No doctors, no chemists – healthcare on La Graciosa
La Graciosa has no chemists and no registered doctors. What it does have is a Centro de Salud (small local health centre) and a Botiquín de farmacia (emergency chemist’s depot), which provides basic supplies of medicines. This is one of the most important pieces of information for planning your trip. In the event of a medical emergency: take the ferry to Lanzarote, where there is a hospital in ArrecifeIf you’re well prepared, you won’t need it.
What to bring with you
| First-aid kit for La Graciosa | |
|---|---|
| Fever reducers | Ibuprofen/paracetamol – for adults and children |
| Painkillers | Ibuprofen 400/600 mg |
| Dressing materials | Plasters, gauze bandages, antiseptic |
| Sunburn gel | After-sun lotion or aloe vera |
| Travel sickness tablets | For the ferry crossing in rough seas |
| Personal medication | Enough for the whole trip + a spare supply |
| Tick tweezers | For walks, especially with a dog |
| Antihistamine | For sun allergy or as a precaution |
In an emergency
| Emergency contact details | |
|---|---|
| European emergency number | 112 – also available on La Graciosa |
| Nearest chemist’s | Órzola (Lanzarote) – approx. 30-minute ferry journey |
| Nearest hospital | Dr José Molina Orosa Hospital, Arrecife – approx. 1 hour |
| Helicopter evacuation | Available in serious emergencies – Lanzarote Ambulance Service |
Common health problems on La Graciosa
Sunburn
The most common travel-related ailment. The UV index on La Graciosa is high; the north-easterly trade winds provide a cooling effect, leading people to underestimate the sun’s intensity. LSF 50+ From the very first minute – even on cloudy days.
Heatstroke
A real danger during the midday heat (12 noon–3 pm) on long hikes. Symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness. Seek shade immediately, drink fluids and cool down. If symptoms are severe: call 112.
Cuts from lava rock
Lava rock has sharp edges – falls can cause deep cuts. Always carry antiseptic and plasters.
Practical tips
- Pack a fully stocked first-aid kit
- Overseas travel health insurance: recommended for all the Canary Islands
- European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): carry it with you
- Personal medication: always bring more than you need
Call 112. In serious cases: helicopter evacuation to Lanzarote. In less serious cases: take the next ferry to Órzola, then go to a chemist’s or hospital.
Conclusion
- There are no pharmacies on La Graciosa – bring everything you need with you.
- Sunburn and heatstroke are the most common problems.
- The emergency number 112 works on the island.
This article is based on on-site research by the go-la-graciosa.com editorial team. Last updated: April 2026
