Everything you need to know about malaria risk in Mozambique: prophylaxis options, mosquito avoidance, vaccination requirements, and what to do if you get sick.
Mozambique Malaria Prevention & Health Guide for Travellers
Mozambique is a tropical country where malaria is endemic year-round. With the right precautions, you can travel safely and enjoy everything this beautiful country offers. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Is There Malaria in Mozambique?
Yes. Malaria is present throughout Mozambique in all 11 provinces, including coastal cities like Maputo, Beira, and Pemba. The risk is highest during and immediately after the rainy season (November to April), but transmission occurs year-round.
The dominant species is Plasmodium falciparum, the most dangerous form of malaria. This makes prevention non-negotiable.
Malaria Prophylaxis Options
Consult your travel clinic or doctor at least 4-6 weeks before departure. The three main options prescribed for Mozambique:
1. Atovaquone-Proguanil (Malarone)
- Dosage: One tablet daily, starting 1-2 days before travel, throughout stay, and 7 days after
- Pros: Few side effects, well-tolerated, short course after return
- Cons: More expensive than alternatives
- Best for: Shorter trips (under 2 weeks)
2. Doxycycline
- Dosage: One tablet daily, starting 1-2 days before travel, throughout stay, and 4 weeks after
- Pros: Affordable, also prevents other infections
- Cons: Can cause sun sensitivity (problematic on Mozambique's beaches), must be taken with food
- Best for: Budget-conscious travellers
3. Mefloquine (Lariam)
- Dosage: One tablet weekly, starting 2-3 weeks before travel, throughout stay, and 4 weeks after
- Pros: Weekly dosing is convenient
- Cons: Can cause vivid dreams, anxiety; not suitable for those with psychiatric history
- Best for: Long-term travellers and expats
Mosquito Avoidance: The First Line of Defence
No prophylaxis is 100% effective, so physical prevention is essential:
- DEET repellent (20-50%): Apply to exposed skin every 4-6 hours, especially at dawn and dusk
- Permethrin-treated clothing: Treat long-sleeve shirts and trousers before travel
- Mosquito nets: All quality lodges in Mozambique provide them — use them
- Air conditioning: Annoyed mosquitoes are less likely to bite in AC rooms
- Cover up: Wear light-coloured, loose clothing from dusk to dawn
Vaccinations for Mozambique
Beyond malaria, check these vaccinations:
| Vaccine | Required? | Notes | |---------|-----------|-------| | Yellow Fever | Only if arriving from endemic country | Certificate needed at border | | Hepatitis A | Recommended | Transmitted through food/water | | Hepatitis B | Recommended for longer stays | Blood-borne | | Typhoid | Recommended | Food/water transmission | | Tetanus | Ensure up to date | Boost every 10 years | | Rabies | Consider for rural travel | Stray dogs in rural areas | | Cholera | Rare cases reported | Outbreaks in flood season |
Water and Food Safety
- Tap water: Do NOT drink tap water anywhere in Mozambique. Use bottled or filtered water.
- Ice: Avoid ice unless you know it was made from filtered water
- Food: Eat at busy restaurants with high turnover. Avoid raw salads in rural areas.
- Fruit: Wash with filtered water, or peel it yourself
What to Do If You Get Sick
Symptoms of malaria include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue — similar to flu. Symptoms typically appear 7-30 days after the infective bite.
- Seek medical attention immediately — Malaria can be fatal if untreated
- In Maputo: Visit Clinica Cruz Azul or Maputo Private Hospital
- In other cities: Provincial hospitals have malaria testing capability
- In rural areas: Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) are available at most health posts
- Carry a backup: Some travellers bring a rapid test kit for remote travel
Travel Health Kit Checklist
- Malaria prophylaxis (full course)
- DEET insect repellent (20-50%)
- Permethrin spray for clothing
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Oral rehydration salts
- Anti-diarrhoea medication (loperamide)
- Antibiotic for traveller's diarrhoea (prescribed by doctor)
- Antihistamines
- Plasters and antiseptic
- Thermometer
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation is essential for Mozambique. Medical facilities in rural areas are limited, and serious cases may require evacuation to South Africa.
Key Takeaways
- Take malaria prophylaxis — it's not optional
- Use DEET and mosquito nets consistently
- Drink only bottled or filtered water
- Get recommended vaccinations 4-6 weeks before travel
- Know the symptoms of malaria and seek help immediately if unwell
- Carry comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage
Last updated: August 2026. Always consult a travel medicine specialist for the most current advice.