Starting October 1, 2024, the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar introduced a mandatory travel insurance requirement for all foreign visitors entering the Zanzibar Archipelago. This rule remains fully in effect for all travelers arriving in 2026 and 2027.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach holiday in Zanzibar after your Serengeti safari or a standalone island escape, here is everything you need to know about this mandatory insurance.
Key Facts About the Mandatory Zanzibar Travel Insurance
Who must purchase it? All non-residents / foreign visitors (including tourists, business travelers, and volunteers)
Where it applies: Zanzibar Island (Unguja), Pemba Island, and all surrounding islands
Where it does NOT apply: Mainland Tanzania (including Dar es Salaam, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro, or Mafia Island)
Effective date: October 1, 2024 (still active in 2026–2027)
Cost:
Adults (18+): $44 USD
Children (3–17 years): $22 USD
Children under 2 years: Free
Validity period: 92 days (approximately 3 months) from the date of arrival in Zanzibar
Important note: This insurance is mandatory even if you already have private or international travel insurance.
What Does the Mandatory Insurance Cover?
The policy provides basic protection designed to support visitors in case of emergencies:
Emergency medical treatment and hospitalization in Zanzibar
Medical evacuation and repatriation to your home country
Limited accident coverage
Loss, theft, or damage of baggage
Travel delays and missed connections
Legal assistance and related expenses
Important Exclusions – What Is NOT Covered
Travellers should be aware that the mandatory policy has several significant limitations:
Adventure and water sports (scuba diving, kitesurfing, snorkeling, windsurfing, etc.)
Pre-existing medical conditions
Pregnancy-related complications
Incidents involving alcohol or drug consumption
Natural disasters or extreme weather events
War, terrorism, or civil unrest
Any claims resulting from negligence or violation of safety regulations
Kilisherpas Travel Advice:
Because many popular Zanzibar activities (diving, snorkelling, kitesurfing, and even boat trips) are not covered, we strongly recommend purchasing a comprehensive international travel insurance policy in addition to the mandatory one.
How to Purchase the Mandatory Insurance
1. Online Purchase (Strongly Recommended)
The easiest and fastest way is to buy it before you travel:
Official website: https://visitzanzibar.go.tz
Complete the simple online application form
Screenshot of the website where insurance can be processed before traveling to Zanzibar
Pay securely with credit or debit card
Receive your digital policy confirmation and policy number via email immediately
2. Purchase on Arrival
You can also buy it upon landing:
At Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ)
At Stone Town Ferry Port
However, this option often involves long queues, especially during peak season (June–October and December–January). We highly recommend completing the purchase online before departure.
What You Will Receive
After successful payment, you will get:
Official insurance policy document (PDF)
Unique policy number
Confirmation of coverage dates
Keep both a digital copy on your phone and a printed copy in your travel documents.
Family & Group Travel
Family packages are available at discounted rates
Special group rates apply for 10 or more travellers.
Children under 2 years travel completely free
Can the Insurance Be Extended or Cancelled?
Extension: Not automatic. You must purchase a new policy if your stay exceeds 92 days.
Cancellation: Possible by contacting the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation at inbound@zic.co.tz (subject to their terms and conditions).
Why Was This Mandatory Insurance Introduced?
The Zanzibar government states that the main objectives are to:
Improve emergency medical response for tourists
Strengthen local healthcare services
Facilitate faster medical evacuations and repatriations
Reduce the financial burden on Zanzibar’s public services when dealing with tourist emergencies
Travel Smart with Kilisherpas Travel
At Kilisherpas Travel, we take care of all travel requirements for our clients. When you book your Zanzibar beach holiday or a combined safari + Zanzibar package with us, our team will:
Guide you step-by-step through the insurance purchase process
Recommend the best supplementary international travel insurance policies
Ensure all your documents are in order before departure
Provide full support with transfers, accommodation, and activities
This way, you can relax and fully enjoy the white-sand beaches, spice tours, and crystal-clear waters of Zanzibar without last-minute worries.
Ready to plan your Zanzibar trip?
Contact Kilisherpas Travel today for expert guidance, seamless bookings, and a stress-free Zanzibar experience in 2026–2027.
