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Travel Insurance for Climbing Kilimanjaro

🛡️ Why You Need Travel Insurance for Kilimanjaro

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable adventure but it’s also a serious challenge that takes place at high altitude and in remote wilderness. Because of this, having the right travel insurance is not optional it’s a must. Many things can go wrong, from altitude sickness and injuries to delayed flights or lost luggage. Good insurance gives you peace of mind and protects you financially if unexpected issues arise before or during your trip.

🏥 What Type of Insurance Do You Need?

Standard travel insurance is not enough for Kilimanjaro. You need a policy that specifically covers high-altitude trekking, preferably up to 6,000 meters or more, since Kilimanjaro’s summit is at 5,895 meters. The policy must also include emergency medical evacuation (air or ground), trip interruption, and trip cancellation in case you’re unable to climb due to illness, injury, or personal emergencies.

If you plan to continue your trip with a safari or beach holiday after the climb, make sure your insurance also covers other activities and destinations in Tanzania.

🧭 What Should Be Included in Your Coverage?

When buying travel insurance for Kilimanjaro, confirm that the following are covered:

  • Trekking up to 6,000 meters altitude

  • Emergency medical treatment and evacuation

  • Repatriation (in case of serious illness or death)

  • Trip cancellation or interruption

  • Lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and gear

  • Delayed flights or missed connections

  • COVID-19-related disruptions (if still relevant)

Without this coverage, you may face high medical or rescue costs — especially since there are no hospitals on the mountain.

🚁 Emergency Evacuation: What It Means

Kilimanjaro National Park does not allow helicopters to land above certain points due to terrain and altitude. In most cases, evacuation is done by stretcher or ground vehicle. In severe emergencies, helicopters may land at lower camps. Your insurance must cover evacuation costs whether by air or road. Rescue from the mountain is organized by your tour company (such as Bush Lion Tours) in coordination with park rangers, but insurance is what pays the bill.

📄 Proof May Be Required

Some tour operators including Bush Lion Tours may request proof of insurance before your climb. This is to ensure that you are fully protected in case of emergency. Be prepared to show a PDF copy of your insurance policy, or send it by email before arrival. Make sure your policy clearly states coverage for high-altitude trekking.

💡 Where to Buy Kilimanjaro Insurance

There are many international travel insurance companies that offer coverage specifically for trekking Mount Kilimanjaro. When choosing, make sure the policy includes high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000m), emergency evacuation, and trip protection.

Some of the most recommended insurance providers include:

Highly Recommended for Kilimanjaro Climbs:

  • REDPOINT Travel Protection
  • World Nomads
  • Allianz Travel
  • IMG Global
  • Travel Guard by AIG
  • True Traveller
  • Gouda Travel Insurance
  • GeoBlue (USA)
  • ASC360 (India)
  • Discovery (South Africa)

Other Trusted Providers:

  • SafetyWing
  • Big Cat Travel Insurance
  • Sports Cover Direct
  • JS Travel Insurance
  • Gjensidige
  • LV Insurance
  • Campbell Irvine
  • FastCover Insurance
  • Tryg Forsikring DK
  • Lærestandens Brandforsikring
  • If Europeiske ReiseForsikring
  • ADAC Versicherung AG (Germany)
  • Helsana (Switzerland)
  • ANWB (Netherlands)
  • TravelCover (Australia)
  • Liva Insurance
  • Travelex Insurance
  • Balcia Insurance
  • Malayan Insurance (Philippines)
  • Bryte Travel Insurance (South Africa)

 

Tip: Always compare the coverage details, read the fine print, and confirm whether the policy includes trekking above 4,000m to 6,000m. Some insurers offer optional add-ons for high-altitude or adventure activities. Also, verify that your policy is valid in Tanzania and includes emergency medical evacuation.