My safari to South Africa was a disaster...

Steveus wrote:

I'm considering a South African trip in a year or two. Sorry about your experience. I have two questions that might help me plan my won trip. Both questions are probably related to a third: which park(s) did you go to?

(1) Isn't South Africa mostly malaria-free? And those parts that aren't are considered low-risk? I've had friends go without taking meds and were fine. What made you decide to take anti-malaria meds?

I am South African and most parts of the country are safe. Eastern coast has some malaria-infected areas, but as you go to the central and western parts of the country, you should be safe. Mosquitoes are still a nuisance even in non-malaria areas and long sleeves or a spray-on insect repellent helps if you wish to sit outdoors at a camp fire at night.

(2) I'd read that much of South Africa was under serious drought conditions a year or two ago, resulting in the park rangers going so far as to cull certain animal populations. More recently, it looks like Capetown is about to run out of water entirely. Do you know what the current conditions are, and if they affected your trip?

Cape is still dry, but further North we had some good rain showers.  When you are ready to take the trip, check the parks you wish to visit.  I do not think any of our parks at this stage suffered to the extent that sightings are affected, but it's best to check with the specific park close to the trip.

Thanks in advance for any insight!

To the OP:

I am sorry to hear of your misfortune. It is a great country to tour, and it is sad to hear your experience was spoiled.