For anyone trying to plan a trip anywhere in the world, this is a very confusing time. To try and assist, we have put together a list of the destinations that we offer, with the latest information on whether borders are open, travel is possible and what the covid 19 protocols are. This should help when trying to make an informed decision.
REOPENING OF BORDERS - Subject to change
Botswana
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Botswana is UK Air Bridge approved since 12 December 2020
Botswana started a phased reopening of international borders from 9 November 2020. Air travel resumed at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, Maun and Kasane International Airports.
All Countries are allowed to travel to the destination
The Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
All travellers older than five years must present a printed original test certificate of a negative COVID-19 PCR test result, conducted within 72 hours of arrival in Botswana.
Undergo health screening for COVID-19 symptoms.
All arrivals (including children) will undergo an additional, cost-free COVID-19 antigen test. Results are ready within 20 minutes.
Complete a traveler locator form with accurate contact information while in Botswana so that the local Health Authority can contact you, if necessary, within 14 days.
Mandatory quarantine:
Any visitor showing symptoms of COVID-19 will be required to undergo a PCR test, and possible isolation and or quarantine for 14 days.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on departure:
Travellers are required to undergo a PCR test 24 hours before departing Botswana. This can be done via one of two options:
Private charter flights
SA Airlink
Air Botswana
Qatar Airways
Ethiopian Airlines
Kenya
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
On 6 July 2020, Kenya announced that international travel will resume from 1 August 2020.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
Before arriving in Kenya, passengers are required to submit their COVID-19 test certificates to generate a Trusted Travel (TT) code. Click here to create a TT account, upload PCR test certificates, and generate a TT code.
*A negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate is required, obtained no later than 96 hours prior to departure from your home country.
*Body temperatures must test below 37.5°C (99.5°F) and visitors must have no persistent cough, no difficulty breathing, and no other flu-like symptoms.
*If there is a reported case of COVID-19 on a flight or if the above symptoms are detected, all passengers within two rows of the passenger with the symptoms will be quarantined for testing at designated airport hotels. If the test results are negative, they will be allowed to leave the facility.
*It is mandatory for all passengers arriving in Kenya to complete the Travelers Health Surveillance Form by the Ministry of Health online prior to disembarkation. Passengers will receive a QR code after completing the form and will be required to display it to a Port Health Official to proceed through immigration.
*Strict infection prevention and control measures have to be followed: social distancing, good hand hygiene, and the wearing of masks remain mandatory.
Mandatory quarantine:
*Passengers arriving on international flights from Brunei, Thailand, Kuwait and Qatar are required to quarantine for 14 days at their own cost at a government approved facility – see the list of facilities and additional travel requirements.
*Travellers arriving from the United Kingdom (irrespective of nationality, residency status and route of travel) are required to self-isolate for 7 days and take a subsequent PCR test 4 days after arrival, and submit daily health information to the Jitenge platform (available from Google Play Store) for 14 consecutive days after arriving in Kenya.
* Travellers arriving from approved countries are exempt from mandatory quarantine – see the list of countries exempt from mandatory quarantine.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on departure
Passengers departing Kenya are required to have a Trusted Travel (TT) code for their COVID-19 test certificates if their destination countries, airlines or transit airports require PCR tests. Visit www.africacdc.org/trusted-travel to check the test requirements of transit and destination countries.
A list of laboratories that have been approved to carry out COVID-19 PCR tests, issue certificates and TT codes can be found here.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
*Kenyan Airways resumed international flights from 1 August 2020. All in- and outbound passengers must present proof of a negative COVID-19 test conducted within 72 hours of boarding.
*All passengers aboard any Emirates flight require a negative COVID-19 certificate, obtained no later than 96 hours prior to flight departure.
Mozambique
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Mozambique's borders are open for international travel and flights have been approved from Portugal, Turkey, Qatar, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa. Land borders are also open for self-drive travellers. Maputo International Airport is a member of the Airport Health Accreditation Programme by Airports Council International (ACI).
As of 20 July 2021, Mozambique has a curfew in place in all cities and towns from 21:00 to 04:00. Beaches are closed for gatherings but walking, running, snorkelling, fishing, canoeing and surfing is allowed.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
*All travellers older than 11 years must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test result, conducted in your country of origin within 72 hours of departure for Mozambique.
*Undergo health screening and temperature testing.
Mandatory quarantine:
Not required unless you arrive without a negative COVID-19 test certificate, test positive for COVID-19 on arrival, or were in contact with someone who has COVID-19. You will then be required to self-isolate for 14 days.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
*All of the main airlines flying from Portugal, Turkey, Qatar, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa.
*Airlink from South Africa.
