Emergency Numbers & Access
EFSTH has an emergency department. Private clinics in tourist areas handle minor emergencies.
Response time: 20-40 minutes in Banjul area; longer upcountry
Cost: Public low-cost; private $30-200 USD
Healthcare System
The Gambia is Africa's smallest mainland country with limited but accessible healthcare in the Greater Banjul Area. Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) is the main referral hospital. Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit run by London School of Hygiene provides excellent care for specific conditions. Private clinics in tourist areas (Kololi, Kotu) cater to visitors. Up-country healthcare is very basic. Malaria is endemic.
Designed for: Residents. Tourists should use private clinics.
GP Access & Costs
Walk-in at private clinics in tourist areas; public hospitals accept walk-ins
Typical wait: Same day at private; 2-4 hours at public
Availability: Greater Banjul and tourist coastal strip have clinics; upcountry very limited
GP Visit
$15-50 USD at private clinics
Private GP
$15-50 USD
ER Without Insurance
$50-1,000+ USD
Medication
Basic pharmacies in Banjul area. Limited supply — bring personal medications.
Practical Tips
- MRC Unit (Fajara) — excellent healthcare linked to London School of Hygiene
- Private clinics in Kololi/Kotu areas serve tourists well for minor issues
- Medical evacuation to Dakar, Senegal (short flight) or Europe for serious cases
- Anti-malarial prophylaxis ESSENTIAL
- Carry yellow fever certificate at all times
Who can get care in Gambia?
Emergency care for anyone
Emergency departments in Gambia 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 tourist areas; public hospitals accept walk-ins Typical cost: $15-50 USD at private clinics Typical wait: Same day at private; 2-4 hours at public
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 with evacuation cover
- Yellow fever certificate
- Passport
Local contacts in Gambia
Emergency services
116 / 118 (fire)
EFSTH has an emergency department. Private clinics in tourist areas handle minor emergencies.
Pharmacies
Pharmacy hours vary by city; larger towns usually have a late-night rota.
What is the emergency number in Gambia?
116 or 118 (fire) in Gambia. EFSTH has an emergency department. Private clinics in tourist areas handle minor emergencies.
How much does a Doctor visit cost in Gambia?
$15-50 USD at private clinics Private consultations: $15-50 USD.
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Sources: Gambia Ministry of Health, WHO Gambia, CDC Travelers' Health 2024, MRC Unit The Gambia
Last reviewed: March 2026 by ViscaCare