Island in Lamu County, Kenya
Healthcare in Lamu: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Lamu
Basic care only on the island; serious illness means evacuation to Mombasa or Nairobi. Insurance with air evacuation is strongly advised.
Hospitals for foreigners in Lamu
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| King Fahd Hospital, Lamu | Public hospital on the island, basic emergencies only |
| Aga Khan Hospital Mombasa | Nearest full private hospital; serious cases evacuate here or to Nairobi |
Key facts
- In Kenya: Nairobi's private hospitals (Aga Khan, Nairobi Hospital) are East Africa's best; care elsewhere is limited. Malaria on the coast and in the west; consider AMREF Flying Doctors evacuation cover.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies are plentiful in towns; use established chains (Goodlife, Haltons) because counterfeit medicines circulate.
- Health spending: US$85 per person a year (2023); 0.3 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: All emergencies 999.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Kenya, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Lamu for foreigners?
King Fahd Hospital, Lamu: Public hospital on the island, basic emergencies only
Do I need travel insurance for Kenya?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Kenya expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Lamu
Going to Lamu solo?
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Kenya
- Kenya Airports Authority
- UK FCDO travel advice: Kenya
- Lamu Old Town (UNESCO)
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.