Travel Insurance for Safari Tours
Heading out to search for the Big 5? In addition to the perfect binoculars, you may also want to consider travel insurance for your next safari adventure.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
- Should I consider travel insurance for a safari?
- Does travel insurance cover other adventure activities I might participate in during my trip?
- What else is covered by travel insurance?
- What are some things trip insurance would not cover?
- Tips for preparing for your safari adventure
Some people like to go wild when they are traveling, and some people like to go into the wild. If your version of wild involves searching for the Big 5 in the Serengeti or Maasai Mara, you’re our kind of person.
Just imagine-you’re bouncing around in your rugged 4x4 jeep as you trek through Kruger National Park in South Africa. Will today be the day you see a herd of elephants crossing the Sabie River or a lioness out on a hunt with her cub?
You’re then quickly shaken from your daydream by a loud thud on the hood of your jeep. You make eye contact with a leopard before he leaps off and runs into the bush. It’s a memory that you’ll be bragging about for years to come. However, in that moment, all the “what-ifs” also come to mind... should you have considered a travel insurance plan with adventure sports cover?
Should I consider adventure travel insurance for a safari?
There is such an allure of seeing wild animals in their natural habitat, but you have to remember - these majestic creatures can sometimes have erratic behavior. If you’re on a safari with an experienced guide, the chances of something happening are minimal. When you’re dealing with wildlife though, anything can happen.
You’ve surely heard about the rare incidents of people being ambushed by a hippo or trampled by an elephant. If you get injured, you’re going to need immediate medical care. Travel insurance could help reimburse you for expenses like x-rays, prescription medications, a hospital stay, or other emergency medical needs you may have if you get hurt on your safari.
Does travel insurance cover other adventure activities I might participate in during my trip?
You may be going to Zambia on a mission to see zebras roaming freely at Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, but you may also decide to hike the Boiling Pot trail near Victoria Falls or go whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River while you are there.
World Nomads offers adventure travel insurance that covers more than 150 activities. When you get a quote, you can select your country of residence, and easily compare our Standard and Explorer plans side by side. The Explorer plan has higher limits and sub-limits of coverage, and for some countries of residence, it includes additional covered activities. Depending on your country of residence, you may need to add activities to your policy when you purchase it. Check out both plan options, because only you can decide the best travel insurance for your needs.
If you aren’t sure if something is covered, contact our customer service team and they can help explain what each policy includes.
What else is covered by travel insurance?
In addition to emergency medical cover, international travel insurance could help with several other unexpected situations you may encounter on your safari. Depending on your country of residence, World Nomads may also offer cover for:
- Baggage and Gear: If the airline lost the bag that held your binoculars, baggage insurance may help reimburse the cost to replace them if your bag was lost by a common carrier.
- Trip Interruption and Cancellation Insurance: If your travel buddy gets severe food poisoning from something he ate, it may put a screeching halt to your plans. If something unexpected happens and you need to cancel or interrupt your trip, you may be able to recover your unused, prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses.
- Evacuation: If you’re going on a safari, there’s a good chance you may be in a remote destination where there aren't nearby medical facilities. If something happens and you need to get immediate medical care, the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team could help get you transported to a place that offers the level of care you need.
What are some things trip insurance would not cover?
If you have too many glasses of South African wine at lunch and then try to sneak up to a sleeping lion to grab a selfie, you won’t be covered if that goes terribly wrong. Travel insurance won’t cover you if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol while you are on your safari. It’s also important that you follow the guidance of your safari guide at all times and view wild animals from a safe distance. Some other things that are not covered include:
- Any pre-existing medical condition(s) as explained in the policy wording
- Wandering from camp on your own, leaving your guide and common sense behind
- Not following government ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings issued prior to departure
- Participation in other activities not listed as covered in your policy
Tips for preparing for your safari adventure
One thing our team at World Nomads definitely recommends is making sure your camera stays fully charged at all times. You never know what you may see at any given moment. It’s also a really good idea to bring an extra camera battery along. Trust us on this one-you don’t want to miss the money shot!
