Planning a trekking trip to Nepal? While the stunning scenery and exhilarating experience might be on your mind, it’s important not to overlook the importance of insurance for trekking in Nepal. Trekking can be a physically demanding activity, and accidents can happen even to the most experienced trekkers. That’s why having proper insurance coverage is crucial.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top insurance options for trekking in Nepal, so you can enjoy your trekking experience to the fullest. From medical emergencies to trip cancellations, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn about the best insurance options for your trekking adventure in Nepal.
Best Insurance Options for Trekking in Nepal:
If you are planning on trekking in Nepal, you will have to get trekking insurance to get the required trekking permits and passes. Here are the three best insurance for trekking in Nepal providers (if you want our full roundup, check out our Best Trekking Travel Insurance):
Quick Answer: Top 3 Insurance for Trekking in Nepal
Editors Choice
World Nomads
Insurance
Coverage for Trekking in Nepal
Coverage until 22,965 feet (7,000 meters)
Up to $500,000 in coverage
2nd Best Choice
Travelex Trekking
Insurance
Coverage for Trekking in Nepal
Coverage until 20,000 feet (6,000 meters)
Up to $1 million in coverage
3rd Best Choice
SafetyWing Trekking Insurance
Coverage for Trekking in Nepal
Coverage until 15,000 feet (4,500 meters)
Up to $100,000 in coverage
1. World Nomads Insurance for Trekking in Nepal
As an entity, World Nomads has been recommended by well known companies in the travel industry such as Lonely Planet and National Geographic — add with the thousands of customer reviews from Trust Pilot that they have garnished over the years, it is easy to see the great reputation that World Nomads has.
They are also backed by secure, trusted, and specialist underwriters who provide travelers with great cover, 24-hour emergency assistance, and the highest levels of support and claims management!
Let’s first start with who World Nomads is. You can also read my full World Nomads Insurance Review to take a deep dive into the insurance provider.
Who are World Nomads?
Since 2002, World Nomads have been protecting, connecting and inspiring independent travelers.
They offer simple and flexible travel insurance and safety advice to help you travel.
Because they believe in giving back to the places we travel to, World Nomads also enables you to make a difference with a micro-donation when you buy a policy.
And they’ll help you plan your trip with free downloadable guides, travel tips, responsible travel insights and recommendations from their global community.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Main Features:
Coverage for Trekkers
Standard Plan until 19,685 feet (6,000 meters)
$500,000 in coverage
Trip cancellation insurance
Standard Plan until 22,965 feet (7,000 meters)
Emergency medical evacuation
Pros and Cons of World Nomads Insurance:
The following are a list of pros and cons, things that we love and hate about the insurance policy:
Pros:
- Covers a Lot of Countries Worldwide
- High Coverage for Medical Expenses
- Flexible Prices
- Buy or Extend Anytime, Anywhere
- Perfect for adventure-loving travelers
- 24/7 customer service with online claims option
Cons:
- Limited age coverage for seniors
- Coverage can differ depending on location and nationality
- Limited COVID coverage
Some of the adventure sports and other activities that Travelex’s trekking insurance covers include:
World Nomads’ Trekking Insurance Covers the Following Adventure Activities:
- ATVs
- Backpacking
- Ballooning
- Bungee jumping
- Cage fighting
- Caving and spelunking
- Cliff diving
- Dog sledding
- Free diving (up to 197 feet)
- Hang gliding
- Kiteboarding
- Mixed martial arts
- Mountaineering/Trekking (up to 22,965 feet)
- Paddle boarding
- Rappelling (up to 22,965 feet)
- Rock climbing
- Rugby
- Running of the bulls
- Safari tours
- Salsa dancing
- Scuba diving (up to 165 feet with a commercial instructor or guide)
- Shark cage diving
- Skateboarding
- Skiing or snowboarding by helicopter or snowcat
- Swimming with whales
- Trampolining
- Tree climbing (up to 33 feet)
- Ultimate Frisbee
- Zip line
World Nomads’ Hiking Insurance Does Not Cover the Following:
Additionally, it is important to know about what the climbing insurance does not cover. It is best to talk directly to World Nomads to understand the exclusions and limitations you may face while using this insurance. World Nomads’ insurance for trekking does not cover the following:
- Pre-existing conditions
- Non-emergency medical treatment or surgery
- Routine physical exams
- Traveling for the purpose of medical treatment
- Pregnancy or childbirth (except for complications of pregnancy)
- Participation as an athlete in professional sports
- Participation in extreme sports
- Pregnancy or childbirth costs
- Intentionally harming yourself
- Piloting or learning to pilot an aircraft
- Suicide or attempted suicide
- Cancellations due to war, civil war, acts of foreign enemies, or civil unrest
Want to learn more about World Nomads insurance for trekking in Nepal? You can also read my full World Nomads Insurance Review here.
