Many safari operators include emergency medical insurance in their rates, but this may only cover the immediate situation and exclude further treatment and/or repatriation. In any event, it’s essential to be fully insured, especially if you’re headed into Zambia’s more remote regions.
Every travel insurance policy is different, so make sure you know how yours operates. Some policies will expect you to pay upfront and seek reimbursement later, others have ties with Zambia’s private hospitals, and direct payments are possible.
Speciality Emergency Services (SES) is Zambia’s leading country-wide emergency medical support service and your best option if you need urgent assistance. They also offer short-term medical and evacuation insurance if you’re concerned with the coverage offered by your primary provider.
Zambia has very limited mobile network cover outside the major centers. Safari camps and lodges will always have a means of contacting emergency services, but a satellite phone is highly recommended if you’re self-driving to remote areas.