Island, Tanzania
Healthcare in Zanzibar: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Zanzibar
Facilities are basic; serious cases are evacuated to Dar es Salaam or Nairobi. Carry travel insurance with air evacuation, such as AMREF Flying Doctors cover.
Hospitals for foreigners in Zanzibar
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Mnazi Mmoja Hospital | Main public hospital in Stone Town; basic care only |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: TSh40,000–100,000 ($15–38) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Tanzania: Care is limited outside Dar es Salaam, where Aga Khan Hospital is the main option; serious cases fly to Nairobi or South Africa. Malaria risk is widespread.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies in towns, but stock and quality vary; bring a full kit for safari, Kilimanjaro and the islands.
- Health spending: US$36 per person a year (2023); 0.1 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: All emergencies 112.
Travel and health insurance
Required for entry: NIC policy for mainland arrivals or ZIC policy for Zanzibar, bought online or on arrival
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Zanzibar for foreigners?
Mnazi Mmoja Hospital: Main public hospital in Stone Town; basic care only
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Zanzibar?
About TSh40,000–100,000 ($15–38) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Tanzania?
NIC policy for mainland arrivals or ZIC policy for Zanzibar, bought online or on arrival
More about Zanzibar
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Tanzania
- Zanzibar Tourism Commission
- Tanzania Immigration
- Azam Marine
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.