TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR SOUTH AMERICA

WHY BUY WITH ZOOM

• Do I have to enter all countries and regions I visit?

• If you know where you're going, you can enter each country you plan to visit (for example, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Peru). However, if you're unsure of your full itinerary, you can enter 'Americas' which will cover you for both South America and North America (including Central America and USA). If you want the freedom to travel anywhere, you can enter Worldwide and be covered no matter where in the world you are travelling (so long you are not travelling against government advice).

• Is it safe to travel in South America?

• The short answer is yes. The longer answer is there are places and situations that may be dangerous and should be avoided.
  
  South America is a place embroiled with internal conflict, political and social upheaval, but there are many countries that are safe to travel to.The main consideration is not so much the country you are traveling to, but the area(s) you are visiting and how you will get there. You should do your research and consider what risks are involved and whether there are any travel warnings in place.
  
  Common sense prevails: You should keep your money, passport, and ID documents on you at all times, and avoid flashing cash around or wearing extravagent jewellery.
  
  Safety in numbers: If you can, travel with a friend or with a group of like-minded travellers.

• How do alcohol and drugs affect my cover?

• With drinks as diverse as the continent’s landscape itself, there are plenty of tasty tipples to enjoy throughout South America. Whether it's tequila in Mexico and caipirinhas in Brazil, we advise you to drink in moderation. Please note that we may exclude any claims where excessive drugs or alcohol have been involved.

• Do you cover the Inca Trail?

• Yes, but you'll need to buy our Adventure Pack to be covered. 
  
  With the purchase of our additional Adventure Actitivies pack you'll be covered for hiking, trekking or tramping with peak altitudes from 3,000 metres up to 6,000 metres, where specialist climbing equipment is not required.

• Am I covered for altitude sickness?

• Yes. You would be covered for any injury or illness, including altitude sickness provided that you purchased Zoom's Adventure Pack.
  
  Altitiude sickness is a common problem among travellers to Peru. It can however, be combated with the following preventative measures.
  
  -  Ensure you are ascending to heights at a slow speed  and take plenty of rest.
  - Talk to your doctor about a prescription for altitude sickness tablets
  - Keep well hydrated. Chewing cocoa leaves can also assist.
  - It is advisable that if you are going to be in Cusco, you arrive a few days in advance to acclimatize.

• Do you have per item limits?

• If you have an expensive item that you just can’t leave behind you can insure it separately for up to $5,000. Please note that high value item cover is only available under our comprehensive plan.

• Am I covered for pick pocketing in Colombia?

• Yes, petty crime is rife in certain parts of South America and you’d be covered provided you were acting with reasonable care (i.e. did not leave your belongings unattended). If you’re the victim of a pickpocket, you’d be covered for loss, theft and damage to your luggage and personal effects. If you are robbed it’s important that you get a police report and contact us as soon as possible.

• What is a dependant?

• This means your dependant children or grandchildren under the age of 19 at the date of policy issue who are travelling with you.