- The best travel insurance plans for Zimbabwe
- Is it currently safe to travel to Zimbabwe?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Zimbabwe?
- Why take out travel insurance for Zimbabwe?
- What should travel insurance for Zimbabwe cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Zimbabwe
- How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Zimbabwe?
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Zimbabwe?
- FAQ
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Travel insurance for Zimbabwe: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Zimbabwe covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and other unforeseen travel risks.
2. Warning: The U.S. State Department advises increased caution in Zimbabwe due to crime and civil unrest.
3. Key protection: Travel insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended for access to adequate medical care.
4. Healthcare cost: Private clinics are costly, with hospital stays often exceeding $500 per night for foreigners.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Zimbabwe typically costs between $30 and $60.
6. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes medical evacuation, as local facilities are often limited, especially rurally.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Zimbabwe.
The best travel insurance plans for Zimbabwe
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | High protection for Zimbabwe with extensive medical and evacuation limits. - high maximum reimbursement - repatriation - strong emergency support |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Ideal for US travelers needing continual assistance. - 24/7 helpline - robust cancellation - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $550k | A focused plan for tourism in Zimbabwe. - good core benefits - emergency response - competitive for trip length |
| Travel Pass Monde | $770k | Well-balanced coverage for international trips. - hospital and surgery - wide assistance - repatriation included |
| Globe Partner | $330k | Simplicity for everyday travel with vital guarantees. - essential foreign medical care - fast payment - liability cover |
| Globe Traveller | $550k | Affordable security for shorter Zimbabwe trips. - solid medical ceiling - streamlined claim process - basic repatriation |
- high maximum reimbursement
- repatriation
- strong emergency support
- 24/7 helpline
- robust cancellation
- no deductible
- good core benefits
- emergency response
- competitive for trip length
- hospital and surgery
- wide assistance
- repatriation included
- essential foreign medical care
- fast payment
- liability cover
- solid medical ceiling
- streamlined claim process
- basic repatriation
Is it currently safe to travel to Zimbabwe?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution when visiting Zimbabwe due to persistent security and health risks but does not discourage travel outright.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: opportunistic and violent crime remains prevalent, especially in Harare and during busy events. Tourists are sometimes targeted for theft near transport hubs or at large public gatherings.
- Health risks: malaria, cholera, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and yellow fever are present throughout the country. Medical facilities are generally limited, and hospitalization may require evacuation to South Africa for serious conditions.
- Legal constraints: photographing government buildings is strictly forbidden and can result in arrest or fines. US citizens have reported incidents of official harassment, particularly near political venues or during demonstrations.
- Financial risks: Zimbabwe faces ongoing currency restrictions, and cash shortages are common, with card payments not always accepted outside major hotels. Carry US dollars in small denominations and avoid showing large amounts of cash in public places.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Zimbabwe.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Zimbabwe?
No, travel insurance is not legally mandatory for travelers from the US to enter Zimbabwe.
However, it is strongly recommended due to the limited medical infrastructure and the high risk of diseases such as malaria and cholera. If you require serious medical treatment, medical evacuation to South Africa may be necessary, which can be extremely expensive without insurance.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Zimbabwe. This is mainly because of the costs of emergency care and the overall security and health environment in the country.
Why take out travel insurance for Zimbabwe?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Zimbabwe.
In Zimbabwe, health infrastructure is limited and foreigners frequently use private hospitals such as Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo or Avenues Clinic in Harare, where costs are significantly higher than in public hospitals. In serious cases, medical evacuation to South Africa is often necessary, resulting in very high expenses.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to the US in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Zimbabwe.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Mater Dei Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 4,800 ZWL ($600) | 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 5,600 ZWL ($700) | 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 456,000 ZWL ($57,000) | 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 22,400 ZWL ($2,800) | 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Zimbabwe cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital, doctor, or pharmacy bills in Zimbabwe and nearby countries after illness or accident. For Zimbabwe, we recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation & repatriation | Pays for air ambulance or emergency transport if you need specialized care abroad or must return to the US. Minimum recommended: $200,000. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation & interruption | Reimburses prepaid travel costs if you must cancel or leave early for covered reasons. Recommended: up to $5,000 for cancellation, $5,000 for interruption. |
| 🛄 Baggage & personal items | Covers loss, theft, or damage of luggage and valuables. Recommended limit: $1,500 per insured person. |
| 🤕 Personal accident | Compensation in case of accidental death or permanent disability while traveling. Suggested coverage: $25,000 or more. |
| ⚖️ Personal liability | Covers costs if you accidentally cause injury or property damage to others. Suggested minimum: $100,000. |
| 🦟 Infectious diseases | Includes specific coverage for malaria or cholera-related emergencies. We recommend checking for exclusion clauses and coverage details. |
| 📞 24/7 assistance services | Access to multilingual emergency support, medical referrals, or help with lost documents. Always ensure your insurer provides reliable 24/7 service. |
For Zimbabwe, we recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000.
Minimum recommended: $200,000.
Recommended: up to $5,000 for cancellation, $5,000 for interruption.
Recommended limit: $1,500 per insured person.
Suggested coverage: $25,000 or more.
Suggested minimum: $100,000.
We recommend checking for exclusion clauses and coverage details.
Always ensure your insurer provides reliable 24/7 service.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often limits protections, with modest reimbursement ceilings and many exclusions. For your safety, choose a trusted insurer with full coverage. You can compare the best options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for immediate certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Zimbabwe
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $32 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $56 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $80 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $175 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance is shaped by several key variables: your age, the duration of your trip, your destination, the coverage amount, and any optional add-ons like a cancellation waiver. Keeping these elements in mind is essential to select a policy that fits your needs and budget effectively.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow can you pay less for your travel insurance to Zimbabwe?
