Little is known about the profile of travelers to malaria-endemic areas and their behavior regarding malaria risk. Using a survey conducted by a polling institute and a pharmaceutical company among a panel of 401 people who had traveled to malaria-endemic areas, we studied the following parameters: seeking information and sources of information before departure, preventive measures used, adherence or non-adherence to prophylaxis during the stay, and choice of prophylaxis based on the trip. Travelers seek information, but it is incomplete and inadequate. It is not always provided by the most competent sources but often by travel agencies, friends and family, and the media. The role of the physician is insufficient because, although essential for prescribing, they are not systematically consulted. We must consider how to improve traveler information through the most key contacts during the planning of a trip. (R.A.)