Caprivi Bush Experiences takes health and safety very seriously and is committed to the security of our guests.

We are operating in a real African wilderness, adjacent to National Parks that do not have any fences.  Our camp does not have any fences. Predators such as Lion, Leopard, African Wild Dog, Cheetah and Hyena roam the region, totally unrestricted.  Many hippopotamus and crocodile inhabit the numerous rivers.

This wonderful real African wilderness can safely be appreciated by following our simple guidelines:

1. Always obey the Rules and Regulations in force at the Camp where you will be staying.
2. Always follow the advice of your instructor / coordinator during the activities or training.
3. Take Malaria precautions (see below).

General malaria advice

It is recommended that you take a course of anti-malaria prophylactics prior to departure. Continue the course of prophylactics during your stay as well as after your journey particularly if you are visiting from November to May/June.

1. Avoid being bitten by mosquitoes The best prevention is personal protection against the mosquito. Malaria mosquitoes generally bite after dark. Wear long sleeves and trousers in the afternoon and evening; stay in-doors if possible. Use insect repellent on exposed skin. Sleep under a bed net or in a netted tent or hut or in a house or caravan with screens. Close windows and doors at night. Spray insecticide aerosol and/or burn mosquito coil at night.
    
2. Take prophylaxis in malaria risk areas Get good advice before you plan your holiday. The appropriate prophylaxis for a given malaria area depends on several factors including: 
   
   - The parasite's resistance to drugs in this area
   - The safety of the drug.
   - The efficacy of the drug.
   - The degree of malaria risk in the area. (See map of risk areas in south Africa)
   - The risk of resistance to (or reducing the efficacy of) the drug, in the future, due to inappropriate use.
   
   Take the pills same day each week when weekly, or at the same time of the day if daily. Continue prophylaxis for 4 weeks after your return. Complete the course.
   
   (a) Mefloquine Mefloquine (Lariam®) has been taken by people up to 12 months without side effects, is highly effective and has a simple weekly dosage. However, it has a number of contra-indications and requires a doctor's prescription. It also has been known to have rare but severe neurological side effects. Start a week or two before, to check for possible side-effects and continue for 4 weeks after leaving the area.  Mefloquine should be taken on a full stomach.
   
   (b) Proguanil/Chloroquine combination. This combination should be used with caution as resistance has developed in Mozambique and other regions. Proguanil (Paludrine®) every day; Chloroquine (Daramal® / Nivaquine® / Promal® ) once a week. This combination can be taken safely up to 3 months, very cautiously for 6.  Start a day before entering the malaria area, and continue for four weeks after you leave the area. It is generally well tolerated and is available without prescription. Disadvantages are poor compliance due to the complicated regime and widespread resistance particularly in SE Asia.  Also see Department of Health Prophylaxis Guidelines 2003.
    
3. Carry your own malaria test.  Test yourself immediately on first malaria symptoms. There are several good rapid tests available now.  Don't leave home without one.
    
4. Carry your own alternative medication when travelling in Africa, make sure you have everything with you. When you get malaria head for the nearest doctor. Show your test and ask to be treated.  If you have contracted malaria in spite of prophylaxis you will need Lumafantrine-artemether or quinine.  Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine (Fansidar«) may suffice. But be aware that Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine resistance exists.  Refuse chloroquine treatment.
    
5. Carry a do-it-yourself treatment.  For the worst-case scenario, take along some Lumafantrine-artemether.  If you get stuck and cannot get to a doctor, treat yourself.  This is for emergency situations only.  Always seek medical help if at all possible.

 Should you require any special health treatment or consideration, please contact us for further information.