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.
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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?
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.
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.
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:
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:
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:
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
Been working hard for your trip?
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Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
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Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
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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 teamAffordable Safari Travel Insurance for Canadians
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At a glance:
Canadian travellers heading to Africa for a safari face unique insurance needs—from costly medical evacuations to lost camera gear. World Nomads offers travel insurance tailored for Canadians, with safari coverage included in every plan. Whether you're planning an African safari to see the Big 5 in the Serengeti or watch zebras roam in Zambia’s Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, your adventure is sure to be unforgettable. But whenever you're overseas and surrounded by wildlife, you should be prepared for the unexpected.
From animal attacks to an unplanned case of malaria, unexpected issues can derail even the most carefully planned safari. Travel insurance for safaris may help you bounce back quickly with support for emergencies, delays, and disruptions. With coverage that is flexible to Canadian needs, it’s a smart way to travel confidently – whether you're looking for rhinos in Nepal or photographing elephants in Kenya.
Nomads tip: Each policy includes a '10-Day Right to Examine' period, giving you time after purchase to review the details, making sure the coverage works for you. If you decide that you are not satisfied with the policy, you may cancel it within 10 days and you will be given a full refund of the premium you paid, provided you have not started your trip and you do not want to make a claim or to exercise any other right under the policy.
As wildlife lovers ourselves, we’ve designed our plans to include travel insurance for safaris. We also offer coverage for more than 250 other sports, activities and experiences.
Emergency Medical Expenses
For broken bones, cuts, and sprains after a fall in the African bush
Non-insurance Emergency Assistance
Available 24/7 to assist in an emergency situation
Baggage & Gear Coverage
Protection for your stuff when you travel
Trip Delays, Interruptions & Cancellations
A money-saver if inclement weather keeps you from enjoying your safari.
Get a quote and compare the plans to see which level of coverage is right for you.
World Nomads offers two plans for Canadian residents – the Standard and Explorer – each with different levels of coverage.
Even if your main goal is to go on a safari, you may want to do other fun things too, like bushwalking in Botswana or whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River. That’s totally fine, because there are over 250 other sports, activities and experiences that could be covered when you purchase travel insurance for Africa. When you purchase your policy, you’ll need to list safaris, and all of the other activities that you plan to participate in while on your trip. 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. Costs may vary depending on the additional activities you list.
If you are planning to participate in an activity that isn’t listed in our policy wording, you will need to contact us to determine if you will be covered.
NOMADS TIP: Get a quote and choose your plan first, then the system will prompt you to add the activities you plan to do. Make sure you list them all; you won’t be able to make changes once on your trip.
Simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.
Get a quoteSome things we may not cover include:
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for safari. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team
Yes, safaris are covered under both plans offered by World Nomads Travel Insurance, but make sure you list this as an activity you’ll be participating in when you purchase your policy. Safaris are considered a Level 1 activity and they are automatically covered, but you’ll still need to list this as an activity when you purchase your safari travel insurance policy. However, you’ll need to pay an additional premium to be covered for any Level 2 and Level 3 activities like zip lining and hang gliding. If you aren’t sure if something is covered, we suggest you contact us to ask.
If your trip is cancelled, delayed, or interrupted due to an unforeseen event, you may be able to recover your non-refundable, prepaid travel expenses (up to the policy limits), and this could include unused, pre-paid, non-refundable safari tours that you paid for in advance. If your safari jeep gets in a wreck and you require medical assistance, emergency medical coverage could come in handy in the case of an unexpected injury. You could also be covered for unplanned situations such as lost bags or Canadian government travel advisories advising travellers not to travel to a destination on your itinerary.
Yes. If your trip has already started, World Nomads can still offer you coverage. You can buy a plan online anytime, from anywhere in the world. If you buy a plan after departing from your home province, you won’t be covered for any loss or expense related to any injury or sickness that occurs in the 48-hour period after your departure date (as shown on your policy certificate)
Yes, you can purchase travel insurance for Africa and you could have the opportunity to experience safaris in a variety of places such as Kenya, Botswana, and Rwanda. When you get a quote for safari travel insurance, you’ll need to input where you’ll be travelling.
You can contact the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team and they can help direct you to nearby medical facilities. They can also translate for you if you’re travelling outside Canada and your medical team doesn’t speak English or French. Make sure you keep all documentation including doctor reports, invoices, etc. You’ll need those things if you plan to make a claim.
Yes, you could be covered for more than 250 other sports, activities and experiences. Things like hiking, biking, rocking climbing, and camping could all be covered. When you purchase your policy, you’ll need to list all of the activities that you plan to participate in while on your trip. 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. If you’re participating in an activity and not sure if it’s covered, you can contact us and ask.
Trip cancellation coverage is offered by both plans offered by World Nomads, and you could be reimbursed for pre-paid, unused, non-refundable expenses like flights, safari tours and accommodations if your trip is cancelled for a covered reason.
If your checked-in bags are delayed more than 12 hours on the way to your destination, your plan could reimburse you for the cost of (up to the policy limits) essential items like toiletries and a change of clothes until you and your bag are reunited.
Not sure where your next safari adventure should take you? Check out some of our favorite safari locations around the world and get destination-specific travel insurance tips to help you plan with confidence.
