- The best travel insurance plans for Zimbabwe
- Is it currently safe to travel to Zimbabwe?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Zimbabwe?
- Why take out travel insurance for Zimbabwe?
- What should travel insurance for Zimbabwe cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Zimbabwe
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Zimbabwe
- Your current insurance coverage in Zimbabwe
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Zimbabwe: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Zimbabwe covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost personal belongings.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended due to limited local medical facilities.
3. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Zimbabwe typically costs between AUD $40 and AUD $80.
4. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes comprehensive medical evacuation cover, as local facilities are often inadequate.
5. Good to know: Check that your policy has adequate cover for theft of personal belongings and cash.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 42 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Zimbabwe.
The best travel insurance plans for Zimbabwe
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | AUD 1.6M | The most robust choice for Zimbabwe. - very high medical ceiling - repatriation - coverage for epidemics and unrest risks |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | AUD 1.6M | Excellent for urgent care in Zimbabwe. - 24/7 medical hotline - trip cancellation - no excess on claims |
| Tourist Card | AUD 800K | A reliable solution for tourists seeking clarity and protection. - emergency medical cover - assistance services - fair price |
| Travel Pass Monde | AUD 1.1M | Recommended for long stays or adventure. - solid medical and evacuation - English assistance - includes liability |
| Globe Partner | AUD 480K | A suitable basic cover for AU travellers. - core medical protection - evacuation - responsive claim service |
| Globe Traveller | AUD 800K | Practical for budget or short trips to Zimbabwe. - essential health care - fast payouts - lower coverage cap |
- very high medical ceiling
- repatriation
- coverage for epidemics and unrest risks
- 24/7 medical hotline
- trip cancellation
- no excess on claims
- emergency medical cover
- assistance services
- fair price
- solid medical and evacuation
- English assistance
- includes liability
- core medical protection
- evacuation
- responsive claim service
- essential health care
- fast payouts
- lower coverage cap
Is it currently safe to travel to Zimbabwe?
As of June 2025, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Zimbabwe, mainly due to crime and the risk of civil unrest.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: violent crime, including armed robbery and assault, occurs regularly in city centres such as Harare and Bulawayo. Avoid walking at night and never join demonstrations, as protests can turn violent quickly.
- Health risks: malaria is widespread outside Harare and Bulawayo, and outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid often affect travellers. Only drink bottled or boiled water and ensure food is well-cooked.
- Legal constraints: activities perceived as political, such as public criticism of the President or participation in protests, are illegal and can result in arrest. Photographing government or military buildings is also prohibited.
- Environmental risks: Zimbabwe can experience severe water shortages and power cuts, particularly in rural and smaller urban centres. Medical facilities are basic outside major cities and evacuation may be required for serious illness.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Zimbabwe.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Zimbabwe?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for Australian citizens to enter Zimbabwe.
It is still strongly recommended to have travel insurance because medical care in Zimbabwe is often basic and access to quality services may be limited, particularly outside major cities. Comprehensive insurance can cover medical evacuation and protect against unexpected costs from emergencies, theft, or trip disruptions.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Zimbabwe due to the potential for high medical evacuation costs and the increased risk of health and security incidents.
Why take out travel insurance for Zimbabwe?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Zimbabwe.
