Travel Vaccines and Advice for Djibouti
Located on the horn of Africa, Djibouti is one of busiest shipping sites in the world. Due its prime location and access to various regions, it holds the only permanent United States military base in Africa.
Although it is small in size, there are many different kinds of landscapes throughout the country including volcanoes, desert, salt lakes, limestone, hot springs, and islands.
The official language of the country is French (mostly spoken by the upper class) and Arabic.
The majority of Djibouti holds two different ethnic groups: the Issa and the Afar and about 93% of the country practice Islam. The rest of the country practices Christianity.
The capital city of Djibouti, Djibouti City, holds 70% of the entire country’s population. Djibouti’s other major cities include Ali Sabieh, Tadjourah, and Dikhil.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Djibouti?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Djibouti
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Djibouti?
What Is the Climate Like in Djibouti?
How Safe Is Djibouti?
Limestone of Djibouti
What Should I Take to Djibouti?
U.S. Embassy in Djibouti
Do I Need Vaccines for Djibouti?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Djibouti. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Djibouti: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, chikungunya, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Djibouti is a higher risk region. Vaccination is recommended. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Djibouti |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Djibouti is a higher risk region. Vaccination is recommended. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Djibouti |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is transmitted through contaminated food and water sources. Vaccination is recommended for travelers and those at higher risk of typhoid exposure. Implementing rigorous hygiene practices and food safety measures is essential for comprehensive protection against infection.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A, a liver infection caused by a contagious virus, can have severe symptoms. To prevent its spread, vaccination with the hepatitis A vaccine is essential, along with maintaining hygiene practices. This vaccine effectively protects against infection.
- Chikungunya – Chikungunya, a mosquito-borne virus, can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites and reducing breeding sites. The chikungunya vaccine provides the best protection.
- Rabies – Rabies, a lethal viral infection, is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. Vaccination is paramount for prevention, involving post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for potential exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for those at heightened risk, such as travelers.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B virus leads to liver infection through contact with infected fluids. The most effective safeguard is the hepatitis B vaccine, administered in a series of shots that stimulate the body to produce antibodies, providing long-term immunity. It is crucial for infants and those at an increased risk of exposure.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly infectious diseases, emphasizing the importance of vaccination. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is the key to personal and public health safety. It strengthens immunity, minimizing the risk of infection, and is a critical component in halting the spread of these contagious viruses.
Malaria in Djibouti
Malaria is present in all regions of Djibouti. Travelers are advised to take antimalarials to protect themselves from infection. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are recommended for travelers to the region. Malaria parasites in Djibouti are resistant to chloroquine. Speak with your travel health specialist to identify which antimalarial is best for your trip and medical history.
The CDC recommends antimalarials for Djibouti, as malaria is endemic there. Apply bug spray and sleep under mosquito nets.
Medical facilities in cities are limited and there are few in more rural areas. Bring medicine with you to Djibouti as there is a low supply of prescriptions the country.
Medicare and basic healthcare do not cover costs overseas. Be sure to get an international plan before traveling.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Djibouti
Prevent Bug Bites in Djibouti
In case of bug bites, cleanse the area, use anti-itch treatments, and resist scratching to prevent infection. Seek medical help for severe reactions or if symptoms of vector-borne diseases emerge post-bite.
Food and Water Safety in Djibouti
When abroad, prioritize food safety by adhering to CDC guidelines: opt for fully cooked dishes, steer clear of raw seafood, and choose eateries with good hygiene practices. Stick to bottled beverages, be cautious with ice, and drink alcohol responsibly. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea through vigilant hand hygiene and avoiding unsanitary street food.
Infections To Be Aware of in Djibouti
- African Tick-Bite Fever – In sub-Saharan Africa, African Tick-Bite Fever (ATBF) is transmitted by ticks. Stay safe by wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and checking for ticks.
- Dengue – The CDC describes dengue fever as a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, presenting symptoms such as rash and joint pain. Prevention strategies focus on reducing mosquito exposure and breeding grounds. Treatment is supportive, emphasizing the importance of mosquito bite prevention.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis spreads via sand fly bites but can also be transmitted through other means. Prevention includes using insect repellents, covering up, and staying indoors during sand fly activity.
