is a beautiful Game Reserve situated on the remains of an extinct volcano crater near  Sun City  (a big holiday resort). Pilanesberg was created as a reserve in the late 1970's and now boasts the  Big Five  and many other animals courtesy of a vast wildlife relocation project. Just a 2-hour drive from Johannesburg, this park is very accessible and is popular with local South African families escaping the city.

Pilanesberg is an excellent option for day trips especially if you're enjoying Sun City. The park isn't huge, but the vegetation is incredibly varied and the landscape is lush and beautiful. You can choose from a traditional safari drive, hot air ballooning or  walking safaris . Pilanesberg's lodges include the  Ivory Tree Game Lodge ,  Tshukudu ,  Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge  and the Bakubung Bush Lodge.

Pilanesberg is ideal for a  self-drive  safari; the roads aren't paved but they are in good condition. Just outside the park gates are a couple of options for less pricey accommodation with swimming pools and playgrounds for the children. They include the  Bakgatala Resort  which offers chalets and tents. The  Manyane Resort  also offers a variety of accommodation including campsites, chalets and caravan sites and is very family-friendly.

Recommended Safari Packages for Pilanesberg:

• Family Safari from CC Africa which includes Madikwe.
• Madiwke Safari packages from Wildlife Africa.
• Discounted rates on Madikwe accommodation from Madikwe Info.
• 2 night Pilanesberg packages  from Wildlife Africa.
• Day Tours to Pilanesburg  from Johannesburg from Go Safari.
• Day trips, and 2 nights in Pilanesberg  at all lodges from local tour operator, Adventure Travel Africa.

The Waterberg Area

The Waterberg area is in South Africa's Limpopo Province north of Johannesburg. Most of the parks and lodges listed below are no more than a 2-hour drive from Johannesburg. The Waterberg area is malaria-free and filled to the brim with private and national game parks. Most of the reserves in this area have been stocked full of game and offer beautiful mountainous landscapes as well as Big Five viewing and incredible birdlife.

Entabeni Game Reserve

Entabeni is a private reserve and boasts no less than 5 eco-systems including wetlands, craggy escarpments, grass plains and cliffs. In Entabeni you can enjoy guided game drives, bush walks, sunset cruises on the lake, horse riding and helicopter air safaris. Entabeni is an all-inclusive safari reserve, meals and game drives are included in the price, so you will not be driving your own car around once you're in the reserve. Children under 6 are not allowed on game drives.

Lodging includes Lakeside Lodge on the shores of Lake Entabeni and  Wildside Safari Camp .

Welgevonden Game Reserve Welgevonden is popular with weekenders from Johannesburg looking for some peace and tranquility in the beautiful South African bush. The Big Five are here as well as 30 more mammal species and over 250 species of birds. Welgevonden borders Marakele National Park and the two parks will soon remove their fences so game will be free to roam in a larger area. Accommodation is plentiful and varied inside the reserve. You can choose from the luxurious  Sediba Game Lodge ,  Makweti Safari Lodge , or the  Nungubane Lodge  to name a few.

Marakele National Park Marakele is set in the middle of the Waterberg region with beautiful mountains as backdrop. Marakele means "sanctuary" in the local Tswana language, and it's certainly peaceful. All the large game species from elephant and rhino to the big cats as well as an amazing variety of birds can be seen here. Marakele is not going to provide you with a luxury safari experience; it's for the more intrepid safari goers. You need your own car and be warned that some of the roads are definitely only accessible to a four-wheel drive vehicle. Accommodation consists of two campsites, Tlopi Tented Camp which has furnished tents and Bontle camping site where you bring your own.

The Ant's Nest and Ant's Hill Private Game Lodges The Ant's Nest  and  Ant's Hill  offer very family friendly, luxurious accommodation. This private reserve is a real haven both for animals (over 40 species) and people looking for a wonderful vacation. Apart from game drives, there's horse riding, elephant safaris, curio shopping, swimming and more.

Mabalingwe Nature Reserve Mabalingwe is home to the big 5, and also hippo, giraffe, hyena, and sable. There are many types of accommodation available including chalets, campsites, and bush lodges. The reserve is very family-friendly, and the rolling grasslands make game-viewing a breeze.

The luxurious  Itaga Private Game Lodge  offers five-star accommodations in 8 African themed chalets and fine dining. Game drives are organized in open 4x4 vehicles with an experienced ranger.

Kololo Game Reserve Kololo is a small reserve with rolling grasslands supporting many species of antelope including impala, kudu, and wildebeest. You won't see the Big Five here, but it's easy to drive to the other parks nearby (Welgevonden for example) and see it all.  Lodging  includes a variety of chalets and camps.

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve - Northern Cape Province

Tswalu is situated in the  Northern Cape Province  and is home to more than 70 species of mammal. Privately owned and operated by a local mining family (the Oppenheimers) Tswalu is still a conservation work in progress, but what is there already can offer the visitor a really wonderful African safari experience. Accommodation is luxurious and you can choose from two lodges, the secluded  Tarkuni  and The Motse. Children of all ages are welcome. The best way to get to Tswalu is to fly in.

A note about malaria

Malaria's reputation as a killer disease is certainly earned, but the mortality figures are mainly a reflection of inadequate health care in Africa. The vast majority of tourists who get malaria recover completely since they have access to medicine and doctors, clean water and food. Malaria can also be avoided with the right precautions ...  more about avoiding malaria.

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The 15 Best Malaria Free Safaris In South Africa For Families

Straight off the bat we want to say: You are not compromising quality when opting for malaria free safaris in South Africa.

Many people think that Kenya or Tanzania offer the ultimate safari experience. It is indeed true that they offer amazing wildlife spotting.

But having done safaris in almost every country in Africa, we always come back to South Africa because it is the best country in the world for family-friendly safaris .

The infrastructure in South Africa is better than other African country. It is also easy to do self-drive safaris which helps keep the cost of a safari down (see here for more info on budget friendly safaris ).

But most importantly for families, South Africa can offer malaria free safaris !

There is also so much more to see and do in South Africa than just taking a safari. We have a whole South Africa family travel section on the blog with helpful information on South Africa with kids .

Our most popular posts are :

• Family-friendly things to do in Cape Town
• Best hotels in Cape Town with kids
• The best Cape Town beaches
• Wine tasting in South Africa with kids
• The best wine estate picnics in South Africa for families
• Best time to safari in the Kruger National Park

Of course, there are areas in South Africa that are not malaria free like the Kruger.

If you want to visit the Kruger, we have guides on family-friendly games lodges in the Kruger.

Recently, we stayed at a couple of fabulous lodges. See a review of Thornybush Game Lodge and our review of Jackalberry Lodge .

This guide to the best malaria free safaris in South Africa will help you find where you can find the perfect malaria-free safari for your family.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one and book or buy something, we may earn a small commission but this is at no extra cost to you.

If you have never taken an African safari with kids before, we recommend using a specialist tour operator.

Go2Africa is the multi award-winning and leading African luxury safari travel agent. They are based in South Africa and know Africa better than anyone.

Our favourite malaria free safaris in South Africa

In summary, our absolute favourite malaria free safari lodges in South Africa are these ones.

We have included more detail on each one below plus a few more safari lodges that we haven’t personally tried (yet).

Marataba Safari Lodge

Shamwari game reserve, kariega game reserve, kwandwe private game reserve, what is malaria.

Malaria is an infectious disease carried by female mosquitos that affects humans and other animals. It can be transmitted by just one mosquito bite.

Symptoms usually begin ten to fifteen days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. They typically include fever, tiredness, vomiting, and headaches.

The vast majority of tourists who get malaria have fast access to medicine, doctors, clean water and food, and make a complete recovery.

Despite this, every step should be taken to minimize the risk of getting malaria, especially when traveling with young kids.

Best tips to avoid mosquito bites

These are our tips for trying to minimize contact with mosquitos. Remember, even if you go on safari in a non-malaria area, there may still be mosquitos.

• We use mosquito repellent stickers as well as mosquito bracelets . They are easy to stick into your family’s travel first aid kit .
• Use mosquito repellent. If we’re in a non-malarial area, we like Avon Skin So Soft but if you’re in a malarial area, products with DEET are recommended (check age suitability).
• Wear long sleeved tops and trousers (cover as much skin as you can).
• Usually we would say avoid going out at dawn and dusk but these are prime wildlife spotting times !

You may also like to read – what to take on safari with kids .

The best advice we can give when taking an African safari with kids is to choose a malaria free area for your safari.

Thankfully, there are some incredible malaria free safaris in South Africa. For this reason, South Africa is one of the best places in the world to go on safari with kids.

Malaria Free Safari Destinations in South Africa

These malaria-free safari destinations are spread across ecologically diverse regions of South Africa. They include some the best national parks in the world where you will find world-class game viewing.

If you want to have an amazing safari experience seeing the big five without worrying about malaria medication, these are the best destinations in South Africa for malaria-free safaris:

The South African malaria-free safari areas are:

• Eastern Cape
• Northern Cape
• Waterberg (Limpopo)
• North West Province

Eastern Cape malaria free safaris in South Africa

All of the game reserves in the Eastern Cape are completely malaria-free. The Eastern Cape is one of our favourite places for malaria free safaris in South Africa because the safari lodges are easy to reach from Port Elizabeth.

A malaria-free safari experience in the Eastern Cape will give you the opportunity to drive along South Africa’s Garden Route – one of the most scenic road trips in the world.

Addo Elephant National Park

Addo Elephant National Park is home to around 500 elephants in the 125,000-hectare reserve. They have the largest density of elephants per square kilometer in Africa.

They have the Big 5 animals here (lion, rhino, buffalo, leopard and elephant).

The park extends to the coast where South Africa’s second-largest African penguin colony can be seen, and sightings of whales, great white sharks, and southern right whales are common.

Accommodation in Addo Elephant Park : There are two luxury lodges in Addo – Gorah Elephant Camp . They accept children over 10 years old. Riverbend Lodge – children of all ages are welcome. There are also much more budget-friendly options found through SanParks .

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve covers 21,000 hectares of private wilderness area. The reserve includes 30 kilometers of the Great Fish River which means a diverse landscape and varied wildlife sightings.

The reserve is perfect for families as they offer child-focused wildlife activities such as making plaster casts of animal footprints and visits to animal orphanages. See here for family activities at Kwandwe Private Game Reserve .

Kwandwe has the Big 5.

Accommodation at Kwandwe : Melton Manor and Uplands Homestead are exclusive-use lodges for families or small groups.

Kariega is a family-owned private game reserve in Kenton-on-Sea incorporating 10,000 hectares and two large rivers – the Kariega and the Bushmans rivers.

There is excellent wildlife viewing, including the Big 5.

Kariega is one of our favourite family-friendly game reserves in South Africa offering the Kids on Safari center with some excellent activities for kids.

We have a special connection with Kariega Game Reserve with our ancestors having owned the land over two centuries ago so of course,  it is one of our favourite places for malaria free safaris in South Africa!

Accommodation at Kariega Game Reserve : Family accommodation is available in the Main Lodge at Kariega Game Reserve .

You can read our Kariega Game Reserve review here.

Shamwari prides itself on being both friendly (the name means “my friend” in Shona), and child-friendly.

It is just a 2 hour drive from Port Elizabeth, making it an ideal end to a Garden Route itinerary.

Childminding services are available on request, along with a host of child-friendly safari activities including the conservation focused ‘ Kids on Safari ’ program. They also have the most amazing playground for kids.

Accommodation at Shamwari : Family accommodation at Shamwari is found in Riverdene Family Lodge .

Other malaria free safaris in South Africa in the Eastern Cape

Samara private game reserve.

Samara Private Game Reserve in the Great Karoo offers guests some of the most breath-taking landscapes in South Africa.

They are also home to a very successful cheetah regeneration program so you have a good chance of seeing cheetah there.

They also have the Big 5 and have a lovely range of activities for kids aged 3 – 12 at the Samara Cubs Programme .

Accommodation at Samara : Samara offers family accommodation in the Manor House but it must be booked exclusively.

Northern Cape malaria free safaris

South Africa’s Northern Cape is a hidden gem in South Africa in terms of safaris.

It offers huge skies, wide open spaces and stunning coastline with some of the largest national parks in Africa.

The Kalahari Desert makes up a large portion of the Northern Cape and is one of the most arid parts of South Africa.

You will, however, also find Namaqualand, one of the most beautiful wild flower regions in the world.

Time your visit right (mid-August to mid-September) and you will see these most spectacular wild flowers bloom.

Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve

Located in the Southern Kalahari desert close to the border with Botswana and covering 100,000 hectares, Tswalu Kalahari is the largest privately owned game reserve in South Africa.

Although this malaria free South African game reserve is huge, visitor numbers are kept to just 30 at any one time. All guests will have a private vehicle, guide and tracker.

Aside from the excellent game drives, activities include horse riding, habituated meerkat colony walks, sleep-outs under the stars, and black rhino walking safaris.

Children of all ages are welcome. Read more about children on safari at Tswalu here .

Accommodation at Tswalu Kalahari : Luxurious suites at The Motse . Larger families or groups can use Tarkuni , a homestead with 5 suites sleeping up to 10 people.

North West Province malaria free safaris

The North West Province is one of South Africa’s smallest provinces.

It is bordered to the north by Botswana and provides the ideal habitat for the Big 5. Two of the best game reserves in the region are Madikwe Game Reserve and Pilanesberg National Park.

Pilanesberg is not far from Johannesburg and the family-friendly Sun City so you could incorporate a stay there into your family-friendly South Africa itinerary . See our review of The Palace of the Lost City which overlooks Pilanesberg.

Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge

Within the Madikwe Game Reserve you will find Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge .

The main lodge doesn’t allow children under 10 but Little Madikwe Private Camp is just perfect for families.

