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Malaria is transmitted by the Anopheles mosquito, and it is a disease that also occurs in Namibia. However, there are many areas in Namibia that are considered malaria-free and well worth a visit. So, where can you experience a malaria free safari in Namibia? Find out more below.
Is there malaria in Namibia?
Even though Namibia had to adjust its initial goal of eliminating malaria by 2023 to 2027, the country’s progress has been remarkable. In 2001, there were a staggering 735,510 reported malaria cases, but according to the Namibian Ministry of Health, that number dropped to just 13,738 cases in 2021. Of these, 14 were fatal (Namibia has around 2.6 million inhabitants). The regions most affected are Ohangwena, Kavango West and East, as well as the Zambezi Strip in the far north and northeast of the country. According to a recent study, between 85% and 96% of malaria cases in recent years occurred in these areas alone. The risk of malaria increases with the beginning of the rainy season from November, peaking between January and April, and decreases again in the drier months.
While malaria becomes significantly less common below the far north and northeast regions of the country, there are still more malaria zones. Specifically, malaria mostly occurs west and south of these predominantly affected areas, gradually spreading in both directions. National parks such as Nkasa Rupara, Mudumu, and Bwabwata are considered higher-risk areas for malaria, while Khaudum and Etosha National Park are classified as lower risk.
So while, yes, there is malaria in Namibia. There are many areas, especially in Southern Namibia, that are considered malaria-free: According to tropical institutes, Namibia’s coast and the Namib Desert, Windhoek, and the area south of Karasburg are all malaria-free travel destinations in Namibia. The World Health Organization (WHO) does not see any real danger further south, especially along the coast and in the Namib. Additionally, the WHO does not identify a significant malaria risk in the vast Kalahari southeast of Windhoek and the central highland south of the capital.
However, it is crucial to note that there is no guarantee, and seeking professional medical and tropical advice is always important. Nonetheless, you can enjoy a malaria free safari in many beautiful areas of Namibia. Let’s take a look at some of the country’s safari highlights where the Anopheles mosquito and malaria are not a concern.
Malaria free safari in Namibia – Along the West Coast
For those who prefer to avoid the low risk of malaria in Etosha National Park, there’s no need to miss out on the Big Four. Stretching from Brandberg to Opuwo and all the way down to the coast in the far west of the northern half of the country, a vast wildlife area is emerging. This easily accessible region in Namibia is one-of-a-kind on the whole of the continent because of its desert elephants and desert lions. In this area, you can also encounter jackals, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, leopards, springboks, oryx-antelopes, and many more. Numerous animals can also be found in and around the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Twyfelfontein. Additionally, this area is famous for its remarkable collection of rock art, created by the San people over millennia as they carved glimpses of their life into the soft sandstone.
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Further along the coast, you will find another unique feature of Namibia: the large seal colony at Cape Cross. Accessible via a protected boardwalk, you can immerse yourself in the heart of the colony. During the birthing and mating season, Cape Cross comes alive with hundreds of thousands of seals, creating an unforgettable and loud spectacle.
Just beyond lies Swakopmund, which still boasts much of its old German colonial architecture. Swakop is a coastal town with beaches, beach bars, restaurants, and a promenade. It offers thrilling desert and “moon” tours, where you can explore the lunar-like landscape just outside Swakopmund. For a unique experience, take a boat trip from Walvis Bay, located just south of Swakopmund, into the Atlantic Ocean. Here, you can discover a huge colony of flamingos. Additionally, at Pelican Point, you will not only encounter pelicans but also spot seals in their natural habitat.
A bit further down the coast lies the sand sea of Sossusvlei, featuring some of the highest dunes in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a true visual delight, with Deadvlei as its crowning glory. Continuing south, you will arrive at Luderitz, a town situated in a beautiful bay with many destinations worth visiting, such as Diaz Point. Not far from Luderitz lies Kolmanskoppe, a former diamond mining town from the early 1900s. It has since become a hauntingly beautiful ghost town in the midst of the unforgiving desert, providing an eerily beautiful backdrop for your photographs. Continuing on the same road leads you to the wild horses of Garub. These horses, with roots dating back to World War I, have become feral and now roam freely in this unique desert landscape.
Where to go on a malaria free safari in Namibia – From Fish River Canyon to Windhoek
In the southernmost part of Namibia lies the Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa, offering breathtaking views. Geology enthusiasts and those who appreciate mesmerizing sunrise and sunsets will love this region. The canyon offers a multi-day, adventurous, and malaria-free hiking experience – but only during the cooler months. Another fascinating destination for sunrise and sunset worshippers is the Quiver Tree Forest, situated northeast of Keetmanshoop. This unique forest features aloes with golden trunks that store water, making it a distinctive part of the Kalahari. The fibres in the branches are easily extractable and were historically used by indigenous people to craft quivers for their arrows.
Just a stone’s throw away is the Giants’ Playground, named for its mystical and massive dolerite rocks. The formations appear as if immensely strong hands carefully stacked and arranged them into captivating shapes. From here, you can venture to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. This malaria free park is home to a variety of African wildlife, including predators such as lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, and wild dogs, which prey on wildebeests, impalas, springboks, and eland antelopes, while meerkat colonies buzz with activity and giraffe herds graze. Although located in South Africa and Botswana, the park is accessible from Namibia at Mata Mata (located at the eastern end of the C15).
Continue your malaria free Namibia trip through the Kalahari hinterland, immersing yourself into the romantic landscapes of the most beautiful red dunes. For those not heading directly to the International Airport, consider experiencing the atmosphere of Namibia’s capital, Windhoek. Explore the ‘Old Town’ around the Alte Feste or take a township tour in Katutura.
Malaria-free does not mean mosquito-free
After discussing where to go on a malaria free safari in Namibia, it is important to note that being malaria free does not guarantee a mosquito free experience. Depending on the season, you may encounter mosquitoes throughout the country. To prevent swelling and itching, we recommend wearing clothing that covers your skin, using mosquito repellent spray, mosquito nets, or similar precautions—especially during the times when mosquitoes are most active, at twilight and nighttime.
For any questions or additional help in planning your Namibia trip, whether you want to go on a guided tour or a self-driving adventure, feel free to reach out to us. We’re always happy to help!
Author: Juan Proll
