Just off the coast of East Africa lies the stunning spice-trading outpost of Zanzibar. This island archipelago is a unique blend of Swahili and Arabic culture. An authentic island experience, historic architecture and uncommon adventures are what beckons travelers to this island. The Spice Islands provide a truly immersive culinary and shopping experience as well.

This guide can provide you with a convenient overview of the things to see and do while you're in Zanzibar, as well as give you the information you need to know about purchasing travel medical insurance or travel insurance.

Zanzibar Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs

Traveling to an island can be a thrilling experience. However, injuries or sudden illnesses can dampen your trip. To avoid getting caught off-guard by a large medical bill, purchase Zanzibar travel medical insurance before your vacation.

Do I need travel medical insurance for Zanzibar?

Travel medical insurance is not mandatory in Zanzibar. However, given the remote location of the island and limited medical facilities, it is wise to get insured. In Zanzibar it is possible to contract diseases such as malaria, cholera, meningitis and yellow fever. Without insurance, the treatment for illness or injury can be prohibitively expensive, especially if emergency medical evacuation is required. To avoid doing long-term damage to your finances, get travel medical insurance.

Why buy travel medical insurance for Zanzibar?

Once you leave the mainland, healthcare facilities can be quite limited. Since your domestic health insurance likely won't provide sufficient coverage here, you could leave yourself open to major out-of-pocket expenses without a proper insurance plan in place. To allow yourself the opportunity to receive care at the best facilities with less worry about the financial aspects, get travel medical insurance.

Zanzibar Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs

International vacations usually involve months of planning and sizeable expenses for prepaid travel arrangements. But last-minute surprises can push you to cancel the trip without any warning. Incidents like a death in the family, sudden accident, natural disasters or political events can require you to cancel your trip. In such scenarios, you'll want a way to be reimbursed for your expenses. This is why you should purchase trip cancellation insurance.

Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Zanzibar?

A lot of things may go wrong inadvertently before a vacation abroad. A personal emergency could make it necessary to cancel your trip. A severe weather event could ground your flight. An injury or illness could make travel impossible. Whatever the case, you could find that a lot of the money you have wrapped up in prepaid travel expenses is nonrefundable. If it can be refunded, there may be big fees involved. Trip cancellation insurance provides you with a financial safety net by allowing you to be reimbursed for these expenses when your trip must be canceled for a reason covered by the policy.

What can be covered under trip cancellation insurance for Zanzibar?

Most travel insurance plans can compensate you in cases of trip cancellation for a covered reason. However, there are other benefits available. These can include:

• Flight delay coverage
• Flight insurance
• Trip interruption
• Coverage for loss of baggage or baggage delays
• Repatriation of remains

It's possible to get more flexible coverage that even gives you the option to cancel for any reason. Be sure to do thorough research and choose a policy that fits your needs.

Things to Do for Travelers in Zanzibar

Visit Stone Town

The main city of the island is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Faded colonial buildings, intricately carved doors, and bustling markets will greet you as you walk down its narrow streets. Explore the unique offerings at Forodhani Gardens Food Market. Walk up the Old Fort that houses a gallery and a curio shop. Go tortoise spotting at nearby Prison Island. See the birthplace of Freddie Mercury. When you get weary, go down to the beach and enjoy a lazy sunset over the African horizon.

Go on Sea Adventures

Zanzibar has an amazingly vibrant coral lagoon, teeming with marine life. Book one of the full-day tours and go snorkeling in the ocean. Some tours also offer the exclusive chance of swimming with dolphins. If that is something that excites you, you can book your own dhow or even a private yacht. You can also choose to go scuba diving, surfing, and sailing on the island.

Take a Spice Tour

The island has many spice plantations that you can explore. It is interesting to see the different spices in their native forms. Spice tours often include lunch buffets and free samples of spices. Some tour operators can make things lively with spice-guessing games. You will be given samples that you have to taste and identify the correct spice.

Explore the Beaches

Zanzibar has some stunning beaches that seem to belong in a postcard. Nungwi, Bwejuu, Michambi, and Kendwa are some popular beaches that you can visit. The sea around the island is mostly calm, so you can easily go for a swim in the pristine turquoise water.

Travel Risks for International Travelers in Zanzibar

Although it is one of the safest places to travel in Tanzania, use your common sense to stay safe while on your trip to Zanzibar.

Caring For Valuables

Petty theft is possible. Be careful not to flash expensive valuables in public, and keep your wallet or purse secure at all times.

Know The Culture

The culture in Zanzibar may be different than what you're accustomed to. Drinking alcohol is allowed, but it is expected that you are discreet about it. Modest attire is also appreciated. Avoid wearing shorts, and cover your knees and elbows.

Know The Weather

The weather in Zanzibar is typically warm and humid. Be careful of overexposure to the sun, and use mosquito repellent to prevent bites. It is wise to take antimalarial medication before traveling here.

Watch Your Drink

Watch your food and drink. Tap water is best avoided by tourists, as is food sold by street vendors.

Before You Travel to Zanzibar - Do This

Visiting Zanzibar should be on your travel list, especially if you are already planning to visit East Africa. The archipelago is a haven for experiencing a relaxing vacation. However, proper planning is essential if you wish to have a safe and unique experience.

• Get vaccinated. Talk to your doctor before your trip. Make sure you're current on all applicable vaccinations and boosters, as well as any medication you need to bring along.
• Beach essentials. Don't forget to bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses to protect you from the sun. Pack clothing that's comfortable for the heat, but remember local customs and dress modestly.
• Buy insurance. The right travel medical insurance or travel insurance can go a long way in helping to protect your budget in the event of a medical or travel mishap.

DISCLAIMER: The information within this article is intended as a broad summary of benefits and services and is meant for informational purposes only. The information does not describe all scenarios, coverages or exclusions of any insurance plan. The benefits and services of an insurance plan are subject to change. This is not your policy/certificate of insurance. If there is any discrepancy between the information in this article and the language of your policy/certificate wording, the language of the policy/certificate wording will prevail.

The insurance plans available on this website are not specifically targeted towards the destination mentioned in this article. They can provide coverage while traveling away from home, according to the terms and conditions and geographic restrictions applicable to the specific plan.