Namibia
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Namibia announced new implementation protocols that will guide the country's international tourism revival initiative. These protocols came into effect from 1 September 2020.As of 1 August 2021, Namibia has lifted all travel restrictions between regions. A curfew between 22:00 and 04:00 still remains in place.
All Countries are allowed to travel to the destination
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
*All travellers older than 5 years must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result, conducted within 72 hours of arriving in Namibia.
*Undergo health screening and temperature testing.
*Submit your full trip itinerary.
Mandatory quarantine:
*Not required, unless a traveller's PCR test is older than 7 days.
*If PCR test is older than 7 days, a traveller will be placed in quarantine for 7 days and required to take a COVID test at own cost.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on departure:
*A negative COVID-19 test certificate, conducted within 48 hours of departing Namibia, if your country of origin requires it.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
*Ethiopian Airlines
*Lufthansa from 19 September 2020
*Eurowings from 20 September 2020
*Qatar Airways from 1 October 2020
Rwanda
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Tourism activities across the country resumed from 17 June 2020 and Rwanda's airports reopened for scheduled commercial flights on 1 August 2020.
Kigali International Airport is a member of the Airport Health Accreditation Programme by Airports Council International (ACI).
As of 1 July 2021, Rwanda has imposed a two-week lockdown, with a curfew from 18:00 to 04:00. Tourism still continues in line with COVID-19 regulations.
Countries allowed to travel to the destination:
All tourists will be allowed to visit Rwanda's attractions and destinations after testing negative for COVID-19 in two consecutive tests.
Travellers arriving in England from Rwanda will not be required to quarantine for 14 days. This ruling comes into effect from 21 November 2020.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
*All travellers older than 5 years must provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate, performed within 72 hours of departure for Rwanda
*Complete the Passenger Locator Form and upload your COVID-19 test certificate via www.rbc.gov.rw/travel prior to arrival.
*If you are visiting any national park in Rwanda, except Akagera, you are required to schedule your visit within 72 hours of receiving a negative PCR test result. Tourists visiting Akagera National Park are required to take a Rapid Antigen Test, available at numerous clinics in Kigali. If your visit/s are more than 72 hours after the initial test on arrival in Rwanda, you will be required to take another COVID-19 test before visiting the parks.
*Follow preventive measures while travelling in Rwanda: physical distancing where possible; the wearing of masks is mandatory; and temperature screenings before entering certain buildings are mandatory.
*All travelers departing from Rwanda must test negative for COVID-19, with the RT-PCR test performed within 120 hours before departure. The Rwanda Development Board has advised that as long as travelers depart within 120 hours of their RT-PCR test on arrival, they do not require another test.
Mandatory quarantine:
*All travelers arriving in Rwanda will be screened upon entry and take a second RT-PCR test to confirm the negative results of the test done prior to arrival. You will be required to wait about 24 hours for these test results in a designated transit hotel. The Government of Rwanda has negotiated special rates at designated transit hotels for the 24-hour waiting period.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
*Charter flights (individual and groups)
*Commercial airlines from 1 August 2020
*RwandAir between Dubai and selective African routes from 1 August 2020, and between London and Kigali from 3 October 2020.
GORILLA TREKKING
*Wearing a mask while gorilla trekking is mandatory.
*The maximum number of people on a gorilla trek has been reduced to 6 (used to be 8). It is also possible to book an exclusive sole-use trek for US$ 15 000.
*Whilst at Volcanoes National Park HQ, visitors will be briefed on the safety and health measures that are to be followed in order to ensure the wellbeing of oneself and the endangered Mountain Gorillas.
*Temperatures will also be tested prior to the trek to ensure all visitors are in the recommended temperature range advised by the ministry of health.
South Africa
Last updated 07 Sep 2021
Cape Town is an Approved & Recognised User of the World Travel & Tourism Council's (WTTC) Safety StampSouth Africa announced on 16 September 2020 that the country's borders will reopen for tourism on 1 October 2020.
International and local air travel is restricted to and from OR Tambo International Airport, King Shaka International Airport, Cape Town International Airport, Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and Lanseria International Airport. OR Tambo, King Shaka and Cape Town airports are members of the Airport Health Accreditation Programme by Airports Council International (ACI).
All Countries are allowed to travel to the destination
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
*Download, print and complete the Traveller Health Questionnaire (Entry) not more than 2 days before arrival. The same applies when leaving South Africa.
*Provide a valid, printed certificate of a negative COVID-19 PCR test, obtained not more than 72 hours (3 days) from the time of departure for South Africa. The test must be conducted by a certified medical practitioner and the certificate must have the name and signature of the practitioner who conducted the test.
*Undergo screening for any COVID-19 symptoms and/or for contact with people who have been infected with the virus.
*Download the COVID Alert South Africa mobile app.
