Malaria is present across most of Tanzania, including the safari parks, the coast and Zanzibar. The risk is lower at high altitude, such as on Kilimanjaro above about 1,800 metres and on the Ngorongoro Crater rim. With the right precautions, the risk to visitors is small.
Where and when the risk is highest
- Higher risk: low-lying areas, the coast, Zanzibar, the southern and western parks, and near lakes and rivers.
- Lower risk: highland areas such as the crater rim and upper Kilimanjaro.
- Season: risk rises during and after the rains, from about March to May and in November and December.
Anti-malaria tablets
Most doctors recommend tablets for travel in Tanzania. Common options include:
| Medicine | Notes |
|---|---|
| Atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone) | Taken daily, starting 1–2 days before travel and for 7 days after. Few side effects. |
| Doxycycline | Taken daily, for 4 weeks after travel. Can increase sun sensitivity. |
| Mefloquine | Taken weekly. Not suitable for everyone. |
Only a doctor can tell you which is right for you. Always finish the course.
Avoid being bitten
- Use repellent with DEET, picaridin or similar, especially from dusk.
- Wear long sleeves and trousers in the evening. Lighter colours help.
- Sleep under a mosquito net, or in a room with screens or air conditioning. Most safari camps provide nets.
- Use plug-in repellents or coils if provided.
Symptoms
Malaria can cause fever, chills, sweats, headache, muscle pain and sickness. Symptoms usually appear from about a week after a bite, and can appear months after you return home. If you get a fever during or after your trip, seek medical help quickly and say you have been to Tanzania. Malaria is treatable when caught early.
On safari
Mosquitoes are less common in dry, open savannah in the dry season, but take precautions every evening. Read vaccinations for Tanzania and our safari packing list.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. The risk is present in the Serengeti and most safari parks. Take tablets and avoid bites.
Yes. Zanzibar is a malaria area, though the risk has fallen in recent years.
The risk is very low above about 1,800 metres, but present in Moshi and the lower slopes.
