Kenya Health Guide: Malaria, Vaccinations, Water and Staying Well on Safari

Kenya's landscapes range from hot coast to high mountains, and health risks vary accordingly. Most safari travellers stay well with simple, consistent habits.

This guide is general information only. Consult a doctor or travel clinic, and check official health sources for current requirements before you travel.

This guide is part of our Uganda facts and travel information guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Before You Go

Book a travel-health appointment as soon as you have dates, ideally several weeks ahead, since some vaccines and tablets need time. Bring up-to-date records of routine vaccinations and discuss region-specific ones. Check whether any certificate is required for entry based on your journey, and keep it with your passport. Take out insurance including medical evacuation, as explained in the insurance guide. See also East Africa health and vaccinations.

Malaria in Kenya

Malaria risk exists in many parts of Kenya, and it varies by region, altitude and season. Higher-altitude areas such as parts of the central highlands are generally lower risk, while coastal and lowland areas tend to carry more. Your doctor will advise on tablets for your specific route. Alongside any medication, use repellent, cover up at dusk and sleep under nets. See malaria prevention for a step-by-step guide.

Food and Water Safety

Stomach upsets are the most common travel complaint. Drink bottled or properly treated water, brush teeth with safe water and be cautious with ice and salads washed in tap water. Lodges generally provide safe water, and it is wise to ask. Eat freshly cooked, hot food and wash hands before meals. Carry rehydration salts. Learn about local dishes in Kenya food and Swahili culture, which is part of the pleasure of the trip.

Sun, Heat and Altitude

The equatorial sun is strong even on cloudy days, so wear a hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen, and drink plenty of water. Nairobi and the highlands sit at moderate altitude, and mountain trips such as Mount Kenya trekking require proper acclimatisation. Mornings can be cool, so pack layers. If you develop a severe headache, nausea or breathlessness at altitude, tell your guide at once.

Insects, Animals and Water Hazards

Besides mosquitoes, ticks and tsetse flies occur in some areas, so use repellent and check clothing after walks. Avoid swimming in lakes and slow rivers unless advised, since parasites such as bilharzia can be present and wildlife may be dangerous. Never touch wild animals, and report any bite or scratch to a doctor. Use sealed rooms and nets where offered.

Medicines and First Aid

Pack a small kit with plasters, antiseptic, pain relief, antihistamines, rehydration salts, insect-bite treatment and any prescribed medicines in original packaging. See travelling with medication. Pharmacies are available in larger towns, but supplies are limited in remote areas. Carry a letter from your doctor for essential medicines.

If You Feel Unwell

Tell your guide or camp manager immediately if you develop fever, vomiting, diarrhoea that persists or any worrying symptom. Operators can arrange clinics, and larger towns have hospitals. Keep your insurance number handy, and keep receipts. Remember that fever after returning home could be malaria, so tell your doctor you have been in Kenya. See Kenya entry, money and practical information for other practicalities.

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Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team