Last updated: September 14, 2025

Photo credit: Med J

Zanzibar Travel Insurance 2025: Everything You Need to Know About the Mandatory $44 Policy

Planning your dream escape to Zanzibar's pristine beaches and spice-scented Stone Town? There's one crucial requirement you can't overlook: mandatory travel insurance that every visitor must purchase before arrival.

Since October 1, 2024, Zanzibar has required all international visitors to hold a government-issued travel insurance policy costing $44 USD. This isn't optional, and your existing travel insurance won't suffice. Here's everything you need to know to ensure smooth entry to the Spice Islands in 2025.

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Quick Summary: Zanzibar Insurance Requirements 2025

• Who needs it: All non-resident visitors to Zanzibar (including children)
• Cost: $44 USD per adult, 50% discount for ages 3-17, free for under-3s
• Validity: Up to 92 days, covers both Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania
• Where to buy: Only through visitzanzibar.go.tz
• When to purchase: Before traveling - checked at immigration
• Consequences: Denied entry without valid policy - no exceptions

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Why Zanzibar Introduced Mandatory Travel Insurance

The Zanzibar government implemented this requirement to ensure all visitors can receive emergency medical treatment without burdening the local healthcare system. With over 500,000 annual visitors to the islands, this standardized coverage protects both tourists and local medical facilities.

The policy aims to:

• Guarantee emergency medical coverage for all visitors
• Reduce unpaid medical bills at local hospitals
• Standardize tourist insurance across the tourism industry
• Provide financial protection for medical evacuations

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Who Must Purchase Zanzibar Travel Insurance?

Required for:

• All international tourists visiting Zanzibar
• Business travelers and conference attendees
• Transit passengers clearing immigration (even for one night)
• Children and infants (discounted rates apply)
• Visitors to mainland Tanzania who plan to visit Zanzibar

Exempt from requirement:

• Tanzanian citizens and permanent residents
• East African Community citizens (with proper documentation)
• Diplomatic passport holders on official business

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Buy Zanzibar Insurance

Step 1: Access the Official Portal

Visit visitzanzibar.go.tz and select "Inbound Travel Insurance"

Important: Only use the official government website to avoid scams and ensure your policy is valid.

Step 2: Enter Travel Details

• Trip duration: Maximum 92 days coverage
• Travel dates: Enter exact arrival and departure dates
• Coverage type: Inbound Travel Insurance (pre-selected)

Step 3: Complete Personal Information

• Passport details: Must match exactly (including middle names)
• Contact information: Valid email address required
• Phone number: Tanzanian mobile number (optional but recommended)

Step 4: Make Payment

Accepted payment methods:

• Visa and Mastercard credit/debit cards
• Mobile money (M-Pesa, Tigo Pesa, Airtel Money)
• Bank transfers (for group bookings)

Total cost: $44 USD plus minimal processing fees

Step 5: Download Your Certificate

• Instant delivery: PDF certificate arrives via email immediately
• Save multiple copies: Download to phone and print physical copy
• Barcode verification: Immigration officers scan the certificate's barcode

Pro tip: Purchase your insurance when applying for your Tanzania eVisa - both documents are checked together at immigration.

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What Does Zanzibar Travel Insurance Cover?

The Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) policy provides comprehensive coverage:

Medical Coverage

• Emergency medical treatment up to $25,000 USD
• Hospital accommodation and surgical procedures
• Prescription medications and medical supplies
• Dental emergency treatment (accident-related)

Emergency Services

• Medical evacuation to appropriate facilities
• Repatriation to home country if medically necessary
• 24/7 emergency assistance hotline
• Ambulance services and emergency transport

Travel Protection

• Personal accident benefits up to $10,000 USD
• Baggage loss or delay compensation
• Trip delays and missed connections coverage
• Personal liability protection up to $5,000 USD

Additional Benefits

• Legal expenses for covered incidents
• Emergency cash advances for medical situations
• Translation services for medical emergencies
• Family member travel for serious medical situations

Important: The ZIC policy serves as primary coverage in Zanzibar. If you have additional travel insurance, you can claim remaining costs from that provider after ZIC coverage is exhausted.

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Zanzibar Insurance Costs and Pricing 2025

Age Group	Insurance Cost	Savings
Adults (18+)	$44 USD	Standard rate
Children (3-17)	$22 USD	50% discount
Infants (0-2)	Free	100% discount
Group bookings (10+)	Contact ZIC	Potential discounts

Additional Fees

• Processing fee: $1-2 USD (varies by payment method)
• Rush processing: Not available - standard processing only
• Policy modifications: $5 USD administrative fee

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Essential Healthcare Facilities in Zanzibar

Keep these medical facilities saved in your phone:

Stone Town Area

• Aga Khan Polyclinic - Old Dispensary
  • 24/7 emergency services
  • Specialist consultations
  • Contact: +255 24 223 0708
  • Website: agakhanhospitals.org

Nungwi (North Coast)

• North Valley Hospital
  • Emergency care and surgery
  • ICU and imaging services
  • Contact: +255 777 430 430
  • Website: northvalleyhospitaltz.com

Paje (East Coast)

• MedExpress Clinic
  • Urgent care and general consultations
  • Travel medicine specialist
  • Contact: +255 773 333 000
  • Website: med-express.net

Near Airport

• ZANAID Clinic
  • 24/7 emergency services
  • Hyperbaric chamber (diving emergencies)
  • Medical evacuations
  • Contact: +255 24 225 5555
  • Website: zanaid.org

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Frequently Asked Questions About Zanzibar Insurance

Can I use my existing travel insurance instead of the ZIC policy?