It offers a private 2-bedroom villa (with option of adding another 2 suites for larger families). There is a private pool, private chef and private game viewing vehicle. The nearby watering hole can also be seen from your villa.

There is a Junior Ranger programme that gets the kids learning about the bush through hands on experiences.

Madikwe Hills offers one of the most luxury malaria-free safaris in South Africa and offers one of the best safaris in Africa .

Accommodation options : Little Madikwe Private Camp.

See also Jacis Lodges .

Ivory Tree Game Lodge

Ivory Tree Game Lodge in Pilanesberg offers a family room with a private plunge pool.

Kwa-Maritane Bush Lodge

Kwa-Maritane Bush Lodge is a three bedroom villa set in the Pilanesberg National Park and only 10 minutes from Sun City.

Nkala Safari Lodge

Nkala Safari Lodge is ideal for large families or a group of friends. It is a large holiday home with 6 bedrooms and can sleep up to 11 people.

The Waterberg Region, Limpopo Province

The Waterberg Region is a malaria-free district of Limpopo Province. There is abundant wildlife and spectacular scenery.

Marataba Safari Lodge is one of the Top 20 Resorts in South Africa according to Condé Nast readers.

It is a 21,000 hectare area of the Marakele National Park on the foothills of the Waterberg Mountains.

Children of all ages are welcome and there are children’s activities at the Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure experience as well as a fun clubhouse. You can even have a sleepout at the Thabametsi Treehouse!

Kids aged 3 – 5 can participate in bush rambles and kids aged 6+ can join adults on game drives.

Accommodation options : is in the form of safari glamping tents . There are 15 tents at the Safari Lodge, 4 of which are suitable for families.

The Ant Collection

The reserve is a real haven for animals (over 40 species) and people looking for a wonderful, malaria-free safari in South Africa.

As well as game drives, there’s horse riding, elephant safaris and activities for kids .

Accommodation options : The Ant’s Nest and The Family Cottate at Ant’s Hill can sleep up to 6.

Jembisa Bush Home

Jembisa is a stylish bush home in its own private wildlife reserve in Melk River. The award-winning lodge offers a unique safari experience in the beautiful Palala River wilderness.

There is a lot of wildlife to view here but they do not offer the Big 5 experience.

Accommodation options : Jembissa Bush Home has a colonial safari atmosphere with family rooms or a separate villa sleeping 10.

Leobo Private Reserve

Leobo Private Reserve is an exclusive use, multi award-winning lodge surrounded by rugged mountains, bushveld savannah, rivers, gorges, and an abundance of wildlife.

As well as fantastic wildlife viewing, there’s also a wide array of activities for all ages including paintballing, quad bikes, shooting, fishing, and more.

Was voted best family safari experience in South Africa in 2017 and is one of the most stunning malaria free game reserves in South Africa.

Accommodation options : The lodge has luxury 9 chalets with views over the Palala valley – and a stunning swimming pool built into the side of the mountain.

Do you have any malaria free safaris in South Africa that you would like to add? Let us know!

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South Africa’s Best Places For A Malaria-Free Safari

Safari , South Africa

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There are plenty of malaria-free safari destinations to choose from where you can enjoy a Big 5 safari in the African bush without making any sacrifices in terms of your safari experience or the quality of the accommodation. You’ll even find a diversity of species and landscapes that differ from those in the more popular traditional safari destinations. To help you choose, we’ve put together our favourite spots for a malaria-free safari in South Africa!

The Garden Route is home to several private game reserves that offer something different to the usual safari. Apart from the benefit of a malaria-free safari experience, the close proximity to Cape Town makes it an easy choice for those looking to squeeze in a safari on their trip to the coast. Expert guides and the exclusivity of these lodges ensure that your sightings are intimate and memorable. The vastly different scenery and spectacular mountainous backdrops set the scene for sensational game viewing that thrills and delights guests.

Our Favourite Places:

Kwandwe private game reserve.

Kwandwe’s unique environments flank both the northern and southern banks of the Great Fish River. The Indian Ocean’s breeze turns south-facing slopes into dense forest-like thickets of Euphorbia trees. While the north-facing slopes span out into the bushveld, creating two vastly different ecosystems.

Early morning and late afternoon/evening game drives allow visitors to view different animals’ habits. Cool mornings reveal grazing game while the late afternoon ushers animals to the river banks to quench their thirst. Nightfall showcases the reserve’s nocturnal residents: including special species such as the aardvark, aardwolf, bat-eared fox and porcupine.

Gondwana Game Reserve

Gondwana Game Reserve is perched on the pristine, malaria-free wilderness of the lush, emerald hills of the Garden Route and is barely a four-hour drive out of Cape Town. Keep your eyes on the horizon and expect to see a wide variety of wildlife roaming expansive plains punctuated by the unique beauty of fynbos vegetation.

Gondwana is home to many different animals. Game drives may yield sightings of giraffe, hippo, zebra, cheetah, antelope species and if you’re lucky, black rhino. Boasting a wide range of accommodation options, from private chalets, sprawling villas and even luxury tented camps on the Pioneer Trail slackpacking adventure, this gem of the Garden Route has it all.

One of South Africa’s premier malaria-free safari destinations is undoubtedly Madikwe . Home to the Big 5, an assortment of game and over 360 bird species, it is a wildlife lover’s paradise. Conveniently located just a few hours from Johannesburg it is the perfect place to get a taste of the wild. Madikwe is uniquely poised in the transition zone where the bushveld begins to blend into the Kalahari desert and several rare species occur here naturally.

Jamala Madikwe

Jamala Madikwe is an exceptional safari lodge situated in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. Excellence is evident in every aspect of Jamala Madikwe, from the excitement of the safari guides and staff to the classy and elegant décor. Experienced guides will accompany you on morning and evening game drives, imparting their knowledge of the surrounding wilderness and its many inhabitants. From the Big 5 to over 300 species of bird, be prepared for a fantastic safari experience.

Tuningi Safari Lodge

If you want to treat your family to an ultimate South African safari without roughing it too much, Tuningi Safari Lodge should top your list. Slip into one of the luxury suites, that are limited to a maximum of 16 guests in total. If ultimate exclusivity is what you’re after, then there is no better choice. The Little Tuningi private camp is a secluded refuge with its own private plunge pool and boma, ideal for small groups or families.

Found in northern KwaZulu-Natal, bordering on the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, is Phinda Game Reserve . While not strictly a malaria-free area, the reserve is a very low-risk destination with very few cases being reported in the region. Made up of no less than seven distinct habitats, the reserve hosts an abundant variety of wildlife, including the Big 5. The region’s famous white rhinos wallow near watering holes while herds of elephants and buffalo make their way across the plains. Predatory cats relax in the shade or stalk nyala and impala as they browse. Experience the thrill of tracking these animals on foot as your Zulu trackers point out interesting indigenous trees and shrubs.

Our Favourite Lodges:

Phinda vlei lodge.

If the idea of watching a real-life wildlife documentary from the comfort of a private plunge pool sounds appealing to you, head to &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge . With six suites each with a private deck and the wilderness as its garden, this intimate lodge allows guests to witness wildlife against the backdrop of the African bush.

The lodge’s setting on the outskirts of a wetland allows close-up views of the wildlife. Highlights include twice-daily game drives, rhino-tracking walks, and riverboat cruises along the Mzinene River. Guests can expect encounters with lions, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo, and leopards on a visit.

Discover the exceptional diversity of flora and fauna within the Marakele National Park. Set in the malaria-free heart of Limpopo’s Waterberg Mountains it hosts some fascinating endangered species. Home to the largest population of Cape Vultures in the world and both black and white rhino, it offers something special for wildlife enthusiasts. With a host of activities (many of them family-friendly) such as bush walks and game drives, immersive experiences are a key component of this tranquil region.

A four-hour drive from Johannesburg, Marataba offers guests a Big 5 experience in a spectacular setting alongside the Waterberg Mountains. This malaria-free reserve boasts a plethora of wildlife with the added attractions of sundowner boat rides and regular leopard sightings. A special feature of Marataba is an evening boat trip on the Matlabas River where they can enjoy sundowners and views of the Waterberg.

Come Enjoy A Malaria-Free Safari in South Africa

South Africa has a host of safari options suitable for every traveller. Whether you are avoiding malaria areas, seeking out special species or simply sticking to a region of the country there’s a safari for you. Each and every one promises to delight you in different ways and set a burning passion for Africa ablaze in your heart. Get in touch with one of our Rhino Africa Travel Experts to plan your malaria-free safari today!

Read More on Our Blog:

• The Best Time to Travel in Africa: Your Ultimate African Travel Calendar
• We’re Simply the Best: Africa’s Leading Safari Company in World Travel Awards 2021
• Why Book with Rhino Africa? We’re Experts in All Things Africa

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About the author 

Brad Mitchell

With a deep-set love of the outdoors and making moments count in all aspects of life, nothing makes Brad happier than taking in sunrises and sunsets. He can often be found either running, surfing or playing sports somewhere in Cape Town. Having grown up a stone's throw from Kruger, Brad jumped at the chance to live in the Cape and has never looked back since! With a background in all things Marketing, he is driven by creativity and turning crazy ideas into real-life actions!

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10 Malaria-Free Safari Destinations

One request we get every now and then is for a malaria-free safari experience. Malaria is  a risk (although generally not a huge one) many places in Africa, so we recommend that our clients speak with their doctors about the preventative measures and medications that they might need for their trip.

However, it IS absolutely possible to plan a safari to malaria-free destinations so that you don’t have to worry about it at all. So, if you are concerned about the risk of malaria, let us know, and we can put together a stunning itinerary that will set your mind at ease!

Read on to learn more about malaria-free (or very low-risk) destinations we recommend!

KWANDWE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA

Situated along the Garden Route in the Eastern Cape Province, Kwandwe is home to just 30 rooms spread across two lodges, three exclusive-use villas, and one rustic tented camp, making for one of the highest land-to-guest ratios in South Africa. Visitors are treated to twice-daily game drives to track the Big Five, walking safaris, and fishing in the Great Fish River.

MADIKWE GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA

Situated along the Botswana border in South Africa, close to the Kalahari Desert, Madikwe is about 4.5 hours by car from Johannesburg. The reserve is surrounded by the breathtaking Dwarsberg Mountains and is home to 66 large mammal species (including the Big Five and wild dogs) and approximately 300 bird species, making both morning and evening game drives an exciting wildlife-viewing experience. There are a wide variety of accommodations to choose from in the reserve, but one of our favorites is The Royal Madikwe Luxury Safari Lodge. With just three suites and two villas for a total of 8 bedrooms, The Royal Madikwe offers exclusivity and luxury in addition to an excellent safari experience featuring the Big Five and wild dogs.

ENTABENI GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA

Entabeni Game Reserve is situated just 3 hours north of Johannesburg. In this 22,000 hectare Big 5 game reserve, you’ll find dramatic mountains as the backdrop against which you can spot grazing wildebeest. zebra, and giraffe during twice daily game drives, nature walks, or even a horseback safari. This area is best visited in the dry season — May through October — for the optimal game viewing. Our favorite lodge in this region is Hanglip Mountain Lodge, home to 10 luxury suites with private sun decks and views across the wetlands, plains, and Hanglip Mountain in the distance.

SHAMWARI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA

Home to six luxurious lodges and one tented explorers camp, plus three different education and rehabilitation facilities, Shamwari Private Game Reserve is another ideal destination for a malaria-free safari. Activities in the region include twice daily game drives, guided bush walks, birding excursions, a variety of special experiences for kids on safari, as well as visits to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, the Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries, and even volunteer opportunities through the Shamwari Conservation Experience.

ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK, NAMIBIA *

One of Namibia’s most famous national parks, Etosha is home to a salt pan so large it can be seen from space. It is also full of wildlife, easy to find as it gathers around numerous waterholes. Here, game viewing is easiest in the winter dry season (which is also entirely malaria-free), and birdwatching is excellent in the green summer months (which also bring a greater, although still slim risk of malaria). There are many lodging options both within the park and just outside it. Two of our favorites are Onguma The Fort, which overlooks the salt pans and offers 12 suites, and Etosha Mountain Lodge, which is home to 9 chalets and is an excellent spot for tracking rhino.

KARIEGA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA

Situated in the Eastern Cape Province, Kariega is home to the Big 5 as well as a multitude of other wildlife including hippo, giraffe and zebra and is an excellent destination for birders. Mountains and rivers make for varied landscapes and stunning backdrops for game drives and walking safaris. Three lodges, a tented camp, and an exclusive-use property provide a variety of options for visitors. Ukhozi Lodge is a favorite, with its 10 luxurious suites, each with a private plunge pool and viewing deck.

MAASAI MARA GAME RESERVE, KENYA *

Although malaria is very rare in the Maasai Mara due to its high elevation and lack of mosquitoes, it does exist, so the Maasai Mara is included in this list with a bit of an asterisk. However, it is certainly one of Africa’s top safari destinations, spanning 580 square miles — and that’s before you add in the surrounding conservancies. It’s home to more than 95 species of mammals and more than 570 species of birds. It’s well known for the Great Migration and offers a huge variety of camps and lodges to choose from. A couple of our favorites are Angama Mara, which is perched 1,000 feet above the Maasai Mara, and Mara Plains Camp, which is one of just a few Relais & Chateaux properties in Kenya and which is home to some of the continent’s best game viewing.

TSWALU KALAHARI RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa’s largest private reserve, Tswalu offers an off-the-beaten-path escape, with a focus on sustainability through conservation, community, culture, and commerce. It is situated in a transition zone between the Kalahari Desert and the arid savannah. Besides day and night game drives, complimentary activities include nature walks, animal tracking, horse riding, stargazing, dune breakfasts, sleeping out under the stars, and spending time with habituated meerkats. The Motse camp accommodates a maximum of 24 guests, Tarkuni accommodates up to 10 guests in an exclusive-use homestead, and up to 16 guests can be accommodated in the 6 private tented homes that make up Loapi.

