Travel insurance for Tunisia

Typical activities in Tunisia

As well as enjoying some winter sun on its popular beach resorts, Tunisia offers plenty of other experiences for visitors to enjoy.

For example, you could try:

• Scuba diving - Around the coast of Tabarka you can find coral reefs, colourful fish and even World War II shipwrecks to explore
• Horseback riding - A memorable way to take in the breath-taking views of Tunisia’s mountains, coastlines and deserts is to go on a guided horse-riding tour
• Bird watching - The UNESCO-listed Lake Ichkeul National Park is a great place for bird and nature lovers alike. You may even glimpse flamingos
• Exploring ancient architecture - Discover cultural riches from Roman ruins and ancient amphitheatres to beautiful examples of Islamic architecture
• Visiting museums and the medina - Visit the world-famous Bardo museum and its Roman mosaics. Afterwards, practise your haggling skills in the colourful souks
• Stargazing in the Sahara - Combine an exhilarating camel or quad bike tour with a camping adventure and enjoy stunning sunsets over the desert

What optional policy extras might I need in Tunisia?

Depending on your needs and the activities you’re planning on doing during your trip, there’s a range of optional add-ons you can choose from to tailor your travel insurance cover.

These include:

Sports and leisure cover

Some activities like scuba diving and rock climbing won’t be covered on a standard policy, so this add-on can help make sure you’re still protected

Gadget cover

If you’re taking gadgets like mobile phones, tablets and laptops on your trip, this policy add-on will provide an extra level of protection

Single-item cover

This option allows you to increase the amount you can claim for a single item if it gets lost, damaged or stolen on your trip

Golf cover

Tunisia offers ideal golf conditions for you to extend your golfing season. This policy extra provides specialist cover for your golfing equipment and trip

Pre-existing medical conditions

If you need cover for a particular medical condition, you’ll need to let your insurer know and you may need to pay extra or get specialist cover

Medical cover and healthcare in Tunisia

Although some insurers put Tunisia under Europe for travel insurance, it isn’t covered by the reciprocal healthcare arrangements other European countries have with the UK.

This means you won’t be able to use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or the newer Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) to access free or reduced-cost treatment.

Instead, if you need urgent medical treatment in Tunisia, you’ll need to pay upfront and the medical costs can often be high.

Travel insurance can reimburse you for unexpected costs like these. Plus, it also covers you against other situations that can disrupt your trip, like lost luggage or cancellation - so it’s worth taking out.

Do I need vaccinations for Tunisia?

It’s best to check with your GP or healthcare provider six to eight weeks before you travel.

You may be advised to have an up-to-date tetanus or booster vaccine, as well as routine vaccinations that are recommended in the UK.

Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and typhoid vaccines are also sometimes recommended.

You can find the latest government advice on vaccine requirements in Tunisia and other countries on TravelHealthPro.

Tips to help you stay safe in Tunisia

Tunisia has plenty to offer visitors, but there are a few things to keep in mind when you’re heading there:

• Follow travel advice - Some non-tourist areas can be unsafe and visitors are advised not to travel there, so make sure you check the latest advice
• Watch your valuables - Busier areas and public transport can be prone to pickpockets, so keep valuables out of sight and use the hotel safe to securely store your passport
• Carry some change - With so many markets and stalls to browse and explore, having cash handy is useful if you’re tempted to buy some Tunisian souvenirs
• Always use licensed cabs - Use official taxis, especially if you’re taking one from the airport, and find out how much the fare should be before you set off
• Take mosquito repellent - If you’re in the south of the country these little bugs can be a nuisance, so it’s worth packing some repellent and applying it liberally in the evenings
• Remember suncream (and siestas) - Most Tunisians take a nap to escape the afternoon heat. But if you do head out, slap on some suncream to protect your skin