MANDATORY INBOUND TRAVEL INSURANCE
Government’s Intentions and Management
Dr. Saada Mkuya Salum, the Finance and Planning State Minister in the Zanzibar President’s Office, announced this initiative during a stakeholders meeting, stating, Even though the idea sounds great, how much this will attract new tourists, who mostly come from mainland Tanzania or Kenya and thus already have their insurance for their entire trip, is debatable. Compulsory insurance schemes are also in place in other countries such as Cuba, Seychelles, and the Galapagos Islands. Here, insurance is compulsory, either purchased from the local government or from your own chosen insurance company.
The Zanzibar government has also issued an official statement outlining the main reasons behind the introduction of this mandatory insurance policy, which you can read .
Key Benefits of Zanzibar’s Travel Insurance
The insurance is managed by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC), a Government-owned corporation aiming to make Zanzibar a safer destination. The settlement of the claim for the loss will be within the mentioned Corporation only. The insurance is valid for up to 92 days from your arrival, allowing unlimited trips within this period. If you stay longer than 92 days, you will need to purchase a new insurance policy. This also applies to business visas arriving after the 1st of October.
Medical & Related Expenses
Emergency medical expenses (including epidemics & pandemics) up to USD 50,000 (sports like kitesurfing and scuba diving should be covered as well)
Compulsory quarantine expenses because of epidemic and pandemic
Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation expenses. (including epidemics & pandemics)
Extension of stay of the beneficiary due to the medically not fit to fly plus one accompanying
24/7 Assistance Services
24/7 Emergency Medical assistance services
Consular referral
Emergency accommodation and travel arrangements
Transmission of an urgent message
Personal Accident, Repatriation and Liability
Accidental death occurred by means of public transport, USD 20,000
Personal Liability up to USD 30,000
Permanent Total Disability as per % scale up to USD 20,000
Body Repatriation in case of death
Legal Expenses and Baggage
Lawyer’s expenses up to USD 2,000
Advance for bail up to USD 2,000
Baggage delay, USD 25 per hour up to USD 200
Theft, loss, or damaged baggage (within the care of the airline) up to USD 400
Final Thoughts on Mandatory Zanzibar Insurance
The new mandatory insurance for Zanzibar visitors aims to , , and if an incident occurs during your stay. While the initiative has , its effectiveness will become clearer over time. If you are planning to visit Zanzibar, we recommend you carefully review the mandatory policy and consider maintaining your own insurance to ensure comprehensive protection tailored to your specific needs. Regardless of the requirements, it’s always wise to travel with a good understanding of the local healthcare system and other potential risks. Travel smart, stay safe, and enjoy your journey.
