Travel insurance for South Africa
What UK Travellers Need to Know About Safety in South Africa
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As featured in:
- Why Should British Travellers Consider Travel Insurance for South Africa?
- Air Doctor: When You Need a Doctor, But Not a Hospital
- Annual Multi-Trip (AMT) Policy
- What’s not covered?
- 5 Key Safety & Travel Tips for UK Travellers in South Africa
From tracking lions on safari to hiking Table Mountain sipping world-class wines, to shark cage diving in Gansbaai, South Africa is as wild as it is breathtaking. It’s a country that demands exploration, where adventure is always just around the corner - but so too are risks.
Whether you are road-tripping the Garden Route, surfing in Jeffreys Bay, or navigating the lively streets of Cape Town, World Nomads has travel insurance designed for the way you roam.
Why Should British Travellers Consider Travel Insurance for South Africa?
While South Africa is stunning, it’s not the place to wing it without cover. Whether it’s a medical emergency, stolen personal items, or a last-minute trip cancellation, travel insurance could help you avoid those unexpected costs and unnecessary stress.
Our Standard and Explorer plans can offer cover (up to the policy limits) for:
- Family coverage: Traveling with your crew? Our plans (both Single and Annual Multi-Trip) can cover two adults and up to six dependents under one policy (provided dependents are under 18 at the time of policy purchase).
- Medical emergencies: A bad fall on Table Mountain or a stomach bug from that questionable roadside braai? Our travel insurance for overseas medical could cover you for up to £5,000,000 (Standard Plan) or £10,000,000 (Explorer Plan), including overseas medical treatment, hospital stays, and prescribed medication. And our Emergency Medical Assistance Team is available 24/7 to help with medical emergencies,
- Evacuation & repatriation: If the worst happens and you need medical evacuation or repatriation back to the UK, we may cover the costs.
- Lost, delayed, or stolen baggage: Whether it’s a pickpocket in Cape Town or a baggage mishap at Heathrow, we may help replace the essentials (think socks, jocks, and a brush for the ole’ teeth).
- Trip interruption & cancellation: Flights get delayed. Plans change. A last-minute emergency back home in the UK forces you to cut your trip short. We cover trip interruptions and cancellations for specific insured events, so you’re not left out of pocket.
- Adventure activities: Whether you’re cage diving with great whites in Gansbaai or bungee jumping off Bloukrans Bridge, our policies cover over 150 adventure sports and activities - so you can chase the thrills without worrying about the fine print.
Dive into your policy details for the full scoop, and if anything's unclear, contact us.
Air Doctor: When You Need a Doctor, But Not a Hospital
A mild case of food poisoning from a dodgy Durban curry? A run-in with some unfiltered tap water in Johannesburg? Not every medical issue warrants a hospital visit, and that’s where Air Doctor comes in.
With Air Doctor, British travellers can connect with a doctor virtually or find one nearby, so you don’t have to stress about navigating South Africa’s mix of public and private healthcare systems. Whether you need a quick consult, a prescription refill, or minor treatment, Air Doctor helps you get sorted quickly so you can get back to your adventure - minus the downtime.
Ready to explore the wild plains of Africa? Grab your travel insurance quote here.
Annual Multi-Trip (AMT) Policy
If you’re a Brit with a serious case of wanderlust, our Annual Multi-Trip (AMT) policy is designed to keep up. Whether you’re hopping to Spain for a weekend, jetting off to South Africa for a safari, or chasing winter sun in Thailand, AMT covers your baggage, medical emergencies, and trip disruptions across multiple trips - without the hassle of buying a new policy every time you travel.
A Single Trip policy might be better if you’re sticking around South Africa for a longer stretch. Not sure which suits you best? Compare Annual Multi-Trip vs Single Trip Travel Insurance.
What’s not covered?
While World Nomads travel insurance has your back for many unexpected mishaps, there are limits. Here’s what isn’t covered, so you know before you go:
- Unattended valuables: Left your phone on a café table in Cape Town or your backpack unlocked at a hostel? If your valuables go missing while unattended, they won’t be covered.
- Reckless behaviour: Had one too many Castle Lagers and got into trouble? Alcohol - or drug-related incidents aren’t covered - so keep it responsible.
