Health and Safety

HIV and AIDS are endemic. Beyond these, the most serious health problem is malaria, which occurs in the prime game-viewing areas of Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces (home to Kruger, Sabi Sands) and northern KwaZulu-Natal (site of Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, Mkuze, and Ithala game reserves, and Phinda and Thanda private reserves). Travelers heading to malaria-endemic regions should consult a health-care professional at least one month before departure for advice on antimalarial drugs. As the sun goes down, wear light-color long-sleeve shirts, long pants, and shoes and socks, and apply DEET-based mosquito repellent generously. Always sleep in a mosquito-proof room or tent and keep a fan going. If you're pregnant or trying to conceive, avoid malaria areas if at all possible.