In Zimbabwe, public hospitals such as Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare or Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo often have shortages of medicines, equipment, and staff. Private clinics like Trauma Centre Borrowdale in Harare provide better care but charge high fees in foreign currency. Medical evacuation to South Africa or Australia may be required for serious conditions, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Australia in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Zimbabwe.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Trauma Centre Borrowdale Harare | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | USD 1,100 (approx. AUD 1,700) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | USD 850 (approx. AUD 1,300) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | USD 45,000 (approx. AUD 69,000) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | USD 4,500 (approx. AUD 6,900) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Zimbabwe cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers costs for hospitalisation, doctor visits, and treatment in clinics like Trauma Centre Borrowdale Harare. Recommended limit: AUD 500,000. |
| ✈️ Repatriation | Pays for evacuation to Australia or South Africa if treatment is not available locally. Recommended minimum: AUD 200,000. |
| 🏨 Hospitalisation | Includes surgery, extended stays, and intensive care following illness or accident. Recommended minimum: AUD 100,000. |
| 💊 Medications | Reimburses prescribed medicines during your trip. Recommended minimum: AUD 2,000. |
| 🚑 Ambulance | Emergency ground and air transport to the nearest suitable facility. Recommended minimum: AUD 20,000. |
| 🛄 Luggage protection | Covers theft, loss, or damage to baggage and valuables. Recommended minimum: AUD 5,000. |
| ❌ Trip cancellation | Refunds unused travel costs for specific unforeseen events. Recommended minimum: AUD 10,000. |
| 🦷 Dental emergencies | Covers urgent dental treatment following an accident. Recommended minimum: AUD 2,000. |
Recommended limit: AUD 500,000.
Recommended minimum: AUD 200,000.
Recommended minimum: AUD 100,000.
Recommended minimum: AUD 2,000.
Recommended minimum: AUD 20,000.
Recommended minimum: AUD 5,000.
Recommended minimum: AUD 10,000.
Recommended minimum: AUD 2,000.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards usually offers basic coverage with low reimbursement limits and many exclusions. For peace of mind, it’s safer to choose a trusted insurer with complete coverage. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe instantly for proof of cover.
The cost of travel insurance for Zimbabwe
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | AUD 49 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | AUD 72 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | AUD 119 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | AUD 256 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of your travel insurance for Zimbabwe depends on several factors: your age, the length of your trip, your chosen level of cover (especially for medical evacuation), and any optional extras like cancellation. Keeping these in mind is crucial to finding the right policy that protects you properly for your adventure.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Zimbabwe
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Zimbabwe while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Medical costs in Zimbabwe can be high due to limited facilities and need for evacuation. | Choose essential coverages only and exclude optional add-ons you don’t need, but never compromise on medical or evacuation limits. |
| ⏳ Trip duration | Insurance cost generally increases with length of stay, so precise dates help control cost. | Insure only the exact duration of your trip rather than rounding up to extra days for additional flexibility. |
| 👨👩👦 Travelers’ age | Age significantly impacts premiums, especially for seniors as medical risk factors increase. | Compare offers; the insurer Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, so it can be worth checking for older travelers. |
| 👥 Number of people | Group or family policies may provide reduced rates for each traveller included. | Opt for family or group plans if travelling together, as these often secure a better price per person than buying separate policies. |
| 🏞️ Planned activities | Activities such as safari or adventure sports increase risk and insurance price. | Declare specific activities only if you plan to do them, as including all types may add unnecessary extra premiums. |
| 💳 Payment method | The payment method may involve transaction costs or discounts through certain means. | Pay in AUD to avoid currency conversion fees and always check if your card offers any relevant travel protection included. |
| 📅 Booking timing | Early or late purchase may affect eligibility or price, especially for last-minute bookings. | Buy your insurance shortly after booking flights or accommodation for wider choices and the best prices. |
Your current insurance coverage in Zimbabwe
It’s completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage—such as credit card insurance or your private or public health system—can protect you during a trip to Zimbabwe. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Zimbabwe? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance | Never | No benefits for overseas travel. No medical reimbursement, hospital, or repatriation cover abroad. | Travel insurance covers up to AUD 1.6M or more for hospitalisation, medical repatriation, evacuation, and personal liability. |
| Private health insurance | Limited coverage | Hospitalisation may be partially reimbursed (limit: AUD 20k–150k). No evacuation, no baggage loss, few guarantees abroad. | Travel insurance extends to evacuation and covers trip cancellations, lost baggage, 24/7 assistance, and higher hospitalisation caps. |
| Classic credit card (e.g. Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, American Express Blue) | Limited coverage | Emergency medical, delay, or lost luggage: limited to AUD 2.5k–5k. Often excludes pre-existing conditions and sports. | Travel insurance provides much higher medical limits, plus full emergency repatriation and coverage for illness or incidents abroad. |
| Premium credit card (e.g. Visa Platinum, Mastercard Gold, American Express Explorer) | Limited coverage | Medical emergency: up to AUD 250k. Trip delay or baggage delay, some accident cover. Rarely includes pandemics or civil unrest. | Travel insurance offers full pandemic, civil unrest or evacuation cover, plus claims support and personalised 24/7 medical assistance. |
Example
While on safari, Chloe contracted severe malaria, requiring a AU$75,000 medical evacuation to South Africa. Her CommBank card's insurance only covered AU$2,000, and her domestic health fund covered nothing. She faced a crippling AU$73,000 bill because she lacked comprehensive travel insurance for her trip to Zimbabwe.
