Travel insurance for Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers, with low crime levels and friendly locals. However, staying alert in crowded areas like Stone Town and popular beaches is advisable, as petty theft can occur. To stay safe, keep valuables close and opt for reputable transport options, especially if moving around at night.

As a largely Muslim island, Zanzibar appreciates modest attire outside of resort areas, and during Ramadan, some services may adjust their hours. Respect for local customs and a bit of cultural awareness can enhance your experience, making it easy to enjoy Zanzibar's rich culture, stunning beaches, and lively markets with confidence.

When traveling to Zanzibar, certain vaccinations are recommended to ensure a safe and healthy trip. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the CDC advise vaccines for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and cholera, given Zanzibar’s tropical climate and local health risks. A yellow fever vaccine may also be required if you’re arriving from a country with yellow fever risk; bring proof of vaccination in that case.

For general safety, additional vaccinations like tetanus, rabies (for longer stays), and meningitis are often suggested, especially if you plan to explore remote areas. Always consult with a travel clinic or healthcare provider before your trip to tailor vaccines to your travel itinerary and activities.

The local currency in Zanzibar is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). However, U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and for activities. Many businesses, particularly in Stone Town and popular beach areas, list prices in both Tanzanian Shillings and USD, and some may even prefer dollars for larger transactions.

If using USD, bring newer bills (issued after 2006), as older notes are often not accepted. For day-to-day expenses or smaller shops, having some Tanzanian Shillings on hand is useful, and ATMs are available in main towns for withdrawing local currency. Credit cards are accepted in some places, but may incur additional fees.

In Zanzibar, the dress code is more relaxed on the beaches, but still conservative when you're in public areas or exploring the towns. On the beach, swimwear is fine, but it's important to cover up when leaving the beach, especially in Stone Town or rural areas. Women should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, while men should avoid wearing shorts when visiting more traditional or religious sites. When in public, it's respectful to wear lightweight, covering clothing, particularly if you're in local neighborhoods or visiting mosques.

It's not recommended to drink tap water in Zanzibar, as the water quality may not always meet international standards. To avoid any risk of waterborne illnesses, it's safer to drink bottled water, which is widely available throughout the island. Many hotels and restaurants also offer filtered or purified water to guests.

If you plan to stay for an extended period or travel to more remote areas, consider using a water purifier or purification tablets. Always be cautious about consuming tap water, especially in non-tourist areas, to ensure your health and safety during your trip.

While travel insurance is not a legal requirement for visiting Zanzibar, it is strongly recommended. Travel insurance can provide essential coverage for unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. Zanzibar’s healthcare facilities may not always meet international standards, so having insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation and coverage for travel disruptions can be invaluable.

Healthcare in Zanzibar has a mix of public and private facilities. Public hospitals may lack advanced equipment, and for serious conditions, you might need to travel to Dar es Salaam or Nairobi for better care. There are private clinics catering to tourists, but it's essential to have travel insurance with medical coverage, including evacuation, in case of emergencies

If you need to contact your insurance company from Tanzania, you simply have to call the 24-hour assistance platform. Through the exclusive app for clients, you can make free calls if you have an internet connection, chat with the medical team, or process any other incidents that occur during your trip (transport delays, baggage issues, etc.) right from the palm of your hand.