- Extreme adventure activities: Shark cage diving? Covered. BASE jumping off Table Mountain? Not so much. If you have the incorrect level of activity cover or it is specifically excluded, it's out of bounds.
- Ignoring medical advice: If your doctor (or our Emergency Medical Assistance Team) tells you to take it easy, but you ignore them and make things worse, that’s on you.
- Cold feet: Changing your mind about travelling isn’t a covered event - so make sure you're set on your South Africa plans before you book!
5 Key Safety & Travel Tips for UK Travellers in South Africa
- Stay street-smart in cities: Petty crime is common, especially in Cape Town and Johannesburg. Avoid flashing valuables, use ATMs inside banks or malls, and take Uber or Bolt instead of street taxis - especially at night.
- Keep your car doors locked: Whether self-driving or in a taxi, keep windows up and doors locked, particularly at traffic lights. Carjackings can happen, so stay alert and avoid stopping in isolated areas.
- Tap water? It depends. It’s generally safe in major cities but stick to bottled or filtered water in rural areas. Avoid ice cubes in smaller towns and be mindful when brushing your teeth.
- Don’t be that tourist: Self-driving through Kruger? Stay in your vehicle when on safari tours. Tempted to feed a monkey for a photo? Don’t - those little guy’s bite. Wildlife is unpredictable, and you’re in their territory.
- Know the common scams: Watch out for fake "helpful locals" at ATMs, taxi drivers claiming your hotel is “fully booked,” and overpriced souvenir shops where guides get a kickback. Trust your instincts and book activities through reputable sources.
Look for more South Africa inspiration? We’ve written a heap of articles on this awe-inspiring destination!
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Been made redundant?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Luggage lost?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel insurance when cycling
Take life by the handlebars and check out World Nomads travel insurance plans when cycling on your next overseas adventure.
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Ready to swap the UK drizzle for sunnier cycles abroad? Whether you dream of dodging sheep in New Zealand's trails or weaving through Tuscany's vineyards, consider packing World Nomads travel insurance with your helmet. It could be your backup plan for when those quaint cobbled streets throw a spoke in your wheel, covering everything from scrapped knees to swiped gear. Gear up, get insured, and go!
- How you may benefit from World Nomads travel insurance cover
- What's covered for cycling?
- Know where you’re going and what to do if the unexpected happens
- What's not covered
- Frequently asked questions
How you may benefit from World Nomads travel insurance cover
Hitting the road on two wheels is exhilarating, but every turn brings the unknown – especially abroad. While cycling lets you connect with landscapes and cultures intimately, it also exposes you to risks not present back home. From navigating unfamiliar traffic rules and road conditions to potential mishaps like a fall or a collision with a vehicle, the physical risks are real. And then there's theft – bicycles are a popular target.
When choosing World Nomads products, you’ll have access to two simple and flexible plans – Standard and Explorer. We offer cover (up to the policy limits) for:
- Baggage & Gear protection: With our travel insurance, whether it’s the Standard or Explorer plan, you're protected. If your baggage is delayed for more than 24 hours, we cover the cost of essential items. And if your prized cycling gear is lost or stolen, we’re here to help cover replacement costs. For high-value gear, consider upgrading for coverage up to £750 per item on the Explorer Plan and £400 per item on the Standard Plan, with maximum upgrade limits of £2,250 and £1,200 respectively.
- Emergency overseas medical: cycling through the Alps and taking in the fresh air can be great for the body and the mind, but not if it ends up in a bad injury. Emergency medical coverage will come in handy in the case of an accident, illness or injury.
- Evacuation: your cycling route may be far away from medical facilities. With our cover, you can get transported to the medical facility best for your care, subject to approval from World Nomads. Note, there is no cover for search and rescue expenses.
- Trip disruption: has a sick or injured travelling companion put a stop to your cycling abroad? You may be able to recover your unused, prepaid travel expenses.
- 24-hour emergency medical assistance: if you find yourself in need of urgent medical help, it’s not always easy to find help. World Nomads provides 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance.
Traveller tip: always carry enough water, especially in hot climates, and use sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against sunburn and glare.
What’s covered for cycling?