Expert advice
Don't assume your bank card or private health insurance has you fully covered. Critical events, like cutting a trip short for a sick relative, are often excluded. Always check the fine print to avoid nasty surprises. For true peace of mind, it's always safer to get dedicated travel insurance.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Zimbabwe?
Yes, Australian citizens require a visa to enter Zimbabwe. You can obtain a 30-day tourist visa on arrival at border points or apply in advance using Zimbabwe’s eVisa system. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your entry date and has at least three blank pages for visa stamps.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Zimbabwe?
First, compare different travel insurance policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Next, carefully check the policy details, especially coverage limits and exclusions relevant to Zimbabwe, such as medical evacuation or activities exclusions. Buy your selected policy online, then receive your insurance certificate by email for your records.
What types of medical emergencies are most common for travellers in Zimbabwe?
Travellers to Zimbabwe may face malaria outside Harare and Bulawayo, as well as other infectious diseases such as cholera, hepatitis, and typhoid. Traffic accidents and injuries can also occur, especially in rural areas where medical services are limited. Medical evacuation is sometimes required for serious illnesses or injuries.
Are private hospitals or clinics in Zimbabwe reliable for emergency care?
Private hospitals in Harare and Bulawayo generally offer better care than public facilities, but standards still may not match what you expect in Australia. In remote areas, access to quality care can be limited, and serious cases often require evacuation to South Africa. Medical evacuation without insurance can be extremely expensive, often costing several thousand AUD.
How much does typical travel insurance for Zimbabwe cost for Australians?
For a two-week stay, travel insurance typically starts around AUD 120 to 200 for a basic policy with medical and evacuation coverage. Comprehensive coverage including lost luggage and travel delays may cost AUD 200 to 350 or more. Prices vary based on your age, health, length of stay, and level of protection selected.
Do I need a visa to travel to Zimbabwe?
Yes, Australian citizens require a visa to enter Zimbabwe. You can obtain a 30-day tourist visa on arrival at border points or apply in advance using Zimbabwe’s eVisa system. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your entry date and has at least three blank pages for visa stamps.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Zimbabwe?
First, compare different travel insurance policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Next, carefully check the policy details, especially coverage limits and exclusions relevant to Zimbabwe, such as medical evacuation or activities exclusions. Buy your selected policy online, then receive your insurance certificate by email for your records.
What types of medical emergencies are most common for travellers in Zimbabwe?
Travellers to Zimbabwe may face malaria outside Harare and Bulawayo, as well as other infectious diseases such as cholera, hepatitis, and typhoid. Traffic accidents and injuries can also occur, especially in rural areas where medical services are limited. Medical evacuation is sometimes required for serious illnesses or injuries.
Are private hospitals or clinics in Zimbabwe reliable for emergency care?
Private hospitals in Harare and Bulawayo generally offer better care than public facilities, but standards still may not match what you expect in Australia. In remote areas, access to quality care can be limited, and serious cases often require evacuation to South Africa. Medical evacuation without insurance can be extremely expensive, often costing several thousand AUD.
How much does typical travel insurance for Zimbabwe cost for Australians?
For a two-week stay, travel insurance typically starts around AUD 120 to 200 for a basic policy with medical and evacuation coverage. Comprehensive coverage including lost luggage and travel delays may cost AUD 200 to 350 or more. Prices vary based on your age, health, length of stay, and level of protection selected.
