COVID-19 Travel Information
Africa is ready when you are!
During these times of adversity, we would like to send our best to those who have been affected by COVID-19. As the situation regarding the coronavirus is rapidly changing, we are keeping up to date with the latest health news to be sure we are operating at top capacity for our clients. As developments are made, we will continue to update this page with more information including the announcement of country border reopenings.
Your health is our top priority. Our on the ground partners are well-informed on the proper protocols and safety measures being recommended by the World Health Organization to keep traveling guests and lodge staff safe. After taking the time to ensure that your guest experience and safety will not be compromised with these new measures in place, Africa is ready to welcome you back as soon as international travel bans are lifted.
We understand that at this point in time, international travel may currently seem daunting but we’re here to help whenever you’re ready. If your wanderlust is calling, here are a few of the countries currently accepting travelers from the United States.
Entry Requirements by Country
Updated: May 2023
Botswana
- As of August 28, 2022, wearing of masks, proof of vaccination, and testing at port of entry for unvaccinated travelers is no longer required.
Kenya
- All passengers are no longer required to present COVID-19 test results or vaccination certificates on arrival, however, vaccination and regular testing is encouraged.
- All travellers with flu-like symptoms will be required to undergo a Rapid Antigen test, at a cost of USD $30 per person per test. Test results are available approximately 15 minutes after sample collection. Travellers who receive a positive result on their Rapid Antigen test will be required to undergo a mandatory RT-PCR test, at a cost of USD $50 per person per test.
- All passengers traveling to Kenya are required to obtain their VISA online in advance via www.evisa.go.ke
Maldives
- To ensure the safety of all, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) has made it a mandatory requirement for all tourists to present a negative result for a nucleic acid test (PCR test) for Covid-19 on arrival. The sample for the said test must be taken not more than 72 hours prior to the scheduled time of departure from the first port of embarkation en route to Maldives.
- All passengers are advised to fill the online Traveller Health Declaration, within 24 hours prior to departure. This must be submitted online, via https://imuga.immigration.gov.mv
- Temperature checks and screening measures will be carried out at the first point of entry for tourists and special attention will be paid to individuals exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms including, but not limited to, cough, runny nose, or shortness of breath.
- Please note that upon arrival into the Maldives, those who exhibit Covid-19 symptoms will have to undergo a PCR test. If you are traveling in a group, all members of the group must undergo testing.
- In the case of a positive PCR result, the tourist facility, where the tourist is booked to stay in the Maldives, shall be given the option of transferring the tourist to their booked accommodation to isolate in their designated room or to isolate in a government-run facility. These options will also be subject to the individual’s medical condition. Tourist facilities shall bear responsibility for ensuring that the costs related to the transfer and accommodation of individuals who require treatment at a government-managed facility are met.
Mozambique
- Travelers entering Mozambique are required to provide a certificate showing they are fully vaccinated (booster not required), or a negative RT-PCR test results not older than 72 hours for travelers who are not fully vaccinated.
- If travelers do not have a vaccine certificate or RT-PCR test, they will be required to do an antigen test on arrival.
- Children aged up to 11 years are exempt from providing vaccination certificates and RT-PCR tests.
- Guests will undergo health screening and temperature testing upon arrival.
Namibia
- There are no more entry requirements to travel to Namibia as it pertains to COVID-19.
Rwanda
- On arrival, passengers who plan to visit one of the National Parks to go primate trekking will be required to complete a COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival (cost is $60.00 per person, payable in cash or credit card).
- Face masks are no longer mandatory in Rwanda, but their use is encouraged in public indoor settings.
- Clients of restaurants, hotels, cafes, bars and other recreation centers in Kigali are required to be fully vaccinated.
South Africa
- All travelers will be screened on arrival and those who show any symptoms of COVID-19 will be required to quarantine until they test negative for COVID-19.
- If 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.
Seychelles
- Effective December 1, 2022, proof of COVID-19 vaccination or pre-travel testing is no longer needed for entry to Seychelles.
- All arrivals will need to complete the Health Travel Authorization form at least 72 hours prior to departure to Seychelles. This form can be found here: https://seychelles.govtas.com/ . When completing the form, travelers will also be required to submit a passport copy, return airfare and proof of accommodation.
- Visitors must have valid travel & health insurance to cover potential COVID-19 related costs (quarantine, isolation, treatment).
Tanzania
- All travelers entering or transiting through Tanzania and Zanzibar are NOT required to present a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or PCR/Antigen test on arrival unless stated otherwise by the country of their final destination.
- Prior to entry, travelers may be able to generate a QR code through services such as Global Haven: https://globalhaven.org .
Uganda
- Visitors are no longer required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or negative tests.
- In-bound and out-bound travelers are subject to temperature screening at the Entebbe International Airport.
Zambia
- Showing proof of COVID-19 vaccination and/or a negative PCR/antigen test is no longer required to enter Zambia.
Zimbabwe
- Travelers who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 (booster not required), will be required to show their COVID-19 vaccination card on arrival (actual vaccine card; a picture is not sufficient). This applies to people ages 5 and over. Unvaccinated travelers must show proof of negative COVID-19 test taken within the 24 hours before arrival to Zimbabwe.
- Children aged 4 and under are exempt from producing a negative PCR test or proof of vaccination on arrival into Zimbabwe.
Proactive & Preventative Measures
Hygiene Practices
Hand washing and sanitizing stations will be positioned strategically throughout lodges and camps for guest and staff use. Masks and appropriate protective gear will be worn by lodge staff per guest request. Heightened sanitizing protocol will be in place within rooms and guest areas for an added layer of protection.
Health Checks
Temperature checks and health screenings will be available for international and domestic traveling guests. In some cases, stations where guests can periodically monitor their own temperature will be implemented. Staff will be fully trained and educated on the latest health protocols by leading authorities.
Social Distancing
Social Distancing will be encouraged throughout common areas of lodges and hotels, while dining, and while participating in safari activities. Lodges will provide ample space and seating for all guests to accommodate the required physical distancing protocols in place.
Game Drives
Vehicles will be sanitized thoroughly prior to every game drive. The number of passengers will be limited on shared vehicles, unless a larger group is traveling together. Exclusive-use vehicles are also available per request at additional cost. Thankfully, game drives are already considered ‘safe’, as they are held outdoors in the open air.
Dining
A variety of dining areas will be available for guests to ensure that correct physical distancing measures are observed. Private in-room dining, bush dining venues, terraces, gardens and other outdoor areas may be offered to guests for meals. Kitchen staff will wear appropriate protective items while preparing meals.
Guest Experience
Providing guests with an enjoyable experience is a top priority, along with keeping travelers safe and healthy throughout their journey. If all guests adhere to recommended hygiene practices prior to and during their time in Africa, together we can help keep each other healthy during this time.
Plan a Trip
Reach out and let’s start talking. We’ll listen and begin to tailor an experiential, private, luxury vacation based on exactly how you want to experience Africa. From adventure to relaxation—and everything in between—let us handle every detail of your unforgettable journey.
