Tanzania will implement mandatory travel insurance for visitors starting in 2025. With this move, the East African nation joins Schengen countries Aruba, Ecuador, Argentina, Fiji, and Cambodia, among others, requiring travel insurance.
What are the Tanzania Travel Insurance Requirements?
The Tanzania travel insurance requirement is part of the 2025/2026 national budget. Under this policy, all non-residents must purchase the $44 travel insurance for Tanzania visitors.
The coverage includes:
- Medical emergencies
- Baggage loss protection
- Accident coverage for up to 62 days
The coverage is non-refundable. Fortunately, East African Community (EAC) citizens are exempt from these entry rules.
The mainland policy needs official approval as of late June 2025. Meanwhile, Zanzibar has used a similar system since October 2024. The island charges $44 for adults and $22 for minors. This update puts the country alongside other destinations with mandatory tourist insurance, including the Schengen Area, Cuba, Nepal, and various Caribbean islands.
Photo by Keegan Checks from Pexels
How This Tanzania Travel Update Will Impact Tourism
Tour operators are particularly concerned about the additional cost. It could deter budget travelers who represent a significant market segment. Additionally, many argue that international tourists already have private travel insurance, making the fee unnecessary.
Furthermore, Tanzania faces growing competition from Kenya and Uganda. An extra $44 per person could influence destination choices, affecting cost-conscious visitors.
Key questions remain unanswered:
- Can tourists buy insurance online before arrival?
- What role will Tanzania’s National Insurance Company play?
- How do claim procedures work?
- What are the payment processes at airports and borders?
Zanzibar’s experience shows both benefits and problems. While revenue has increased, travelers face frustration due to limited online options and surprise fees at immigration.
Tourism generates billions annually for Tanzania and supports countless jobs. The government wants to enhance visitor safety while also generating revenue and reducing strain on public healthcare. This becomes crucial when uninsured tourists need emergency care. However, poor implementation could cause booking cancellations and damage Tanzania’s reputation as a welcoming destination.
Photo by nicolamargaret from Getty Images Signature
Planning Your Trip with the New Tanzania Tourist Entry Rules
Travelers planning a trip to Tanzania should take these steps:
- Monitor government policy updates
- Calculate the budget impact, especially for families
- Verify existing insurance coverage
- Consult tour operators about changes
The policy represents a growing global trend where governments balance tourist safety with revenue generation.
Ultimately, Tanzania’s final decision could influence other African destinations and set new standards for sustainable tourism safety measures. With iconic attractions like the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar’s beaches, the country faces a critical test in balancing policy innovation with tourist accessibility.
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*Banner photo by STORYTELLER from Canva