Mandatory quarantine is not required unless:
*Arriving passengers fail to present a valid and negative COVID-19 PCR test. This will require quarantine at own cost.
*Travelers display any symptoms of COVID-19 or have been in contact with an infected person. A mandatory COVID-19 test will be required at their own cost. If this test result is positive, travelers will be subjected to a 10-day quarantine at a designated site, at their own cost.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on departure:
*Download, print and complete the Traveller Health Questionnaire (Exit) not more than 2 days before departure.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
Following the president's announcement that South Africa will institute adjusted Level 1 Lockdown regulations, the curfew requires every person to be at their place of residence from 00:00 to 04:00. If a flight arrives within the curfew hours, passengers will be able to show proof of their boarding passes or tickets for their flights if stopped by law enforcement en route to the airport, hotel or home.
Tanzania
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Approved & Recognised User of the World Travel & Tourism Council's (WTTC) Safety Stamp
The government of Tanzania announced on 18 May 2020 that it will lift the ban on international flights arriving and departing from the country. All hotels and other tourist facilities in the country must go through a COVID-19 certification process, and official documents must be placed at the entrances of all facilities. The Tanzanian government has also directed all the country’s tourism entities to appoint and adequately train COVID-19 liaison officers to be the point of contact with its Health Ministry.
All Countries are allowed to travel to the destination
Except for INDIA
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
*All travellers (including children) are required to complete a Traveller's Health Surveillance Form, to be submitted within 24 hours before arrival in Tanzania. Upon submission, you will receive a Unique Health Code that will be requested during primary screening on arrival.
*Present a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test certificate, obtained within 72 hours of arriving in Tanzania.
*Undergo enhanced screening for COVID-19, including rapid testing at USD 25 per traveller.
*While in Tanzania, visitors will be expected to adhere to full protective measures against the spread of COVID-19.
Mandatory quarantine:
All travellers arriving from India, or those who have travelled through India in the last 14 days regardless of the route taken, must undergo a Rapid Test upon arrival at own cost (USD 10). This is followed by stringent contact tracing, and a 14-day mandatory quarantine at an approved hotel at their own cost.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
*Ethiopian Airlines
*Qatar Airways
*KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
*Emirates
*Air Tanzania could resume operations to other countries that have re-opened for international travel, or for passengers looking to fly with the airline – to be confirmed.
Uganda
Last Updated: 07 Sep 2021
Uganda has released a tentative phased reopening schedule for all its land borders and the resumption of international passenger flights to Entebbe International Airport, effective 1 October 2020.
Countries allowed to travel to the destination
Travellers arriving from Category 2 & 3 countries are allowed entry into Uganda.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
Arriving passengers:
(Category 2 & 3):
*Provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result from an accredited laboratory in your country of origin, issued within 120 hours of departure for Uganda.
*Undergo temperature checks and health screening on arrival.
*Wear masks, maintain a social distance of 1.5 metres (5 feet) where possible, and practice good personal hygiene.
Category 2 passengers:
*All travellers arriving from USA, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Turkey, South Africa, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Kenya and Tanzania will have to undergo a PCR COVID-19 test at their points of entry, including Entebbe International Airport.
*Travellers will be transferred by bus to a government approved testing facility, located about 1.2 miles (2 kilometres) from the airport, where PCR testing is done. The Ministry of Health has signed an agreement with the private sector to carry out this exercise in a comfortable environment, and provide test results within 5 hours. The PCR test will cost USD 65 per traveller, payable in cash.
*All travellers – except passengers arriving from India – who can produce proof of completing a full COVID-19 vaccination course (within a minimum of 2 weeks before entry) are exempt from additional PCR testing on arrival.
Category 3 passengers:
*All arriving passengers from countries not in Category 1 and 2 are exempt from additional COVID-19 protocols listed above.** From mid-September, all arriving travellers – irrespective of vaccination status – are likely to be required to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result issued within 72 hours of departure for Uganda, and undergo a mandatory PCR test (at own cost) at their points of entry, including Entebbe International Airport. **
Departing passengers:
*Arrive at the airport at least four hours before their scheduled flights.
*Present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result, issued within 120 hours of departing from Uganda.
*Undergo temperature checks and health screening.
