- Travel Health Briefing · Southern Africa
South Africa
From the vineyards of the Cape to the wildlife of Kruger, South Africa rewards a little planning. Here’s what to know before you travel — and the vaccinations worth booking ahead.
VACCINES
5 to consider
3 recommended · 2 situational
MALARIA RISK
In some areas
Kruger & northeast
BOOK AHEAD
4–6 weeks
Before you travel
CONSULTATION
£25
Per appointment
- About the destination
Cities, Safari and Coast, Prepare Well
South Africa offers an extraordinary mix, from the buzz of Cape Town and the Garden Route to the safari country of Kruger and the winelands. Health risks are lower than much of Africa, but a little planning before you go still goes a long way.
Southern Africa
Varied climate
Capital · Pretoria
Time · GMT +2
- PLAN AHEAD
Recommended Vaccinations
Book early, some courses need several weeks before you travel. Situational vaccines depend on your itinerary and activities.
Hepatitis A
Recommended
A viral liver infection spread through contaminated food and water, a common risk for travellers.
£75
1 dose · from 2 weeks before
Typhoid
Recommended
A bacterial infection contracted from contaminated food or water, especially outside major hotels.
£45
1 dose · from 2 weeks before
Hepatitis B
Recommended
Transmitted through blood and bodily fluids, worth considering for longer or repeated stays.
On consultation
Course of doses · accelerated option
Yellow Fever
Certificate
A certificate is required for entry if you’re arriving from a country with yellow fever risk, and vaccination is advised for some areas. Given only at registered centres, we’ll confirm availability and what you need.
On consultation
Per dose · 3 doses over ~3–4 weeks
Rabies
Situational
Consider if your activities could lead to animal bites, or if you’ll be far from medical care.
£95
Per dose · 3 doses over ~3–4 weeks
Travel consultation £25 · vaccine prices shown per dose. Your pharmacist confirms exactly what you need and the right schedule at your appointment.
Malaria in South Africa
Malaria risk in South Africa is limited to the low-lying northeast — including the Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and far northern KwaZulu-Natal, mainly in the warmer, wetter months. There’s no risk in Cape Town, the Garden Route, Johannesburg, or most of the country. We’ll advise on tablets if your trip includes a risk area.
- STAY AWARE
Common Health Risks
Beyond vaccinations, a few conditions are worth knowing about so you can take simple precautions.
Dengue Fever
A mosquito-borne virus causing flu-like symptoms, can be serious in some cases. Use repellent and cover up at dawn and dusk.
Typhoid Fever
A bacterial infection from contaminated food or water. Stick to sealed drinks and freshly cooked, hot food.
Hepatitis A
A viral infection affecting the liver, contracted through contaminated food and water. Vaccination is the best protection.
Schistosomiasis (bilharzia)
A parasitic infection from swimming or paddling in fresh water such as lakes and rivers. Avoid freshwater contact, stick to chlorinated pools or the sea.
Rabies
A viral disease transmitted through animal bites, especially from dogs. Avoid contact with stray animals.
- BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
Get to Know South Africa
A glimpse of where you’re headed, plus a few habits to help you stay well while you’re away.
How's the weather?
South Africa’s climate varies hugely, a mild, varied climate, Mediterranean around Cape Town, subtropical in the east, and a warm, dry interior. Use sunscreen, stay hydrated with safe water, and plan for the season.
Is the water safe?
Avoid tap water, choose sealed bottled water, and skip ice unless it’s made from purified water.
How to see a doctor?
Private hospitals and clinics in major cities often have English-speaking staff. Keep a trusted local contact for emergencies.
How to get medicines?
Pharmacies are common and well-signed, but bring your own regular medication as specific brands can vary.
- SIMPLE & QUICK
Booking Takes Three Steps
Small habits that make a big difference to staying well while you’re away.
1
Tell Us Your Trip
Answer a few quick questions about your destination, dates, and health.
2
Pharmacist Review
A prescriber checks exactly what you need and the right schedule for your travel.
3
Book & Visit
Choose a time, confirm online, and get vaccinated at our pharmacy.
Travelling to South Africa?
Start your travel assessment and our pharmacists will tailor vaccine and malaria advice to your itinerary, dates, and activities. Consultations from £25.