2. Travelex Trekking Insurance for Trekking in Nepal
Our second choice of mountaineering insurance is Travelex insurance. It is a great budget-friendly travel insurance provider that offers affordable rates and coverage for families. Moreover, they offer plan extensions that will allow you to be insured while trekking at high elevations. They provide coverage on individual bases and will allow you to get trekking insurance up to 20,000 feet (6,000 meters) above sea level. This makes it great for climbers looking to hike up to Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal or other places around the world like the Alps, the Andes or Kilimanjaro!
Another great aspect that we like about the Travelex’s service, is that they have an app that you can download which will provide important information about the country you are traveling to. It will help keep you safe by providing real-time security alerts, information about food and water safety, as well as ATM locations!
If you are looking for a budget travel insurance plan that will cover the adventure sports aspect of your vacation, Travelex climbing insurance will be a great fit for you! You can get a free quote from hen Travelex climbing insurance. You can also read our full Travelex Insurance review, to learn more about how they are one of the best trekking insurance providers!
Main Features:
Coverage for Trekkers
Coverage upto 20,000 feet (6,000 meters) above sea level
Up to $1 million in coverage
Free coverage for children under 17
Can apply for pre-existing medical condition waivers
Travel delay coverage of $2,000
Pros and Cons of Travelex Trekking Insurance:
The following are a list of pros and cons, things that we love and hate about the insurance policy:
Pros:
- Children under 17 will receive complimentary coverage if they are accompanied by an adult who is included in the insurance policy.
- Upgrade available to get a “cancel for any reason” clause
- Medical expense coverage is primary, compared to some competitors’ secondary coverage.
- Offers coverage for travel delays, granting each individual $2,000 in compensation following an initial delay of five hours.
Cons:
- “Cancel for any reason” coverage provides 50% reimbursement of the non-refundable deposits – which is lower than most travel insurance providers, who usually provide 75%
- The Travel Select plan provides emergency medical expense coverage of $50,000, which is higher than competitors.
- Baggage delay benefits only apply after an initial 12-hour wait – longer than most companies
Some of the adventure sports and other activities that Travelex’s trekking insurance covers include:
Travelex’s Trekking Insurance Covers the Following Adventure Activities:
- Trip cancellation insurance
- Travel medical insurance
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Travel delay insurance
- Travel interruption insurance
- Baggage and personal effects
- Car rental collision coverage of $35,000 (upgradable)
- Flight accident or death (upgradable)
- Medical expenses and emergency evacuation (upgradable).
- Coverage for adventure sports activities (upgradable)
Travelex’s Trekking Insurance in Nepal Does Not:
Additionally, it is important to know about what the climbing insurance does not cover. It is best to talk directly to Travelex to understand the exclusions and limitations you may face while using this insurance. Travelex’s insurance for trekking does not cover the following:
- Intentionally self-inflicted injury
- Normal pregnancy or childbirth
- Mental, nervous or psychological disorders
- Experimental medical treatments
- Injuries due to intoxication or drug abuse
- Routine physical examinations
Want to learn more about Travelex insurance for trekking in Nepal? You can also read our full Travelex Insurance review here!
5. SafetyWing Insurance for Trekking in Nepal
SafetyWing is a well-known travel insurance provider that offers policies designed specifically for digital nomads and long-term travelers. While they offer coverage for some adventure activities like hiking, trekking, and mountaineering, it is important to carefully review their policy to ensure that it covers the specific activities you plan to undertake.
Unfortunately, they will not cover you while trekking above 4,500 meters. This is still pretty high, and depending on the elevation of your trek, it might be just enough for you to get by with!
