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Maasai Mara remains one of the top safari destinations in Africa because of the abundance of wildlife and well developed tourism infrastructure. Alternatively spelled Masai Mara, this Kenyan national park reaches peak popularity July through October with the great migration of millions of herbivores including wildebeest, zebra, gazelle, and antelope.
Is Yellow Fever Vaccine Recommended for Travel to Maasai Mara?
Many travelers to Maasi Mara wonder if they need the yellow fever vaccine; the answer quite simply is yes. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) yellow fever disease is a risk in all of Maasi Mara along with other regions of Kenya. A single dose of yellow fever protects for at least 10 years, and for many people may be sufficient for lifetime.
Is Yellow Fever Required for Entry to Maasai Mara?
While the yellow fever vaccination is not required to enter Maasai Mara National Reserve, it is strongly recommended because infection with yellow fever virus can lead to hospitalization, life-threatening illness, and death. Travelers arriving to Kenya on flights directly from the United States, Europe, and India are not required to show proof of yellow fever vaccine. However, if you visit other countries in Africa before or after your trip to Maasai Mara, Kenya, the yellow fever vaccine may be required. Because the yellow fever vaccine is regulated by international law and requirements may change, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with a local travel clinic like Destination Health Clinic before your departure.
Do I Need Antimalarial Medication While on Safari in Maasai Mara?
Malaria is present throughout all of Maasai Mara preserve, and antimalarial pills should be taken to prevent infection. Most travelers opt to take a daily malaria tablet called atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone). Other malaria medication options are available and it’s best to speak with your physician or local travel clinic on medication suggestions for your specific plans.
Other Mosquito & Insect Illnesses Found in Maasai Mara
While on safari and visiting Kenya, it’s a good idea to prevent all insect bites because there can be a risk of other illnesses such as dengue fever, chikungunya, and African tick-fever. Be sure to take along a quality insect repellant to apply to your skin. For additional protection against insect bites, treat clothing with 0.5% permethrin.
Vaccine Advice for Travel to Maasi Mara
In addition to yellow fever vaccine, other travel immunizations may be recommended for visitors to Maasi Mara and depend on your vaccination history and travel plans.
Vaccines to Protect Against Food and Water Illness:
Disease Risks from Other People:
Diseases from Animal Bites
Routine Vaccines for Older Adults
Visit Destination Health Clinic Before Your Trip to Maasai Mara.
Our friendly and expert staff will help you prepare for your safari with travel vaccines, health advice, and a prescription for malaria. Many visitors to Maasai Mara also tour other regions of Kenya, including Nairobi, or venture to Tanzania and Zanzibar for more wildlife viewing, complete a trek up Mount Kilimanjaro or relax on a white sandy beach. While in Africa, a trip to Victoria Falls is not to be missed. Regardless of your specific plans after Maasai Mara, Destination Health Clinic clinicians will personalize health and vaccination advice based on your specific itinerary.
