Experiences & Activities

Staying healthy during your holiday: dos and don'ts

Keep your health on track while travelling across Southern Africa with our essential holiday dos and don'ts.

A holiday across Southern Africa promises incredible experiences, yet changing climates, unfamiliar cuisine, and long travel days can strain your body if you aren't mindful.

Maintaining your health while on the road doesn't require complex routines, just a few practical habits that keep you feeling energised and resilient throughout your journey.

Dos:

Do stay consistently hydrated. Dry winter air, high altitudes in places like Johannesburg, and long hours in air-conditioned vehicles quickly lead to dehydration. Carry a reusable water bottle and sip throughout the day, supplementing with electrolyte sachets if hiking or spending hours outdoors
Do protect your skin regardless of the temperature. High-altitude sun can be deceptive. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and keep lip balm handy to prevent chapping in dry mountain winds
Do pack a comprehensive personal pharmacy. Include basic pain relievers, antihistamines, rehydration salts, motion sickness tablets, and any prescription medications in their original packaging within your carry-on luggage
Do prioritise quality sleep. Long drives and packed itineraries can wear down your immune system. Allow time for rest and stretch your legs every two hours during long road trips.

Don'ts:

Don't ignore regional health precautions. If travelling to malaria-risk areas such as the Lowveld, Northern KwaZulu-Natal, or Mozambique, consult a travel clinic well in advance regarding preventative prophylactics and use insect repellent during dusk and dawn hours
Don't consume untreated surface water. While municipal tap water in South Africa's major urban areas is safe to drink, stick to bottled or filtered water when visiting remote rural regions or camping off the grid
Don't overindulge without pacing yourself. Rich holiday foods and wine tastings are central to the travel experience, but balance them with fresh greens, fruit, and light meals to avoid stomach upset. Staying mindful ensures every day of your getaway is spent exploring rather than recovering.