Due to the high elevation of Masai Mara and Nairobi, Malaria is very rare in these regions since mosquitoes do not live at those elevations. However, Malaria is prevalent in other regions of Kenya, so it is strongly recommended that you speak with your physician about taking Malaria prophylaxis before traveling.

No, the Masai Mara is not malaria-free, although the risk is lower than in the coastal or lake regions of Kenya due to its higher elevation (approx. 1,500 meters or 5,000 feet). Malaria is a year-round risk throughout most of Kenya, and the Masai Mara is classified as a "moderate to high" risk zone, especially during and after the rainy seasons (March–May and November–December) when standing water provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes. While the cooler nights and higher altitude mean there are fewer mosquitoes than in Mombasa or Kisumu, the Anopheles mosquito that carries the malaria parasite is still present. For any safari in 2026, medical experts and the CDC strongly recommend taking malaria prophylaxis (such as Malarone or Doxycycline). Beyond medication, "bite prevention" is the most effective defense: travelers should wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers at dusk and dawn, use insect repellent containing at least 30% DEET, and always sleep under the mosquito nets provided by safari lodges. While the chance of a tourist contracting malaria is low if they take proper precautions, the disease is serious enough that it should never be dismissed as a "non-risk" when visiting the African savannah.