Mandatory insurance for Zanzibar continues to raise many questions among travelers. Between the new rules, contradictory information, and fake websites, it can sometimes be difficult to understand what is actually required before departure.
Here is everything you need to know about this mandatory insurance to enter Zanzibar.
Is Zanzibar ZIC insurance mandatory?
Yes, this insurance, mandated by the Tanzanian government in October 2024, is mandatory to enter Zanzibar.
Even if you already have:
- travel insurance,
- bank insurance,
- international coverage,
- or comprehensive personal insurance,
you will still need to purchase this specific insurance mandated by the government.
It may be requested upon your arrival just like your visa.
Does this insurance apply to all of Tanzania?
For now, the mandatory ZIC insurance only applies to Zanzibar.
This means that:
- if you are only going on a safari in mainland Tanzania,
- or climbing Kilimanjaro without going through Zanzibar,
you currently do not need it.
However, regulations can change quickly. It is therefore recommended to check the latest information before your departure.
What is the price of the mandatory Zanzibar insurance?
The official price of this insurance is 44 dollars per person.
Beware of fraudulent sites or unofficial platforms that display higher rates.
Before paying, always check that you are on the official site.
Where to get Zanzibar ZIC insurance?
You have two options to obtain this insurance.
Get insurance online before departure
The insurance can be purchased in just a few minutes directly online before your trip.
This is the most recommended option as it allows:
- to travel peacefully with all documents ready,
- to avoid queues at the airport,
- and to save time upon arrival.
Some airlines are also starting to require this insurance before boarding.
Some travelers have already found themselves stuck at departure, forced to purchase the insurance urgently just before taking their flight to Zanzibar.
Get insurance upon arrival in Zanzibar
It is also possible to get this insurance:
- at Zanzibar airport,
- or at Zanzibar port.
This solution remains possible but may lengthen the procedures upon arrival.
Does this insurance replace your personal travel insurance?
No.
Even though this insurance is mandatory to enter Zanzibar, it is still strongly recommended to keep your own personal travel insurance as a supplement.
In practice, many travelers consider this insurance more as a mandatory tax related to entry into the territory than as true comprehensive travel coverage.
Tips before your departure to Zanzibar
Before your trip, remember to:
- check the correct official site,
- anticipate your procedures before departure,
- keep your documents accessible on your phone or printed,
- and maintain a complementary personal travel insurance.
In addition to the mandatory insurance, don’t forget to get your visa, find all the information in our dedicated guide.
