Zanzibar is a unique destination with a fascinating mix of culture, incredible scenery, and paradisiacal beaches. To protect its visitors, the Zanzibari authorities introduced a mandatory travel insurance for all non-resident tourists in October 2024. In this post we explain what it consists of, how much it costs, how to purchase it, and what other requirements you need to travel to Zanzibar in 2026.
Mandatory insurance for traveling to Zanzibar: what it is and who it affects
Since October 1, 2024, all non-resident foreign visitors are required to purchase travel insurance exclusively through the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC), a state-owned company of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar.
This requirement applies to all islands of the archipelago: Unguja (the main island), Pemba, and the associated smaller islands. It does not apply to Mafia Island, which administratively belongs to mainland Tanzania. The mode of transport does not affect this obligation: it is required whether you arrive by air or by sea. Zanzibar residents are exempt.
Authorities may deny entry to any visitor who cannot prove they have the insurance in place.
What does the mandatory Zanzibar insurance cover?
The ZIC policy has a validity of 92 days per visit, which is sufficient to cover the maximum stay allowed under Tanzania's tourist visa (90 days). If your stay exceeds 92 days, you will need to purchase a new policy. Coverage includes:
- Medical emergencies and hospitalization
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Repatriation to the country of origin
- Theft and loss of baggage (in-flight)
- Replacement of a lost passport
- Additional nights of accommodation due to illness
Important: the coverage of this policy is basic and applies only within the Zanzibar archipelago, not in mainland Tanzania. If your trip includes a safari or other days on the mainland, it is recommended to also purchase an international travel insurance policy that covers the entire trip.
How much does the Zanzibar travel insurance cost?
The cost varies depending on age and the type of plan chosen:
- Adults (18 years and older): $44 USD per person
- Children aged 3 to 17: $22 USD per person (50% discount)
- Children aged 0 to 2: free of charge
- Groups of 10 or more people: 10% discount on the adult price
How to purchase the Zanzibar travel insurance
It is recommended to purchase it online in advance to avoid lines and delays upon arrival. The process is completed through the official Zanzibar Government website and takes just a few minutes:
- Fill out the application form with your personal details (name, date of birth, occupation), passport information (including photo), and travel itinerary (arrival and departure dates).
- Choose the type of plan:
- Individual (up to 2 travelers)
- Family (3 to 9 travelers)
- Group (10 or more people)
- Make the payment with a Visa or Mastercard bank card.
- Save the QR code you will receive by email. Immigration agents may scan it upon your arrival. Also carry a printed copy among your travel documents.
It is also possible to purchase the insurance at dedicated kiosks at Zanzibar airport, although this is not recommended due to the lines that may form.
What other requirements do you need to travel to Tanzania and Zanzibar?
Aside from the mandatory insurance described above, the entry requirements for Zanzibar are the same as those for mainland Tanzania. You can find the full process in our guide on how to get your Tanzania visa.
- Tanzania visa: required for most nationalities. You can apply online (eVisa) through Visagov in just a few minutes. Available as a single-entry or multiple-entry visa.
- Valid passport: with at least 6 months of validity from the date of entry and a minimum of 3 blank pages.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate: mandatory if you are coming from an endemic country or have had an airport transit of more than 12 hours in one.
Please note that if you travel from mainland Tanzania to Zanzibar, the Zanzibari authorities carry out an additional immigration check, so you must always carry your passport with you.
Frequently asked questions about the mandatory Zanzibar insurance
Can I use my regular travel insurance instead of the ZIC insurance?
No. The Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) insurance is the only one accepted by the Zanzibari authorities. Any other policy, even if it provides coverage for Tanzania or Zanzibar, does not meet this requirement. Both insurances are independent and compatible: you can and must have the mandatory ZIC insurance and also purchase an international travel insurance policy for more comprehensive coverage.
Does the Zanzibar insurance also cover safari days on mainland Tanzania?
No. The ZIC policy coverage applies exclusively within the Zanzibar archipelago. Safari days or other activities on mainland Tanzania are not covered. If your trip combines a safari and Zanzibar, it is recommended to purchase an international travel insurance policy that covers the entire trip, including the days on the mainland.
What happens if I arrive in Zanzibar without the insurance?
Immigration authorities may deny entry. Although it is possible to purchase the insurance at dedicated kiosks at Zanzibar airport, doing so upon arrival involves lines and possible delays. It is always recommended to purchase it online before your trip through the official ZIC website.
Is the Zanzibar insurance valid for multiple entries and exits?
Yes. The policy allows multiple entries and exits during its 92-day validity period, which is especially useful for travelers who combine Zanzibar with mainland Tanzania or other East African destinations during the same trip.
Do I need a separate insurance policy if I travel with minors?
All members of the group, including minors, must be included in the purchased policy. The age-based conditions are: children aged 0 to 2, free of charge; children aged 3 to 17, $22 USD (50% discount); adults aged 18 and older, $44 USD. For families of 3 to 9 people, there is a family plan that simplifies the management of the policy.
