Is Botswana malaria a risk? Do I need vaccinations?

Yes — northern Botswana (including the Okavango Delta, Chobe, and Kasane) is a malaria area, particularly during the rainy season from November to April.

Malaria Risk Zones in Botswana

• Higher risk: Okavango Delta, Chobe, Kasane, Victoria Falls region (especially November–April)
• Lower risk: Central Kalahari, Ghanzi, Kgalagadi (year-round, but not zero)
• Minimal risk: Gaborone, Francistown, and other urban areas

Recommended Vaccinations for Botswana

• Routine vaccines: MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, polio, varicella, annual flu
• Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis B: Recommended for long stays or medical work
• Typhoid: Recommended if eating outside tourist areas
• Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a yellow fever country
• Rabies: Consider for long stays or extensive outdoor activities

Antimalarial Medication

We strongly advise consulting a doctor or travel clinic 4–6 weeks before travel about antimalarial medication. Common options include:

• Malarone (Atovaquone-Proguanil): Well tolerated, short course
• Doxycycline: Affordable, daily dose
• Lariam (Mefloquine): Weekly dose, some side effects

Other Health Precautions

• Use DEET-based insect repellent (30–50%)
• Wear long sleeves and trousers at dusk and dawn
• Sleep under a mosquito net (provided in our camps)
• Drink only bottled or purified water
• Avoid stagnant water where possible

Official Travel Health Resources

• CDC Travel Health – Botswana
• WHO International Travel and Health
• Botswana Ministry of Health

Frequently Asked Questions about Malaria in Botswana

Do I really need malaria pills for Botswana?

If you are visiting the Okavango Delta, Chobe, or Kasane during the rainy season (November–April), yes, antimalarial medication is strongly recommended.

Is Botswana malaria-free in the dry season?

No. Malaria risk decreases but does not disappear in the dry season. Consult your doctor for personalised advice.

Can I get malaria in the Kalahari?

Malaria risk is very low in the Central Kalahari and southern Botswana, but it is not zero.

Learn more about what we do and how we keep our guests safe.