Should I bring my own syringes?

If you have a chronic condition that requires injections, carry a signed letter from your physician listing your medications and supplies. In remote areas, having your own sterile equipment is a safety precaution.

Is tap water safe to drink?

No. Never drink tap water. Use a filtered water bottle (like LifeStraw or Grayl) or stick exclusively to bottled, sealed water. Avoid ice in drinks.

Can I buy supplies in local pharmacies?

In major hubs like Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, or Kigali, you can find standard pharmacies. However, they may not carry your specific brand of medication. Always carry enough for your entire trip.

Medical Packing List for East Africa

Focus on preventative care, stomach health, and mosquito protection. Pack a personal kit that covers basic injuries and tropical illness prevention, as quality medical supplies can be difficult to source outside of major cities like Nairobi or Kigali.

Secure your prescriptions. Bring an original copy of your prescription and a doctor's letter explaining why you need the medication. Carry all pills in their original, labeled pharmacy bottles to avoid issues at customs.
Build a GI support kit. Traveler’s diarrhea is common. Pack Loperamide (Imodium) for emergencies and Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) packets to manage dehydration. Consult your doctor about a 'just in case' course of antibiotics like Azithromycin.
Prepare for malaria prevention. Pack DEET-based insect repellent (at least 30-50% concentration) and Permethrin spray for your clothes. Ensure you have your full supply of prescribed malaria prophylaxis (e.g., Malarone or Doxycycline) for the entire duration of the trip plus one week after.
Assemble a trauma and wound kit. Basic first aid is essential: alcohol wipes, antibiotic ointment (Neosporin), various sizes of adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, and medical tape. Add a small pair of trauma shears and a pair of nitrile gloves.

Should I bring my own syringes?: If you have a chronic condition that requires injections, carry a signed letter from your physician listing your medications and supplies. In remote areas, having your own sterile equipment is a safety precaution.
Is tap water safe to drink?: No. Never drink tap water. Use a filtered water bottle (like LifeStraw or Grayl) or stick exclusively to bottled, sealed water. Avoid ice in drinks.
Can I buy supplies in local pharmacies?: In major hubs like Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, or Kigali, you can find standard pharmacies. However, they may not carry your specific brand of medication. Always carry enough for your entire trip.