Hit Me With Your Best Shot: Vaccinations for Your African Safari

Mar 28, 2025

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When preparing for a safari, vaccinations might not be the first thing on your mind —
but they should be!

Whether you’re trekking gorillas in Rwanda or exploring the plains of the Serengeti, making sure your vaccinations are up to date is essential for your health and peace of mind. While many countries on the African continent recommend the same basic vaccines as you’d get in the USA, others may require specific shots for entry. For instance, proof of a Yellow Fever vaccine is mandatory for entry into several African countries.

At Brandt Safaris, we recommend checking the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for each country you plan to visit to ensure you’re fully prepared:

South Africa

Botswana

Zambia

Zimbabwe

Tanzania

Kenya

Uganda

Guidelines

CDC Vaccine Recommendations

The CDC categorizes its recommendations into three groups:

1. All Travelers:

Basic vaccines like MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), Tetanus, and Hepatitis A & B.

2. Most Travelers:

Vaccines based on common risks, such as Typhoid or Rabies (especially for rural or wildlife-intensive safaris).

3. Some Travelers:

Recommended only in specific scenarios, like Cholera if you’re heading to a high-risk area.

It’s sometimes challenging to differentiate between “most” and “some” traveler recommendations, but discussing your plans with your healthcare provider can help you make the right choices.

Key Vaccines to Consider for Your African Safari

Yellow Fever

Why It’s Important:

Some African countries require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination upon entry, especially if you’re arriving from or transiting through a country where Yellow Fever is present.

Duration:

Typically effective for lifetime immunity.

Availability:

Due to past shortages, check your local travel clinic or pharmacy to ensure availability.

Pro Tip:

If you lose your Yellow Fever card, the only way to get another one is to retake the vaccine. Make sure you store it in a safe, accessible place.

Hepatitis A & B

Why It’s Important:

Hepatitis A can be contracted through contaminated food and water, while Hepatitis B spreads through contact with infected blood and body fluids.

Duration:

Lifetime immunity after completing the series.

Recommended For:

All travelers to Africa.

Typhoid

Why It’s Important:

Spread through contaminated food and water, especially in rural areas.

Duration:

Injection lasts for 2 years; oral vaccine lasts 5 years.

Recommended For:

Most travelers.

Malaria Medications

Why It’s Important:

Malaria is present in many safari regions.

Medication Options:

Malarone: Effective with minimal side effects, but taken daily.
Doxycycline: Affordable and widely available but can make skin sun-sensitive.
Lariam: Taken weekly, but may cause vivid dreams or dizziness.

Pro Tip:

Consult your doctor to choose the medication that best suits your itinerary and health profile.

Routine Vaccines

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap)

Chickenpox (Varicella)

Polio

Influenza (Flu)

COVID-19 (if applicable)

Why Get a Flu Shot Before Your Safari?

It may seem odd to worry about flu while traveling to Africa, but long-haul flights are breeding grounds for viruses. Being confined in an aircraft for up to 18 hours with hundreds of people can increase your risk of getting sick. A simple flu shot before departure can be the difference between starting your safari strong or spending it bedridden.

Where to Get Your Shots

There are several options available for getting vaccinated:

1. Your Primary Care Doctor

  • Convenient if they offer travel vaccines.
  • May be covered by insurance.

2. Private Travel Medicine Clinics

(e.g., Passport Health)

  • Specialized advice and comprehensive vaccination packages.
  • Can be pricey—expect a consultation fee of $100 to $300.

3. Local Pharmacies

(e.g., Walgreens, Safeway)

  • Often the most affordable and convenient option.
  • Many pharmacies now offer vaccines without an appointment.

Additional Tips for Staying Healthy

  • Hydrate: Long flights can be dehydrating, weakening your immune system. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight.
  • Sanitize: Wipe down surfaces like tray tables and armrests on planes with antibacterial wipes.
  • Get Enough Sleep: Fatigue can lower your immune resistance, so try to rest well before your journey.
  • Be Prepared for the Unexpected: Despite careful planning and precautions, unforeseen health issues can still arise. Carry a basic medical kit with pain relievers, antidiarrheals, antihistamines, and any personal medications you require.
    For added peace of mind, invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuations. Check our Travel Insurance Guide for more details.
  • Stay Safe and Informed: Your safety is our priority at Brandt Safaris. We will always guide you on the necessary preparations, including health and vaccination requirements, so you can focus on the excitement of your adventure.

Contact us today

plan your dream safari with confidence, knowing you’re fully prepared for a safe and healthy journey

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