Email us 
Copy Link
Share on LinkedIn
Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Travelling to South Africa offers an extraordinary range of experiences, from stunning landscapes and wildlife to vibrant cultures and historical sites. To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, it’s important to take certain health precautions. This is particularly crucial if you’re travelling with children, have pre-existing health conditions, or require specific medical care. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind before and during your travels:
Before You Travel
Visit Your Doctor or Travel Clinic:
- Schedule an appointment with your GP or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip. Discuss your travel plans in detail, including specific countries and regions, to get personalised advice on vaccinations and health precautions.
- If you or anyone in your group has pre-existing health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), ensure your doctor provides a detailed plan on how to manage your condition while travelling. This may include additional medication, emergency procedures, and a letter describing your condition.
Vaccinations and Medications:
- Routine Vaccinations: Ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date. This includes MMR (measles-mumps-rubella), polio, hepatitis A and B, and DTP (diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis).
- Yellow Fever: Some African countries require a yellow fever vaccination certificate, especially if you’re travelling from or through a yellow fever-endemic country. Check the specific requirements for your destination.
- Malaria Prevention: If you’re travelling to a malaria-prone area, consult your doctor about suitable antimalarial medication, especially for children or if you’re pregnant. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers in the evening, and sleep under a mosquito net where necessary.
Comprehensive Travel Insurance:
- Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and repatriation. This is particularly important if you’re visiting remote areas or travelling with children. Double-check that your policy covers pre-existing conditions, if applicable.
- For families, ensure your policy covers all members, including children, for any activities you plan to engage in, such as safaris, hiking, or water sports.
Prescription Medications and Supplies:
- Bring enough of your prescription medications to last the entire trip. Keep them in their original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. It’s also a good idea to know the generic names of your medications in case you need to obtain more locally.
- If you use medical devices (e.g., diabetes monitors, asthma inhalers), pack extra supplies. For children, bring a complete first-aid kit that includes child-safe medicines for common issues like fever, allergies, and stomach upsets.
Special Health Needs and Dietary Requirements:
- If you or your children have specific health needs (e.g., dietary restrictions like gluten-free or nut allergies, mobility assistance), inform your travel organiser or accommodation in advance to ensure your requirements can be accommodated.
- Many lodges and hotels in South Africa cater to special dietary needs and can provide options such as gluten-free meals or vegetarian dishes. Always confirm this with your accommodation before arrival.
Health Facilities in South Africa
Healthcare Quality:
- South Africa has a relatively high standard of healthcare compared to other parts of Africa, with modern facilities available in major cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Many private hospitals offer excellent care, but costs can be high without insurance.
Lodges and Safari Camps:
- Many safari lodges and camps have arrangements with nearby medical facilities or employ trained medical staff to handle minor health issues. Some luxury lodges even have resident medical professionals on-site.
- In remote areas, lodges usually have access to air evacuation services to transport you to the nearest major hospital in the event of a serious medical emergency. Ensure your insurance covers this.
During Your Trip
Stay Hydrated and Eat Safely:
- Drink plenty of bottled or purified water to stay hydrated, especially in hot climates. Be cautious with food – avoid raw or undercooked foods and be wary of street food to minimise the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Prevent Mosquito Bites:
- Use insect repellent on exposed skin, wear long-sleeved clothing in the evening, and sleep under a mosquito net if required. This will help protect you from diseases like malaria and dengue fever.
Sun Protection:
- The sun in South Africa can be very strong. Protect yourself and your children by wearing a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Seek shade during the hottest part of the day, and stay hydrated to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Avoid Contact with Animals:
- While it may be tempting to interact with local wildlife, avoid contact with animals to reduce the risk of bites, scratches, and potential exposure to diseases like rabies. Ensure children understand the importance of keeping a safe distance from animals.
Altitude Awareness:
- If your travels include high-altitude destinations, be aware of altitude sickness symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath. Take it easy, stay hydrated, and seek medical advice if needed.
Hand Hygiene:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating or after using the toilet. Use hand sanitiser if soap and water are not available.
Emergency Situations
What to Do in an Emergency:
- If you or someone in your group becomes seriously ill or injured, contact the nearest medical facility immediately. Lodges and hotels in remote areas often have emergency protocols in place and can arrange for evacuation if necessary.
- For minor issues, consult with the lodge staff or local clinic. Many lodges are equipped to handle common safari-related health issues like dehydration, insect bites, or minor injuries.
Know the Local Emergency Numbers:
- Familiarise yourself with the local emergency numbers and the location of the nearest hospital or medical facility. In South Africa, the general emergency number is 112, and private ambulance services can be contacted at 10177.
Keep Emergency Contacts Handy:
- Have a list of emergency contacts, including your insurance provider, local medical facilities, and your embassy or consulate, readily available.
Medical Evacuation:
- In severe cases, air evacuation may be necessary to transport you to a well-equipped hospital in a major city. Ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation, as this can be very costly.
By taking these precautions and being mindful of your health, you can focus on enjoying all the amazing experiences South Africa has to offer. Safe travels!
