Why You Need Travel Insurance for Your African Safari
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Booking an African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we understand that it comes with a significant investment.
After carefully designing your dream adventure with us, it’s important to take one more step to ensure your journey is protected: purchasing travel insurance.
While we do not require travel insurance to book a safari with us, we strongly recommend it to protect your financial investment and provide peace of mind while traveling. Whether it’s a medical emergency, unexpected cancellation, or lost luggage, having a comprehensive policy means you’re prepared for the unexpected.
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Why Do You Need Travel Insurance?
When you think about the total cost of your safari—flights, accommodations, permits, and activities—it’s clear that this is not the kind of money you want to put at risk. A well-chosen insurance policy can help protect you from unforeseen events that might force you to cancel or cut your trip short.
Additionally, medical coverage is essential for any international travel, especially when heading to remote safari locations. Even with the best precautions, accidents and illnesses can happen. Having coverage for medical evacuation and healthcare is just common sense.
How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?
Travel insurance for a two-week trip to Africa can be expensive, typically ranging from 4% to 10% of your total trip cost. The cost is also age-adjusted, so older travelers may pay more for coverage. While it might seem like an added expense, it’s worth every cent when you consider the financial risk of going uninsured
How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance
Comparison Sites Are Your Friend
Start your search with comparison sites like:
These platforms line up policies from different companies, allowing you to compare features and prices. You can also read traveler reviews to see how companies handle claims.
Check Out Reputable Providers
Visit the websites of established insurance companies to review their specific offerings:
- Allianz
- AXA Assistance USA
- John Hancock Insurance Agency
- Travelex Insurance Services
- Travel Insurance Center
Check Your Existing Coverage
Your health insurance or credit card benefits may provide limited travel coverage. However, they usually do not cover medical evacuation, which is crucial during a safari. Make a quick call to verify your existing coverage and fill in any gaps with a comprehensive policy.
Time-Sensitive Tip: Pre-Existing Conditions Waiver
To cover pre-existing conditions, you must purchase your policy within 21 days of placing your initial deposit. Without this waiver, the insurance company might deny your claim if a medical condition that existed before booking affects your trip.
By buying coverage early, the insurance provider cannot use past medical history as a reason to reject a claim—provided you were deemed healthy enough to travel when you purchased the policy.
What Should Your Policy Include?
Understanding Medical Evacuation
Safari lodges are well-prepared for emergencies and will immediately arrange for evacuation if needed. Depending on the severity, this might involve ground transfer or air evacuation to the nearest medical facility.
However, your travel insurance provider will often require authorization before proceeding with evacuation to a higher-level facility or back home. It’s crucial to:
- Understand the insurance company’s process for authorizing medical evacuations.
- Have the appropriate contact information for your insurance provider (some toll-free numbers may not work from Africa).
- Designate someone who can advocate on your behalf if you are unable to make the call yourself.
Things to Double-Check:
- Activity Coverage: Make sure your policy covers all the activities you plan to do.
- Emergency Contact Numbers: Verify that your policy provides alternative numbers if calling from Africa.
- Policy Certificate: Always read the fine print and reach out to the provider with any questions before purchasing.
Why You Need Travel Insurance on Safari
The risks inherent in traveling to remote wilderness areas make travel insurance an essential part of any safari booking. Whether it’s a medical emergency, unexpected cancellation, or adventure activity mishap, having a reliable insurance policy ensures that you are financially protected and well-prepared.
At Brandt Safaris, we want you to enjoy every moment of your journey without worrying about what could go wrong. While we do not sell travel insurance, we strongly encourage every guest to secure coverage as a safety net.
For more information or assistance with planning your safari, reach out to Brandt Safaris. We’re here to make your African adventure safe, seamless, and unforgettable!
Contact us today
plan your dream safari with confidence, knowing you’re fully prepared for a safe and healthy journey