Their policies generally provide medical coverage, emergency medical evacuation, trip interruption, and travel delay coverage. However, they may not offer as comprehensive adventure activity coverage as other travel insurance providers. It’s essential to carefully read the policy’s terms and conditions, including any exclusions or limitations.
Ultimately, whether or not SafetyWing is a good insurance provider for trekking depends on your individual needs and the level of coverage you require. If you plan to undertake high-risk activities or travel to remote areas, you may want to consider a policy from a provider specializing in adventure travel insurance.
You can read my entire SafetyWing Insurance review for more information about if their travel and trekking insurance are right for you!
Main Features:
Coverage for Trekkers
Coverage up to 15,000 feet (4,500 meters) above sea level
Up to $250,000 for intense care unit
Up to $5,000 for trip interruption
$100 a day for Travel delay after a 12-hour delay
$100,000 for emergency medical evacuation
Pros and Cons of SafetyWings Hiking Insurance:
The following are a list of pros and cons, things that we love and hate about the insurance policy:
Pros:
- Website is easy to navigate and understand
- Can sign up while abroad and be covered immediately
- Young children included – 2 children under 10 per family (1 per adult)
- Trip interruption – Up to $5,000. No deductible
- Easiest and fastest insurance to sign up for
- Visits to home country are covered – After 90 days abroad, you’re covered for brief visits back home for up to 30 days (15 days for US residents).
Cons:
- Limitations on the adventure activities you will be covered for
- The maximum altitude trekkers are covered is relatively lower than other providers
- Maximum is lower than other providers and is cumulative amongst the family or group the trekker is traveling with
SafetyWing Insurance Covers the Following:
Here are only some of the things that are covered:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Lost luggage
- Travel delay
- Evacuation in the event of terrorism, political disruption, or medical emergencies
- Accommodation in the event of natural disasters
- Transportation of a family member from your home country to you in case you have to stay in the hospital for an extended duration
- Personal liability for losses or injuries to third-parties
SafetyWing Insurance Does Not Cover the Following:
- Trip cancellation and
- Most adventure sports
Want to learn more about SafetyWing insurance for trekking in Nepal? You can also read our full SafetyWing Insurance review here!
Types of Insurance for Trekking in Nepal:
First and foremost, you will require travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. This type of insurance will provide coverage for medical bills, hospitalization, and emergency medical evacuation, should the need arise.
Trekking insurance varies in terms of coverage and price based on the incidents it covers and the chosen packages. Therefore it is important to know what trekking insurance is exactly.
Finally, it is advisable to obtain a policy that includes the following areas of coverage:
1. Travel Medical Insurance
Travel medical insurance provides coverage if you become ill or injured during your trekking adventure. In the event of sickness or injury, this insurance can assist you in locating doctors, hospitals, and healthcare facilities.
2. Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance
Emergency medical evacuation insurance is a crucial coverage to have. It offers protection for necessary medical evacuation and transportation to appropriate medical facilities.
Why Insurance is Important for Trekking in Nepal
Trekking in Nepal can be a physically demanding activity that involves walking for several hours a day, often in remote regions with limited access to medical facilities. Accidents can happen, and medical emergencies can arise, which is why having insurance coverage is crucial. If you want to learn more about why travel insurance is important, check out our full blog!
Here are three reasons why insurance is important for trekking in Nepal:
1. Altitude Sickness
High altitude sickness, also referred to as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a prevalent condition that can impact individuals engaged in trekking and climbing activities. The occurrence of AMS is difficult to predict accurately, but it is commonly observed in those who ascend to high altitudes too rapidly without adequate acclimatization.
2. Trekking Accidents
While it’s unnecessary to excessively worry, it is important to acknowledge that accidents can occur in mountainous areas and hiking routes. Even minor injuries like sprains or pulled muscles can pose significant challenges during high elevation treks. High altitudes can induce dizziness, exhaustion and disorientation, thereby increasing the risk of accidents.
3. Avalanches, Snowstorms
While the occurrence of avalanches, snowstorms or landslides on hiking routes in Nepal is rare, they can indeed happen. The highest risk of avalanches is usually during the cold months (December to February), while springtime (March to May) also sees an increased likelihood as ice packs begin to melt.
