Safari Vaccination Costs

Recommended Vaccinations for Safari

It is important to consult with your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your safari to discuss recommended and required vaccinations. Common recommendations for travel to Africa include Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Tetanus. A Yellow Fever vaccination may be required for entry into some countries. Our knowledge center has more on health and safety on safari.

Yellow Fever Vaccination

A Yellow Fever vaccination is a mandatory requirement for entry into many African countries if you are traveling from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission. You will need to carry your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate with you. The cost of the vaccine can vary, so check with your local travel clinic. Our safari operators can provide information on the requirements for your specific itinerary.

Malaria Prevention

Malaria is a risk in many safari destinations. Your doctor will likely recommend that you take anti-malarial medication. The cost of these medications can vary depending on the type and the duration of your trip. It is also important to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and sleeping under a mosquito net. For more on this topic, visit our destinations page.

Detailed Breakdown of Vaccination Costs

Understanding the specific costs associated with each vaccination is crucial for budgeting your safari trip. Prices can vary based on your location, the type of clinic you visit, and whether you have health insurance. Below is a detailed breakdown of typical costs for the most common safari-related vaccinations in the United States.

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever vaccination is often mandatory for entry into many African countries, especially if you are arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. The cost of the yellow fever vaccine can be one of the most significant vaccination expenses.

• Typical Cost: $225 - $350 per dose
• Availability: The yellow fever vaccine is not as widely available as other travel vaccines and is typically only administered at certified vaccination centers. You can find a certified clinic through the [CDC's website](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellow-fever-vaccination-clinics/search).

> Traveler's Tip: Always carry your International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), also known as the "yellow card," as you may be required to show it upon entry to your destination country. For more information on specific country requirements, see our destinations page.

Typhoid

Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated food and water. Vaccination is recommended for travelers visiting smaller cities, villages, and rural areas in Africa.

• Injectable Vaccine (Typhim Vi): $140 - $220 per dose
• Oral Vaccine (Vivotif): $35 - $200 for a full course (four capsules)

Hepatitis A and B

Hepatitis A is a viral liver disease that can be contracted through contaminated food and water, while Hepatitis B is transmitted through infected bodily fluids. The combined Hepatitis A and B vaccine (Twinrix) is a popular choice for travelers.

• Twinrix (Hepatitis A & B): $135 - $200 per dose (requires a series of three doses for full immunity)
• Hepatitis A only: $100 - $150 per dose (two doses required)
• Hepatitis B only: $80 - $120 per dose (three doses required)

Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap)

A Tdap booster is recommended for all travelers who have not received one in the last 10 years. This vaccine protects against tetanus, an infection that can be caused by animal bites or scratches.

• Typical Cost: $50 - $90 per dose

Other Potential Vaccinations

Depending on your specific itinerary and planned activities, your doctor may recommend additional vaccinations.

• Rabies: Recommended for travelers who will be spending a lot of time outdoors, especially in rural areas, or who will be in close contact with animals. The rabies vaccine is a series of three shots and can cost between $300 and $500 per dose.
• Cholera: While the risk of cholera for most safari travelers is low, vaccination may be recommended for those visiting areas with active cholera outbreaks. The oral cholera vaccine (Vaxchora) can cost around $400.

> Expert Insight: It is essential to consult with a travel medicine specialist at least 4-6 weeks before your departure. They will be able to provide personalized recommendations based on your health history, itinerary, and planned activities. Our safari operators can help you find a reputable travel clinic in your area.

How to Get Vaccinated

There are several options for getting your travel vaccinations:

• Travel Clinics: These specialized clinics, such as Passport Health, offer a one-stop shop for travel-related medical services, including vaccinations, prescriptions for anti-malarial medication, and personalized health advice. While convenient, they can sometimes be more expensive than other options.
• Your General Practitioner: Your primary care physician may be able to administer some of the more common travel vaccines, such as Tdap and Hepatitis A. However, they may not have the yellow fever vaccine in stock.
• Public Health Departments: Some local health departments offer travel vaccinations at a lower cost than private clinics.

Before you book your safari, it is a good idea to use our cost calculator to get a better idea of the overall cost of your trip. When you are ready to start planning, you can plan your safari with us.