bike touring resources:: staying healthy in africa



a few things to consider before you set off

So you’re serious about cycling through Africa.  But maybe you’re still a little jittery about the thought of contracting some unspeakable illness.  Most cyclists don’t  run into serious medical problems in Africa, but--as every Boy Scout knows—it pays to be prepared.

It is imperative that you plan ahead and start getting vaccinations well before your tour starting date.  Some vaccinations, such as rabies, must be given in a series and you normally will have to make more than one trip to the doctor to get all of your vaccinations taken care of.  

Recommended vaccinations for Africa include hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella and polio, hepatitis A, meningococcal meningitis, rabies and typhoid.  Be sure to have your vaccination book filled in correctly as at some border crossings you will be required to present it.  A yellow fever certificate is also a requirement in many African countries.  Check here for Recommended vaccinations by Country.

your worst nightmare

Going to a hospital in Africa probably seems like your worst nightmare, and it could be. Standards vary widely and you can never quite be sure who claims to be a doctor.  That said, we had mostly positive experiences with healthcare workers in Africa.    We both survived two  bouts of malaria, Eric recovered from a broken collarbone in Cameroon and I had my teeth fixed in Uganda.  Mission hospitals are probably still your best bet for decent health care.  In most large cities you will find private clinics used to dealing with international patients.  

In more remote areas, don't count on being able to get good medical treatment.  Be sure to have a well-stocked pharmacy with you.  The most important item in your pharmacy should be an emergency dose of medicine to combat malaria.  If in doubt, take this medicine.  It could save your life.  

overdosing on the sun

If you’re a sun-deprived European or North American, then you probably can’t imagine wishing for cloudy days, or better yet, RAIN!

After two years in Africa, I was considering a few months in a cave. The sun can be incredibly strong in Africa, especially around the equator and in the desert.  It is best to bring a good supply of sunscreen from home as finding these products in many parts of Africa can be difficult.  We recommend sunblock 50, 30 at the very least.  

Nose and lips are particularly sensitive, so consider a total block product like those designed for alpinists.  I suffered from lip sunburn and believe me it's PAINFUL.  So painful I wasn't able to sleep at night without strong painkillers--the kind you only get under prescription in the developed world but(thank goodness!)are available over-the-counter in Africa.
You may want to wear a light long-sleeved cotton shirt to protect your arms and be sure to have a good wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun out of your face--make sure it's not one that will fly off as you ride.


Before you set off on your epic African cycling expedition, get your vaccinations, start stocking up your pharmacy and stash a  generous supply of sun screen in your panniers.  Now let the adventure begin!

If you enjoyed this post, you'll like these posts, too:

 Staying Healthy

Dealing with Malaria-practical advice from someone who's a two-time survivor

Getting Started
Tips for Choosing Travel Insurance>> We recommend World Nomads

Staying Safe
Sizing up Security:
Smart Travel in Dangerous Places

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What are your experiences with healthcare in Africa?  Any tips for staying healthy? 
Please share in the comments section below.





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