Travel Insurance for Tanzania: What You Need to Know
Planning a trip to Tanzania whether it’s a safari in the Serengeti, a climb up Kilimanjaro, or a beach escape to Zanzibar means preparing for the unexpected. Travel insurance isn’t just a checkbox; it’s your safety net for everything from medical emergencies to trip cancellations. Here’s a simple guide to help you figure out what travel insurance covers, why you need it, and how to pick the right plan
Why You Need Travel Insurance for Tanzania
Tanzania’s wild landscapes and remote parks are thrilling, but they come with risks:
- Medical Emergencies: U.S. health insurance usually doesn’t work abroad, and Tanzania’s healthcare is limited outside cities like Dar es Salaam. A twisted ankle on a game drive or malaria in the bush could mean big bills or an evacuation flight.
- Trip Costs: Safaris and Kilimanjaro treks aren’t cheap. If you cancel for illness or weather, you could lose non-refundable deposits.
- Zanzibar Rule: Starting October 1, 2024, Zanzibar requires all visitors to buy local insurance from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation ($44 USD for 90 days). It’s mandatory, even if you have another policy.
What Should Your Travel Insurance Cover?
A good plan for Tanzania should include:
- Medical Coverage: Tanzania’s way far from home means you might need care far from home.
- Emergency Evacuation: If you’re injured in Katavi or on Kilimanjaro, a helicopter or plane ride to a hospital could be your lifeline.
- Trip Cancellation/Interruption: Reimburses prepaid costs (flights, tours, lodges) if you cancel or cut your trip short for covered reasons like sickness or family emergencies.
- Baggage Loss/Delay: Covers lost gear (cameras, clothes) or delayed bags—handy since safari vehicles don’t take hard suitcases well.
- Activity Coverage: Safaris, trekking, and hot air balloons can be risky. Check that your policy includes these (some exclude “adventure sports” unless you add them).
Tanzania-Specific Tips
- Yellow Fever: If you’re from or transiting through a risk country (like Kenya) for over 12 hours, you need a vaccination certificate. Insurance won’t cover related issues if you skip this.
- Malaria: Common in Tanzania—bring pills (consult your doc) and bug spray. Medical coverage should handle treatment if you catch it.
- Zanzibar Add-On: The $44 ZIC policy covers medical care, lost luggage, and evacuation—but it’s basic. Pair it with a comprehensive pla
