Health & Safety Guide
Stay healthy and safe during your African adventure with our comprehensive guide to vaccinations, disease prevention, and emergency resources.
Health Essentials
- Yellow Fever (required for many countries)
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Meningitis (for certain regions)
- Rabies (if extended rural travel)
- Cholera (for some areas)
Consult a travel medicine specialist 6-8 weeks before departure
- Take prophylactic medication as prescribed
- Use DEET-based insect repellent
- Sleep under treated mosquito nets
- Wear long sleeves at dusk/dawn
- Stay in air-conditioned rooms when possible
Malaria risk varies by region and season - check specific areas
- Drink bottled or purified water only
- Avoid ice in drinks unless from safe source
- Eat thoroughly cooked foods
- Peel fruits yourself
- Avoid street food initially until adapted
Carry water purification tablets as backup
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen
- Wear wide-brimmed hats
- Stay hydrated (3-4 liters daily)
- Avoid midday sun (11am-3pm)
- Recognize heat exhaustion signs
Acclimatize gradually - take it easy the first few days
Safety Guidelines
- •Research your destination's safety situation
- •Register with your embassy
- •Keep copies of important documents
- •Use reputable transportation
- •Avoid displaying expensive items
- •Stay aware of your surroundings
- •Save local emergency numbers
- •Know nearest hospital location
- •Have travel insurance with evacuation coverage
- •Keep emergency contacts accessible
- •Learn basic local phrases for emergencies
- •Check travel advisories regularly
- •Understand local customs and laws
- •Respect local dress codes
- •Avoid restricted or conflict areas
- •Connect with expat communities
Emergency Numbers
South Africa
Police: 10111
Ambulance: 10177
Fire: 10177
Kenya
Police: 999
Ambulance: 999
Fire: 999
Nigeria
Police: 199
Ambulance: 199
Fire: 199
Ghana
Police: 191
Ambulance: 193
Fire: 192
Morocco
Police: 19
Ambulance: 15
Fire: 15
Egypt
Police: 122
Ambulance: 123
Fire: 180
Tanzania
Police: 112
Ambulance: 114
Fire: 114
Rwanda
Police: 112
Ambulance: 912
Fire: 112
Important Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Health risks and requirements change frequently. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional, travel medicine clinic, or your country's health authority before traveling. Check the latest travel advisories and health alerts for your specific destination.