PHINDA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA *

Phinda is home to the Big Five as well as 436 bird species and is well-known as an excellent place for sightings of the elusive cheetah and rare black rhino. Phinda is also home to six luxury lodges — Mountain Lodge, Rock Lodge, Forest Lodge, Vlei Lodge, Zuka Lodge, and Phinda Homestead — each of which offer something unique and ensuring there is something for everyone at Phinda. Activities include twice-daily game drives, bush walks, conservation and research experiences, and local Zulu community experiences. For visitors who want to venture out a bit further, Phinda is also close to the Indian Ocean coastline and iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and ocean adventures can be easily arranged. This is another destination where the risk of malaria is very low, but not zero.

ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH AFRICA

Addo is the third largest national park in South Africa and is home to a wide variety of landscapes, flora, and fauna, including the one of the densest populations of elephants in the world. With its proximity to the ocean, Addo offers a Big 7 experience — you’ll find not only the traditional Big 5 but also marine whales and great white sharks. At Addo, you’ll find Gorah Elephant Camp, Kuzuko Lodge, and RiverBend Lodge, each offering a unique luxury experience in the park. 

As you can see, there are a wide variety of options available for malaria-free (or nearly malaria-free) safaris in Africa. If you are interested in this or any other type of safari, I hope you’ll reach out.

Visit www.hillsofafrica.com/contact-us to get started!

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Malaria-Free Safaris in South Africa

A care-free Safari without malaria tablets

Malaria is a sad reality in much of Africa and nothing is more important than your health, so it's really important that you understand the malarial risk of your safari destination well before you leave the country. This is especially true for families travelling with young children or those with pre-existing conditions.

No matter where you're heading, it's always best to consult your GP a few weeks before you jet off on your safari holiday.

In fact, South Africa is the ONLY country in Africa that can officially offer a fully malaria-free safari experience.

The other countries all carry a malarial risk, albeit small, such as the case of the Kenyan Highlands, and the risk tends to increase over the rainy seasons. This makes South Africa your best (and your only) bet.

Having said this, not every safari destination in South Africa is malaria-free so it's still important to choose your game reserve wisely. The assured malaria-free safari areas are the Eastern Cape , the Pilanesberg National Park and the Madikwe Game Reserve , the Waterberg (just 3 hours north of Johannesburg), and last but not least the Nambiti Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal.

The great news is that all of these reserves offer wonderful wildlife viewing and superb safari experiences, so you won't need to compromise on quality to ensure a medication-free trip. Add To Wishlist Enquire Now  

South Africa's Eastern Cape

Eastern Cape safaris are fully inclusive, so in addition to staying in a top notch lodge you'll receive delicious meals, sunrise and sunset game drives in a 4X4 vehicle and even an optional bush walk with an expert guide each day.

The Eastern Cape is also home to Addo Elephant National Park , one of the most scenic parks in South Africa. It's completely malaria-free with rolling hills that stretch into the horizon and lush, green forest. Even better, most of the vegetation is evergreen, so it's very beautiful throughout the year.

Not only this, but Addo is home to over 450 elephants, who roam freely across the 125,000 hectare reserve alongside the rare black rhino, zebra, kudu and red hartebeest, as well as over 400 bird species. And who could forget the unique flightless dung beetle, found almost exclusively to Addo!

Addo has the greatest density of elephant per square kilometre in Africa, so if you're passionate about these gentle, grey giants, there's literally nowhere better on earth. During an Addo safari, you're bound to catch some unforgettable moments as the elephants gather around the waterholes at sunset or cross the rivers in large herds at dawn. Add To Wishlist Enquire Now  

The Madikwe Private Game Reserve is a wild, remote paradise in the far north of South Africa that nestles against the border with Botswana.

Stretching across 76,000 hectares, it's one of the largest reserves in the country and it's completely malaria-free. In addition to the Big Five, Madikwe boasts a growing population of endangered wild dog, as well as gemsbok, springbok, zebra, giraffe and over 340 species of birds. Add To Wishlist Enquire Now  

Pilanesberg

The Pilanesberg National Park is a beautiful 50,000 hectare malaria-free reserve just a few hours from Johannesburg by road. Centred around an extinct volcano crater, its setting is totally unique and it's home to 7,000 animals including the all-important Big Five.

Here, you can choose between a self-drive safari or private lodge safari and, for a completely mesmerising experience, you can even take a hot air balloon flight over the bush at dawn. Add To Wishlist Enquire Now  

South Africa's Waterberg

Despite its proximity to the city, the Waterberg really does feel a million miles away from urban life, so you're guaranteed a real 'Out of Africa' feeling.

In addition to thrilling game drives and bush walks, you can also take horseback safaris through the bush - a truly exhilarating way to view the wildlife in its natural habitat. Add To Wishlist Enquire Now  

The BEST Malaria free safaris in Africa

Posted on Last updated: 13 March 2024

Do malaria free safaris exist? And will my experience be as as good as visiting the big parks?

Malaria is a concern for any traveller to Africa. Whilst this can be managed to some extent by taking antimalarials, understandably not everyone is happy taking them. This is particularly true for people who believe they will suffer from their side-effects, or those travelling Africa with young kids , pregnant women, and anyone unable to take anti-malarial medication.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, and I receive a small commission.

I am not a medical professional, but I do not recommend travelling into a malaria zone without taking antimalarials. You can check the malaria zones for all African countries on the Fit For Travel website (used by NHS staff). Malaria is a serious tropical disease spread by mosquitoes. If it isn’t diagnosed and treated promptly, it can be fatal.

We traversed African in Land Rover for 101 days when our boys were 2 and 4 years old and all family members took antimalarials. The boys took smaller doses than us and we crushed the tablets up and mixed them in with a chocolate spread, served on a biscuit. They had no idea they were taking them and suffered no side-effects whatsoever. We also took necessary precautions including:

• Applying mosquito repellent with DEET (applied after sunscreen)
• Wearing long-sleeved tops and long trousers from dusk when outdoors
• Sleeping in rooms with air-con or using mosquito nets
• Keeping an eye out for malaria symptoms, such as fever
• Having a malaria test kit in our Africa medical kit to use if symptoms arose

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However, even if you strictly adhere to these precautions, there can never be a 100% guarantee that you’ll avoid malaria.

Thankfully there are a handful of excellent malaria free safaris in Africa, found mainly in Southern Africa.

Is Kruger malaria free?

Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest game reserves and with easy driving, excellent accommodation, and an abundance of wildlife, it’s top of everyone’s list for a holiday in South Africa .

Unfortunately Kruger National Park is not malaria free . It’s in the high-risk malaria zone, with the highest risk period between November and April (the end of the summer rainy season).

However, there are many locals to Kruger, including the majority of expats, who do not take antimalarials and just take other precautions (such as wearing repellent, wearing long sleeved tops and long trousers, etc.). The malaria risk at Kruger is also much lower in the drier months, particularly August.

This is not something I personally would feel comfortable doing, especially with young kids, but I just want to make sure you have all the information to make your own decision.

How about Etosha National Park in Namibia?

Etosha National Park is another big safari park in Southern Africa, and is our favourite African safari with kids . Those vast open dry plains dotted with watering holes make, and the abundance of wildlife, allow for very easy game viewing.

As always, there isn’t a definitive answer regarding malaria and Etosha, with varying opinions online and on the ground. If you just go with the NHS malaria map , Etosha is in the high risk zone. However, the unofficial view from people we spoke to was that the  winter months are entirely malaria-free , although you should always be using some form of repellent. The lack of water in the winter months mean the water mosquitoes need to breed is absent. It goes without saying, but take your own advice and make your own decisions on what is best for you and your family.

You may also want to read our post – Kruger vs Etosha: which is best?

The African safari parks that are low to no malaria risk

Low to no risk areas on the Fit For Travel website are those areas where antimalarials are not usually advised.

Both Kruger and Etosha are right on the edge of the high risk malaria zone, and although there is belief that both parks have malaria-free months, they are not entirely low risk malaria safari parks, despite being the most popular safari destinations in Southern Africa.

The below safari parks are those which sit in low to no-risk malaria areas according to the Fit For Travel website. Although do check the website, as this is always subject to change. These malaria-free safaris have all been suggested by fellow travel bloggers who have visited these parks and are also suitable for visiting with young kids (after all, this blog is all about adventure family travel!) Check our guide to doing an African safari with kids .

Malaria free safari South Africa

South Africa is the most popular country for malaria-free safaris. Here are some top suggestions experienced first hand from fellow travel bloggers.

Addo Elephant National Park

Jacquie from Flashpacking Family

Located 60 km north of Port Elizabeth in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, Addo Elephant National Park is firmly in the non-malarial area of South Africa.

It started out in 1931 as an elephant sanctuary to protect the dwindling elephant population. Today it is home to the Big 5 as well as over 600 elephants and is the third-largest national park in the country. If you want to see elephants, you are all but guaranteed a sighting. The lions, on the other hand, are much more elusive and we didn’t manage to spot any on our visit.

Addo is a great choice for families because you can self-drive making for a very  budget-friendly safari  and there are no age restrictions if you have little ones. The roads are a mix of tarmac and gravel. The gravel roads are good and accessible with a standard 2WD but if there have been heavy rains, you might want to double-check road conditions with the park before going.

If you would rather not self-drive, you can arrange guided safaris with SanParks but these must be booked well in advance. The benefit of a guided tour over a self-drive safari is that you might have a slightly better chance of seeing certain animals, but sightings still can’t be guaranteed.

There are plenty of accommodation options inside the park ranging from camping to upmarket guest houses so there is something for everyone.

Pilanesberg National Park

Sabine from The Travelling Chilli

Pilanesberg National Park is located 2 hours drive north of Johannesburg. It’s perfect for a day trip from either Johannesburg or Pretoria or a multiday safari while staying over in or outside the park.

The advantage in going to Pilanesberg instead of the world famous Kruger National Park is that the area is malaria free, which makes it perfect to visit as a family with young children.

Pilanesberg NP is also great for self driving. Part of the road network is tarred and the rest is reasonably good sand roads. 

The park is located in the crater of an extinct volcano, making the scenery just impressive. While game driving, you can go up the various hills around the park to get an impression of the size of the park and to take in some of the most amazing views.

It is a ‘Big Five’ game park, but most other large wildlife can also be seen. With many waterholes and bird hides, it’s great for watching bird life too. Also, these bird hides are a great stopover to take a small break from driving and make it more interesting for children.

The park itself has various types of accommodation, from camping to chalets and resorts. 

Kgalagadi Transfontier Park

Cristina from Travel For Wildlife

The  Kgalagadi Transfontier Park  in South Africa is a great safari destination for families, especially if you are interested in seeing big predators like lions and cheetahs. We actually believe this is the best place in Africa to see these two iconic species.  

While there are no age limits for children to visit the park, take note that if you visit the Kgalagadi with kids younger than 12 you won’t be able to stay at the wilderness camps because these are unfenced. Predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas patrol these camps every day and it is not safe for young children. You can, however, stay at the three main restcamps, Twee Rivieren, Nossob, and Mata Mata, which are surrounded by a perimeter fence. Here you can either camp or stay in the chalets. 

Also, the Kgalagadi is outside the malaria zone so you can visit this park without worrying about you or your kids having to take antimalarial drugs. 

While you don’t need to have a 4×4 to visit the park, we recommend a high clearance vehicle as the roads can get a bit sandy and difficult to navigate in smaller cars. Also, a high clearance car will help you get a better view of those sleepy lions.

We encourage parents to be extra vigilant as snakes and scorpions are sometimes seen in the main restcamps.

Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park

Rai from A Rai of Light

Established in 1895, the 96,000 hectare Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park is the oldest National Park in South Africa. Found in Northern KwaZulu-Natal, just north of Richards Bay, it is a convenient and accessible safari destination that is also classified as malaria-free for most part of the year. Transmission in these areas is more-or-less confined to the rainy summer months.

The hilly terrain hosts the Big 5, as well as elusive species such as cheetah and wild dog. With emphasis on protecting the wildlife and respecting the people and animals that live in these places, it is considered as a stronghold for species such as the elephant and rhino. Although game drives are on offer, self-drives are a good option as the roads are well maintained.

Imfolozi Game Reserve accommodation consists of various self-catering units, tented camps and luxury safari lodges. This Zululand ecosystem is one of the most bio-diverse wild lands, with much of it declared a World Heritage Site, helping to preserve this as true wildlife sanctuary and one of the best places to witness a true  African sunset .

Mthethomusha Game Reserve

Chloe & Michael from NOMAD AND IN LOVE

Situated on the border of the Kruger National Park, Mthethomusha Game Reserve truly has it all. You can find the big five (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino and Buffalo), as well as a large variety of birds, antelope and flora in this beautiful reserve; pretty much everything that Kruger has as the two game reserves are only separated by a fence that does little to stop certain animals from crossing over from time to time.

It’s a great alternative to Kruger if you’re looking for a more private experience and also has the low malaria risk. Think of it as a boutique hotel with the same amenities as a large and popular hotel, but without the crowds.

Nestled deep in the Methethomusha Nature Reserve you’ll discover Bongani Mountain Lodge , the only accommodation on the reserve. It’s a combination of luxury, nature, seclusion and adventure; truly one of a kind. Animals are allowed to roam throughout the vicinity of the lodge adding to the natural authenticity of your stay.

The reserve is situated on eastern side of Mpumalanga, which is a short 4.5 hour self-drive from Johannesburg. Very manageable if you’ve just landed in South Africa for the first time. The roads to the reserve are generally in excellent condition, but there is a 7 kilometre section of gravel road leading to the lodge’s Welcome Centre that requires a slow and steady driving style. Even though this section may feel seemingly long, you’ll be constantly reassured by the Lodge’s clear signposts that you’re edging closer and closer to this hidden gem. Although an SUV would be the preferred method of transport, a conventional sedan does the job too, albeit more slowly. And that’s where your driving duties end. You’ll be shuttled from the Welcome Centre to the lodge by means of a safari vehicle which takes approximately half an hour. Thereafter, all safaris are arranged by the lodge and are offered twice a day (morning and evening) or by special arrangement.