It’s also important to stay safe on your safari adventure because you don’t want it to get cut short. Here are a few of our tips:
- Do your research and book with an accredited tour operator.
- Follow your guide’s instructions at all times and view wildlife from a safe distance.
- Wear boots and socks when walking around in the bush.
- Talk to your doctor to see if prescription antimalarial medication is recommended. Depending on the medication, you may need to start this prior to your trip.
- Check with your country’s government health department to see if they have issued any health advisories for your destination.
- Don’t be afraid to ask if the water is safe to drink when you are in remote locations.
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
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?
- 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)
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 for Safari Tours I World Nomads
Heading out to search for the Big 5? In addition to the perfect binoculars, you may also want to consider travel insurance for your next safari adventure.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
- Should I consider travel insurance for a safari?
- Does travel insurance cover other adventure activities I might participate in during my trip?
- What else is covered by travel insurance?
- What are some things trip insurance would not cover?
- Tips for preparing for your safari adventure
Some people like to go wild when they travel and some people like to go into the wild. If your version of wild involves searching for the Big 5 in the Serengeti or Maasai Mara, you’re our kind of person.
Just imagine-you’re bouncing around in your rugged 4x4 jeep as you trek through Kruger National Park in South Africa. Will today be the day you see a herd of elephants crossing the Sabie River or a lioness out on a hunt with her cub?
You’re then quickly shaken from your daydream by a loud thud on the hood of your jeep. You make eye contact with a leopard before he leaps off and runs into the bush. It’s a memory that you’ll be bragging about for years to come. However, it is also at that moment where you realize just how unpredictable wildlife can be.
You also start to think about all of the what-ifs and wonder if you should have considered a travel insurance plan with adventure sports coverage.
Should I consider adventure travel insurance for a safari?
There is such an allure of seeing wild animals in their natural habitat, but you have to remember - these majestic creatures can sometimes have erratic behavior. If you’re on a safari with an experienced guide, the chances of something happening are minimal. When you’re dealing with wildlife though, anything can happen.
You’ve surely heard about the rare incidents of people being ambushed by a hippo or trampled by an elephant. If you get injured, your health insurance may not always cover you when you are traveling to destinations outside of your network or plan. However, travel insurance could help reimburse you for expenses like x-rays, prescription medications, a hospital stay, or other emergency medical needs you may have if you get hurt on your safari. You will still need to have Government Health Insurance Plan (GHIP) coverage in your home province while you are on your trip though. If you don’t, your total limit for all emergency medical expenses during your trip is limited to CAD $40,000.
Does travel insurance cover other adventure activities I might participate in during my trip?
You may want to go to Zambia on a mission to see zebras roaming freely at Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, but you may also decide to hike the Boiling Pot trail near Victoria Falls or go whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River while you are there.
World Nomads covers more than 250 activities for Canadian residents. When you get a quote, you can check out our Standard and Explorer plans to compare coverage side by side and decide on the best travel insurance coverage for your needs.
You will need to list all of the activities that you plan to participate in while on your trip at the time that you purchase your policy. You won’t be able to add or remove activities after you make your purchase, so make sure you add them all at that time.
Level 1 activities like safari tours and whitewater rafting (grades 1-5) are automatically covered, but these will still need to be listed when you purchase your policy. However, you will need to pay an additional premium to be covered for Level 2 and Level 3 activities like bouldering and hang gliding. Special conditions may also apply. If you are planning on participating in an activity that isn’t listed in our policy wording, you will need to contact us to determine if you will be covered.
What else is covered by travel insurance?
In addition to emergency medical coverage, international travel insurance may help with several other unexpected emergency situations you may encounter on your trip. For Canadian residents, World Nomads may also offer coverage for:
- Baggage and Gear: If the airline lost the bag that held your binoculars, baggage insurance may help reimburse the cost to replace them if your bag is lost by a common carrier. If your baggage going to your destination is delayed by an airline or ground carrier for 12 hours or more, you may also be reimbursed for things like toiletries or a change of clothes until you are reunited with your bag. Check the policy wording for complete details of coverage, conditions, and exclusions.