Mandatory quarantine:
Not required. Passengers who exhibit signs and symptoms of an infectious disease will be transported to an isolation center for a COVID-19 test. Results will be available within 24 to 48 hours. If foreign nationals test positive for COVID-19 and wish to be repatriated to another facility outside Uganda, they can do so at their own cost and according to COVID-19 medical evacuation protocols.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
*Turkish Airlines
*Qatar Airways
*Emirates
*Kenya Airways
*Ethiopian Airlines
Zambia
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Zambia is open to foreign nationals and issuing visitor visas upon entry into the country. Depending on your nationality, travelers can arrive without a visa, obtain a visa on arrival, or apply for an e-visa before travelling to Zambia – visit the Zambia Department of Immigration website for more info. Limited domestic flight schedules are operating twice-weekly between Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and Mfuwe International Airport, and between Kenneth Kaunda and Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
Before arriving in Zambia, passengers are required to submit their COVID-19 test certificates to generate a Trusted Travel (TT) code. Visit PanaBios to create a TT account, upload PCR test certificates, and generate a TT code. Travellers with test results from non-recognised laboratories are required to submit their test results to Global Haven for validation.
*Provide a PCR-based SARS-CoV-2 certificate of a negative COVID-19 test result no older than 72 hours prior to departure from country of origin.
*Complete a Traveller Health Questionnaire from the Ministry of Health on board the flight before landing in Zambia.
*Undergo temperature and symptom screening, which could lead to further COVID-19 testing (at your own cost) and quarantine in designated facilities until test results are available.
*Travellers arriving from high risk countries are required to undergo a PCR test at own cost. If the test result is positive, travellers will be required to quarantine for 14 days. Travellers who transit through high risk countries are not considered high risk if the transit time is less than 24 hours. The list of high risk countries is reviewed and updated regularly.
*Adhere to COVID-19 regulations like physical distancing, wearing face masks, and personal hygiene. You will also need to monitor yourself daily for 14 days post arrival for symptoms of the virus and report any occurrence to the nearest health facility.
*Travellers leaving Zambia will only be required to produce a negative COVID-19 test certificate when flying with an airline or to a country that requires said certificate.
Mandatory quarantine:
All international visitors are screened on arrival. If you show any signs of COVID-19, you will have to quarantine for 14 days.
Travellers from high risk countries will have to quarantine for 14 days if their PCR test result on arrival is positive.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on departure
Obtain a Travel Certificate from the Ministry of Health, originating from Zambia, if your destination or airline requires a COVID-19 test certificate. To obtain a Travel Certificate, travellers must present their passports and COVID-19 test results at one of these offices:
*Ethiopian Airlines
*RwandAir
*Kenya Airways
*Emirates is set to start flying to Zambia from 1 September 2020.
*Proflight Zambia is operating limited domestic flights.
Zimbabwe
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Zimbabwe announced the reopening of the country's local tourism sector on 3 September 2020. Domestic flights resumed on 21 September 2020 with Air Zimbabwe and Fastjet, in advance of 1 October 2020: the reopening date of Zimbabwe's international airports.As of 1 July 2021, the government instituted a national lockdown and a curfew from 18:30 to 06:00. Air travel remains open for leisure travellers, but land borders are only open to returning residents and essential services – including commercial and transit cargo carriers. Inter-city and inter-provincial holiday travel, as well as visiting national parks and designated tourism facilities are allowed, but will be bound by the country's curfew hours. Visitors who are travelling between destinations are required to provide documentation of bookings at national parks and other designated tourism facilities.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
*Present a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate, obtained from a recognized facility within 48 hours of departure for Zimbabwe.
*Undergo health screening and temperature testing.
*Social distancing, hand sanitization and the wearing of masks are mandatory.
*All travellers older than 18 years who arrive via the Kazungula and Victoria Falls land borders must produce proof of COVID-19 vaccinations, as well as negative PCR test results no older than 48 hours. Children under 18 years are only required to have negative PCR test certificates. Children younger than 5 years do not require PCR test certificates.
Mandatory quarantine:
*Travellers showing COVID-19 symptoms on arrival may be tested at their own expense (USD 60 per test) at a facility available at the airport. If necessary, travellers will be required to undergo a mandatory 7-day quarantine at their own cost.
*Travellers arriving from (or through) India will be tested for COVID-19 on arrival and, if positive, will be taken to an isolation centre. If the test result is negative, they will need to quarantine in a hotel at own expense for 10 days from date of arrival in Zimbabwe.Although the government has stated that all arriving travellers are required to quarantine for 10 days, this statutory legislation is not being practiced or enforced. This is verified by our key safari partners on the ground in Zimbabwe, as well as other international travellers. The tourism industry has requested the Zimbabwean government to update its official website accordingly.
Airlines flying into the destination:
*Emirates
*Ethiopian Airlines
*Kenya Airways
*Air Tanzania
*Fastjet flights between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls are suspended until 15 March 2021.
Botswana
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Botswana is UK Air Bridge approved since 12 December 2020
Botswana started a phased reopening of international borders from 9 November 2020. Air travel resumed at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, Maun and Kasane International Airports.
