Ascension

Discovered by the Portuguese in 1501, Ascension remains an uninhabited island which is located in the Atlantic ocean, just south of the equator.

Travel Health Information

Highly recommended
vaccinations for travelling here

Hepatitis A Vaccination Diphtheria Tetanus Polio (DTP) Vaccination Typhoid Vaccination

Advisory
vaccinations for travelling here

Hepatitis B Vaccination Rabies Vaccination

Although the island is a British Overseas Territory, healthcare services are not free to visitors, so you’ll need to acquire adequate travel insurance before travelling here. There is however a good level of healthcare provision on the island, including a small hospital which is able to treat routine or minor injuries and illnesses. It is advised that visitors bring a sufficient supply of any needed prescription medicines as access to these may be limited whilst visiting the island.

It is also worth noting that while many people visit Ascension to enjoy the beautiful beaches for swimming and diving, there is no rescue service or decompression facility on the island.

Infections and Outbreaks

These frequently change from country to country and by attending our clinics you will be given the most up to date clinical and safety advice from our team of specialists. Our advice to you often includes aspects such as:

Malaria is not usually present in Ascension.

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Destination Information for Ascension

The country is administered by the UK territory of St Helena, an island 700 miles away, but which happens to be Ascension’s closest neighbour. The island population fluctuates, but it is estimated that there are only ever around 800 residents living there at any one point. There are however no indigenous people of Ascension. Even though the island benefits from warm tropical weather all year round, Ascension has minimal vegetation except for on higher ground. The island has played an important part of military history, having been used as a base and airfield for various US and UK forces.

Swimming, fishing and relaxation are the main draws for tourists to Ascension. Witnessing nesting sea turtles is also a popular activity for wildlife fans. Spectacular views around the island can be found via hiking the country’s highlands and mountainous regions. The island is essentially the tip of a previously undersea volcano, and so natural lava caves can also be explored by visitors.