Travel Health Checklist for South Africa — 2026
South Africa has excellent private healthcare, but preparation is still important — especially if visiting Kruger National Park or other malaria areas. Use this checklist for your trip.
Pre-Travel (4–6 Weeks Before)
First Aid Kit & Safari Essentials
Medical Basics
Safari-Specific
Sun Protection
South Africa has extreme UV levels, especially in summer (Oct–Mar). The ozone layer is thinner in the Southern Hemisphere.
Water & Food Safety
- Tap water in major cities (Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban) is safe to drink
- Rural areas and small towns: use bottled water to be safe
- South Africa has good food hygiene standards in restaurants and supermarkets
- Township food markets and braai stalls are generally safe if freshly cooked
- Biltong, droewors, and packaged snacks are safe and make great travel food
Altitude Considerations
Most of South Africa is on a plateau at 1,000–1,800m. Johannesburg sits at 1,753m.
- Some visitors experience mild altitude effects in Johannesburg (breathlessness on exertion, mild headache)
- This typically resolves within 1–2 days
- Stay hydrated and avoid heavy alcohol intake on arrival day
- Drakensberg passes reach 3,000m+ — acclimatise gradually if hiking
Medical Facilities & Emergency Numbers
South Africa has world-class private hospitals. The two main private groups are Netcare and Mediclinic.
| Location | Facility | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Johannesburg | Netcare Milpark Hospital | +27 11 480 5600 |
| Cape Town | Netcare Christiaan Barnard | +27 21 441 0000 |
| Durban | Netcare St Augustines | +27 31 268 5000 |
| Near Kruger | Mediclinic Nelspruit | +27 13 759 0500 |
| Police | 10111 |
| Ambulance | 10177 |
| Netcare 911 | 082 911 |
| ER24 | 084 124 |
| NICD Malaria Hotline | 082 883 9920 |
| UK High Commission Pretoria | +27 12 421 7500 |
| US Embassy Pretoria | +27 12 431 4000 |