Tanzania and Kenya Introduce Mandatory Travel Insurance for Visitors

Travelers heading to Tanzania and Kenya must now purchase mandatory government-provided travel insurance, a policy that experts describe as a "moneymaking exercise." This requirement follows a similar initiative introduced in Zanzibar in 2024.

The new insurance for mainland Tanzania is priced at $44 per person and covers emergency medical expenses, repatriation, evacuation, and loss of luggage. Kenya's policy, which became effective on October 5, 2026, offers $20,000 for medical expenses and $25,000 for emergency medical transportation and evacuation. It also covers repatriation of mortal remains up to $5,000, treatment for mental illness up to $1,000, and prescribed medicines up to $300.

Simon Calder, a travel expert, expressed skepticism about the adequacy of the coverage provided by these government plans, noting that his own travel insurance policy offers significantly higher medical cover. He suggested the mandatory insurance is "dressed up as something else" and is likely a revenue-generating measure.

Both Tanzania and Kenya's governments state that this insurance is compulsory, even for individuals who already possess their own travel insurance. The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice to reflect these changes.

For Tanzania, the insurance is valid for the duration of the stay, up to 92 days, and can be purchased online or upon arrival at ports of entry. In Kenya, the insurance is required as part of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) application process for stays under 12 months. Those who already have an eTA must obtain the insurance through the Kenyan eCitizen insurance portal. This policy is valid for 90 days and permits multiple entries.

Hundreds of thousands of British holidaymakers visit these popular safari destinations annually, and they will now need to factor in this additional cost when planning their trips. The Daily Mail has contacted the tourism boards of Tanzania and Kenya for comment.