All Countries are allowed to travel to the destination
The Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
All travellers older than five years must present a printed original test certificate of a negative COVID-19 PCR test result, conducted within 72 hours of arrival in Botswana.
Undergo health screening for COVID-19 symptoms.
All arrivals (including children) will undergo an additional, cost-free COVID-19 antigen test. Results are ready within 20 minutes.
Complete a traveler locator form with accurate contact information while in Botswana so that the local Health Authority can contact you, if necessary, within 14 days.
Mandatory quarantine:
Any visitor showing symptoms of COVID-19 will be required to undergo a PCR test, and possible isolation and or quarantine for 14 days.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on departure:
Travellers are required to undergo a PCR test 24 hours before departing Botswana. This can be done via one of two options:
- Option 1: Arrange in-camp testing – a qualified practitioner is flown to your camp or lodge to conduct a PCR test. This has to be booked 36 hours in advance, online bookings are essential, and a minimum of two guests is required. Guests are liable for all costs.
- Option 2: Do the PCR test in Maun or Kasane Airport – bookings are essential. Test results are available within 24 hours.
Private charter flights
SA Airlink
Air Botswana
Qatar Airways
Ethiopian Airlines
Kenya
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
On 6 July 2020, Kenya announced that international travel will resume from 1 August 2020.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
Before arriving in Kenya, passengers are required to submit their COVID-19 test certificates to generate a Trusted Travel (TT) code. Click here to create a TT account, upload PCR test certificates, and generate a TT code.
*A negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate is required, obtained no later than 96 hours prior to departure from your home country.
*Body temperatures must test below 37.5°C (99.5°F) and visitors must have no persistent cough, no difficulty breathing, and no other flu-like symptoms.
*If there is a reported case of COVID-19 on a flight or if the above symptoms are detected, all passengers within two rows of the passenger with the symptoms will be quarantined for testing at designated airport hotels. If the test results are negative, they will be allowed to leave the facility.
*It is mandatory for all passengers arriving in Kenya to complete the Travelers Health Surveillance Form by the Ministry of Health online prior to disembarkation. Passengers will receive a QR code after completing the form and will be required to display it to a Port Health Official to proceed through immigration.
*Strict infection prevention and control measures have to be followed: social distancing, good hand hygiene, and the wearing of masks remain mandatory.
Mandatory quarantine:
*Passengers arriving on international flights from Brunei, Thailand, Kuwait and Qatar are required to quarantine for 14 days at their own cost at a government approved facility – see the list of facilities and additional travel requirements.
*Travellers arriving from the United Kingdom (irrespective of nationality, residency status and route of travel) are required to self-isolate for 7 days and take a subsequent PCR test 4 days after arrival, and submit daily health information to the Jitenge platform (available from Google Play Store) for 14 consecutive days after arriving in Kenya.
* Travellers arriving from approved countries are exempt from mandatory quarantine – see the list of countries exempt from mandatory quarantine.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on departure
Passengers departing Kenya are required to have a Trusted Travel (TT) code for their COVID-19 test certificates if their destination countries, airlines or transit airports require PCR tests. Visit www.africacdc.org/trusted-travel to check the test requirements of transit and destination countries.
A list of laboratories that have been approved to carry out COVID-19 PCR tests, issue certificates and TT codes can be found here.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
*Kenyan Airways resumed international flights from 1 August 2020. All in- and outbound passengers must present proof of a negative COVID-19 test conducted within 72 hours of boarding.
*All passengers aboard any Emirates flight require a negative COVID-19 certificate, obtained no later than 96 hours prior to flight departure.
Mozambique
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Mozambique's borders are open for international travel and flights have been approved from Portugal, Turkey, Qatar, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa. Land borders are also open for self-drive travellers. Maputo International Airport is a member of the Airport Health Accreditation Programme by Airports Council International (ACI).
As of 20 July 2021, Mozambique has a curfew in place in all cities and towns from 21:00 to 04:00. Beaches are closed for gatherings but walking, running, snorkelling, fishing, canoeing and surfing is allowed.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
*All travellers older than 11 years must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test result, conducted in your country of origin within 72 hours of departure for Mozambique.
*Undergo health screening and temperature testing.
Mandatory quarantine:
Not required unless you arrive without a negative COVID-19 test certificate, test positive for COVID-19 on arrival, or were in contact with someone who has COVID-19. You will then be required to self-isolate for 14 days.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
*All of the main airlines flying from Portugal, Turkey, Qatar, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa.
*Airlink from South Africa.
Namibia
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Namibia announced new implementation protocols that will guide the country's international tourism revival initiative. These protocols came into effect from 1 September 2020.As of 1 August 2021, Namibia has lifted all travel restrictions between regions. A curfew between 22:00 and 04:00 still remains in place.
