Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for climbing Kilimanjaro. Learn what coverage you need and why it's essential.
Why Insurance is Mandatory
Travel insurance is not optional—it's a requirement for climbing Kilimanjaro. The risks associated with high-altitude trekking, remote locations, and potential medical emergencies make comprehensive coverage essential. Without proper insurance, you could face significant financial hardship in case of emergency.
Important
You must provide proof of travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000m) before starting your climb. We will verify your coverage during the pre-climb briefing.
Required Coverage
1. High-Altitude Trekking Coverage
Essential: Your policy must explicitly cover trekking/mountaineering up to 6,000 meters (19,685 feet). Many standard travel insurance policies exclude high-altitude activities.
Check the policy wording carefully. Some insurers require a specific "adventure sports" or "mountaineering" add-on.
2. Medical Evacuation
Essential: Coverage for emergency medical evacuation, including helicopter rescue from the mountain if necessary. This can cost $10,000-$50,000+ without insurance.
Ensure the coverage amount is sufficient (minimum $100,000 recommended).
3. Medical Expenses
Essential: Coverage for medical treatment, hospitalization, and emergency care in Tanzania or repatriation to your home country.
Minimum $50,000 recommended, though $100,000+ is better.
4. Trip Cancellation/Interruption
Recommended: Coverage for trip cancellation due to illness, injury, or other covered reasons before or during your trip.
Protects your investment if you cannot climb due to unforeseen circumstances.
Additional Recommended Coverage
Personal Belongings
- Coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged equipment
- Camera and electronics coverage
Trip Delay
- Coverage for flight delays or cancellations
- Additional accommodation costs
Personal Liability
- Coverage if you accidentally injure someone
- Legal expenses coverage
24/7 Emergency Assistance
- 24-hour emergency helpline
- Medical consultation services
What to Look for in a Policy
Read the Fine Print
Carefully read policy exclusions. Some policies exclude "mountaineering" or activities above certain altitudes. Ensure Kilimanjaro trekking is explicitly covered.
Altitude Limits
Verify the policy covers activities up to at least 6,000m (19,685 feet). Kilimanjaro's summit is 5,895m, but you want a safety margin.
Pre-Existing Conditions
Disclose any pre-existing medical conditions. Some policies may exclude coverage for conditions not declared.
Geographic Coverage
Ensure Tanzania is covered and that the policy is valid for the entire duration of your trip, including travel days.
Finding the Right Insurance
We recommend researching specialized adventure travel insurance providers. Many standard travel insurance companies don't cover high-altitude trekking.
Recommended Providers
While we don't endorse specific insurance companies, we recommend looking for providers that specialize in adventure travel and high-altitude activities. Some well-known providers include:
- • World Nomads (popular with climbers)
- • Global Rescue
- • Allianz Travel (with adventure add-on)
- • Travelex Insurance
- • Specialized mountaineering insurance providers
Always verify coverage details directly with the insurance provider. Requirements and coverage can change.
Cost Considerations
Travel insurance costs vary based on coverage level, age, trip duration, and destination. For Kilimanjaro, expect to pay:
Remember: The cost of insurance is minimal compared to potential medical evacuation costs ($10,000-$50,000+) or medical treatment expenses.
Questions About Insurance?
Contact us if you have questions about insurance requirements or need help verifying your coverage.