Malaria & Vaccinations
By the Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris team
Written by our Arusha-based guides and safari planners from first-hand experience in Tanzania.
A little health preparation goes a long way on safari. Malaria is present in much of Tanzania, and some vaccinations are recommended or required depending on your route. This page gives general guidance only. Always speak to a doctor or travel health clinic for advice that fits your personal situation.
Malaria in Tanzania
Malaria is spread by mosquitoes that bite mainly between dusk and dawn. The risk is generally higher at lower altitudes, on the coast and Zanzibar, around lakes and in the rainy seasons, and lower in cool highland areas such as the Ngorongoro rim. Your doctor may recommend antimalarial tablets for your trip.
Avoiding mosquito bites
- Use an effective insect repellent on exposed skin
- Wear long sleeves and trousers at dusk
- Sleep under a mosquito net where provided
- Choose rooms with screens or air conditioning
- Avoid strong perfumes in the evening
- Take antimalarials exactly as prescribed
If you develop a fever during or after your trip, seek medical advice promptly and say that you have travelled to a malaria area.
Vaccinations
Make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date. A yellow fever certificate may be required if you arrive from, or transit through, a country with a risk of yellow fever, including longer layovers. Your travel health professional may also recommend other vaccines, such as hepatitis A, typhoid or tetanus, based on your plans.
Read our guide to vaccinations for an East Africa safari.
Staying Healthy on Safari
- Drink bottled or filtered water
- Use high-factor sunscreen and a hat
- Carry a small personal first-aid kit
- Bring enough personal medication
- Wash or sanitise hands often
- Take out travel insurance with medical evacuation
Climbing Kilimanjaro? Ask your doctor about altitude as well, and choose a longer route to help acclimatise. See also staying safe in Tanzania.
Health FAQs
Do I need malaria tablets for Tanzania?
Malaria is present in much of Tanzania, so many travellers are advised to take antimalarial tablets. Only a doctor or travel health clinic can recommend the right option for you, so book an appointment several weeks before you travel.
Is yellow fever vaccination required for Tanzania?
A yellow fever certificate may be required if you arrive from, or transit through, a country with a risk of yellow fever. Rules can change, so check the latest requirements with official sources and your travel clinic.
Is there malaria in Zanzibar?
Malaria risk exists on Zanzibar and the coast, although it varies by season and location. Use repellent, cover up in the evenings and follow your doctor’s advice on antimalarials.
Is Ngorongoro malaria-free?
The cool, high Ngorongoro rim has a lower risk than low-lying areas, but you will usually visit other parks with higher risk on the same trip. Follow medical advice for your whole itinerary.
Travel Prepared and Relaxed
Our Arusha team will share practical pre-trip information and design a private tailor-made safari that suits your needs.
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