All Countries are allowed to travel to the destination
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
*All travellers older than 5 years must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result, conducted within 72 hours of arriving in Namibia.
*Undergo health screening and temperature testing.
*Submit your full trip itinerary.
Mandatory quarantine:
*Not required, unless a traveller's PCR test is older than 7 days.
*If PCR test is older than 7 days, a traveller will be placed in quarantine for 7 days and required to take a COVID test at own cost.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on departure:
*A negative COVID-19 test certificate, conducted within 48 hours of departing Namibia, if your country of origin requires it.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
*Ethiopian Airlines
*Lufthansa from 19 September 2020
*Eurowings from 20 September 2020
*Qatar Airways from 1 October 2020
Rwanda
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Tourism activities across the country resumed from 17 June 2020 and Rwanda's airports reopened for scheduled commercial flights on 1 August 2020.
Kigali International Airport is a member of the Airport Health Accreditation Programme by Airports Council International (ACI).
As of 1 July 2021, Rwanda has imposed a two-week lockdown, with a curfew from 18:00 to 04:00. Tourism still continues in line with COVID-19 regulations.
Countries allowed to travel to the destination:
All tourists will be allowed to visit Rwanda's attractions and destinations after testing negative for COVID-19 in two consecutive tests.
Travellers arriving in England from Rwanda will not be required to quarantine for 14 days. This ruling comes into effect from 21 November 2020.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
*All travellers older than 5 years must provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate, performed within 72 hours of departure for Rwanda
*Complete the Passenger Locator Form and upload your COVID-19 test certificate via www.rbc.gov.rw/travel prior to arrival.
*If you are visiting any national park in Rwanda, except Akagera, you are required to schedule your visit within 72 hours of receiving a negative PCR test result. Tourists visiting Akagera National Park are required to take a Rapid Antigen Test, available at numerous clinics in Kigali. If your visit/s are more than 72 hours after the initial test on arrival in Rwanda, you will be required to take another COVID-19 test before visiting the parks.
*Follow preventive measures while travelling in Rwanda: physical distancing where possible; the wearing of masks is mandatory; and temperature screenings before entering certain buildings are mandatory.
*All travelers departing from Rwanda must test negative for COVID-19, with the RT-PCR test performed within 120 hours before departure. The Rwanda Development Board has advised that as long as travelers depart within 120 hours of their RT-PCR test on arrival, they do not require another test.
Mandatory quarantine:
*All travelers arriving in Rwanda will be screened upon entry and take a second RT-PCR test to confirm the negative results of the test done prior to arrival. You will be required to wait about 24 hours for these test results in a designated transit hotel. The Government of Rwanda has negotiated special rates at designated transit hotels for the 24-hour waiting period.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
*Charter flights (individual and groups)
*Commercial airlines from 1 August 2020
*RwandAir between Dubai and selective African routes from 1 August 2020, and between London and Kigali from 3 October 2020.
GORILLA TREKKING
*Wearing a mask while gorilla trekking is mandatory.
*The maximum number of people on a gorilla trek has been reduced to 6 (used to be 8). It is also possible to book an exclusive sole-use trek for US$ 15 000.
*Whilst at Volcanoes National Park HQ, visitors will be briefed on the safety and health measures that are to be followed in order to ensure the wellbeing of oneself and the endangered Mountain Gorillas.
*Temperatures will also be tested prior to the trek to ensure all visitors are in the recommended temperature range advised by the ministry of health.
South Africa
Last updated 07 Sep 2021
Cape Town is an Approved & Recognised User of the World Travel & Tourism Council's (WTTC) Safety StampSouth Africa announced on 16 September 2020 that the country's borders will reopen for tourism on 1 October 2020.
International and local air travel is restricted to and from OR Tambo International Airport, King Shaka International Airport, Cape Town International Airport, Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and Lanseria International Airport. OR Tambo, King Shaka and Cape Town airports are members of the Airport Health Accreditation Programme by Airports Council International (ACI).
All Countries are allowed to travel to the destination
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
*Download, print and complete the Traveller Health Questionnaire (Entry) not more than 2 days before arrival. The same applies when leaving South Africa.
*Provide a valid, printed certificate of a negative COVID-19 PCR test, obtained not more than 72 hours (3 days) from the time of departure for South Africa. The test must be conducted by a certified medical practitioner and the certificate must have the name and signature of the practitioner who conducted the test.
*Undergo screening for any COVID-19 symptoms and/or for contact with people who have been infected with the virus.
*Download the COVID Alert South Africa mobile app.
Mandatory quarantine is not required unless:
*Arriving passengers fail to present a valid and negative COVID-19 PCR test. This will require quarantine at own cost.
