1. What is Medical Evacuation Insurance?

Medical evacuation insurance—often called medevac insurance—is a specialized travel insurance coverage that ensures:

• You can be transported quickly from a remote safari lodge or Kilimanjaro campsite to the nearest hospital.

• If necessary, you can be airlifted by helicopter or air ambulance to a hospital with advanced medical facilities.

• In extreme cases, it can cover repatriation—transport back to your home country for treatment.

Since safaris and mountain treks take place in remote wilderness areas, access to advanced healthcare is limited, making evacuation insurance essential.

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2. Why is Medical Evacuation Insurance Necessary in Tanzania?

Remote Safari Destinations

• Parks like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Selous, or Ruaha are far from major cities.

• In case of a medical emergency, road transfers could take 6–10+ hours to the nearest hospital.

High-Altitude Risks on Kilimanjaro

• At nearly 6,000 meters (19,341 feet), Kilimanjaro presents risks like altitude sickness, HAPE, and HACE.

• Immediate descent or evacuation by stretcher or helicopter may be necessary.

Limited Medical Facilities

• Tanzania’s healthcare system is improving, but rural and park areas often lack specialized treatment.

• Serious cases may require transfer to Nairobi, South Africa, or even back home.

Cost of Emergency Evacuation

Without insurance, evacuation costs can be extremely high:

• Ground ambulance: $500–$1,000

• Helicopter evacuation: $2,000–$6,000+

• Air ambulance to another country: $20,000–$80,000+

Insurance ensures you don’t face these expenses out-of-pocket.

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3. What Does Medical Evacuation Insurance Cover?

Coverage typically includes:

• Emergency evacuation from safari lodges or Kilimanjaro routes

• Helicopter rescue for altitude sickness or injury

• Ground ambulance transfers to hospitals

• Air ambulance evacuation to advanced medical facilities abroad

• Medical repatriation to your home country if needed

• Search and rescue costs (on Kilimanjaro or remote areas)

Some policies also cover:

• Hospitalization and medical bills

• Trip interruption or cancellation due to medical reasons

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4. Risks of Traveling Without Evacuation Insurance

If you choose not to purchase medical evacuation insurance, you may face:

• High out-of-pocket costs for emergency transport

• Delays in treatment due to lack of funds upfront

• Inability to access advanced care, especially in rural areas

• Stress for you and your family in an already difficult situation

For example:
If you develop severe altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro, helicopter evacuation to Moshi is often required. Without insurance, you may be denied evacuation unless you can guarantee immediate payment.

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5. Do Safari and Kilimanjaro Operators Provide Insurance?

Some Kilimanjaro trekking companies and safari operators include basic evacuation coverage through services like AMREF Flying Doctors.

However:

• These often cover only the evacuation, not hospital bills or repatriation.

• Coverage limits may not be enough for serious cases.

• You’ll still need comprehensive travel insurance with medical coverage.

Always read the fine print of what your tour operator provides and purchase additional coverage if necessary.

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6. How to Choose the Right Medical Evacuation Insurance

When selecting a policy for Tanzania, look for:

• Evacuation coverage up to $100,000 or more

• Worldwide or regional air ambulance coverage

• Coverage for adventure activities (Kilimanjaro trekking, hot air balloon safaris, etc.)

• 24/7 emergency assistance services

• Medical repatriation back to your home country

Popular providers include:

• World Nomads

• IMG Global

• Allianz Travel

• SafetyWing

• Travel Guard

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7. FAQs About Medical Evacuation Insurance in Tanzania

1. Is medical evacuation insurance mandatory for Kilimanjaro?
It’s not legally required, but most reputable trekking companies strongly recommend it, and some even require proof of coverage.

2. How much does medical evacuation insurance cost?
Depending on coverage and trip length, expect $50–$200 for short trips. It’s minimal compared to potential medical costs.

3. Does evacuation insurance cover regular illnesses like flu?
Yes, if you need hospital care and evacuation becomes necessary, it will be covered, but minor cases may only require local treatment.

4. Can I buy evacuation insurance separately from travel insurance?
Yes, companies like AMREF Flying Doctors sell standalone evacuation plans, but a comprehensive travel insurance policy is recommended.

5. Does evacuation insurance cover COVID-19?
Many insurers now include COVID-related medical evacuations, but always confirm before purchase.

6. Will my safari lodge or Kilimanjaro operator arrange evacuation if I’m insured?
Yes. Guides and lodge staff are trained to activate evacuation services on your behalf.