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Zimbabwe while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 📝 Level of coverage | Zimbabwe’s health risks and limited facilities mean medical and evacuation coverage are key. | Prioritize emergency medical and evacuation coverage but skip expensive extras if they are unnecessary for your trip. |
| 💉 Medical conditions | Pre-existing conditions may increase premiums or be excluded, so be clear about what is covered. | Declare medical history accurately and compare offers from insurers with more inclusive policies for chronic conditions. |
| 🗓️ Duration of trip | The length of stay directly affects premium cost. Too many extra days will increase the price. | Buy coverage only for the days you are abroad and do not add extra time before or after your trip unless needed. |
| 🌍 Area of coverage | Some insurers sell “worldwide” coverage, which costs more than “Africa only” or regional coverage. | Select an Africa-specific plan to reduce your premium if your itinerary covers only Zimbabwe or nearby countries. |
| 🎒 Baggage coverage | Theft risk exists, especially in cities, but covering only valuables you need lowers costs. | Opt for basic baggage protection and insure only valuable electronics, jewelry, or high-cost equipment if you truly require it. |
| 👨👧👦 Number of travelers | Insuring multiple people on a group plan will often lower the per-person premium overall. | Get a group or family policy and compare the cost per person versus individual plans before booking. |
| 👴 Traveller's age | Premiums typically rise for older travelers, except with Heymondo, which keeps prices steady after 62. | Request age-based quotes and check if Heymondo’s policy with no price increase after 62 applies to your situation. |
Important
Travel insurance for Zimbabwe should always include medical, emergency evacuation, and personal liability coverage. Carefully compare coverage details and select the plan that is suitable for Zimbabwe’s specific risks.
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Zimbabwe?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your current coverage, such as credit card insurance or private and public health insurance, can protect you while traveling in Zimbabwe. Unfortunately, these insurances are often limited or insufficient for this kind of trip.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Zimbabwe? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage overseas. No emergency medical or evacuation support. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ in medical care and emergency evacuation. |
| Private health insurance (UnitedHealthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield) | Yes, partly | Sometimes urgent care overseas; rarely includes evacuation. Coverage often capped at $25,000. | Travel insurance covers medical costs up to $500,000 and includes repatriation and 24/7 support. |
| Classic credit card (Chase Freedom, Citi Double Cash, Wells Fargo Active Cash) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical up to $5,000. No repatriation, trip cancellation or baggage protection. | Travel insurance covers trip cancellation, lost luggage, and up to $100,000 in medical costs. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X) | Yes, partly | Medical up to $50,000-$100,000. Limited baggage and trip delay coverage. No unrestricted evacuation. | Travel insurance offers full evacuation, hospital cash benefits, and higher personal liability protection. |
Example
During a safari in Zimbabwe, Mark contracted severe malaria. An emergency air evacuation to a private clinic in Harare cost $20,000. His US health plan didn't cover international medevac, and his Visa Gold card's travel insurance only paid $1,500, leaving him with an unexpected $18,500 bill for essential care.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Zimbabwe?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Zimbabwe. You can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport or border, or apply in advance. Single-entry visas cost $30 USD, double-entry is $45 USD, and a 12-month multiple-entry visa costs $160 USD. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Zimbabwe?
Start by comparing different travel insurance options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the cover, focusing on key protections for Zimbabwe, like medical evacuation, as well as important exclusions. Choose and buy your policy online. You will then receive your insurance certificate by email, which you should keep for your trip.
Are there any health precautions I should take before visiting Zimbabwe?
It is strongly recommended to take malaria prevention medication before traveling, especially if you are visiting rural or lowland areas. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and cholera may also be advised. Always consult your primary care provider or a travel health clinic well in advance.
Is emergency medical evacuation included in most policies for Zimbabwe?
Most comprehensive travel insurance plans for Zimbabwe include emergency medical evacuation. This is crucial, as local medical facilities are often inadequate for serious conditions. Check the maximum coverage amount, which usually ranges between $100,000 and $250,000 USD, and review specific conditions and exclusions.
What should I do if I need medical care while in Zimbabwe?
If you need medical care, contact your insurer’s emergency assistance number right away. They can direct you to an appropriate facility, coordinate payment, or arrange evacuation if needed. Keep receipts and reports from local clinics, as these are necessary for reimbursement or claims upon your return to the United States.
Do I need a visa to travel to Zimbabwe?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Zimbabwe. You can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport or border, or apply in advance. Single-entry visas cost $30 USD, double-entry is $45 USD, and a 12-month multiple-entry visa costs $160 USD. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Zimbabwe?
Start by comparing different travel insurance options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the cover, focusing on key protections for Zimbabwe, like medical evacuation, as well as important exclusions. Choose and buy your policy online. You will then receive your insurance certificate by email, which you should keep for your trip.
Are there any health precautions I should take before visiting Zimbabwe?
It is strongly recommended to take malaria prevention medication before traveling, especially if you are visiting rural or lowland areas. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and cholera may also be advised. Always consult your primary care provider or a travel health clinic well in advance.
Is emergency medical evacuation included in most policies for Zimbabwe?
Most comprehensive travel insurance plans for Zimbabwe include emergency medical evacuation. This is crucial, as local medical facilities are often inadequate for serious conditions. Check the maximum coverage amount, which usually ranges between $100,000 and $250,000 USD, and review specific conditions and exclusions.
What should I do if I need medical care while in Zimbabwe?
If you need medical care, contact your insurer’s emergency assistance number right away. They can direct you to an appropriate facility, coordinate payment, or arrange evacuation if needed. Keep receipts and reports from local clinics, as these are necessary for reimbursement or claims upon your return to the United States.
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