What you need to know about the 'New' Travel Insurance in Zanzibar

As of October 2024, a new requirement for mandatory travel insurance has been implemented for all visitors traveling to Zanzibar. If you're organizing a trip to this stunning destination, it's essential to know what this new insurance requirement entails, how to acquire it, and what further measures you should take to ensure you have complete coverage. Travel insurance is often something we wish we won't have to use, but it's always wiser to be prepared than regretful.

This article will guide you through the details of the updated travel insurance mandate in Zanzibar and provide useful tips to help your trip proceed without any issues.

The New Required Travel Insurance Policy

Beginning October 1st, 2024, all visitors traveling to Zanzibar must obtain a travel insurance policy designed specifically for people arriving on the island. This insurance is now compulsory and has to be secured prior to arriving in Zanzibar. Numerous airlines will verify that you possess it before allowing you to board your flight. The insurance costs $44 for adults, $22 for children between the ages of 3 to 17, and is complimentary for infants.

The new policy addresses certain essential needs, but it's crucial to recognize that it may not provide the same level of coverage you might expect if you've previously traveled with comprehensive insurance. This is why many experts and experienced travelers suggest obtaining an extra travel insurance policy to ensure complete protection. 

The official insurance is effective for three months, which is quite handy if you intend to remain for a longer duration or make several trips to Zanzibar during that period. However, what exactly does this insurance include, and is it sufficient for your journey?

What Does the Mandatory Insurance Include?

The travel insurance plan provided by the government in Zanzibar offers essential coverage, which encompasses medical treatment in public hospitals. Nevertheless, the level of medical services found in public hospitals in Zanzibar, as well as in Tanzania overall, may not meet the expectations of some international visitors. For minor ailments or injuries, the government insurance could be adequate, but it may not cover more significant health concerns effectively.

The fact that this policy does not cover repatriation—which is crucial if you need to be flown back to your native country for specialized medical treatment—is one of its main drawbacks. Additionally, it might not pay for private hospital stays, major medical treatments, or evacuation in the event of an emergency.

It is strongly advised that you consider getting a more complete travel insurance coverage if you value peace of mind when you travel. Medical crises, evacuation, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unanticipated circumstances that may occur during your vacation should all be covered by a solid travel insurance policy. Having the additional protection is preferable, particularly when traveling to a place like Zanzibar where medical services do not always adhere to Western standards.

The New Travel Insurance: How to Buy It

It is rather easy to get the new Zanzibar travel insurance, and it may be done completely online. The procedure include going to the official website (insert link here), completing the payment form, and providing your personal information. You will receive an email with your policy details after completing the process.

After you buy a policy, you will receive an email with it. Be sure to read it carefully. Even if it's a fundamental policy, it's crucial to know exactly what is and isn't covered. In this manner, you can prevent any unpleasant surprises in the event that you require medical attention or other services while visiting Zanzibar.

It's advisable to finish the insurance procedure well in advance of your trip date. You won't be permitted to board your aircraft without the necessary insurance, as many airlines now verify that passengers have it at the airport. To prevent any last-minute problems, you should try to have the policy ready at least one month prior to your trip.

How to Respond When You Run Into Issues

Some tourists have complained about problems with the online system, despite the fact that the process is usually simple. The website may occasionally go down, or there may be problems with payments, such as making two payments and not receiving the insurance. It is advised that you input your passport number on the internet to verify the progress of your application if you encounter this. The procedure might need to be repeated if the system is unable to locate your information.

It's also important to note that while the new insurance can be purchased online, some passengers would rather deal with this when they arrive at the airport. Nevertheless, this may result in lengthy lines and needless delays. In order to get through the airport quickly and begin enjoying your trip, it is much better to have everything organized in advance.

Additionally, although travel insurance is required, visas can still be obtained at the airport when you arrive. Before you go for Zanzibar, be sure that all of your travel documents—including your visa—are in order.

The Value of Obtaining Personal Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is still necessary, even though the recently mandated travel insurance covers some aspects of your trip. It is strongly advised that you purchase your own travel insurance coverage in addition to the required one if you are considering a trip to Zanzibar.

This is because there aren't many government-issued insurance plans available in Zanzibar. If you have a significant medical condition, it might not offer the degree of care or comfort you expect, even while it might cover basic medical treatment in public hospitals. More significantly, if you have to return home because of a medical emergency, it might not cover necessary expenses like evacuation or repatriation, which can be very expensive.

A wide range of possible problems should be covered by comprehensive travel insurance, such as: 

- Medical crises, which include hospital stays, surgeries, and prescription drugs.

- Repatriation and emergency evacuation in the event of a serious illness or injury.
- In the event that your plans are thrown off, trip cancellations or disruptions can assist you recoup expenses.
- Personal items and luggage that have been lost, damaged, or stolen.
- Liability insurance in the event that you inadvertently damage someone else's property or person.

Avoid Airport Currency Hassles

Bringing US money with you is another crucial piece of advice for visitors visiting Zanzibar. However, as the prices are usually less beneficial, stay away from exchanging your dollars at the airport. To obtain better rates, exchange your money in advance. This will guarantee that you don't pay too much for currency conversion, and it'll

Having cash on hand will facilitate transactions when you plan to arrange excursions or guided tours, since many local operators prefer to be paid in cash. Just to be prepared, make sure to check the exchange rates in advance.


Examining Your Code for Travel Insurance

There is a useful feature that can help you save time when you go to Zanzibar once you've bought the new travel insurance. You can avoid the often lengthy line at the counter by scanning the code on your insurance policy as you enter. After a lengthy flight, taking this little step can help you avoid waiting in line and save you a significant amount of time.

A Few Last Words of Advice

Make careful to confirm the status of your travel insurance before departing for Zanzibar. It's imperative to fix your application on the website before you leave if, for whatever reason, it appears to be "not found." If you don't have your insurance in order, you might not be allowed to board, which can rapidly make your vacation a stressful one.

Additionally, keep in mind that even though Zanzibar has implemented this new insurance requirement, it's wise to have a fallback option. Being prepared is essential to having a worry-free and safe trip, whether that means having extra insurance, a contact back home in case of an emergency, or just knowing where to go in case something goes wrong.

With its breathtaking beaches, lively culture, and amazing wildlife, Zanzibar is a truly magical place to visit. Although travelers must take the new required travel insurance coverage, it's crucial to know what it covers and what extra precautions you should take to guarantee your piece of mind.

It is strongly advised that you get a comprehensive travel insurance plan in addition to the required policy, as this will offer you far more broad coverage, especially in the event of an evacuation, medical emergency, or trip disruption. To avoid currency problems at the airport, make sure you have your insurance set up well in advance of your trip, verify the status of your application online, and bring US dollars.

You may concentrate on having a great time in Zanzibar without worrying about anything by following these tips. Have a safe trip, and before you pack your things, make sure you have insurance!

Here’s a link to the official travel insurance website if you need to arrange yours: https://visitzanzibar.go.tz/insurance