The Best Medical Electives in Africa (2026 Guide)

Medical electives in Africa 2026 offer students and aspiring healthcare professionals the chance to experience one of the most diverse and breathtaking regions of the world. From iconic wildlife safaris to stunning coastlines and the unforgettable Great Migration, Africa’s beauty and cultural richness make it a remarkable backdrop for meaningful medical training.

With so many options available across the continent, selecting the right elective can feel overwhelming. This guide will walk you through what to consider so you can confidently plan your medical elective in Africa 2026 and look forward to an unforgettable journey.

Medical Electives in Ghana

Ghana, known for its warm hospitality and vibrant culture, is one of West Africa’s most welcoming countries. Our medical electives in Ghana are based in Accra, Ghana’s exciting capital city, where modern hospitals blend in with the historic landmarks, coastal beaches, and busy markets. 

Accra is a wonderful place for interns to learn a unique understanding of healthcare delivery in both urban and rural African contexts. Through our electives, you’ll get the opportunity to expand your knowledge and professional skills in a dynamic, rewarding environment. 

While working with Med Trips, we’ll invite you to stay in our spacious intern house, which is just a 15-minute walk from the closest beach. The house is set up with everything you need, along with plenty of games, karaoke, table tennis, and movies to help you bond with your fellow interns and unwind after a long day at the hospital. 

Places to Explore and Things to Do in Ghana

Your off-days from your internship are the perfect time to discover Ghana’s natural beauty, history and culture. Some of the most popular recommendations include: 

• Labadi Beach: Accra’s most famous beach, take the time to fully relax by the ocean, enjoy live music on the boardwalk, and sample local street food. 
• Kakum National Park: Ghana is home to some amazing wildlife, so explore the rainforest canopy walk and spot as many species as you can in this famous park.  
• Aburi Botanical Gardens: Venture just outside Accra to explore this peaceful spot, offering a welcome reprieve from the busy city with its tropical plants and walking paths. 

Medical Electives in Morocco

Morocco is one of the northernmost countries in Africa, and it's one full of colourful sights to behold. Our medical electives in Morocco are based in Rabat, the nation’s capital. Rabat offers the best of both worlds, with modern city life and a rich cultural heritage to explore, so there’s plenty to see during your time spent developing your clinical skills! During your time with us, you’ll have the chance to observe how healthcare is delivered in a fast-developing nation, as well as get stuck in and shadow doctors, interact with patients, and help treat familiar and unique conditions. 

During our medical elective, you’ll stay in a traditional Moroccan Riad intern house. This has been specifically tailored to keep you comfortable in a tropical climate. You’ll share the house with several other interns to give you a chance to make meaningful connections and build your network while relaxing between internship shifts. 

Places to Explore and Things to Do in Morocco

Time off gives you a chance to explore the natural beauty Morocco has to offer. Some top recommendations include: 

• Kasbah of the Udayas: Visit this historic fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, taking in the divine white-and-blue painted streets, gardens, and breathtaking views. 
• Casablanca: Travel just an hour away to Morocco’s largest city to see one of the most impressive mosques in the world, the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, in person.  
• The Medina of Rabat: Explore the busy Old Market, where narrow souk lanes are filled with traditional crafts, spice stalls, and mementos to treasure forever. 

Medical Electives in Tanzania

Tanzania is home to world-renowned safaris and the idyllic spice islands, offering a medical internship experience unlike any other. Our programs are based in Arusha, a vibrant city at the foot of Mount Meru, full of bustling markets and mountain backdrops to marvel at while you work. You’ll gain valuable clinical experience while immersing yourself in the warmth and traditions of East Africa, working alongside experienced doctors and nurses in hospitals and community clinics. 

During your medical elective in Tanzania, you’ll be given a room in our dedicated intern house. Choose whether you want to share with other interns to form deeper bonds or upgrade to a private room. With space for more than 50 interns, you’ll certainly be able to enjoy a vibrant social life during your downtime! 

Places to Explore and Things to Do in Tanzania

• Safari in Serengeti National Park: See some of Africa’s magnificent wildlife in their natural habitat, including lions, elephants, giraffes and wildebeest. 
• Mount Kilimanjaro: While summiting requires preparation that may not be feasible within your internship schedule, even a day hike or a short trek offers an incredible view and an unforgettable experience. 
• Ngorongoro Crater: Visit one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas, a haven for wildlife and dramatic landscapes just outside of Arusha. 

Do I Need a Visa for a Medical Internship in Africa? 

While the requirement for a visa depends on your nationality and duration of your stay, it’s possible that you will need a visa or similar travel document to complete your internship in Africa.

Many countries, such as South Africa and Mauritius, offer visa-free entry for tourists for limited stays (less than 90 days). Volunteers may be able to travel on a tourist visa if they’re not being compensated for their efforts. Other countries, like Kenya and Tanzania, require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or a visa in advance. 

Med Trips can assist you with any questions or concerns you may have surrounding visas, and we’ll also provide advice on your visa application to ensure it is accepted. Our team of advisers will take your circumstances and trip itinerary into consideration before offering tailored, helpful advice.  

What Do I Need to Know About Medical Internships in Africa?

There’s plenty to consider before committing to an internship abroad, and it might feel daunting to consider travelling all the way to Africa between studies. However, the benefits of choosing a medical internship abroad are plentiful. Here’s what you need to know about planning an internship with Med Trips. 

What Are the Requirements for Interning in Medicine in Africa? 

Every internship organization will have its own eligibility requirements. Med Trips has designed its internship programs specifically for people studying medicine, nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy, dentistry, or allied healthcare. We welcome students of all levels to join our programs, whether you’re in your first year or have recently celebrated your graduation.  

What Projects Will You Work On as a Medical Intern? 

Every internship is different, and you’ll often change roles quickly to offer help wherever it’s needed most. One day, you could be shadowing medical staff and sitting in on patient consultations, and the next, you’re in the community teaching people the importance of regular healthcare. You’ll gain firsthand experience in how healthcare professionals handle challenging or emergency situations, and learn how to improvise with them. 

The project topics you’ll work on depend on your chosen elective. Premedicine and medical electives tend to cover a wide range of subjects, whereas midwifery and radiology are more specialized. You’ll learn all about your internship’s itinerary during orientation. 

Is It Safe to Intern in Africa?

Yes, Africa is generally considered a safe place to complete an internship. However, you must be respectful when interacting with local communities and their cultures. This may mean dressing appropriately or accepting offers of hospitality. Where possible, travel in groups and avoid staying out after dark for too long. 

When looking for a program organization, consider the safety protocols they have in place. Med Trips provides 24/7 in-country support, so you can call us whenever you need assistance or advice. We have specific systems and protocols in place for any circumstance. 

Ready to Plan Your Medical Internship Abroad? 

Choosing to participate in an internship abroad gives you the opportunity to make a real impact on the world, while also expanding your global knowledge and hands-on experience. You’ll learn from some of the best in the world by shadowing doctors, nurses and surgeons, getting to see how medical concerns are diagnosed and treated in completely different healthcare systems from the one you’re used to.

If you’re passionate about bringing your medical experience overseas and lending a helping hand wherever needed, Med Trips has the internship experience for you. Take a look at our medical internship opportunities to find one that suits your goals and get the ball rolling on this once-in-a-lifetime journey today.