- Schistosomiasis – Schistosomiasis, a widespread parasitic disease transmitted through freshwater snails, requires awareness and precautionary actions. Prevention involves refraining from activities in contaminated water and wearing protective clothing. Early recognition of symptoms like fever and seeking medical attention are paramount for timely diagnosis and intervention, minimizing the severity of schistosomiasis-related complications and improving health outcomes.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Djibouti?
A passport that will remain valid for at least six months is required to enter Djibouti. A tourist visa should be obtained before travel. Thirty-day visas may be obtained at arrival, but it can’t be guaranteed.
Djibouti Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Djibouti? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
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| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Djibouti and U.S. State Department
If you have arrived from a yellow fever endemic country, you must have a yellow card showing proof of vaccination.
If you are a journalist, must have a letter of accreditation from the Ministry of Communication and Culture.
What Is the Climate Like in Djibouti?
Djibouti is mostly a tropical desert climate with a semi-desert in the southern region.
It is hot in Djibouti year-round, though it is a little cooler during the winter season. Temperatures throughout the year can range from 84 degrees Fahrenheit to 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Rain is a rare occurrence and can happen throughout the year. When it does rain it is usually short and a large amount.
How Safe Is Djibouti?
Due to regional terrorist activity, terrorism is a risk in Djibouti. Terrorists can easily access and come into the country and will target tourist sites and westerners. Many refugees seek asylum from neighboring countries in Djibouti.
Some border conflicts occur at the border of Djibouti and Eritrea. Border areas between Djibouti, Somalia, and Ethiopia may contain landmines.
Theft, including identity theft are common in Djibouti. Dress conservatively and know where your credit card is at all time.
Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.
Limestone of Djibouti
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Lake Abbe is a salt lake in Djibouti that looks like it’s from another planet. This site has limestone formations that makes almost what looks like a forest. This whole area is also surrounded by hot springs.
Lake Abbe is near the Djibouti and Ethiopian border. Due to their strong alliance, it is a safer place for tourists to visit in the country.
There are accommodations available for travelers in Lake Abbe including hotels, campsites and Afar Huts. The site is well known for its sunrises and sunsets.
What Should I Take to Djibouti?
If you’re going to Djibouti, pack light clothes made of breathable fabric and comfortable shoes for walking. Bring your travel documents, medicine and camera to capture memories. Make sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Don’t forget to bring cash or credit cards, a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, and a power bank in case of emergency. If you plan on exploring the waters, bring snorkeling or diving gear, and a swimsuit for the beach or pool.
It’s important to remember that Djibouti is a Muslim country, so it’s important to dress modestly.
U.S. Embassy in Djibouti
The U.S. embassy in Djibouti helps American travelers with things like replacement passports and emergency assistance. They also provide important information about travel risks and potential dangers. If there’s an emergency, the embassy can help with things like medical assistance or evacuation.
U.S. Embassy in Djibouti
Lotissement Haramous, Lot # 350-B
P.O. Box 185
Djibouti City, Republic of Djibouti
Telephone: +(253) 21-45-30-00 (Sunday to Thursday, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.)
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(253) 77-877-229
Fax: (+253) 21-45.33.40
Email: ConsularDjibouti@state.gov
Visit the Embassy to Djibouti website before departure to confirm correct contact details for the office.
If you have any questions about traveling to Djibouti or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now! and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Djibouti
“Setting up the appointment and getting all I needed was a breeze! I’m going to Djibouti in a couple weeks, and they told me exactly what vaccinations I needed and walked me through the dos and don’ts.”
“Our nurse at the clinic was very thorough. She gave a lot of information for our business trip to Djibouti. Since this is our first time, we have a lot to learn. The staff was very informative and professional.”
“We were headed to Djibouti and needed to get a couple of shots. I was 6 months pregnant and the nurse was very thorough to make sure we got what we needed and that I was covered.”
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