Choosing Travel Insurance for Safari

Choosing Travel Insurance for Safari

Travel insurance is not just recommended for a safari; it’s absolutely essential. The potential costs of medical emergencies, evacuations, or trip cancellations in a remote African setting are astronomical.

Key Coverage to Look For:

  1. Emergency Medical & Evacuation:
    • High Coverage Limit: Look for at least $100,000 to $250,000 (or more) in medical coverage.
    • Emergency Medical Evacuation: This is CRITICAL. It covers the cost of transporting you by air ambulance (e.g., from a remote airstrip in the Serengeti to a hospital in Arusha or Nairobi, or even back to your home country). This alone can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
    • Repatriation of Remains: Covers costs if something catastrophic happens.
  2. Trip Cancellation & Interruption:
    • Covers Non-Refundable Costs: Reimburses you for pre-paid, non-refundable expenses (safari package, flights, accommodation) if you have to cancel or interrupt your trip due to a covered reason (e.g., illness, injury, natural disaster, unforeseen family emergency).
    • “Cancel For Any Reason” (CFAR) (Optional, more expensive): This allows you to cancel for reasons not typically covered by standard policies, but usually only reimburses a percentage (e.g., 50-75%) of your costs.
  3. Baggage Loss/Delay:
    • Covers the cost of lost, stolen, or damaged luggage, and sometimes provides a stipend for essential items if your bags are delayed. (Crucial given luggage limits on light aircraft).
  4. Personal Liability:
    • Covers you if you accidentally cause injury to another person or damage to their property.
  5. Adventure Activities:
    • If you plan any “adventure” activities like hot air ballooning, walking safaris, or mountain climbing, ensure they are explicitly covered. Some policies exclude these.

Where to Buy:

  • Reputable Travel Insurance Companies: Go with well-known international providers (e.g., World Nomads, Allianz Travel Insurance, Travelex, Generali Global Assistance).
  • Credit Card Benefits: Check if your credit card offers any travel insurance benefits, but be aware they are often secondary and have lower limits than dedicated policies. Don’t rely solely on these.
  • Tour Operator Recommendations: Your safari operator might recommend a specific provider, but always do your own research.

Important Considerations:

  • Read the Fine Print: Understand what is and isn’t covered, including exclusions (e.g., pre-existing conditions, specific activities).
  • Declare Pre-Existing Conditions: Be honest about any medical conditions to ensure your coverage is valid.
  • Buy Early: Purchase insurance as soon as you make your first non-refundable deposit (e.g., for your safari package). This maximizes your trip cancellation coverage period.
  • Medical Forms: Carry copies of your policy, contact numbers, and a list of any medications you take.