According to the Nepal National Mountain Guide Association (NNMGA), avalanches in Nepal result in an average of 12 deaths annually. In 2015, a massive earthquake triggered an avalanche at Mount Everest, leading to the unfortunate loss of 19 lives at the Everest Base Camp.
Is Trekking Insurance Mandatory in Nepal?
Yes, trekking insurance is mandatory in Nepal. It is required to get the proper passes for trekking in the Himalayas – such as the TIMS card and the trekking permits, such as those for the Annapurna and Everest regions. You can read more about this in our extensive guide – is trekking insurance mandatory in Nepal.
Why is Mountaineering Insurance For Nepal So Expensive?
The travel insurance industry has been overwhelmed by an exceptionally high volume of claims in Nepal, posing significant challenges to the sustainability of providing coverage.
Here are five reasons why trekking insurance for Nepal can be relatively expensive:
1. High-Risk Activities: Nepal is a popular destination for adventurous activities such as high-altitude trekking, mountaineering, and extreme sports. These activities come with inherent risks, including altitude sickness, accidents, and emergency medical evacuations. Insurers consider these activities to be high-risk, which leads to higher premiums.
2. Geographical Factors: Nepal’s challenging and diverse terrain, including its mountainous regions and remote areas, can make it more difficult and costly to provide emergency medical services and evacuation. Insurers factor in the costs associated with reaching and transporting individuals in such locations.
3. Helicopter Rescues: Nepal has experienced a rise in claims for helicopter rescues, some of which have been fraudulent. This has increased insurers’ caution and made them more selective in providing coverage for air rescue. Those insurers that do include it in their policies often charge higher premiums to account for the associated risks and potential fraudulent claims.
4. Limited Medical Facilities: While Nepal has healthcare facilities, remote areas may have limited access to quality medical care. In case of a serious illness or injury, individuals may need to be transported to a neighboring country or back to their home country for appropriate treatment. The potential costs of such medical evacuations contribute to the higher insurance prices.
5. Demand and Competition: The increasing popularity of Nepal as a travel destination has led to a surge in tourist numbers. Higher demand for travel insurance, combined with a limited number of insurers providing comprehensive coverage for high-risk activities, can drive up the prices due to increased competition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Trekking Insurance for Nepal:
When purchasing trekking insurance, it is essential to avoid common mistakes that can lead to inadequate coverage or unnecessary expenses. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Not Reading the Policy Details: One of the most common mistakes is failing to thoroughly read and understand the policy details. It’s important to review the coverage limits, exclusions, deductibles, and any specific conditions related to trekking activities.
- Ignoring Adventure Activity Coverage: Some standard travel insurance policies may not automatically cover adventure activities like trekking or mountaineering. Avoid the mistake of assuming you are covered and check whether the policy explicitly includes coverage for these high-risk activities.
- Overlooking Medical Coverage: Trekking in remote areas can pose unique health risks, including altitude sickness or accidents. Make sure your insurance policy includes sufficient medical coverage, including emergency medical evacuation if necessary.
- Neglecting Trip Cancellation/Interruption Coverage: Unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, natural disasters, or flight cancellations, can disrupt your trekking plans. Neglecting trip cancellation or interruption coverage may result in financial losses if you need to cancel or cut short your trip.
- Not Disclosing Pre-Existing Conditions: Failing to disclose pre-existing medical conditions can result in denied claims or limited coverage. It’s crucial to provide accurate information about your health to the insurance provider during the application process.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can secure appropriate trekking insurance that provides peace of mind and financial protection during your adventure.
Best Insurance for Trekking in Nepal
Trekking in Nepal is an exhilarating experience that offers stunning scenery and a chance to explore remote regions of the country. However, it’s important not to overlook the importance of insurance for trekking in Nepal.
Accidents can happen, and medical emergencies can arise, which is why having proper insurance coverage on your trek in the Himalayas is crucial. In this guide we covered three different insurance options for your trek. If you want to see our full recommendation, check out our blog: best trekking insurance.
FAQs: Insurance for Trekking in Nepal
Below are some of the most frequently asked question for getting mountaineering insurance for trekking in Nepal.
World Nomads, Travelex, and SafetyWings are the best travel insurance for Nepal trekking. Each insurance provider offers coverage for high altitude treks in Nepal.
Travel insurance is not required to visit Nepal. However, trekking insurance will be required to get trekking permits and passes.
