Planning a trip to Tanzania? Here’s an important travel update you should know before arriving.
Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the Serengeti, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, discovering the culture of Dar es Salaam, or relaxing on Zanzibar’s beautiful beaches, understanding Tanzania’s mandatory travel insurance requirements is now an important part of planning your journey.
As of October 1, 2026, Mainland Tanzania officially introduced mandatory inbound travel insurance for eligible foreign visitors. Zanzibar already had a similar requirement in place since October 1, 2024.
However, the two insurance programs are not exactly the same.
1. Zanzibar and Mainland Tanzania Have Different Insurance Providers
Although Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania, the two destinations operate separate mandatory inbound travel insurance programs.
Zanzibar: Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC)
Zanzibar introduced its mandatory inbound travel insurance requirement on October 1, 2024. Eligible foreign visitors entering through Zanzibar must obtain their coverage from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation.
Official website: https://inbound.visitzanzibar.go.tz
Mainland Tanzania: National Insurance Corporation (NIC)
Beginning October 1, 2026, eligible foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania must obtain mandatory inbound travel insurance through the National Insurance Corporation.
Official website: https://inbound.nicinsurance.co.tz
Both programs provide insurance coverage for eligible travelers, but the appropriate provider depends on where visitors first enter Tanzania.
2. How Much Does Mandatory Travel Insurance Cost?
The standard insurance premium is $44 USD per adult.
Coverage is valid for up to 92 days, subject to the applicable policy terms and conditions.
The mandatory insurance includes protection for certain travel-related emergencies, including medical emergencies, evacuation, repatriation, and specified baggage-related incidents.
Travelers should review the full policy documents to understand the benefits, coverage limits, and exclusions.
3. Do You Need Two Insurance Policies When Visiting Zanzibar and Mainland Tanzania?
No, not generally!
This is one of the most important clarifications for travelers planning to visit both destinations.
According to guidance issued by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation on October 7, 2026, travelers are not required to purchase two mandatory inbound travel insurance policies simply because their itinerary includes both Zanzibar and Mainland Tanzania.
For example:
Scenario 1: Serengeti Safari Followed by Zanzibar
Imagine arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, enjoying a safari in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, and then flying to Zanzibar for a beach holiday.
Because your first point of entry was Mainland Tanzania, you should obtain the mandatory insurance through NIC.
You generally do not need to purchase another mandatory policy when traveling onward to Zanzibar, provided your original policy remains valid and applicable.
Scenario 2: Zanzibar Holiday Followed by a Mainland Safari
Now imagine arriving directly in Zanzibar, spending several days enjoying the beaches, and then traveling to Mainland Tanzania for a safari.
Because Zanzibar was your first point of entry, you should obtain your insurance through ZIC.
Your valid and applicable ZIC policy can continue to cover your journey when traveling onward to Mainland Tanzania, subject to its terms and conditions.
The important takeaway is that your first point of entry determines which mandatory insurance provider you should use.
4. Does Regular Travel Insurance Replace the Mandatory Policy?
Travelers who already have private travel insurance or international medical coverage should not assume that their existing policy satisfies Tanzania’s mandatory inbound insurance requirement.
The government-mandated policy is a separate entry requirement for travelers to whom it applies.
Private insurance may still provide valuable additional benefits, particularly for activities or circumstances that are not fully covered by the mandatory policy.
Always review your coverage before traveling.
5. Are Any Travelers Exempt?
Yes. Certain travelers may qualify for exemptions.
For Mainland Tanzania, qualifying travelers from East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries are exempt under the applicable rules.
However, an exemption from Mainland Tanzania’s requirement does not automatically mean that a traveler is exempt from Zanzibar’s separate insurance requirement.
Travelers should verify their eligibility with the appropriate insurance provider before departure.
6. What Should You Do Before Traveling?
Before departing for Tanzania, we recommend checking the latest insurance requirements based on your nationality, residency, and travel itinerary.
Identify your first point of entry, purchase the appropriate mandatory policy through the official website, and retain your insurance certificate and QR code.
Keep an electronic copy on your phone and consider carrying a printed copy in case you experience connectivity issues during your journey.
Purchasing insurance before departure can also help avoid unnecessary delays during arrival procedures.
7. Explore Tanzania With Butiama & Beyond
At Butiama & Beyond, we believe that an unforgettable travel experience begins long before you board your flight.
From planning your safari to selecting beautiful accommodations and arranging cultural experiences, our goal is to help you discover Tanzania with confidence.
Whether you’re interested in the wildlife of the Serengeti, the breathtaking landscapes of Ngorongoro, the beaches of Zanzibar, or the rich cultural heritage of Butiama, we’re here to help bring your adventure to life.
Ready to experience Tanzania?
Explore our safari adventures, Zanzibar escapes, and cultural experiences at:
We also offer flexible payment options through Affirm for eligible bookings, making it easier to plan your next adventure.
Travel informed. Travel confidently. Discover Tanzania with Butiama & Beyond.
Disclaimer: Travel insurance requirements, exemptions, and policy conditions may change. Travelers should confirm current requirements with NIC, ZIC, or the relevant Tanzanian authorities before departure.