Travel guide

Health and Safety on Safari

Vaccinations, malaria, altitude, water and wildlife safety — practical advice for travelling in East Africa.

7 August 20265 min read

Photo: Giles Laurent / CC BY-SA 4.0

Safaris are very safe when well organised. Here is some practical advice; always consult a travel health professional before you go.

Vaccinations and malaria

Yellow fever vaccination is required for Uganda and may be required elsewhere depending on your route. Malaria is present in most safari areas below about 1,800 m, so discuss preventive medication with your doctor and use repellent and long sleeves in the evenings.

Altitude

Addis Ababa, the Ngorongoro rim, the Simien and Bale Mountains and Kilimanjaro are at high altitude. Take it easy on arrival, drink plenty of water and ascend gradually.

Water and food

Drink bottled or filtered water, which is provided in our vehicles and at lodges. Food at safari camps is prepared to high standards.

Wildlife

Always follow your guide’s instructions, stay in the vehicle unless told otherwise and never walk around camps at night without an escort.

Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation is essential for all our trips.

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