Amakhala Game Reserve

Ivan from Mind the Travel

Situated on the Eastern Cape of South Africa, malaria-free Amakhala Game Reserve is roughly a one hour drive outside of Port Elizabeth’s national airport.

The game reserve is a conservation area of 7,500 hectares providing stunning sweeping landscapes combined with incredible wildlife including rhino, lion, elephant, cheetah, buffalo, giraffe, black wildebeest, zebra, and over 16 antelope species. Once the surrounding areas were cleared from farms the lands that occupy the game reserve today have been consolidated and returned to their natural bushveld state.

It’s one of the most family-friendly safaris in South Africa that offers spectacular game viewing. Families can explore the 18,000 acres of pristine wilderness and take-in amazing wildlife sightings with all of the members of the Big 5 on offer – lion, buffalo, elephant, rhino, and leopard. While the reserve lies within driving distance of Cape Town and the Garden Route, nothing can beat an extremely rewarding open-air safari tour with a qualified guide.

Amakhala Reserve offers an upscale safari experience for their guests with several accommodations on-site – ranging from country houses, luxury lodges to tented camps. Furthermore, Amakhala has 11 kid-friendly lodges and resorts spread over the territory that are designed to make safaris fun for everyone, including kids.

Mapungubwe National Park

De Wet and Jin from Musuem of Wonder

Stunning Mapungubwe National Park is the perfect self-drive safari destination for families who would like to explore this amazing part of South Africa. With a wide variety of wildlife (4 of the big 5), otherworldly sandstone outcrops, open savannah landscapes dotted with gigantic baobab trees and the Unesco Lost City of Mapungubwe, this national park offers you an unparalleled combination of wildlife and history. Like most other parks in South Africa, there is no age limit for visitors on a self-drive safari. 

A stay in Mapungubwe is as much about the wildlife experience as it is about Ancient Mapungubwe. Remains of the city discovered here prove that this abandoned civilization was the most advanced in Sub-Saharan Africa, and traded as far away as India and China. A guided walk with a game ranger to the top of the ancient citadel is a must. Unfortunately you must be six years old to go on this walk, but there is also a museum and interpretive centre open to everyone where you can learn more about this lost civilization.

Mapungubwe is situated in Limpopo province at the confluence of the Limpopo and Sashe rivers, which mark the northern border of South Africa. At several viewpoints you can overlook the Limpopo river into neighboring Botswana and Zimbabwe. Roads throughout the park are in excellent condition and are suitable for a sedan car. There is also a designated 4×4 route for off road enthusiasts.

The incredible, unfenced Leokwe camp consists of self-catering chalets which are fully equipped for a comfortable stay. The best is the large braai (bbq) facilities on your private veranda and the open air showers. Camping is also possible at two separate campsites in the park.

There is a very low risk of malaria in the rainy months from September to May. But you don’t want to go to Mapungubwe during this time anyway, as summers here are brutally hot.

Gondwana Game Reserve

Jill  from Jetset Journeys

Just four hours’ drive from Cape Town, Gondwana Game Reserve is the only major safari that’s right on the Garden Route, and is malaria-free year-round.

Set on 11,000 hectares (26,000 acres) of fynbos, Gondwana Game Reserve is a wonderful safari introduction for first-timers, and a fascinating stop off on the Garden Route. Allow two to three days if you can, but if you arrive by lunchtime and leave at lunch the next day, you could squeeze in two game drives (evening and morning) even with just a one-night stay.

While it’s smaller than most of South Africa’s national wildlife parks, it still has the Big Five and all the major predators. You’re highly likely to see elephants, zebras, springbok and lions, plus possibly rhinos, hippos, leopards and more, depending on how many days you stay. In fact, because Gondwana is relatively compact – but still large enough to sustain a proper safari eco-system (most ‘safaris’ close to Cape Town are glorified zoos) – you have a pretty high chance of seeing most animals you’d have an interest in.

As is common with most private game reserves, self-drive isn’t allowed, so you’ll be going out on ranger drives in the early morning and late afternoon, leaving the middle of the day for relaxing and just gazing out at the scenery or splashing around your lodge’s private infinity pool. Don’t be surprised if you’re doing a backstroke and look up to see a giraffe peering down at you.

Children aged 6-12 get discounted rates, and can join in fun education game rives, ranger experiences aimed at them, and special activities. They can also join you on the game drives.

Kids under the age of 6 stay for free – hurrah! – but they cannot come on the standard game drives. If you need babysitting while the adults are doing the game drives, the reserve offers this at less than US$10 per hour, or you can pay $180 for a private game drive for your entire family, including children of any age.

The accommodation is much more luxurious than in most national parks, and families are booked into the spacious thatched-roof Bush Villas . The standard of food is high, with children’s menus available, but the Bush Villas also have large kitchens, so you can make your own meals for the children, if you prefer.

And something a little different…

Loisaba conservancy, kenya.

Jennifer & Tim from Luxe Adventure Traveler

A little known safari destination, Loisaba Conservancy is found in Northern Kenya’s Laikipia plateau and matches the Masai Mara with the sheer number of animals – all without the crowds. With year round resident wildlife that includes Kenya’s second largest elephant population, cheetah, African dogs and four of Africa’s Big Five, Loisaba Conservancy is one of East Africa’s best safari destinations.

What’s particularly special, though, are the animals present that are found in few other places in Africa. Known as Kenya’s Northern Five, the Grevy’s zebra, Reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, blue Somali ostrich and the gerenuk are all on the endangered species list and found in Loisaba Conservancy. 

As a land trust conservancy, Loisaba Conservancy has partnered with Elewana Collection to offer accommodation options within the park. A total of just 24 individual accommodations spread across Elewana Collection’s three camps located within the 57,000 acre park means crowds are kept at bay.

Families are welcome, and kids under the age of 12 are even free of charge at the 8-tent Loisaba Lodo Springs camp where the spacious fixed-wall luxury tents easily fit a family. Safari experiences are all-inclusive, including the guide and game drives, with Elewana Collection’s Game Package. 

Located just above the equator and at an elevation of 4000 feet (1219 meters), Loisaba Conservancy is malaria free. That, along with the lack of other nuisance bugs like the tsetse fly, makes safari game drives very comfortable. There’s also the possibility to do walking safaris, horseback riding, camel safaris like the Samburu people traditionally use for transport and even an educational experience with Loisaba Conservancy’s anti-poaching dog team and their handlers.

The Lonely Planet Africa , and the Tracks4Africa  Africa Southern Traveller’s Atlas were invaluable throughout our travels.

• Ham, Anthony (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 1120 Pages – 11/10/2017 (Publication Date) – Lonely Planet (Publisher)

• Tracks4Africa (Author)
• 142 Pages – 06/13/2017 (Publication Date) – Tracks4Africa (Publisher)

You may also want to read: Kruger vs Etosha – which is best? The TRUTH about doing an African safari with kids Medical kit list for travelling Africa

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Malaria-free safaris.

Want to go on safari but worried about malaria? Here are some locations you can go without any fear!

14 Nov 2023

12 jan 2024.

Traveling to a malaria-free safari park offers a wealth of advantages for those seeking a unique and thrilling adventure. Firstly, the absence of malaria risk ensures peace of mind, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring natural beauty and wildlife without worrying about health concerns.

We have compiled a list of our top ‘Malaria Free’ destinations to help overcome the commonly perceived stress of travelling to an area where Malaria is prevalent.

Our main focus is on the traditional African safari, but we also wanted to put a spotlight on the beautiful safaris available in Sri Lanka . We’ve chosen some of the top regions with a variety of camps and hotels which will hopefully suit most budgets; be it a romantic honeymoon/babymoon; a lifelong ‘bucket list’ item or a much-needed family adventure, there is something for everyone.

Firstly, South Africa offers a plethora of breathtaking safari parks, which have long been synonymous with thrilling wildlife encounters and unparalleled natural beauty. To be open and honest, if you’re used to the vast, ‘fenceless’ expanses of East Africa these parks don’t offer the same experience, but to ease you into the world of safari they are perfect. If it’s your first experience or an extension to a wider South Africa/beach itinerary it really is ideal. Incredible ‘Big 5’ sightings and easy access via road or light aircraft they really do tick a lot of boxes.

Madikwe National Park is a true wilderness in the North-West Province of South Africa, close to the southern border of Botswana. The park boasts a truly enchanting landscape and amazing wildlife encounters. Spread across vast plains and rugged terrain, this conservation haven is celebrated for its Big Five population. With its blend of natural wonders and conservation efforts, Madikwe National Park promises an unforgettable safari experience ideal for if you want to dip your toes into this magical part of the world.

Top Tip: Get out on foot!

Take a look at some of our trip ideas here

Some of our favourite lodges:

Madikwe Safari Lodge

This property is divided into three separate lodges - Lelapa (meaning ‘family), Dithaba (meaning ‘mountain’) and Kopano (meaning ‘small gathering’). I loved to flexibility of choice and price-points and there are fabulous Family Suites at Lelapa which suit those travelling with younger children. They also offer a fabulous ‘kids safari’ programme so the children will come back educated and entertained in equal measures.

Best for: families with young kids

Impodimo and Rhulani Safari Lodge

Impodimo Lodge seamlessly blends into the surrounding wilderness, with its thatched roofs and earthy tones that mirror the colors of the savannah. The lodge boasts just ten exquisite suites, ensuring an intimate and exclusive experience for every guest. Each suite is meticulously designed to provide ultimate comfort and immersion in nature. The private viewing decks offer breathtaking panoramas over the reserve.

A truly unique draw card for Impodimo is that they have their own underground viewing den called Tsembo Hide which is linked to the lodge through a tunnel so you don’t even need to leave camp to game view!!

Top Tip: If time will allow, have breakfast in your suite one morning and simply watch the game from your deck - an underrated ‘activity’ in my book!

Best for: Couple looking for an up close and personal game-viewing without even leaving the lodge

Rockfig Madikwe

For couples and families that are looking for a more boutique hotel style lodge in the heart of the wilderness this is a real hidden gem. Above all, Rockfig Lodge promises you a safari experience that leaves an indelible mark on your heart. The memories you create here, whether it's witnessing a leopard's stealthy hunt or sipping sundowners by a watering hole as elephants frolic nearby, will stay with you long after you've left this extraordinary corner of South Africa.

In summary, Rockfig Lodge offers a harmonious blend of wilderness exploration, luxurious comfort, and authentic African experiences. Whether you're an avid wildlife enthusiast or seeking a romantic escape in nature, Rockfig Lodge promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the African bush.

Top Tip: Stargazing here is a must as well as a trip to the spa to unwind from your adventures!

Best for: people looking for a truly stylish bush retreat

Marakele National Park

Marakele National Park, located in the picturesque Limpopo Province of South Africa, accessed via road or light aircraft. Nestled in the heart of the Waterberg Mountains, this conservation gem offers a mesmerizing blend of rugged landscapes, lush valleys, and pristine grasslands. It's renowned for its unique mix of flora and fauna, including the iconic Big Five (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino), and serves as a vital sanctuary for numerous endangered species. With its awe-inspiring vistas, rich biodiversity, and commitment to conservation, Marakele National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

Marakele has an amazing amount of wildlife and predators, but not in the volume as Kenya for example….however we saw Lions when we were there, amazing numbers of elephants as well as incredible Rhino sightings…. One thing to note however is that you aren’t allowed to drive off road like you are in other South African parks so you’re limited to the tracks. However this is the case in the Maasai Mara too as well as the majority of Tanzania.

Our favourite Marakele lodges

Marataba Safari Lodge

I am fortunate enough to have visited hundreds of safari lodges throughout Africa and this one truly took my breath-away. The national park is away from the hustle and bustle of The Kruger and the surrounding regions of the Sabi Sands etc….. and this is a real blessing. They have an amazing back drop of the mountain which visually are stunning, and the suites are beautiful. I really enjoyed having the variety of activities and the guiding was superb. The game viewing here is fabulous and they also have the big 5, so you will certainly not leave disappointed. However the real icing on the cake is the Thabametsi Tree House sleepout ……it’s amazing!!

Top Tip: Take a book down to the pool and watch the warthogs playing in the garden!

Best for: Epic scenery

Marataba Mountain Lodge

Marataba Mountain Lodge (the sister property to Safari Lodge) is nestled within the breathtaking Waterberg Mountains. This luxurious safari retreat offers a harmonious blend of opulence and nature and works well if you wanted to explore more of this magical park. With its secluded location, lavish accommodations, and immersive wildlife experiences, Marataba Mountain Lodge adds another element to any safari trip, especially if you want to include some exhilarating hiking trails into your itinerary.

Top Tip: Water levels permitting a trip on the Matlabas River is a must and adds a unique and laidback game viewing experience

Top Tip: Stretch your legs and take a hiking trip up into the mountains.

Best for: Active couples, independent travellers looking for a true escape from it all

Eastern Cape

Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

Nestled in the heart of South Africa's Eastern Cape, the Kwandwe Game Reserve stands as a first-class conservation and safari adventure. Spanning over 22,000 hectares of untouched wilderness, this remarkable reserve is a sanctuary for both wildlife and travellers seeking an authentic African safari experience. Here, amidst a backdrop of rolling plains, lush valleys, and meandering rivers, you'll discover a world teeming with diverse flora and fauna, from the Big Five to rare and endangered species.

Easily accessible via short flight from Cape Town or via road if you’re incorporating as part of a larger ‘Garden Route’ itinerary this is a great option for couples and families alike.

