Health

Malaria

If you're travelling to a malaria area, you'll need to take the following precautions:

• Apply insect repellent to exposed skin. Recommended repellents contain 20-35% DEET, and there are a number of brands on the market.
• As soon as the sun sets change into long-sleeved clothing and long pants if you're outdoors.
• Use a mosquito net if your tent or room isn't screened or air-conditioned; and spray insecticide or burn a mosquito coil before going to bed.
• Take the malaria tablets recommended for the region you're travelling to, and keep taking them until the course is complete.
• If you're planning on scuba diving in a malaria area notify your doctor as this will determine which anti-malaria tablets are prescribed.

If you come down with flu-like symptoms either during or within four to six weeks after your visit to a malaria area, seek a doctor's advice immediately and let him know that you've been in a malaria area.

What to bring

You will need a standard 10-year passport for all travel. This must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned travel date. You may also need a visa to travel. Please click here for the visa form.

• If you're going on safari, pack comfortable walking shoes and khaki, brown or beige casual clothes. Long-sleeved shirts and trousers will help protect you against the sun and insect bites. Take a warm jacket for game drives and, if you're going in summer, make sure it's waterproof.
• Smart-casual clothes for eveningwear, although a few upmarket destinations will expect something more formal - check with your travel consultant if you're not sure.
• Malaria tablets, insect repellent and (if necessary) a mosquito net. Also see malaria above.
• Sunblock, sunglasses and hat.
• Prescription medications: make sure you have enough to last during your trip, as well as a copy of the prescription(s).
• Over-the-counter anti-diarrhoea medicine (just in case!) if you think you'll have trouble finding a pharmacy on your trip.
• Binoculars, camera and plenty of film or memory for a digital camera.
• Visa or MasterCard credit card and/or traveller's cheques - Diners and American Express are not always accepted. Keep travel documents in a safe place - many airlines no longer resubmit lost tickets and require a police affidavit if you want to avoid paying the full fare for their replacement.
• Don’t forget your summer golf wear and golf clubs………!