Map of malaria endemic countries
The High Malaria Risk map highlights countries where malaria transmission is widespread and sustained. Travellers planning trips to these destinations should review chemoprophylaxis recommendations, bite‑avoidance measures, and itinerary‑specific risks (season, altitude, rural vs urban, and overnight exposure).
Where Is Malaria Risk Highest?
Malaria risk is concentrated in sub‑Saharan Africa (predominantly P. falciparum) and in parts of South/Southeast Asia, Oceania, and the Amazon basin (mixed species including P. vivax). Risk varies by season, altitude, local control measures, and urbanisation. Use this map as a starting point and always check itinerary‑level guidance before travel.
How to Use This Map
- Green shading indicates countries with high malaria transmission where most travellers require chemoprophylaxis.
- For large countries, local risk can vary by region—consult detailed advisories for altitude, city exceptions, and seasonal changes.
Global Burden and Geographic Distribution of Malaria
According to recent global health analyses, a small number of countries continue to carry a disproportionate share of the global malaria burden. In recent reporting years, Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo together have accounted for roughly one‑third of all malaria deaths worldwide, followed by countries such as Tanzania, Burkina Faso, Mozambique, and Niger, which each contribute several percent of global malaria mortality. The vast majority of malaria‑related deaths occur in sub‑Saharan Africa, particularly among children under five years of age.
Where malaria is found depends largely on climatic and environmental factors that affect mosquito survival and parasite development. Transmission occurs mainly in tropical and subtropical regions where:
- Temperatures are warm enough for Anopheles mosquitoes to survive and for malaria parasites to complete their life cycle
- Rainfall creates breeding sites for mosquitoes
- Humidity supports prolonged mosquito activity
As a result, malaria transmission is most intense near the equator and in low‑altitude regions, while risk is usually lower or absent in high‑altitude areas, deserts, cooler climates, or in countries where malaria has been successfully eliminated.
Updated list of countries
Many national and international agencies (like WHO, CDC and IAMAT)* are updating regularly the list of malaria risk countries and areas.
Risk of Malaria is present in the following countries:
Read more!Interactive malaria map from Malariaatlas.org.
The Malaria Atlas Project, abbreviated as MAP, is a non-profit academic group led by Professor Peter Gething, Kerry M Stokes Chair in Child Health, at the Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, Western Australia.