- Trip Interruption and Cancellation Insurance: If your travel buddy gets severe food poisoning from something he ate, it may put a screeching halt to your plans. If something unexpected happens and you need to cancel or interrupt your trip, you may be able to recover your unused, prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses. Check the policy wording for a full list of the cover risks.
- Evacuation: If you’re going on a safari, there’s a good chance you may be in a remote destination where there aren't nearby medical facilities. If something happens and you need to get immediate medical care, the World Nomads 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team could help get you transported to a place that offers the level of care you need.
What are some things trip insurance would not cover?
If you have too many glasses of South African wine at lunch and then try to sneak up to a sleeping lion to grab a selfie, you won’t be covered if that goes terribly wrong. Travel insurance won’t cover you if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol while you are on your safari. It’s also important that you follow the guidance of your safari guide at all times and view wild animals from a safe distance. Some other things that are not covered include:
- Any pre-existing medical condition(s) as explained in the policy wording
- Ignoring your doctor if they have blatantly told you not to travel to a particular destination or go on a safari-and you go anyway
- Not following government ‘Do Not Travel’ advisories
- Participation in activities not listed as covered in your policy
- Handling of big game or dangerous animals
Tips for preparing for your safari adventure
One thing our team at World Nomads definitely recommends is making sure your camera stays fully charged at all times. You never know what you may see at any given moment. It’s also a really good idea to bring an extra camera battery along. Trust us on this one-you don’t want to miss the money shot!
It’s also important to stay safe on your safari adventure because you don’t want it to get cut short. Here are a few of our tips:
- Do your research and book with an accredited tour operator.
- Follow your guide’s instructions at all times and view wildlife from a safe distance.
- Wear boots and socks when walking around in the bush.
- Don’t be afraid to ask if the water is safe to drink when you are in remote locations.
- Talk to your doctor to see if prescription antimalarial medication or other vaccinations are recommended. Depending on the medication, you may need to start this prior to your trip.
- Check with the Public Health Agency of Canada to see if they have issued any travel health notices for your destination.
- Register with Canadians Abroad to stay updated on emergency situations.
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms and conditions of the policy. It is important you read and understand your policy as it contains benefits, conditions, exclusions and pre-existing condition exclusions. If you do not understand your coverage, or if you have questions, just ask us.
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
- Default text
- Default text
- Default text
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
- Default text
- Default text
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
- Default text
- Default text
- Default text
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Default text
- Default text
- Default text
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 for Safari Tours
Explore how travel insurance can support Americans on a safari.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
For information relating to policies purchased prior to October 23 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For plans purchased after October 23 2024, please see below.
- Should I consider travel insurance for a safari?
- What other activities does travel insurance cover?
- What else is covered by travel insurance?
- What are some things trip insurance would not cover?
- Tips for preparing for your safari adventure
Some people like to go wild when they are traveling, and some people like to go into the wild. If your version of wild involves searching for the Big 5 in the Serengeti or Maasai Mara, you’re our kind of person.
Imagine bouncing around in your rugged 4x4 jeep as you trek through Kruger National Park in South Africa… Will today be the day you see a herd of elephants crossing the Sabie River or a lioness out on a hunt with her cub?
You’re then quickly shaken from your daydream by a loud thud on the hood of your jeep. You make eye contact with a leopard before he leaps off and runs into the bush. It’s a memory that you’ll be bragging about for years to come.
It’s also that moment where you realize just how unpredictable wildlife can be and wonder if you have a travel insurance* plan that covers safaris.
Should I consider adventure travel insurance for a safari?
There is such an allure of seeing wild animals in their natural habitat, but you have to remember - these majestic creatures can sometimes display erratic behavior. If you’re on a safari with an experienced guide, the chances of something happening are minimal. When you’re dealing with wildlife though, anything can happen.
There are rare incidents of being ambushed by a hippo or trampled by an elephant.
If you get injured, your health insurance may not always cover you in destinations outside of your network or plan. However, World Nomads travel insurance may help reimburse you for expenses like x-rays, medications, a hospital stay, or other emergency medical needs you may have if you get hurt on your safari.