Under both of World Nomads plans – Standard and Explorer – you may be automatically covered. However you may need to upgrade and pay an additional premium depending on the type of cycling activity you'll be doing. United Kingdom travellers could be covered for the following cycling activities:
- Cycling (incidental to the trip): level 1 activity
- Cycling (on an organised tour): Level 2 activity – upgrade required
- Cycling (independent cycle touring): level 3 activity - upgrade required
Note: all our plans are different and may require an upgrade to include cycling at certain altitude. In some instances, you must be with a professional, qualified and licensed cycling guide, instructor or operator. Terms and conditions, limits and exclusions, apply. Read your policy wording carefully to choose the right plan and cycling option for your trip.
For more information on cycling and mountain biking coverage check out our Help Centre article, ‘Am I covered if I'm cycling or mountain biking?’ in the Help Centre which explains what you need to know to be adequately covered. Choose your “for European residents” and you’ll access the most up to date information.
Traveller tip: keep your essential documents (passport, travel insurance details, and emergency contacts) secure in a waterproof pouch.
Know where you’re going and what to do if the unexpected happens
Before you hit the road with your bike, helmet and gear, it pays to arm yourself with these cycling tips for a safer trip:
- Include all countries you’re visiting or traveling through on your policy: as well as all the adventure activities you’re planning to do or participate in. With World Nomads you’ll have a choice of more than 150+ activities, sports and experiences to choose from.
- Check you have all your paperwork: you’ll need to have all the appropriate paperwork, these may include any required vaccinations, visitor permits if you plan to visit any national parks, and special tourist visas for the countries you’ll be visiting,
- Be responsible when choosing a cycling destination or activity: does the cycling tour your planning suit your experience level? Are there any travel or weather alerts for your destination? Have you got a ‘fit for travel’ thumbs up from your doctor to take on the mountains and specific altitudes? Do you need to use an accredited tour provider or operator? Can our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance Team reach you if you get into trouble?
- Wear a helmet and visible clothing: this should be a no brainer, but it’s still worth mentioning, as in many countries around the world, the locals don’t wear helmets when cycling. Another no brainer is if you’re planning to ride at night, you should have high vis clothing on yourself, your bike, or both to make sure other riders and vehicles see you.
- Proof of purchase: remember that any claim you make will need supporting documentation such as receipts of your purchases. Keep these with you in printed or digital form if you intend to make a claim.
Travel insurance tip: World Nomads provides travel insurance for more than 150+ activities, sports and experiences. While this list might seem exhaustive, it doesn’t cover everything. That’s why you shouldn’t take for granted that your preferred activities will be covered. You can’t upgrade your level of cover mid-way through your holiday, so do consider this wisely.
What's not covered?
Some things we may not cover include:
- Costs incurred if you refuse to be repatriated after being declared medically unfit to continue your trip.
- Costs incurred if you ignore the advice of your doctor or our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance Team.
- Damage to any sporting equipment while in use; loss, damage or theft of any sporting equipment left unattended.
- Pre-existing medical conditions.
- Expenses that can be recovered from another source, e.g., transport carriers or accommodation providers
- Unattended baggage or personal items
- Participating or training in activity or sport at a professional level
- Any search or rescue operations as explained in the policy wording
- Misuse or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Fraudulent or criminal acts.
This is only a summary of cover and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your policy wording in full, so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
Traveller tip: keep a list of local emergency contacts, including medical facilities and the local police, on your person when cycling – just in case.
True Claims Stories
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Been made redundant?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Luggage lost?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Tech trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance for cycling. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
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How do I claim if my bike or cycling gear is stolen while travelling?
While our policies excludes cover for bicycles, if your cycling equipment is stolen, making an online claim is simple. This article will take you through all the necessary steps (including documentation and timelines).
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Can I upgrade my cycling coverage mid-trip?
Good news is, if you already have World Nomads travel insurance, all our plans cover incidental cycling adventures (T&Cs apply). However, if you’re planning some independent cycling touring, you will need to plan and purchase an appropriate activity cover and pay an additional premium from the beginning, as you cannot upgrade mid-trip.
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What should I do if I need emergency medical assistance while cycling abroad?
Contact our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance Team straight away, and they’ll help get you sorted.
