Emergency Numbers & Access
Ambulance service minimal. Self-transport standard.
Response time: 30-60+ minutes in Cotonou
Cost: Public $5-30; private $30-200 USD
Healthcare System
Benin has limited healthcare centred in Cotonou (economic capital) and Porto-Novo (political capital). CNHU Hubert Koutoukou Maga is the main teaching hospital. Private clinics like Clinique Atinkanmey offer reasonable care. Northern Benin (Pendjari National Park area) has very basic health posts. Malaria is endemic. Yellow fever vaccination required.
Designed for: Residents. Tourists need private clinics.
GP Access & Costs
Walk-in at private clinics in Cotonou
Typical wait: Same day at private
Availability: Cotonou has private options; limited elsewhere
GP Visit
$15-50 USD
Private GP
$15-50 USD
ER Without Insurance
$50-1,000+ USD
Medication
Pharmacies in Cotonou. Buy from licensed pharmacies only.
Practical Tips
- Clinique Atinkanmey (Cotonou) — good private option
- Carry comprehensive medical kit for national park visits
- Anti-malarial prophylaxis essential
- French language skills critical
Who can get care in Benin?
Emergency care for anyone
Emergency departments in Benin treat everyone regardless of residency or insurance status. Charges can still apply afterwards.
Public system for visitors
The public system does not cover visitors, so care is paid privately or through insurance.
Seeing a Doctor as a visitor
Walk-in at private clinics in Cotonou Typical cost: $15-50 USD Typical wait: Same day at private
Insurance needed for entry or visa
Not a formal entry requirement, but medical cover is strongly recommended. Emergency care without cover: $50-1,000+ USD.
Documents worth having ready
- Travel insurance
- Yellow fever certificate
- Passport
- e-Visa
Local contacts in Benin
Emergency services
117 (police) / 118 (fire) / 112
Ambulance service minimal. Self-transport standard.
Pharmacies
Pharmacy hours vary by city; larger towns usually have a late-night rota.
What is the emergency number in Benin?
117 (police) or 118 (fire) or 112 in Benin. Ambulance service minimal. Self-transport standard.
How much does a Doctor visit cost in Benin?
$15-50 USD Private consultations: $15-50 USD.
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Sources: Benin Ministry of Health, WHO Benin, CDC Travelers' Health 2024
Last reviewed: March 2026 by ViscaCare