Ecca Camp offers six stylish and spacious suites, each designed with a contemporary African flair and equipped with modern amenities. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness from your private deck and immerse yourself in the sounds of the bush as you relax in your luxurious suite.

During your stay, you'll embark on thrilling game drives led by expert guides and trackers. Early morning and late afternoon drives provide the best opportunities for ‘Big Five’ encounters. For a more intimate exploration of the African wilderness, take part in guided bush walks where you'll discover the smaller wonders of the bush, from plants and insects to tracking the spoor of elusive animals. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about and participate in conservation and community initiatives gaining a deeper understanding of the region's ecology and the positive impact of sustainable tourism.

Top Tip: get involved in the community initiatives.

Best for: easy access from Cape Town

Elephant House Stable Cottages

Addo Elephant National Park is just a short drive from Port Elizabeth, making it easily accessible. Its proximity to the Garden Route, a famous South African travel route, makes it an ideal stopover for those exploring the region.

The park's scenery is equally captivating, with a mix of landscapes that range from lush valleys to arid plains. This ecological diversity adds to the park's charm and provides a beautiful backdrop for your safari adventures.

Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of the Sundays River Valley, the Stable Cottages sit on a vast expanse of four hectares, offering a tranquil escape under the endless blue skies. With open, sprawling lawns and a well-equipped playground, these cottages provide a family-friendly haven, perfect for those traveling with children. Comprising six spacious cottages, including two designed specifically for families, these accommodations have been lovingly restored from stables, preserving their historical charm with reed ceilings and rustic floors. The result is a perfect blend of old-world character and contemporary elegance, making the Stable Cottages a delightful and stylish choice for your stay.

Best for: Families with young kids looking for an adventure

Laikipia, Kenya

One other area that it would be remiss not to mention would be Laikipia in Kenya. Although not technically classed as ‘Malaria Free’ like the above, the remoteness of this region means it is ‘ultra-low’ risk and one to consider.

The absolute stand out option for this truly magical region would be El Karama Lodge , n estled within the heart of Laikipia. This eco-friendly safari haven is a testament to conservation and sustainable tourism, offering an authentic safari experience like no other. Surrounded by sprawling savannahs, lush riverine forests, and a thriving ecosystem, El Karama Lodge provides a sanctuary where you can truly connect with nature. Whether you're on a game drive tracking the Big Five, strolling along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, or simply relaxing at camp, El Karama Lodge promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of wild Kenya.

Best for: active families and couples looking for a true African adventure!

Best for: A truly immersive experience away from the crowds of the Masai Mara

Take a look at our favourite Kenyan family safari suggestions here

Sri Lanka, which is often overlooked is a fabulous alternative to the more traditional African Safari. Malaria free this can often be a great introduction to children, but please be aware that there are long drives between the main areas of interest, but as long as you’re comfortable in the car it’s an incredible way to see the destination first hand. You can also add in a train journey for a change of pace and scene!

Yala National Park is a vast expanse of protected land, spanning over 979 square kilometres. Renowned for its thriving population of leopards, Yala presents a unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Beyond the elusive leopards, the park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, sloth bears, and countless bird species. As you venture deeper into Yala's untamed terrain, you'll encounter scenic lakes, dense forests, and arid plains, each offering a different perspective to this extraordinary ecosystem.

Minneriya National Park

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's cultural triangle, Minneriya is famous for hosting one of the world's largest gatherings of wild Asian elephants. During the dry season (June to September), hundreds of these majestic creatures congregate around the Minneriya Tank, providing an awe-inspiring spectacle. This ancient reservoir, dating back to the third century, is the central water source for the park's wildlife. It also adds to the park's scenic beauty, with its lotus-covered surface and picturesque surroundings.

You will explore the park in a 4x4 and see for yourself the diverse landscapes, from lush forests to expansive grasslands. This is your opportunity to spot not only elephants but also leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer.

Minneriya isn’t just about four-legged friends, it is also a haven for bird lovers, with over 170 species of birds including the iconic painted stork and vibrant kingfishers – a true photographers paradise.

While exploring Minneriya, you can also immerse yourself in Sri Lanka's rich culture by visiting nearby historic sites like Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient ruins and temples.

For inspiration on trip ideas click here

These ideas are just to inspire you, we create every trip from scratch so can work with you to find the perfect malaria free safari depending on when you are looking to travel and what else you want to do. Call us today on 01768 603715.

OUR FAVOURITE TAILOR-MADE SOUTH AFRICA TRIPS

Unique South Africa Holiday Ideas

Classic South Africa

• Franschhoek
• Plettenberg Bay
• Amakhala Game Reserve

Kwa-Zulu Natal Self Drive

• Drakensberg
• Battlefields
• Elephant Coast

Cape Town, Winelands & Whale Coast

Luxury Western Cape Adventure

Luxury Kruger and Mozambique Honeymoon

• Sabi Sand Wildtuin
• Benguerra Island

Family South Africa Safari & Mozambique Island Escape

• Madikwe Game Reserve

Timeless Southern Africa

• Victoria Falls
• Okavango Delta
• £18,585 pp.

Cape Town, Winelands and Safari Honeymoon

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Our 3 Favourite Malaria Free Safari Destinations

Welcome to a captivating journey through the wild heart of south africa, where the thrill of safari meets the tranquility of a malaria free haven. in this blog, we embark on an adventure to discover some of the country's most remarkable destinations, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. from the untamed landscapes of madikwe to the vast wilderness of kwandwe and the exclusive luxury of tswalu, where you can traverse a tapestry of ecosystems, encounter iconic wildlife, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the land. join us as we delve into the magic of these malaria free safari paradises, where nature's wonders unfold without the worry, and every moment promises a breathtaking encounter with the wild..

Who should consider a Malaria Free Safari?

A malaria free safari is an ideal choice for a diverse range of travellers seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure without the worry of malaria. Families with young children can revel in the joy of introducing their little ones to the wonders of the wild, fostering a lifelong appreciation for nature. The absence of malaria risk ensures a safe and worry-free environment for kids to explore and discover.

Couples and honeymooners can find romance amidst the untamed beauty of these regions, creating cherished memories against the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes and captivating wildlife. For individuals who may have health concerns or prefer to avoid malaria medication, a malaria free safari offers a perfect solution to experience the thrill of safari without compromising on their well-being..

While South Africa has a number of really incredible Malaria Free Safari Destinations, for the purpose of this blog we are focusing on our personal favourite regions. This is based on our  experiences in these reserves and lodges, their ethos and the overall client experience. Our team of Journey Designers are some of the best travelled individuals in the Safari industry, and our commitment to you is that we will never recommend a destination or lodge that we have not personally visited in the last year.

Which Reserves do we recommend for an incredible Malaria Free Safari ?

Madikwe Game Reserve:

Madikwe Game Reserve is probably one of the best known Malaria Free Safari destinations in South Africa. Amidst the verdant landscape of Madikwe, the concept of a family safari extends beyond game drives to encompass a holistic and immersive adventure. As the sun sets over the horizon, families can gather around a crackling bonfire for storytelling sessions that transport young and old to the he art of African folklore. Under the expansive sky, studded with countless stars, the rhythmic beats of traditional African drums add a captivating soundtrack to the night, creating an ambiance that is both magical and authentic.

Madikwe Game Reserve is situated in  South Africa's North West province, near the border of Botswana, Madikwe Game Reserve's proximity to the Kalahari Desert lends a unique character to its landscapes, characterized by open savannahs, rolling hills, and rich biodiversity. Accessible from Johannesburg by a scenic road journey or a convenient flight, Madikwe's location allows for seamless travel, making it an enticing destination for those seeking an immersive safari experience.

The essence of Madikwe lies in its ability to foster a deep connection between families and the natural world. As children marvel at the intricate patterns of a zebra's stripes or the gentle grace of a giraffe, they are learning invaluable lessons about the delicate balance of ecosystems and the importance of conservation. Madikwe's experienced rangers serve as both guides and educators, instilling a sense of wonder and understanding that transcends the safari experience.

Our favourite Madikwe Lodges to explore on a Malaria Free Safari:

Madikwe Safari Lodge:

Madikwe Safari Lodge stands as a versatile haven, perfect for families, honeymooners, or friends seeking an enchanting retreat amidst the untamed beauty of the African wilderness. For families, the lodge offers a seamless blend of adventure and comfort, with spacious family suites that provide a cozy sanctuary after exhilarating game drives. The Young Explorers program engages young minds with interactive activities, fostering a deeper connection with nature.

Honeymooners find themselves immersed in romantic luxury, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Madikwe. Intimate moments are nurtured under the starlit sky, where private dinners and indulgent spa treatments create an ambiance of pure romance.

Friends travelling together discover a shared haven where camaraderie and relaxation intertwine. The lodge's warm and inviting atmosphere encourages laughter and bonding, whether lounging by the pool, embarking on game drives, or sharing stories around the fire.

Ultimately, Madikwe Safari Lodge's allure lies in its ability to cater to a diverse array of guests, offering tailor-made experiences that cater to the unique desires of families, honeymooners, or friends. Against the backdrop of sweeping landscapes and iconic wildlife, indelible memories are forged, creating a lasting connection with the wonders of the natural world and each other.

Morukuru Family Madikwe:

The Morukuru Collection in Madikwe presents an unparalleled option for a malaria free safari, be it for a multi-generational family getaway or a memorable trip with a group of friends. Set within the heart of Madikwe Game Reserve, this exclusive retreat offers an exquisite array of lodges, each catering to distinct preferences while fostering connections and unforgettable experiences.

For multi-generational families seeking togetherness, the River House becomes a cherished haven. This expansive villa provides abundant space for generations to gather, boasting private dining areas, a pool, and dedicated staff to ensure everyone's comfort. Tailored activities, from game drives to stargazing sessions, cater to the varied interests of different family members, creating a harmonious retreat.

Groups of friends discover the epitome of camaraderie at Owner's House, a luxurious enclave where shared moments are nurtured. With multiple bedrooms, a private chef, and a dedicated butler, every need is anticipated. The game drives and guided bush walks become adventures to be enjoyed together, forging bonds amidst the marvels of the African wilderness.

For the ultimate in exclusivity, the Farm House offers a blend of privacy and opulence that appeals to both families and friends. The expansive layout, complete with a pool and outdoor boma, invites relaxation and connection. Here, the dedicated team curates activities, tailoring each experience to the preferences of the group.

The Morukuru Collection in Madikwe commitment to customization ensures that every lodge option is a canvas upon which unique memories are painted. From wildlife encounters to private dining under the stars, each lodge encapsulates the spirit of adventure and togetherness.

Tswalu Kalahari:

Tswalu Kalahari stands as the pinnacle of premier malaria free safari destinations, an oasis of exclusivity and opulence nestled within the captivating embrace of the Kalahari Desert. This sanctuary offers a symphony of unrivaled experiences, where conservation and indulgence harmonize seamlessly, promising a safari adventure like no other.

Situated on a sprawling expanse of over 100,000 hectares, Tswalu's vastness embodies the untamed beauty of the Kalahari. This pristine landscape teems with an astonishing diversity of fauna and flora, offering a glimpse into a world shaped by nature's rhythms. Iconic species, including the black-maned Kalahari lions and the meerkats that stand sentinel, form an intricate tapestry of life that captivates and humbles in equal measure.

Every aspect of your Tswalu experience is carefully curated, from the delectable culinary offerings that showcase local flavors to the guided safaris led by expert rangers. Traverse the dunes and grasslands, your senses heightened as you track the elusive inhabitants of this unique desert ecosystem. Engage in sensory storytelling sessions under the endless canopy of stars, where the crackle of a campfire and the distant calls of nocturnal creatures create an ambiance that is both magical and authentic.

The lodges at Tswalu Kalahari epitomize the pinnacle of luxury and immersion, offering an unrivaled haven for a malaria-free safari that leaves an indelible mark on the soul. Nestled within the vast expanse of the Kalahari Desert, Tswalu presents two distinct lodges, each a masterpiece of comfort, style, and conservation.

The Motse Lodge stands as a testament to opulence in the heart of the desert. Its elegant suites, adorned with local artwork and exuding an air of tranquility, provide a sanctuary where relaxation and indulgence meld seamlessly. Private terraces offer panoramic views of the Kalahari's ever-changing landscapes, a reminder of the raw beauty that surrounds.

For the ultimate in exclusivity, the Tarkuni Private Camp unveils a world of its own. This expansive villa becomes a canvas for cherished moments, accommodating families or groups of friends in lavish comfort. A dedicated team caters to every need, while the private pool and viewing deck become vantage points for witnessing the Kalahari's enchanting wildlife.

Pioneering and nomadic in spirit, Loapi Tented Camp’s six individual safari homes are surrounded by open savannah grasslands and accommodate two or four guests for the ultimate private wilderness experience. The 4 one-bedroom homes and 2 two-bedroom homes, spanning over 300 square metres (about 3200 square feet) and over 400 square metres (about 4600 square feet) respectively, are for those desiring complete privacy on safari. Sustainably designed and environmentally sensitive, each tented home is tucked into the contours of a valley between the Korannaberg mountains. The six homes are at least 50 metres (165 feet) apart to ensure privacy and solitude. Personal service is provided by a dedicated butler and all meals are prepared by a private chef in the interactive kitchen.

At all three  lodges, each moment becomes an experience that transcends the ordinary. Game drives led by expert rangers offer glimpses of black-maned lions and meerkats at play. Sundowners in the embrace of the Kalahari sunset become an ode to nature's grandeur. Starlit dinners in the boma echo with laughter and camaraderie, while guided bush walks unveil the intricate details of the desert's flora and fauna.

In essence, Tswalu Kalahari emerges as the embodiment of an extraordinary malaria free safari destination. It is a place where the spirit of adventure melds with the lap of luxury, where conservation efforts and indulgence weave a narrative that resonates deeply with the soul. A journey to Tswalu is a sojourn into the heart of a land untouched by time, where nature's wonders unfold in a dance of life, and every moment promises a breathtaking encounter with the wild.