*Travelers display any symptoms of COVID-19 or have been in contact with an infected person. A mandatory COVID-19 test will be required at their own cost. If this test result is positive, travelers will be subjected to a 10-day quarantine at a designated site, at their own cost.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on departure:
*Download, print and complete the Traveller Health Questionnaire (Exit) not more than 2 days before departure.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
Following the president's announcement that South Africa will institute adjusted Level 1 Lockdown regulations, the curfew requires every person to be at their place of residence from 00:00 to 04:00. If a flight arrives within the curfew hours, passengers will be able to show proof of their boarding passes or tickets for their flights if stopped by law enforcement en route to the airport, hotel or home.
- KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
- Air France
- Ethiopian Airlines
- Emirates
- Lufthansa
- Edelweiss Air
- Virgin Atlantic
Tanzania
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Approved & Recognised User of the World Travel & Tourism Council's (WTTC) Safety Stamp
The government of Tanzania announced on 18 May 2020 that it will lift the ban on international flights arriving and departing from the country. All hotels and other tourist facilities in the country must go through a COVID-19 certification process, and official documents must be placed at the entrances of all facilities. The Tanzanian government has also directed all the country’s tourism entities to appoint and adequately train COVID-19 liaison officers to be the point of contact with its Health Ministry.
All Countries are allowed to travel to the destination
Except for INDIA
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
*All travellers (including children) are required to complete a Traveller's Health Surveillance Form, to be submitted within 24 hours before arrival in Tanzania. Upon submission, you will receive a Unique Health Code that will be requested during primary screening on arrival.
*Present a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test certificate, obtained within 72 hours of arriving in Tanzania.
*Undergo enhanced screening for COVID-19, including rapid testing at USD 25 per traveller.
*While in Tanzania, visitors will be expected to adhere to full protective measures against the spread of COVID-19.
Mandatory quarantine:
All travellers arriving from India, or those who have travelled through India in the last 14 days regardless of the route taken, must undergo a Rapid Test upon arrival at own cost (USD 10). This is followed by stringent contact tracing, and a 14-day mandatory quarantine at an approved hotel at their own cost.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
*Ethiopian Airlines
*Qatar Airways
*KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
*Emirates
*Air Tanzania could resume operations to other countries that have re-opened for international travel, or for passengers looking to fly with the airline – to be confirmed.
Uganda
Last Updated: 07 Sep 2021
Uganda has released a tentative phased reopening schedule for all its land borders and the resumption of international passenger flights to Entebbe International Airport, effective 1 October 2020.
Countries allowed to travel to the destination
Travellers arriving from Category 2 & 3 countries are allowed entry into Uganda.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
Arriving passengers:
(Category 2 & 3):
*Provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result from an accredited laboratory in your country of origin, issued within 120 hours of departure for Uganda.
*Undergo temperature checks and health screening on arrival.
*Wear masks, maintain a social distance of 1.5 metres (5 feet) where possible, and practice good personal hygiene.
Category 2 passengers:
*All travellers arriving from USA, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Turkey, South Africa, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Kenya and Tanzania will have to undergo a PCR COVID-19 test at their points of entry, including Entebbe International Airport.
*Travellers will be transferred by bus to a government approved testing facility, located about 1.2 miles (2 kilometres) from the airport, where PCR testing is done. The Ministry of Health has signed an agreement with the private sector to carry out this exercise in a comfortable environment, and provide test results within 5 hours. The PCR test will cost USD 65 per traveller, payable in cash.
*All travellers – except passengers arriving from India – who can produce proof of completing a full COVID-19 vaccination course (within a minimum of 2 weeks before entry) are exempt from additional PCR testing on arrival.
Category 3 passengers:
*All arriving passengers from countries not in Category 1 and 2 are exempt from additional COVID-19 protocols listed above.** From mid-September, all arriving travellers – irrespective of vaccination status – are likely to be required to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result issued within 72 hours of departure for Uganda, and undergo a mandatory PCR test (at own cost) at their points of entry, including Entebbe International Airport. **
Departing passengers:
*Arrive at the airport at least four hours before their scheduled flights.
*Present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result, issued within 120 hours of departing from Uganda.
*Undergo temperature checks and health screening.
Mandatory quarantine:
Not required. Passengers who exhibit signs and symptoms of an infectious disease will be transported to an isolation center for a COVID-19 test. Results will be available within 24 to 48 hours. If foreign nationals test positive for COVID-19 and wish to be repatriated to another facility outside Uganda, they can do so at their own cost and according to COVID-19 medical evacuation protocols.