What other activities does travel insurance cover?
While in Zambia on a mission to see zebras roaming freely at Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, you may also decide to hike the Boiling Pot trail near Victoria Falls or go whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River.
World Nomads offers adventure travel insurance that covers more than 250 activities for US residents, covering you for more adventures, such as hiking, biking and whitewater rafting.
We offer four plans – Standard, Explorer, Epic and Annual – each with different levels of coverage. When you get a quote, you can compare the plans, which offer coverage up to 180 days per single trip. And if you plan to take numerous trips during the year, the Annual Travel Insurance Plan could be best for you; it offers protection for 12 months but with a maximum individual trip length of 45 days.
Terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions apply. Read the insurance plan documents carefully to choose the right plan for your safari adventure. If you have any questions, just ask us.
What else is covered by travel insurance?
In addition to emergency medical coverage, travel insurance for safaris may help with several other unexpected emergency situations you may encounter. For US residents, World Nomads may also offer coverage for:
- Baggage and Gear: If you checked baggage carrying your safari gear and it gets lost or damaged, or stolen after your arrival, you may get reimbursed for its current value (which factors in depreciation) or the cost of replacement, up to a per item and total maximum limit. You must report the loss as soon as possible to the carrier and ensure you get an official report in writing. If the airline delays your baggage, our non-insurance service Blue Ribbon Bags will track and expedite its return. Simply report your lost airline bags and Blue Ribbon Bags will take it from there.
- Trip Interruption and Cancellation Insurance: If your trip is cancelled, interrupted, or delayed due to an unforeseen event like an illness or injury, you may be able to recover your nonrefundable, prepaid travel expenses through our trip cancellation, trip interruption or trip delay coverage.
- Evacuation: If you’re going on a safari, there’s a good chance you may be in a remote destination where there aren't nearby medical facilities. If something happens and you need immediate medical care, the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team could help get you transported to a place that offers the level of care you need.
- Cancel for any reason: If you’re concerned about a scenario not covered here, you may want to consider the optional ‘cancel-for-any-reason' benefit. If you have an Explorer or Epic plan, by adding this benefit (for an additional charge), you can cancel your trip for any reason. You must purchase your plan within the time sensitive period of 7 days.
What are some things trip insurance would not cover?
If you have too many glasses of South African wine at lunch and then try to sneak up to a sleeping lion to grab a selfie, you won’t be covered if that goes terribly wrong. Travel insurance won’t cover you if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol while you are on your safari. It’s also important that you follow the guidance of your safari guide at all times and view wild animals from a safe distance. Some other things that are not covered include:
- Any medical bills related to a pre-existing condition, unless you purchased the Epic or Explorer plan during the time-sensitive period were medically able to travel at the time of purchase.
- Ignoring your doctor if they have explicitly advised you not to travel to a particular destination or go on a safari.
- Participation in other activities not listed as covered in your policy.
Tips for preparing for your safari adventure
One thing our team at World Nomads definitely recommends is making sure your camera stays fully charged at all times. You never know what you may see at any given moment. It’s also a really good idea to bring an extra camera battery along. You don’t want to miss the money shot!
Here are our tips for a fun and safe safari:
- Do your research and book with an accredited tour operator.
- Follow your guide’s instructions at all times and view wildlife from a safe distance.
- Wear boots and socks when walking around in the bush.
- Don’t be afraid to ask if the water is safe to drink when you are in remote locations.
- Talk to your doctor to see if prescription antimalarial medication is recommended or check if the CDC recommends anti-malarial medication or other vaccines before traveling to your destination. Depending on the medication, you may need to start this prior to your trip.
- Consider using our non-insurance service partner Runway Health for pre-trip medical support to get travel medicines, like malaria pills, delivered to your door before you leave on your trip.
- Enroll your trip with the nearest US Embassy or Consulate by signing up for the US Department of State’s STEP Program (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program).
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
- Default text
- Default text
- Default text
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
- Default text
- Default text
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
- Default text
- Default text
- Default text
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Default text
- Default text
- Default text
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 team