Kwandwe Game Reserve:

Situated in the pristine Eastern Cape the Kwandwe Game Reserve stands as a captivating malaria free family-friendly destination, where the enchantment of safari intertwines seamlessly with the joys of shared exploration. This haven of conservation success offers an immersive experience that caters to all ages, making it an ideal retreat for families seeking a memorable and malaria free safari adventure.

Kwandwe's commitment to responsible tourism is evident in its family-focused offerings. The "Young Ranger" program ignites a sense of wonder, teaching kids about the environment and wildlife through interactive and educational activities.

Kwandwe Game Reserve emerges as a harmonious blend of luxury, conservation, and family-centric experiences. Its commitment to educating and engaging young minds, combined with the allure of breathtaking landscapes and captivating wildlife, creates an unforgettable malaria free safari. Here, generations come together to create cherished memories, forging a bond with nature and each other that will last a lifetime.

Kwandwe Game Reserve is a realm of unparalleled luxury and wildlife wonder, offering a range of exquisite lodges that cater to diverse preferences. Ecca Lodge, nestled in a lush valley, is a contemporary retreat that seamlessly blends comfort with a modern safari spirit. Melton Manor, a private villa, provides an exclusive haven for families or groups, complete with a dedicated team for personalized service. Uplands Homestead captures the essence of a bygone era, where colonial charm meets modern elegance in a serene setting. Great Fish River Lodge, perched above the riverbed, boasts breathtaking views and lavish suites that blend seamlessly with the rugged surroundings. Lastly, Fort House is a private oasis offering contemporary African design, perfect for a group seeking privacy and indulgence. Each lodge offers a gateway to Kwandwe's captivating landscapes, where wildlife encounters are woven into the fabric of every moment, promising an unforgettable safari adventure.

What should you consider when booking a Malaria Free Safari?

When booking a malaria-free safari, several important factors should be taken into consideration to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Here are key points to keep in mind:

• Destination Selection : Research and choose a reputable malaria free safari destination that aligns with your preferences and interests. Look for reserves or lodges in regions known for exceptional wildlife sightings and diverse ecosystems.
• Accommodations: Select accommodations that cater to your comfort and needs. Whether you prefer luxurious lodges, private villas, or family-friendly options, ensure the chosen lodging enhances your overall safari experience.
• Family-Friendly Activities: If traveling with family, opt for a destination that offers family-friendly activities and programs. Look for guided bush walks, interactive experiences, and educational opportunities tailored for children.
• Wildlife Diversity : Consider the variety of wildlife species present in the reserve. Look for destinations that provide opportunities to encounter a range of iconic animals, from the "Big Five" to unique and rare species.
• Conservation Efforts: Research the reserve's conservation initiatives and their commitment to responsible tourism. Supporting destinations with strong conservation efforts ensures your safari has a positive impact on local ecosystems and communities.
• Accessibility : Evaluate the accessibility of the destination. Consider factors such as travel time, transportation options, and proximity to major airports or cities.
• Guiding Expertise: Knowledgeable and experienced guides enhance your safari experience. Look for destinations that provide expert guides who can offer insights into the wildlife, ecosystems, and local culture.
• Activities and Experiences: Research the range of activities offered, such as game drives, bush walks, cultural interactions, and photography opportunities. A diverse array of experiences adds depth to your safari adventure.
• Travel Seasons : Understand the best times to visit for optimal wildlife sightings and favorable weather conditions. Research peak and off-peak seasons to align your travel plans with your desired experiences.
• Budget: Establish a budget that accounts for accommodations, activities, meals, and any additional costs. Balancing your budget with the quality of the safari experience is essential.
• Travel Experts: Speak to one of our experienced Journey Designers. The beauty of booking with Martin Meyer Safaris, is that our team have travelled to all the Malaria Free Safari Destinations we offer.

South Africa's malaria free safari destinations are not merely places to visit; they offer transformative experiences that touch the heart and soul. Whether you're exploring with loved ones of different ages, embarking on a romantic escape, or embracing the camaraderie of friends, these havens beckon you to create memories that will forever resonate. The expertise of Martin Meyer Safaris, a beacon of excellence in crafting exceptional safari experiences, ensures that every detail is flawlessly executed, leaving you free to bask in the magic of this wild wonderland. Join us on a remarkable journey where nature's wonders unfold without worry, and every moment promises a breathtaking encounter with the wild.

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Malaria-free safaris

Safari experiences that you will not find with any other travel company. We know Africa best and will get you to the right place & time to enjoy the greatest shows on Earth!

About that malaria-free safari

Avoiding malaria areas makes sense for that family safari - when you are travelling with very young children or the elderly. Although there are effective ways to significantly reduce the risk of contracting malaria, some travellers prefer to avoid malaria areas altogether

Some areas are low-risk throughout the year, and some are low-risk at certain times - but only a few are always non-malaria areas. The only non-malaria areas in Africa are in parts of South Africa, Namibia and Botswana.

Scroll past the safari packages below to find out EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW about malaria and where to go to avoid it.

The safaris below are in non-malaria areas

Everything you need to know about a malaria-free safari.

Malaria is a parasitic disease that attacks red blood cells and is usually spread by the female Anopheles mosquito.  Although the implications of being infected with malaria can be severe, the likelihood of tourists in Africa being infected is extremely low if the advice from our travel experts is followed and simple precautions are taken.

Despite what friends may tell you, malaria is present in most African safari destinations - the only exceptions being a handful of malaria-free places in South Africa and Namibia. Some places may be low-risk at times - for example, arid high-altitude areas outside of the rainy season - but few are truly malaria-free throughout the year. 

So, if you are looking for a guaranteed malaria-free African wildlife safari , this is where you will find it:

Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa

Madikwe is famous for excellent sightings of the Big 5 plus wild dogs (painted wolves), cheetahs and brown hyenas. This is an excellent family-friendly malaria-free safari option that is an easy 5-hour drive or 1-hour flight from Johannesburg, and there are many lodges options to suit most budgets. Whether you are after a malaria-free option or not, the 750km 2 (75,000 hectares) Madikwe is a prime safari destination that is not accessible by day-trippers and self-drive tourists.

Read more about Madikwe here and about a child’s Madikwe safari here .

Pilanesburg National Park, South Africa

The 572km 2 (57,200 hectares) malaria-free Pilanesburg offers Big 5 wildlife sightings a mere 2,5-hour drive from OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg. Because the habitat is a transition zone between Kalahari and Lowveld you will see a wide variety of other species, including wild dogs, cheetahs and brown hyenas. Pilanesburg is open to day-trippers and self-drive tourists, so sightings can be crowded during peak seasons. 

Cape malaria-free safaris, South Africa

 Cape malaria-free wildlife safaris are a convenient link between two of South Africa’s prime tourism destinations - Cape Town and the Garden Route . 

Western Cape, South Africa

The Western Cape offers a range of wildlife safari options in both national parks and private game reserves. Because of a Mediterranean climate, the ecosystems and wildlife species are very different to those of the bushveld further east in South Africa. Safari destinations include

Karoo National Park

Karoo National Park is an arid 750km² (75,000 hectares) landscape that hosts black rhinos, lions and an assortment of other rare and critically endangered creatures like the Cape mountain zebra and the riverine rabbit (one of the most endangered mammals in the world). Karoo NP is a comfortable 5-hour drive on a good tar national road from Cape Town.   

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

The 580km² (58,000 hectares) Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is one of the world’s largest privately owned game reserves. This rehabilitated farmland hosts the Big 5 plus cheetahs and brown hyenas and is a convenient 3-hour drive from Cape Town. 

Eastern Cape, South Africa

Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa - and surrounding private reserves

The greater Addo ecosystem offers an astonishing variety of wildlife encounters for your malaria-free, including the Big 5 plus dolphins and whales, making up the ‘Big 7’. This 1,640km² (164,000 hectares) covers five of South Africa’s eight vegetation zones - all within a comfortable one-hour drive on a good tar road from Port Elizabeth / Gqeberha. 

Kariega Private Game Reserve

Kariega Private Game Reserve is a family-owned 100km² (10,000 hectares) Big 5 malaria-free game reserve wedged between the Bushman's and Kariega Rivers - adding river cruises to possible safari activities. Kariega is less than two hours by good tar road from Port Elizabeth / Gqeberha.

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

A private Big 5 malaria-free reserve with a proud record of rehabilitation from farmland to restored wilderness, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve straddles the Great Fish River and covers 220km² (22,000 hectares). Kwandwe is two hours by road from Port Elizabeth / Gqeberha.

Shamwari Private Game Reserve

The 250km² (25,000 hectares) Big 5 (plus cheetahs) Shamwari shares many habitat similarities with Addo Elephant National Park. This malaria-free reserve is also home to a wildlife rehabilitation centre; no interaction with the animals is permitted as the end goal is to release the animals back into the wild whenever possible. Shamwari is a one-hour drive from Port Elizabeth / Gqeberha.

Samara Karoo Reserve

The 283km² (28,300 hectares) Big 5 malaria-free Samara is restoring a patch of wilderness and bringing wildlife back to the spectacular Great Karoo. Guests can expect sightings of white and black rhinos, elephants, lions, and herds of springbok, but tracking cheetahs on foot is one of the reserve's particular highlights. Read more about Samara here . Samara is a three-hour drive from Port Elizabeth / Gqeberha.

Northern Cape / Kalahari, South Africa

Tswalu Kalahari

The 1,140km² (114,000 hectares) Tswalu offers a luxurious wilderness experience on the southernmost edge of the Kalahari. This malaria-free private reserve is the largest private reserve in South Africa and hosts classic Kalahari species, such as black-maned lions, cheetahs, black rhinos, oryx and wild dogs to elusive nocturnal creatures, such as pangolin, aardvark and brown hyena. Aside from the usual safari activities, Tswalu offers horseback safaris, visiting a meerkat colony and Michelin star food.   

Western Namibia malaria-free safaris

Western Namibia is an arid sand desert region that hosts an astounding variety of desert-adapted species, such as lions, elephants and black rhinos. Must-see destinations in this malaria-free safari area include the Namib Naukluft National Park, Sussusvlei, Damaraland, Skeleton Coast National Park and the coastal cities of Swakopmund and Luderitz. Read more about Western Namibia here .

Malaria-free resources

SEARCH FOR malaria-free lodges

READ MORE ABOUT Cape malaria-free safari destinations

Advice for when travelling to a malaria area 

Avoid being bitten

It’s impossible to avoid every single mosquito bite, no matter how diligent you are, but there are a few tips to avoid being bitten wherever possible:

travel during low-risk seasons – the dry and cool months;

use insect repellent;

cover legs and arms with long-sleeved shirts and trousers, particularly at night;

sleep under a mosquito net in an air-conditioned or well-screened room and, if possible, sleep with a fan on;

avoid standing water that may breed mosquitoes.

Preventative Prophylactics

There are several prophylaxis medications available, and many different factors should be considered in choosing an appropriate one. Most important is to follow the advice of a doctor, who should be up to date on personal medical history, as well as which medications are more effective for different strains of malaria.

We live here, in Africa, and have been doing this since 1991. Travel in Africa is about knowing when and where to go, and with whom. A few weeks too early / late or a few kilometers off course and you could miss the greatest show on Earth. And wouldn’t that be a pity?

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Best South Africa Malaria-free Safari Reserves

Classic big 5 safaris with peace of mind.

Whether it’s the Kruger or Kenya, an African safari usually carries a risk of malaria. And while the risk of contracting malaria on safari is generally very low, a South Africa malaria-free safari is your chance to visit genuine Big 5 reserves with no risk of malaria at all.

There are two regions of South Africa with malaria-free safari reserves: northern South Africa and the Eastern Cape. With one exception, these reserves are Big 5 destinations (home to lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo and rhino) and they all have a wide range of accommodation – safari lodges, tented camps and exclusive-use villas – at both public and private game reserves. These reserves cater for all traveller types, including honeymooners and families with younger children, and combine easily with malaria-free Cape Town via a short domestic flight.

MALARIA-FREE NORTHERN SOUTH AFRICA

There are several destinations across the north of the country that offer excellent malaria-free safari reserves, most of them privately-run. The best time to visit the region is during the long dry season – May to October. Wildlife is increasingly concentrated around water at this time and the vegetation is low and sparse, all of which makes animals easier to see. Dry-season weather in this part of South Africa is nearly always sunny, clear and warm although it’s cold at night in June, July and August.

MADIKWE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

Lying close to the Botswana border, Madikwe is a fascinating blend of familiar savannah animals and unique Kalahari wildlife. It’s a good place to see the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant) and rarities like African wild dog and brown hyena. There’s a wide selection of accommodation on offer – honeymoon hideaways, family-friendly camps and luxury lodges – and because it’s a private reserve, there are never too many other vehicles around.

Set in Big 5 country, the Nare Suite at Jaci’s Safari Lodge is perfect for families or couples.

RECOMMENDED MADIKWE ACCOMMODATION

The Nare Suite at Jaci’s Safari Lodge is a fully-staffed private house with chef, guide & vehicle. Families with children aged 12 and over will love Jaci’s Tree House with its air-conditioned suites set in the forest canopy.

PILANESBERG NATIONAL PARK

A public-access park set next to golf and entertainment resort Sun City, Pilanesberg is good for a first-time safari and offers adventures like hot-air ballooning as well as day and night game drives but we’d recommend staying in the adjoining Black Rhino Game Reserve. It’s a private conservation area with no day-trippers, a good range of lodges to choose from, and a healthy reputation for the Big 5.

The luxurious, family-run Lush Private Lodge is set in Pilanesberg’s Black Rhino Reserve.