Kenya Safari Tips: Where to Go and How to Stay Safe
How Travelers Can Stay Safe on Safari in Botswana
Nepal Safaris: The 5 Best Places to See Wildlife
Why Akagera is Rwanda’s Most Unique Safari Destination
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.Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
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 teamExplore How U.S. Travelers Can Protect Their African Safari Adventures
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At a glance:
Whether you're planning an African safari to see the Big 5 in the Serengeti or watch zebras roam in Zambia’s Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, your adventure is sure to be unforgettable. But whenever you're overseas and surrounded by wildlife, you should be prepared for the unexpected. Our travel protection plans include a range of travel insurance benefits and non-insurance services for safaris that may help with everything from stolen bags to unexpected medical expenses.
To being diagnosed with malaria from a mosquito bite to having a monkey steal your passport , unexpected “monkey business” can derail even the most carefully planned safari. Travel insurance and non-insurance services designed for safaris may help you bounce back quickly with support for emergencies, delays, and disruptions. With coverage that is flexible to your needs, it’s a way to travel confidently, no matter where the journey takes you.
As wildlife lovers ourselves, we’ve designed coverage for losses resulting from safaris while traveling. We also offer coverage for losses related to more than 250+ other sports, activities and experiences.
Emergency Medical Expenses
For broken bones, cuts, and sprains after a fall in the African bush
Non-insurance Emergency Assistance
Available 24/7 to assist in an emergency situation
Baggage & Gear Coverage
Protection for your stuff when you travel
Trip Delays, Interruptions & Cancellations
A money-saver if inclement weather keeps you from enjoying your safari.
Get a quote and compare the plans to see which level of coverage is right for you.
Terms, conditions, and limitations apply to all mentioned coverages.
All plans include travel insurance coverage for safaris, as well as several additional non-insurance services that may support you both before and during your trip. These include delayed or lost baggage tracking and delivery, portable health records, and pre-departure telehealth services.
World Nomads offers four plans for U.S. residents – Standard, Explorer, Epic and Annual – each with different levels of coverage. Even if your main goal is to go on a safari, you may want to do other fun things too, like bushwalking in Botswana or whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River. That’s totally fine, because you may be covered for more than 250+ other sports, activities and experiences when you purchase travel insurance coverage for Africa.
NOMADS TIP: For even more trip cancellation flexibility, check out the optional ‘Cancel for Any Reason’ benefit. It can be added to Explorer and Epic plans. Available at an additional cost for U.S. residents, except in New York. Full terms apply.
Simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.
Get a quoteSome things we may not cover include:
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for safari. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team
Yes, losses related to safaris may be covered under all four plans offered by World Nomads Travel Insurance. If you want higher limits of coverage, you’ll want to consider the Explorer or Epic plan.
If your trip is canceled or interrupted due to an unforeseen event, you may be able to recover your travel expenses (up to the maximum benefit amount), and this may include unused, pre-paid, non-refundable safari tours that you paid for in advance. If your safari jeep gets in a wreck and you require medical assistance, emergency medical coverage may come in handy in the case of an unexpected injury. You may also be covered for unplanned situations such as lost bags.
Yes. If your trip has already started, World Nomads can still offer you coverage. You can buy a plan that includes travel insurance coverage for safaris online anytime, from anywhere in the world. World Nomads Travel Insurance for U.S. residents takes effect at 12:01 a.m. local time the day after you purchase your plan. If you’re already traveling and want to get coverage for an upcoming safari, you’ll need to buy your plan at least the day before you depart on your trip.
Yes, World Nomads offers travel insurance for Africa. You could have the opportunity to experience safaris in a variety of places such as Kenya, Botswana, and Rwanda. When you get a quote for a travel protection plan that includes travel insurance coverage for African safaris, you’ll need to input where you’ll be traveling.
If you get hurt while on a safari, contact local authorities as soon as you’re able to do so for immediate attention. World Nomads Travel Insurance may help reimburse the cost of medical treatment, hospital stays, or even emergency medical evacuation if needed (subject to approval.) Access to a 24/7 Non-Insurance Emergency Assistance team is also included for support anytime, anywhere when you purchase a travel protection plan that includes travel insurance coverage for safaris.
Yes, when you purchase travel insurance and non-insurance services for your safari adventure, you could be covered for more than 250+ other sports, activities and experiences. Things like bushwalking, rocking climbing, and camping may all be covered. You can review the list of activities, but if you’re participating in an activity and not sure if it’s covered, you can contact us and ask.
Trip cancelation coverage is offered by all plans offered by World Nomads, and you may be reimbursed for pre-paid, unused, non-refundable expenses like flights, safari tours and accommodations if your trip is cancelled for a covered reason. U.S. residents (except those that live in New York) also have the ability to add additional cancel for any reason coverage when certain World Nomads plans are purchased.
When you purchase travel insurance coverage for safaris, baggage delay coverage is also included. If your checked-in bags are delayed more than 12 consecutive hours on the way to your destination, your plan may reimburse you for reasonable essential items like toiletries and a change of clothes until you and your bag are reunited. Your coverage also includes a non-insurance service that can help track down your bag and get it delivered to you.
Not sure where your next safari adventure should take you? Check out some of our favorite safari locations and get destination-specific travel insurance tips to help you plan with confidence.
Kenya Safari Tips: Where to Go and How to Stay Safe
How Travelers Can Stay Safe on Safari in Botswana
20250818-4750020. This is not a full list of what is and isn’t covered, so please check your plan document for a full list of maximums, terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions that may apply to your state specific plan. Any example scenarios provided above are not a guarantee of coverage. All claims are subject to review, require documentation and are considered individually. Exclusion applies to Adventure or Extreme Activities.Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
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