March: A Critical Month for Malaria Awareness in Southern Africa
As March unfolds, it marks a pivotal period in the peak malaria season across Southern Africa. Warm temperatures, late-summer rainfall, and lingering floodwaters create ideal conditions for mosquito breeding, making malaria awareness and prevention essential for safari enthusiasts, road trippers, and regional explorers alike. Understanding where malaria risk is highest and how to protect oneself is crucial for safe travel during this time.
Malaria in Southern Africa is both seasonal and geographically concentrated, primarily affecting warm, low-lying, and humid regions near rivers, wetlands, and floodplains. In South Africa, the risk is confined to the far northeast, including Kruger National Park and surrounding private reserves, low-altitude areas of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, and the northern KwaZulu-Natal lowveld. The transmission season peaks from October to May, placing March near the tail end of this high-risk period. However, the rest of South Africa, including major destinations like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and the Garden Route, remains malaria-free.
In Namibia, malaria risk is seasonal and concentrated in the north and northeast, particularly in key safari regions such as Etosha National Park (notably its northern and eastern areas during the rainy season), the Zambezi Region (Caprivi Strip), Kavango East and West, and areas along the Kunene River. Transmission typically spans November to June, with some river regions carrying year-round risk.
Botswana sees malaria risk concentrated in its northern regions, including the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and Ngamiland. The transmission season generally runs from November to May or June. Meanwhile, Mozambique remains the region’s highest-risk destination, with malaria present year-round, particularly in coastal areas and rural provinces.
Other countries such as Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, and eSwatini also experience widespread seasonal transmission. High-risk areas include the Zambezi Valley, the Victoria Falls region, the Lake Malawi region, and low-lying rural areas below 1200m. March firmly falls within the high-risk window across these destinations, making it a critical time for travellers to take precautions.
March is particularly significant for malaria awareness due to its position at the tail end of the rainy season. During this time, mosquito populations remain high, and breeding sites are still active. Warm late-summer temperatures accelerate mosquito and parasite development, while recent rainfall leaves behind abundant standing water, creating ideal conditions for malaria transmission. Historically, malaria transmission peaks between January and March, making this period especially critical for travellers.
The impact of the January 2026 floods has further heightened malaria risk in the region. Severe flooding across parts of Southern Africa earlier this year left behind extensive standing water, which serves as a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. This has the potential to drive elevated malaria transmission for months after the rains have ended, particularly in northern safari regions and river systems. As a result, malaria risk may remain higher than usual late into the summer travel season, underscoring the importance of mosquito protection and travel health preparation for those visiting the region in March.
Despite the risks, March remains a popular travel month in Southern Africa, offering lush landscapes, dramatic skies, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. However, these same conditions also support mosquito populations, making prevention measures especially important. Travellers are advised to use insect repellents, wear long-sleeved clothing, sleep under treated mosquito nets, and consider prophylactic medication where recommended. Consulting a travel health professional before departure is essential to ensure proper preparation.
For African tourism professionals, the heightened malaria risk in March presents an opportunity to educate clients and promote safe travel practices. By providing accurate information and emphasizing the importance of prevention, the industry can help travellers enjoy their experiences while minimizing health risks. As Southern Africa continues to attract visitors with its unparalleled natural beauty and wildlife, ensuring traveller safety remains a top priority for the region’s tourism sector.