No. Only the government-issued ZIC policy satisfies entry requirements. Your existing insurance can provide additional coverage but cannot replace the mandatory policy.

Is the insurance valid for mainland Tanzania too?

Yes. The ZIC policy covers both Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania during your 92-day validity period.

What if I'm only transiting through Zanzibar?

If you clear immigration (even for a few hours), you must have the insurance. Airport transit without clearing immigration doesn't require coverage.

Can I buy the insurance on arrival?

No. The policy must be purchased online before travel. Arriving without valid insurance may result in denied entry.

What if my travel dates change?

You can request refunds or date modifications up to 48 hours before your original departure date through the same portal.

Are there group discounts available?

Groups of 10 or more may qualify for discounts. Contact ZIC directly through their official channels.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Purchase Errors

• Using unofficial websites → Only use visitzanzibar.go.tz
• Mismatched passport details → Ensure exact spelling matches passport
• Wrong travel dates → Double-check arrival/departure dates
• Last-minute purchases → Buy insurance when applying for visa

Documentation Issues

• Not printing backup copy → Always carry physical copy
• Dead phone battery → Paper backup speeds up immigration
• Blurry screenshots → Download high-quality PDF

Coverage Misunderstandings

• Assuming existing insurance suffices → ZIC policy is mandatory regardless
• Not understanding claim process → ZIC coverage is primary in Zanzibar
• Forgetting policy during activities → Hotels/operators may request verification

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What Happens If You Arrive Without Insurance?

Immigration consequences:

• Denied entry to Zanzibar
• Return flight at your expense
• No exceptions for existing insurance policies
• Potential visa complications for future visits

Emergency procedures:

• Immigration may allow same-day online purchase in exceptional circumstances
• Additional administrative fees may apply
• Significant delays and potential overnight detention
• No guarantee of entry even with emergency purchase

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How to Make a Claim on Your ZIC Policy

Emergency Situations

1. Contact 24/7 hotline: +255 777 123 456
2. Provide policy number and personal details
3. Follow emergency coordinator instructions
4. Keep all medical receipts and documentation

Non-Emergency Claims

1. Email claims department: support@zic.zanzibar.go.tz
2. Submit required documentation within 30 days
3. Include original receipts and medical reports
4. Await claim assessment (5-10 business days)

Required Documentation

• Original policy certificate with barcode
• Medical reports from treating physicians
• Original receipts for all expenses
• Incident report (for accidents)
• Police report (if applicable)

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Tips for Smooth Travel to Zanzibar

Before You Go

• Purchase insurance early to avoid website congestion during peak season
• Coordinate with visa application for simultaneous document processing
• Save emergency contacts in your phone
• Inform your bank about Tanzania travel for payment card usage

At Immigration

• Have documents ready - passport, visa, insurance certificate
• Use printed backup if phone issues occur
• Be patient during peak arrival times
• Keep policy accessible throughout your stay

During Your Visit

• Carry policy information for medical emergencies
• Know your coverage limits and claim procedures
• Save hospital contacts in your phone
• Keep receipts for any medical expenses

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Travel Safety Tips for Zanzibar

Water Safety

• Drink bottled water to prevent waterborne illness
• Avoid ice in drinks unless from reputable establishments
• Be cautious with fresh produce that may have been washed in tap water

Beach and Water Activities

• Check diving operator credentials and safety equipment
• Understand tidal patterns before swimming
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine environment
• Follow local guidance for water activities

General Health Precautions

• Bring malaria prophylaxis if recommended by your doctor
• Pack basic first aid supplies for minor injuries
• Stay hydrated in tropical climate
• Protect against mosquitoes with repellent and appropriate clothing

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Updates and Changes to Zanzibar Insurance Requirements

Recent Changes (2025)

• No major policy changes since implementation in October 2024
• Streamlined online portal with improved user experience
• Enhanced verification process at immigration points
• Expanded coverage options for specialized activities

Staying Updated

• Check official website before travel for any policy updates
• Follow Tanzania Bleu for travel requirement updates
• Consult your travel agent for current requirements
• Monitor embassy advisories for your nationality

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Final Checklist: Zanzibar Insurance Preparation

✅ Insurance purchased through official visitzanzibar.go.tz website
✅ PDF certificate downloaded and saved to phone
✅ Physical copy printed as backup
✅ Policy details match passport exactly
✅ Emergency contacts saved in phone
✅ Coverage understanding - what's included and excluded
✅ Claim procedures reviewed and understood
✅ Additional travel insurance considered for extra protection

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At $44 USD, Zanzibar's mandatory travel insurance represents excellent value for comprehensive emergency coverage. While it adds to your travel costs, it provides essential protection and peace of mind during your island paradise adventure.

The requirement isn't going away, so factor it into your Zanzibar travel budget alongside your visa fees and accommodation costs. With proper preparation, this administrative step won't interfere with your dream vacation.

Emergency contacts to save:

• 📞 24/7 ZIC Emergency hotline: +255 777 123 456
• 📧 Claims & support: support@zic.zanzibar.go.tz
• 🌐 Official insurance portal: visitzanzibar.go.tz

Planning your Zanzibar adventure? Check out our guides on [Zanzibar island hopping], [Stone Town cultural experiences], and [best beaches in Zanzibar] to make the most of your tropical escape.

Questions about Zanzibar insurance requirements or need help with travel planning? Drop me a message - I'm here to help you navigate Tanzania travel like a local.

Karibu Zanzibar - welcome to paradise! 🏝️

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Additional Resources

• Official Zanzibar Insurance Portal
• Tanzania eVisa Application
• Zanzibar Tourism Commission
• Tanzania Ministry of Health Guidelines