Tembe Elephant Park
Malaria & Safety
South Africa Parks
Philip lives in South Africa and has authored many guidebooks to African destinations, including ‘The Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa’.
Safety
Visiting Tembe Elephant Park is very safe in our opinion. All South Africa’s parks and reserves are virtually crime free. As is the case all over the world, crime issues tend to be in the cities. Normal precautions should be taken when visiting urban centers on a self-drive safari. Click on ‘Cities & Urban Areas: Safety Precautions’ below for more info.
Malaria & Vaccinations
There is a very small risk of contracting malaria in the wet summer months from September to May in parts of South Africa. Tembe is located in a low-risk zone, and antimalarials are not considered necessary. It is still advisable to cover up and use a DEET-based mosquito repellent in the evenings during those months. Travel to South Africa might require several vaccinations (consult with your local clinic).
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife viewing is very safe as long as you stick to the park’s rules and follow your guide’s instructions. The elephants in Tembe Elephant Park are usually relaxed and incidents are extremely rare. Self-drive visitors should, however, always keep their distance and never drive between a herd. You can also be well informed by consulting the ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ below.