RECOMMENDED PILANESBERG ACCOMMODATION

There’s air-conditioned accommodation for all types of traveller at Black Rhino Lodge in the private reserve – it’s a classic safari lodge overlooking a busy waterhole – but families with older children and couples could try Lush Private Lodge .

TSWALU KALAHARI RESERVE

South Africa’s biggest private reserve is also one of its most exclusive: this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the beautiful red-sand Kalahari and see its most elusive creatures – aardvark, meerkats and honey badgers – as well as black-maned Kalahari lions, African wild dog and cheetah. Besides game drives and guided walks, other activities here include horseback safaris and walks with habituated meerkats; accommodation is very upmarket.

Famous for its sightings of rare animals, Tswalu offers safari activities shaped by your particular interests and enjoyed at your own pace.

RECOMMENDED TSWALU ACCOMMODATION

Sleeping up to 10 guests, Tswalu’s Tarkuni Homestead comes fully staffed and complete with private field guide and tracker – it’s great for families and groups of friends. Couples may prefer the seclusion and casual elegance of The Motswe .

WELGEWONDEN GAME RESERVE

The rugged, mountainous landscape of the Waterberg provides the location for this Big 5 reserve, a destination famous for its temperate and malaria-free climate. Welgewonden is just a short drive and an even shorter flight from travel-hub Johannesburg, making it a good option for a night or two at the beginning or end of a safari.

Couples seeking privacy will like Nedile Lodge, a luxury retreat with just five indulgent suites on offer.

RECOMMENDED WELGEWONDEN ACCOMMODATION

Exclusive-use Tintswalo Family Camp is fenced to give parents with young children peace of mind; Mhondoro Safari Lodge also has family accommodation as well as honeymoon suites and a private fully staffed Villa that sleeps six.

MALARIA-FREE EASTERN CAPE

The Eastern Cape is at one end of South Africa’s largest malaria-free holiday region, balanced by the Western Cape and Cape Town at the other end and the ever-popular Garden Route in between. In fact, there are several malaria-free safari reserves within a few hours’ drive of Cape Town but it’s the Eastern Cape that offers a more genuine Big 5 safari – bigger reserves, more animals and more wilderness. Either fly between destinations (flight times are quick) or take your time with a self-drive itinerary: pick up a car in Cape Town, tour the Whale Coast and Garden Route, and return it in the Eastern Cape after your safari.

You can visit the Eastern Cape for a malaria-free safari at any time – the climate is agreeably temperate with rain possible throughout the year though it’s driest between October and April. The region gets busy during the Christmas holiday period – ask us for advice on planning a safari during this time.

SHAMWARI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

A pioneer of malaria-free Big 5 safaris in the Eastern Cape, Shamwari is a great choice for safari travellers as well as families with children of all ages. From the comfort of camps designed specifically for families, you’ll find a kids’ activity programme for the young ones, an adventure centre and swimming pools for older ones plus game drives, educational experiences and a big cat sanctuary.

The wonderful view from Sindile’s Boma, overlooking the malaria-free Shamwari private reserve.

RECOMMENDED SHAMWARI ACCOMMODATION

Staffed and with a private guide, Sarili Private Lodge sleeps up to 10 which makes it great for families of all ages and groups of friends; Sindile is good choice of accommodation for couples – it’s a luxurious tented camp with wonderful views and no kids under 12.

AMAKHALA GAME RESERVE

You can go on river cruises and canoe adventures as well as game drives and bush walks at Amakhala – it’s only an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth airport (it’s a good choice for self-drivers) and there are several accommodation options for families plus luxurious retreats too. Enjoy classic Big 5 game viewing, great bird watching and perhaps a trip to a dinosaur fossil site – who could ask for more?

Hlosi Game Lodge is a tranquil grassland retreat offering rich game-viewing and comfortable accommodation for the whole family.

RECOMMENDED AMAKHALA ACCOMMODATION

Welcoming children of all ages and packed with activities, Hlosi Game Lodge is an obvious choice for families on safari whereas honeymooners and couples may prefer the 5-star luxury of Bukela Game Lodge , complete with its own spa.

KWANDWE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

One of the biggest private Big 5 reserves, Kwandwe has activities from ‘bush-treasure’ hunts to conservation projects to look forward too as well as game drives, river cruises and bush walks. The reserve sits at the heart of several cultures too, evidence of which you’ll see in everything from ancient rock art to colonial architecture. Their family lodges welcome children of all ages and place an emphasis on developing a tailored safari programme for families.

Kwandwe’s terrace overlooks a wildlife-rich expanse of grassland close to one of the major waterholes on the reserve.

RECOMMENDED KWANDWE ACCOMMODATION

Wake up to sweeping views from your luxurious suite at Fort House – a private retreat ideal for families looking for complete independence and privacy. The Great Fish River Lodge is a smaller and more intimate accommodation – it’s great for couples, especially as each suite has its own plunge pool.

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Our experience with Safari Online was excellent. After becoming very frustrated trying to search for a safari destination on our own, we turned to Karina for help and she was a lifesaver.  We had an amazing safari adventure at the lodge–the experience of a lifetime–and are so grateful for her help. We literally couldn’t have done it without her!

Our 28-day itinerary took us to South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana. A magnificent and unforgettable adventure. Everything ran smoothly and efficiently from the flights, transfers, rides, connections, etc. Absolutely wonderful! Can’t thank them enough!

Our mom grew up in Central and South Africa so we had visited the continent many times. My sister and I wanted to take our teens and husbands to Africa to experience the magic. We had a limited budget but big and specific expectations and by some miracle Walter was able to manage both.

Excellent service and they supplied good suggestions for our holiday they also organised all internal flights and arranged check in for us so we had no worries while on holiday. We have had a most memorable holiday staying at wonderful places thanks to Sabrina and Safari Online. Would recommend Safari Online to organise your holiday.

Would highly recommend. Safari online asked questions when booking and were efficient and knew exactly what we were looking for in terms of accommodation and animals were wanted to see. Gave advice on a few little extras with no pressure, which we did and am very grateful which make trip even more exciting. Would definitely recommend booking with them.

We have been to Africa for 24 of the last 27 years so know a bit about what is involved. Walter has arranged the details for the last couple of years, and has done a superb job. He is always quick to respond and comes up with answers immediately……..no evasive tactics, always head-on!

Safari Online have been nothing but professional and incredible from the time we made our first enquiry to the last day of our stunning holiday. Nothing was too much trouble for Walter. We are now starting to plan our next family Safari for 2019. Guess who we will be booking with??? Safari Online we hope you are ready!!!!!

Safari Online understood our needs and was able to present us with sensible options to choose from. It was evident that this tour operator has knowledgable and experienced agents who can arrange a seemless tour. We were provided with a professional online itinary which was comprehensive and easy to use, knew exactely what to expect, and encountered no stumble blocks along the way.

Communication was excellent – I asked A LOT of questions and did a ton of research myself and Walter was extremely patient with me and very responsive. he was straight forward and extremely professional. Tour itself was excellent – an incredible experience and one never to be forgotten. Everything was spot on.

From the very first contact we’re very happy about the respond time and quality of information from safari-online.com. Based on the received first tailor-made quote, which is a weblink with all the details about the flights, photos of the lodges etc. we knew that this is “our” partner for this trip. Our expectations were excelled!!!

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11 Best Africa Malaria Free Safaris for 2024/2025

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Madikwe Game Reserve

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Malaria-Free Safari Magic

Why Visit Madikwe Game Reserve?

Spanning over 75,000ha of pristine wilderness in the North West Province of South Africa, the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve is not only one of the largest game reserves in the country but also home to the Big 5 and the endangered African wild dog.

From a low-yield cattle farm to a flourishing conservation area, Madikwe Game Reserve is a land of bushveld and grassland, sloping mountains and rocky outcrops. Brushing against Botswana’s border and the tip of the Kalahari Desert , the park has provided a haven for wildlife, including the Big 5. It is also a fierce proponent of community upliftment initiatives.

The South African government manages the reserve’s land and wildlife while the private sector profits from the lodges that employ locals from the surrounding area. The park boasts roughly 10,000 mammals and over 350 bird species, relocated to the malaria-free park once they restored the farmland to its natural, prospering state.

The reserve is home to cheetah, hyena, giraffe, zebra, and antelope, as well as the Big 5. Three packs of endangered African wild dogs roam across its vast plains, delighting photographers and allowing for close encounters. The reserve's wildlife inhabitants have become used to game-viewing vehicles and often wander nonchalantly past appreciative wildlife enthusiasts. Game guides head off the road and tackle the terrain to get visitors closer to lions napping in the shade of thorn trees or cut their engines so that passengers can marvel at passing herds of buffalo.

In Africa, It's Not About What You Know, But Who You Know.

We've partnered with the best to ensure you get front row seats at the best possible price., frequently asked questions.

We've taken the liberty to answer everything you may need to know about visiting Madikwe Game Reserve

There are several ways of getting to the Madikwe Game Reserve. Daily shuttle flights provided by Federal Airlines seat up to 12 people and operate between Johannesburg Airport and the Madikwe Game Reserve. These flights take about one hour and deliver you straight to the lodge you are travelling to the corresponding airstrip. Luggage is, however, limited to 20kg on these flights.

For those with more time, self-driving or opting for a private ground transfer to Madikwe Game Reserve is a feasible and enjoyable option. Madikwe is about a five-hour drive from Johannesburg. The road is tarred and well maintained, with clean service stations along the way. 

Based on your lodge of choice, time and cost, our Rhino Africa Travel Experts will gladly advise you on the best way to get to Madikwe Game Reserve.

There is no right or wrong time to visit Madikwe Game Reserve as game viewing is excellent throughout the year. However, some seasons can be more desirable than others for different reasons.

November through to December The summer months are hot and humid with either continual rains or very typically afternoon thundershowers which generally clear before the game drives depart. You can expect to see lots of newborns during this time, most notably the impala lambs.

January to March These usually are drier months with very hot days. There are lots of beautiful migratory birds during the summer periods. Early morning drives with early returns to escape the heat are typical.

April The vegetation starts changing from thick, lush green bush to a slightly sparser browning bush during this autumn period. The temperatures start cooling down at night, but the daytime is still warm. Potential scattered thunderstorms can be expected in the afternoons.

May to June Cold temperatures are experienced at night and dawn during the winter months. Warm clothing is recommended, such as gloves, scarves, beanies and insulated jackets. The vegetation becomes brown, and trees start losing leaves. Visibility during drives is enhanced due to sparse vegetation.

July to September This period is arid in the bush with freezing night temperatures and chilly during the early morning and late afternoon game drives. Game viewing is generally fantastic, and the visibility is good as the game is concentrated around any water source.

September to October Spring is the height of the dry season, boasting hot, dry winds and colourless, sparse vegetation. Because water levels are low, high concentrations of game can be viewed at waterholes, and game viewing, in general, is very good. The first rains may start towards the end of October and the signs of spring and a new wet season are evident.

Whichever season you chose, our Rhino Africa Travel Experts will ensure you are in the best area to maximise your Safari experience.

Easy to get to A little less than a five-hour drive and a one-hour flight from Johannesburg, the reserve is conveniently close and easily accessible.

Big 5 reserve With healthy populations of lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo roaming the wilderness, Madikwe is one of South Africa's popular Big 5 safari destinations.

Malaria-free Madikwe Game reserve is located in a malaria-free area, making it a perfect safari destination for families with small children and those who desire a top-notch Big 5 safari experience without worrying about malaria prophylactics.

Family-friendly Due to the region's "malaria-free" status, Madikwe Game Reserve is a top-rated destination for families. And, as a result, most lodges go above and beyond to ensure that kids and parents both have an unforgettable safari experience. More often than not, the lodges facilitate various kiddies' programs tailored to educate children about wildlife and conservation while keeping them entertained at the same time. Bumble Drives are also very popular at most lodges!

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Top tips for the best Malaria Free Safaris in South Africa

Mosquitoes, specifically the female of the species, are not really anybody’s best friend. Firstly, their high-pitched voices are not a great lullaby and, secondly, they can transmit malaria.

The last thing you want to experience halfway through your South African safari is a feverish headache, chills, and relentless vomiting … all symptoms of dreaded malaria.

Stop the 4X4! Before you change your mind and rather spend your well-earned holiday with the in-laws in a remote region of the Arctic, the team here at African Budget Safaris has laid it all out for you in this blog – everything you need to know about a malaria-free safari adventure in South Africa, which is totally possible.

We’ve got all the latest info to help you negotiate a safe and healthy safari – if you travel on your own with a well-thumbed notebook, with your partner, the family (young and old) or friends, or on a guided safari tour – and it doesn’t even matter what your blood type is.

A bit about the bite

Before we answer the question, “ What does ‘malaria-free’ mean? ” let’s make a quick pit stop at malaria itself. The cause is a one-celled parasite known as a Plasmodium . (You may wipe this term from your memory banks after reading this section.)

Mrs Mozzie (it’s the female mosquito who’s the guilty party) picks up the parasite from infected people when she bites to obtain the blood needed to nurture her eggs. Inside the mosquito, the parasites go nuts – they reproduce and develop. When the mosquito bites again, the parasites contained in the salivary gland make a beeline for the blood of the person being bitten. Rest assured, it won’t be you if you simply follow our advice.

Malaria parasites multiply in the liver; next stop – the red blood cells of the infected person. One to two weeks – sometimes longer – after a person is infected, the first symptoms of malaria (as if you need a reminder) appear. That’s when it’s time to see the doctor, pronto. For a full malaria overview, check out our blog, Malaria Made Simple .

Before we scare you off, let’s stop there. There are numerous safari options in South Africa that are free of malaria. Let’s get into what you need to know to play it smart and safe before leaving home. We also recommend that you have a chat with your doctor before you hop on the plane.

First up then – are there South African safaris that are malaria-free?

