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Introduction
Are you planning an exciting ecotourism adventure with SAVE THE FROGS! to explore the world’s amphibian wonders? Or perhaps you a traveling independently or with another group. While the focus of your trip might be on saving frogs and their habitats, it’s equally crucial to protect yourself and your investment with the right travel insurance.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the importance of travel insurance for ecotourists, what factors to consider when choosing a policy, and explore some companies likely to offer coverage for you during your SAVE THE FROGS! Ecotour.
SAVE THE FROGS! has been leading frog-focused ecotours since 2013.
The Importance of Travel Insurance for Ecotourists
Unforeseen Mishaps
No matter how meticulously you plan your ecotourism trip, unexpected events can occur. Travel insurance provides a safety net in case of trip cancellations, delays, or interruptions due to reasons like illness, natural disasters, or even political unrest in your destination. Remember that ecotour deposits are non-refundable and that if you cancel within 60 days of your ecotour’s start date, you forfeit your entire payment. As such, receiving a large check from the insurance company in the event of a last minute cancellation will likely reduce a lot of stress.
Medical Emergencies
Ecotourists often venture into remote areas with limited access to medical facilities. Travel insurance can cover emergency medical expenses, including evacuation, ensuring you receive the best care in challenging circumstances.
Lost or Delayed Baggage
Protect your gear and equipment with coverage for lost, damaged, or delayed baggage. This is especially vital for ecotourists who carry specialized equipment for their adventures.
Wildlife Encounters
While ecotourism brings you closer to nature, it can also lead to unexpected encounters with wildlife. Coverage for accidental wildlife-related incidents can provide peace of mind.
SAVE THE FROGS! Founder Dr. Kerry Kriger with ecotourist David Lorentzen at Las Vueltas during the 2021 SAVE THE FROGS! Costa Rica Save The Frogs Ecotour.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Travel Insurance
When selecting travel insurance for your SAVE THE FROGS! ecotourism expedition, keep these factors in mind:
Destination
Ensure that your chosen insurance company provides coverage for your specific ecotourism destination. Some policies may have restrictions or exclusions for certain regions.
Coverage Types
Evaluate the coverage types offered, including trip cancellation/interruption, emergency medical expenses, evacuation, and baggage protection. Choose a policy that aligns with your needs.
Adventure Activities
If your ecotour involves adventure activities like snorkeling, caving or rafting, verify that the insurance policy covers these activities. Companies like World Nomads specialize in adventure travel insurance.
Pre-existing Conditions
If you have pre-existing medical conditions, check if the policy offers coverage for them. Some companies provide options for such conditions.
Photo of Philautus macroscelis from Mt. Kinabalu, Malaysia courtesy of our tour guide Rupert Grassby Lewis.
Travel Insurance Companies
To help you find the right travel insurance, below are some well-known companies to consider.
Please note that the mention of these insurance companies is provided solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement by SAVE THE FROGS!. We encourage ecotourists to research these companies thoroughly, read reviews, and make an informed decision to select the travel insurance provider that best aligns with their specific needs and preferences. Your safety and enjoyment of the ecotour are of utmost importance to us.
Allianz Global Assistance
Allianz is one of the largest travel insurance providers worldwide and offers a variety of plans to suit different traveler needs.
Travel Guard (AIG)
AIG’s Travel Guard provides comprehensive travel insurance coverage, including trip cancellation, trip interruption, and medical coverage.
World Nomads
World Nomads specializes in travel insurance for adventurous and independent travelers. They offer customizable plans and are known for covering activities like hiking, scuba diving, and more.
Travelex Insurance Services
Travelex provides a range of travel insurance options and offers add-on coverage for things like cancel for any reason (CFAR) and adventure sports.
AXA Assistance USA
AXA provides travel insurance coverage with a variety of options, including single-trip, multi-trip, and comprehensive plans.
InsureMyTrip
InsureMyTrip is a comparison website that allows you to compare and purchase travel insurance plans from various providers based on your specific needs.
Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection:
Berkshire Hathaway offers travel insurance coverage with features such as “AirCare” for flight-related disruptions.
Seven Corners
Seven Corners provides a range of travel insurance options, including international medical coverage and trip cancellation/interruption insurance.
Generali Global Assistance
Generali offers various travel insurance plans, including emergency medical and trip protection coverage.
Trip Insure Plus
TripInsurePlus travel insurance is only available to Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+) members. See the section on evacuation insurance below to learn about EA+.
Participants of the 2015 SAVE THE FROGS! Belize Ecotour with a SAVE THE FROGS! Flag at Blue Creek, Belize.
Evacuation Insurance for Added Peace of Mind
In addition to standard travel insurance, ecotourists should consider adding evacuation insurance to their coverage, such as the services offered through EA+ (Emergency Assistance Plus). Evacuation insurance is particularly crucial for SAVE THE FROGS! participants exploring remote or environmentally sensitive areas. In case of a medical emergency or unforeseen event that requires immediate evacuation to a medical facility or a safe location, evacuation insurance can be a lifesaver. EA+ provides comprehensive emergency assistance services, including medical evacuation, transportation to specialized medical facilities, and even repatriation to your home country if necessary.
Having this added layer of protection ensures that you can focus on your mission to protect amphibians, knowing that help is just a phone call away in case of an emergency. Remember to review the details of your evacuation insurance carefully, including coverage limits and the regions it covers, to make the most of your ecotourism experience with peace of mind.
SAVE THE FROGS! Founder Dr. Kerry Kriger photographed this Pristimantis-nyctophylax during a SAVE THE FROGS! Ecuador Ecotour.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while you’re busy saving frogs and exploring their habitats on a SAVE THE FROGS! Ecotour or on your own, don’t forget to safeguard your own well-being with the right travel insurance. Evaluate your needs, choose a policy that suits your adventure, and consider the companies mentioned above to ensure a worry-free and fulfilling ecotourism experience. Travel insurance is your reliable companion, ensuring that you can continue to make a positive impact on our amphibian friends while staying protected throughout your journey.
Lunch at the farm on the SAVE THE FROGS! Costa Rica Ecotour
SAVE THE FROGS! Peru Ecotourist