Airlines flying into the destination are:
*Turkish Airlines
*Qatar Airways
*Emirates
*Kenya Airways
*Ethiopian Airlines
Zambia
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Zambia is open to foreign nationals and issuing visitor visas upon entry into the country. Depending on your nationality, travelers can arrive without a visa, obtain a visa on arrival, or apply for an e-visa before travelling to Zambia – visit the Zambia Department of Immigration website for more info. Limited domestic flight schedules are operating twice-weekly between Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and Mfuwe International Airport, and between Kenneth Kaunda and Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
Before arriving in Zambia, passengers are required to submit their COVID-19 test certificates to generate a Trusted Travel (TT) code. Visit PanaBios to create a TT account, upload PCR test certificates, and generate a TT code. Travellers with test results from non-recognised laboratories are required to submit their test results to Global Haven for validation.
*Provide a PCR-based SARS-CoV-2 certificate of a negative COVID-19 test result no older than 72 hours prior to departure from country of origin.
*Complete a Traveller Health Questionnaire from the Ministry of Health on board the flight before landing in Zambia.
*Undergo temperature and symptom screening, which could lead to further COVID-19 testing (at your own cost) and quarantine in designated facilities until test results are available.
*Travellers arriving from high risk countries are required to undergo a PCR test at own cost. If the test result is positive, travellers will be required to quarantine for 14 days. Travellers who transit through high risk countries are not considered high risk if the transit time is less than 24 hours. The list of high risk countries is reviewed and updated regularly.
*Adhere to COVID-19 regulations like physical distancing, wearing face masks, and personal hygiene. You will also need to monitor yourself daily for 14 days post arrival for symptoms of the virus and report any occurrence to the nearest health facility.
*Travellers leaving Zambia will only be required to produce a negative COVID-19 test certificate when flying with an airline or to a country that requires said certificate.
Mandatory quarantine:
All international visitors are screened on arrival. If you show any signs of COVID-19, you will have to quarantine for 14 days.
Travellers from high risk countries will have to quarantine for 14 days if their PCR test result on arrival is positive.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on departure
Obtain a Travel Certificate from the Ministry of Health, originating from Zambia, if your destination or airline requires a COVID-19 test certificate. To obtain a Travel Certificate, travellers must present their passports and COVID-19 test results at one of these offices:
- University Teaching Hospital (UTH)
- District Health Office (DHO)
- Public Health Office (PHO)
- Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI)
- Adult Infectious Disease Center (AIDC) at UTH
*Ethiopian Airlines
*RwandAir
*Kenya Airways
*Emirates is set to start flying to Zambia from 1 September 2020.
*Proflight Zambia is operating limited domestic flights.
Zimbabwe
Last updated: 07 Sep 2021
Zimbabwe announced the reopening of the country's local tourism sector on 3 September 2020. Domestic flights resumed on 21 September 2020 with Air Zimbabwe and Fastjet, in advance of 1 October 2020: the reopening date of Zimbabwe's international airports.As of 1 July 2021, the government instituted a national lockdown and a curfew from 18:30 to 06:00. Air travel remains open for leisure travellers, but land borders are only open to returning residents and essential services – including commercial and transit cargo carriers. Inter-city and inter-provincial holiday travel, as well as visiting national parks and designated tourism facilities are allowed, but will be bound by the country's curfew hours. Visitors who are travelling between destinations are required to provide documentation of bookings at national parks and other designated tourism facilities.
Health screening & COVID-19 protocols on arrival are subject to:
*Present a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate, obtained from a recognized facility within 48 hours of departure for Zimbabwe.
*Undergo health screening and temperature testing.
*Social distancing, hand sanitization and the wearing of masks are mandatory.
*All travellers older than 18 years who arrive via the Kazungula and Victoria Falls land borders must produce proof of COVID-19 vaccinations, as well as negative PCR test results no older than 48 hours. Children under 18 years are only required to have negative PCR test certificates. Children younger than 5 years do not require PCR test certificates.
Mandatory quarantine:
*Travellers showing COVID-19 symptoms on arrival may be tested at their own expense (USD 60 per test) at a facility available at the airport. If necessary, travellers will be required to undergo a mandatory 7-day quarantine at their own cost.
*Travellers arriving from (or through) India will be tested for COVID-19 on arrival and, if positive, will be taken to an isolation centre. If the test result is negative, they will need to quarantine in a hotel at own expense for 10 days from date of arrival in Zimbabwe.Although the government has stated that all arriving travellers are required to quarantine for 10 days, this statutory legislation is not being practiced or enforced. This is verified by our key safari partners on the ground in Zimbabwe, as well as other international travellers. The tourism industry has requested the Zimbabwean government to update its official website accordingly.
Airlines flying into the destination:
*Emirates
*Ethiopian Airlines
*Kenya Airways
*Air Tanzania
*Fastjet flights between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls are suspended until 15 March 2021.
