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Medical Electives in Africa

Supervised hospital medical electives in Africa — placements for medical, nursing, dentistry, physiotherapy and pre-med students, with medical insurance and university sign-off support included.

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A medical elective in Africa puts you in busy, high-volume hospitals where you'll see a breadth of pathology — from infectious and tropical disease to advanced presentations rarely encountered at home. Med Trips runs supervised placements across four African countries: Kenya (Nairobi), Tanzania (Arusha and Zanzibar), Ghana (Accra) and Morocco (Rabat).

Each is hosted by an experienced local team, with a named supervisor, accommodation, medical insurance and the university sign-off paperwork included. Placements suit medical, nursing, dentistry, midwifery, physiotherapy and pre-med students, and run flexibly from 1 to 12 weeks. East Africa's dry season (roughly June to October) is the most popular window — it lines up with summer breaks and safari season.

Planning ahead? Read our in-depth guide to medical electives in Africa. Read the full guide →

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Frequently asked questions

Which African country is best for a medical elective?
It depends on your goals. Kenya and Tanzania offer high-volume East African hospitals plus safari and Kilimanjaro; Ghana is friendly, English-speaking West Africa; Morocco is a safe North African base close to Europe. Tell us your specialty and dates and we'll help you choose.
Do I need vaccinations for a medical elective in Africa?
Usually yes — routine vaccinations plus, depending on the country, yellow fever, typhoid and hepatitis, and malaria prophylaxis in some areas. See a travel clinic 6–8 weeks before you go; we advise on what each destination requires.
Is a medical elective in Africa safe?
Placements are in established host cities with an experienced local team, a 24/7 in-country coordinator and an emergency line, and medical insurance is included in your fee.
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