Zanzibar is bringing in a new rule for tourists. From September 1, all visitors must pay mandatory insurance when they arrive.
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The cost of the mandatory insurance fee is set at US$44 (R805) per person, reports Travel News.
The insurance will cover tourists for up to 92 days on the island.
It includes protection for health issues, lost baggage, and accidents, says Zanzibar’s Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr Saada Mkuya Salum. It also covers emergency evacuation and passport loss.
The Zanzibar Insurance Corporation will run this program. Tourists must pay this fee even if they already have existing travel insurance.
Some travel experts have expressed concern about this new rule. They think it might be too expensive for families, with each member subject to the fee. The extra cost may cause fewer people to want to visit the island.
Zanzibar’s government says they’re still finalising the details. They plan to allow visitors to buy the insurance online before their trip.
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This new fee applies to all visitors, including those from South Africa.
Zanzibar has been popular with South African tourists because of easy travel rules and direct flights.
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