Mandatory Insurance for visiting Zanzibar – How Does It Work?
The mandatory Zanzibar travel insurance will be handled by Zanzibar Insurance Corporation, the government-owned insurance provider. Even if you already have a separate travel policy from your home country, you will still need to purchase this mandatory coverage for your time in Zanzibar, according to the new regulation.
An anonymous tour operator for example, expressed concern, saying, “The government’s intentions are good, but with the extra costs and requirements, this might discourage some travelers from choosing Zanzibar.”
Despite these concerns, the government remains optimistic about the future of Zanzibar’s tourism sector. Zanzibar island is aiming to welcome 800,000 visitors in 2024, and this insurance initiative is seen by the government of the semi-autonomous nation as an important step in making travel safer and more secure for everyone.
If you’re planning to visit Zanzibar, make sure you’re aware of this new insurance fee and plan accordingly. At Tanzania Safari Supremacy, we’re here to help you navigate these new regulations and ensure you have a smooth, enjoyable trip.
Should you have any questions or need assistance with your travel plans, feel free to reach out to us—we’re happy to help!
Tanzania Safari Supremacy is dedicated to providing exceptional safari experiences in Tanzania. We offer a wide range of customizable packages that combine the thrill of wildlife safaris in Tanzania’s premium national parks with the relaxation of Zanzibar’s pristine beaches. Our expertly designed itineraries cater to all preferences, from short weekend getaways to extended adventures.
From October 1st, 2024, international visitors will be required to purchase local travel insurance for Zanzibar.
This insurance must be purchased exclusively from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC). It will cost $44USD and is valid for 90 days.
This mandatory insurance plan includes coverage for medical care, lost luggage, accidents, emergency evacuations, loss of important documents like passports, and repatriation in the event of death. The new regulation is intended to enhance traveler safety and security while in Zanzibar.
We fully understand that this new regulation, along with the extra cost, is not good news for travelers. We also recognize that not all details seem to have been fully ironed out. However, we must respectfully comply with the laws of the places we travel to, whether we agree with them or not.
Recommendations for Travelers
When planning your trip to Zanzibar, it’s important to include the $44USD insurance fee in your budget. Even if you already have international travel insurance from your own country, you must still purchase this coverage, as it is a mandatory requirement for all foreign visitors.
To get the insurance, you must buy it before traveling. You will need the ZIC-issued QR code for both your flight and entry into Zanzibar.
Be sure to check the official Zanzibar tourism website for updates on the process. For more specific inquiries, reach out directly to ZIC via email at inbound@zic.co.tz or call their toll-free number at 0800008005.
The Purpose of Mandatory Travel Insurance for Zanzibar
As their tourism industry has rapidly expanded in recent years, it has become a key driver of the Zanzibar economy. The new travel insurance mandate is part of a larger effort to improve safety and well-being of tourists.
With more visitors come new challenges, particularly related to health and safety. The government has taken action to address these issues and ensure higher service standards for everyone visiting the island,
You Can Simply apply for the insurance directly here