Yes, South Africa has malaria-free safari game parks and so too do certain areas within the neighbouring countries, Namibia and southern Botswana (note, the swampy inland Okavango Delta is not malaria-free, neither is Etosha. It’s just the very dry, southern regions of the two countries). For more info on the exact areas, check out the WHO’s International Travel Guide , the CDC’s Yellow Book or chat with your local Travel Clinic).

Right, back to South Africa. If you want to enjoy a world-class safari experience, but don’t see yourself gulping down malaria prophylaxis tablets, there are many phenomenal game-viewing locations with none of the mosquitoes that carry the disease. This is reason enough for choosing a malaria-free safari.

Now for a fact as sure as an African elephant has tusks: South Africa is the only country in the whole of Africa that can officially offer a complete malaria-free safari experience. The rest of Africa offers a malaria risk, even if it’s small – which increases during the rainy seasons.

So, before we shout it from the rooftops, just remember this: not every safari destination in South Africa is free from malaria. African Budget Safaris has your back, so we've put together a wonderful selection of assured malaria-free safari regions, void of any mozzies that carry the disease:

• Eastern Cape
• North West Province (including the Pilanesberg National Park and Madikwe Game Reserve)
• Waterberg District in the province of Limpopo
• Northern Cape
• Cape Town and surrounds – situated in the Western Cape Province

Reserves in these areas offer phenomenal game-viewing experiences, so you needn’t think you’re on the receiving end of sloppy seconds in the safari department by undertaking a malaria medication-free trip.

So, what does the description ‘malaria-free’ really mean?

According to the World Health Organization, it is an area where there is “no continuing local mosquito-borne malaria transmission and the risk of acquiring malaria is limited to introduced cases only”.

Malaria-free Eastern Cape Safaris

The Eastern Cape is rapidly becoming a safari-goers dream spot, with numerous wonderful game reserves to suit any budget, all of them free of malaria.

For the full story on the Eastern Cape and all it offers, take a look at our blog, See the Big 5 at the Eastern Cape’s Best Malaria Free Game Reserves . Here, we’ll just mention a couple because, well, they’re fabulous!

Addo Elephant National Park

As its name suggests, Addo is known for its huge elephant population, but it offers an all-round superb malaria-free safari experience, including the ‘Big 7’. The third biggest game park in South Africa , it’s home to the well-known five and – added bonus – two marine ‘biggies’, the great white shark and southern right whale.

Addo is an easy day trip from Port Elizabeth, but we’d recommend staying a night or two at one of the wide range of accommodation offers in the park. There’s nothing like going to sleep to the sounds of the bush. Some of the African Budget Safari tours that include Addo are:

• Full-Day Addo Elephant Park Big 5 Safari
• 3 Day Addo Elephant Park Safari
• Lesotho & Drakensberg to Addo Overland Camping Safari

Amakhala offers up everything but mosquito bites

It’ll take you less than an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth’s national airport in the Eastern Cape, to arrive at another malaria-free Big 5 safari destination: Amakhala Game Reserve. The region is known as Frontier Country and the reserve is in an area called the Greater Addo.

Amakhala hosts five of the world’s six vegetation biomes, from bushveld to savannah, amidst 8 500 hectares of land. Cheetah, giraffe, zebra, black wildebeest and a heady number of antelope also rank amongst the diverse wildlife. Game drive activities are on offer with each overnight stay, but should you wish to experience the diverse reserve and not stay over, day safaris are an option.

The reserve offers a great variety of 3-, 4- and 5-star owner-managed experiences. Choose your preferred accommodation from a selection of ten luxury establishments consisting of restored country houses, safari lodges or tented camps.

In amongst the wildlife quenching their thirst at the river’s edge, the rare Cape Clawless Otter with its long grey-white whiskers might just hijack a photo op or two. Check out our  5 Day Addo Park & Amakhala Big 5 Safari .

Shamwari will have you swooning

Right, before you get down to the nuts and bolts of planning the next step of your South African safari experience, here’s another gem of a game reserve to consider visiting in the Eastern Cape, also malaria-free.

Shamwari is regarded as the pinnacle of private game parks (and naturally home to the Big 5). Indulge in exclusive tranquillity and a real sense of harmony with nature. The reserve stretches languidly along the Bushman's river, halfway between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown. The Eastern Cape Province, being a malaria-free zone, makes Shamwari ideal for families with kids or elderly members, who might be vulnerable to illness.

The game drives the reserve offer are exceptional, most certainly the highlight of many a returning safari-goer. The team of personal game rangers has an intimate knowledge of the area – you’ll be taken directly to the best spots where the wildlife is prolific.

Malaria-free North West Safaris

The North-West and Limpopo provinces both border Gauteng, so are driveable from Johannesburg. For more close-to-Jozi parks, see our blog Best Game Reserves for Short Safaris near Johannesburg . Both provinces have a number of great game reserves, most of them malaria-free (excluding eastern Limpopo, in which the Kruger Park lies, which is malarial). Here, we list a few of them.

The largest Big 5 reserve within easy driving distance of Johannesburg (2 to 3 hours) is the Pilanesberg National Park, a 550 km 2  area. It’s situated in a transition ecological zone, between the dry Kalahari region and the wet Lowveld region, giving it diverse habitats and, therefore, wildlife.

Madikwe awaits

The Madikwe Game Reserve is in the North West Province, bordering Botswana near Gaborone and close to the Kalahari Desert, and only a 3.5-hour drive from the city of Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport. It’s the country’s fifth-largest game reserve in a malaria-free zone – also known as the ‘Hidden Gem of Game Parks’ and widely regarded as one of the best conservation areas in Africa.

Here, the Big 5 roam about in the 750 km 2 (75 000 ha 2 ) park. Choose from several luxurious lodges dotted around the reserve – each offering a unique experience of this wildlife hotspot as well as authentic Community Lodges run by local villagers – you can expect fantastic views of the reserve – and the wonderful surprise of some of the wildlife grazing in close proximity! Mouth-watering meals prepared by trained chefs at many of these lodges ensure a feast of note, along with safari game drives hosted by experienced and characterful guides.

Apart from spotting lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo, there is a thriving population of the highly endangered African wild dog in the reserve. Three hunting packs roam the area. You asked for an authentic African safari experience … well, you’ve got one!

The dogs are fascinating to observe. Initially, the pack will run around, sniff and play amongst each other. They’re a noisy bunch – belting out high-pitched chirps. An alpha male and female will be the first to set off, followed by the rest of the pack at a brisk trot, all tails a-flickering – only to slip into the bush for the hunt. Antelope usually fall prey, but they can also tackle much larger prey, such as wildebeest. The wild dogs will otherwise supplement their diet with birds and rodents.

Malaria-free Northern Cape Safaris

While relatively ‘off the beaten track’, as distances are large, the Northern Cape deserves a mention, not least for its spectacular flower season, when vast areas are a proliferation of colour, covered in wildflowers in spring, but also for its game parks including Tswalo, Mokala, and the spectacular Augrabies Falls Reserve.

Tswalu is another wonderful malaria-free safari destination

Welcome to the vast and mesmerizing Tswalu Kalahari with its magical vistas. ‘Space’ is the operative word here. The ‘Green Kalahari’ is a slice of nature offering a wonderful twist. The name ‘Kalahari’ is derived from the Tswana word Kgala , meaning The Great Thirst, or Kgalagadi , meaning The Waterless Place.

The southern Kalahari receives somewhat more rainfall than the central Kalahari. This is why it is often referred to as the ‘Green Kalahari’. Within the reaches of Tswalu lie the Korranaberg Mountains, a quartzite structure connected to the Olifantshoek Supergroup. The mountains form a basin that acts as a natural catchment area and with a healthy water table to boot, to support a fantastic array of wildlife.

This then is South Africa’s largest private game reserve. It’s malaria-free, so guests do not have to worry about popping anti-malaria tablets. It’s ideal for families on safari – they, in fact, welcome children and make every effort to make the little people’s safari experience endless fun under the African sun (pack sunscreen, Mom!).

Their game viewing is out of this world – offering sightings of some of the country’s rarest and most extraordinary wildlife. There are over 80 species of mammals and 240 species of birds (including endangered raptors), at Tswalu, which is also home to the elusive aardvark, aardwolf, pangolin and brown hyena. Because the land is so expansive, you’ll feel as if you’re the only people for hundreds of miles. No more standing on tiptoes, craning necks for a view of a beautiful Cape fox, warming up in the morning light or nudging the 4X4 towards the VIP spot to watch the wildlife descending on a watering hole.

The San engraving sites at Tswalu have the most beautiful and advanced examples of the Green Kalahari’s early inhabitants. Detailed stories reflect the lives of these hunter-gatherers. The engravings on the hard rock were made with materials such as sharp stones and spears. It’s a fascinating link to an ancient time.

The philanthropic Oppenheimer family took the landscape under their wing in 1998. Because of their commitment to conservation, you, the safari-goer can marvel at the indigenous species that’ve been successfully re-introduced. The mantra here at Tswalu is, “ Leave the world better than how we found it. ” Very fitting.

Malaria-free safaris near Cape Town

We understand that Cape Town is a must-see – we choose to live here exactly for that reason! – so it’s sometimes a dilemma to decide how to squeeze a safari into a short holiday and include The Mother City.

Timing and budget may not allow for the inclusion of the iconic Kruger Park. Fret not, there are several Big 5 reserves within a reasonable distance of The Mother City, which are suitable for day trips or longer. So much so, that we have two separate blogs for them:

• Big Five Safaris Near Cape Town

Now to answer a couple of FAQs we get

Is the kruger national park malaria-free.

No, the Kruger National Park is not malaria-free. The following info comes straight from the Kruger’s HQ: during the months when the rain falls on the bushwillow vegetation in the south of the park and the great expanse of mopane veld in the north, there is an increased risk of malaria. When the rainy season wraps up in April, the risk of infection is low.

So, the recommendation is always there to take malaria prophylaxis when visiting the park. Incidentally, during the daytime, there is no risk of infection; the malaria mosquito is only active at night in those areas up to 600 m (1 967 ft) above sea level.

There are various mosquito species in the park, but not every mosquito causes a transmittance when the host is bitten. So, let’s talk about probability. The chance of being stung by said mozzie is 1 in 24 000 – it’s low, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take precautions. Note that 10% of all malaria cases occur because visitors have not taken the necessary preventative measures.

‘Protection’ is the operative word. Pack items of clothing that will hide your skin, such as safari pants that close around your ankles. When it’s dark, wear socks, even if it’s warm. You won’t get strange looks when you wear a hat at night. It helps! Rest assured, there are as many mosquito lamps in this premier game-viewing destination as there are rock dassies basking on boulders.

Can I visit game reserves in South Africa that aren’t malaria-free?

Yes, you can visit game reserves in South Africa that aren’t malaria-free, provided you take all the necessary precautions. Malaria is endemic in the game reserves situated in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and in Limpopo. In KwaZulu-Natal, it’s endemic on the Maputaland coast. These areas are in the north/northeast of South Africa . Our advice is to consult a healthcare professional for the latest on malaria prophylaxis as it changes quite often. The cities of Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town are all free from malaria and safe for safari travellers of all ages.

To recap: we’re happy to report that no anti-malaria drugs need to be taken in the following low-risk areas: North West Province and the Northern Cape along the Molopo and Orange Rivers, (we’re including the Augrabies Falls and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park), Eastern and Western Cape. Here, malaria might be locally transmitted, only occasionally though. You must still take precautionary measures for prevention.

What are the precautions I should take, in both malaria and malaria-free areas?

Some tips are repetitive, yet make for a proper checklist. Following this advice is a good idea, malaria area or not. No one wants to be scratching itchy bites all holiday:

• Apply insect repellent, lavishly, to exposed skin
• Close windows and doors at night if they aren’t screened
• Spray an aerosol insecticide inside where your sleeping area is
• Burn mosquito coils and mosquito mats
• Sleep under a mosquito-proof bed net… “Sweet dreams” by the way
• Wear long-sleeved clothing, trousers, and socks when in the great outdoors

These safari-goers are especially at risk of malaria, so take extra precautions:

• Kids under 5
• Adults over 65
• Pregnant women
• Those on long-term steroids
• If receiving chemotherapy
• People with HIV, porphyria or epilepsy
• If you’ve had your spleen removed
• Chronically ill patients

As mentioned above, for a full malaria overview and what precautions you need to take if you’re going into a malaria area, check out our blog, Malaria Made Simple .

Is there a malaria risk when I'm back at home?

A person may still contract malaria even though all precautionary measures have been taken and it may take some time for symptoms to show. If headache, fever, muscular and joint pains, sweating, shivering attacks, nausea, diarrhoea, and fatigue occur after a safari (up to six months after your return), a GP should immediately be consulted. Also, inform the medical staff of your visit to the malaria area to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

The reasons you need to visit South Africa’s malaria-free game reserves

• You don’t need to worry about taking antimalarials before leaving home, during your safari adventure or on your return.
• Most of these non-malarial game reserves welcome Junior – even if s/he is of the age where diapers fill the greater half of your suitcase. In fact, these game reserves are geared to cater for kids of all ages. For more on kid’s safaris, see our blog, Great tips on the safety of your family on safari in Africa

• You’re still guaranteed to experience the jaw-dropping presence of the Big 5 in their natural habitat (cue Pilanesberg Game Reserve in the North West or Marakele National Park in the Waterberg District).
• The location of these reserves allows for further exploration of beautiful South Africa.

And then finally, please allow us to exit with a mosquito joke. Feel free to share it around the bush campfire …

A man in a movie theatre notices what looks like a mosquito sitting next to him. "Are you a mosquito?" asked the man, surprised. "Yes." "What are you doing at the movies?" The mosquito replied, "Well, I liked the book."

You’re welcome.

What’re you waiting for? Contact one of our knowledgeable travel consultants and get your dream malaria-free safari in South Africa booked.

Briony Chisholm Wordsmith & Pharmacist

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