In Kenya, vehicle insurance is typically divided into three categories: Third-Party, Third-Party, Fire, and Theft, and Comprehensive. By law, all vehicles must at least have third-party coverage, which only covers damage or injury to others. Comprehensive insurance, while optional, offers greater protection for your vehicle and third-party claims.
In contrast, the US and Europe offer more sophisticated insurance systems with additional layers like collision and personal injury protection, and often higher regulatory oversight. Kenyan insurance may seem less stringent in terms of customer protection compared to Europe, where consumer rights are highly prioritized. Additionally, claim processes in Kenya can sometimes be slower due to bureaucracy compared to faster, more streamlined claims handling in the US or Europe.
Cost-wise, premiums are generally lower in Kenya, reflecting the smaller market and less complex insurance products, but coverage options are also more basic.
When renting a 4WD safari vehicle in Kenya, it’s important to understand that the local insurance policies, often limited to third-party coverage, may not provide sufficient protection for personal injuries or property loss during your safari. Additionally, the claims process can be long and complicated. To safeguard yourself, it’s highly recommended to purchase separate comprehensive travel and health insurance. This ensures coverage for potential medical emergencies, accidents, or trip disruptions, providing you peace of mind as you explore the rugged landscapes of the Masai Mara.
What is the cost of travel insurance when on a safari in kenya
The cost of travel insurance for a safari in Kenya typically ranges between $50 to $200 per person, depending on coverage options and the duration of the trip. Comprehensive policies cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and emergency evacuation. Higher-end policies may offer coverage for more specific activities like wildlife safaris and adventure sports, which can raise the price. It’s essential to compare plans and check for sufficient medical and evacuation coverage, especially in remote areas like the Masai Mara./
Recommended policies when on a masai mara safari
When purchasing personal health or travel insurance for a safari in Kenya from Europe or the US, there are a few key policies to consider:
- World Nomads: Offers coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss, and specific adventure activities, including safaris. Pricing ranges from $70 to $200 depending on coverage and trip length.
- Allianz Global Assistance: Covers medical emergencies, trip interruptions, and lost baggage. Premiums start around $100 and increase with additional coverage.
- AXA Travel Insurance: Offers comprehensive plans, including medical evacuation, starting at $50. It includes coverage for lost luggage and adventure sports.
- Travel Guard: Provides medical coverage, trip delay, evacuation, and repatriation, with pricing ranging from $80 to $300 depending on customizations.
These policies can be purchased online, with easy plan comparisons available to tailor coverage to your specific safari needs.
The best insurance policy coverage in Kenya for road safaris
Maisha Cover by AMREF Flying Doctors is a short-term medical insurance plan offering affordable air and ground ambulance evacuation services across Eastern Africa. It’s designed for tourists, business travelers, or adventure enthusiasts visiting the region. The cover is available in four tiers—Bronze ($10 for 15 days), Silver ($24 for 30 days), Gold ($32 for 30 days), and Platinum ($80 for 30 days)—each offering various levels of geographical coverage. Benefits include 24-hour access to a medical helpline and direct contact with AMREF’s medical professionals.
For road safaris in Kenya, it’s essential to have both travel and medical insurance. AMREF Flying Doctors’ Maisha Cover is a great choice for short-term visitors, providing medical evacuation services via air and ground ambulance within Kenya and East Africa. It also offers 24/7 medical advice, which is ideal for emergencies during a safari. Check out this PDF with info on terms and conditions of the Maisha cover
For comprehensive coverage, you might want to consider international travel insurance policies such as World Nomads, Allianz Travel Insurance, or IMG Travel Insurance, which cover health, trip cancellations, and personal liability during your safari.
FAQs on Travel Insurance Cover for Safaris in Kenya
Here are some common questions about insurance cover for safaris in Kenya:
1. Is medical evacuation covered during a safari?
Answer: Yes, many plans, like AMREF Flying Doctors’ Maisha Cover, offer medical evacuation via air and ground ambulance, which is crucial during remote safaris.
2. Do I need separate travel and medical insurance?
Answer: It’s recommended to have both. Travel insurance covers cancellations, lost baggage, and delays, while medical insurance covers health-related incidents.
3. Does Kenya’s vehicle insurance cover accidents during safaris?
Answer: Kenyan vehicle insurance typically covers third-party liability. However, it’s advisable to have personal travel insurance for medical treatment and emergencies.
4. What happens if I get sick or injured in a remote area?
Answer: With a policy like AMREF’s Maisha Cover or comprehensive international insurance, you’ll receive medical evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility.
5. Are safari activities like balloon rides covered by insurance?
Answer: Some travel insurance policies cover adventure activities like balloon safaris, but it’s essential to check the specifics of your plan.
6. Can I buy insurance once I’m already in Kenya?
Answer: Yes, AMREF offers short-term coverage for visitors, which can be purchased online or in-country.
7. Does insurance cover wildlife-related injuries?
Answer: Most comprehensive travel or medical insurance policies will cover wildlife-related injuries, but it’s crucial to confirm with your insurer.
8. Does travel insurance cover missed game drives due to illness?
Answer: Some policies provide coverage for missed activities due to illness, but it depends on your specific plan.
9. How much does safari insurance cost?
Answer: Costs vary based on the level of coverage, but basic plans like AMREF’s Maisha Short Term cover start at around $10 for 15 days. Full travel insurance can cost around $100-200 depending on coverage duration and details.