South Africa relaxes travel restrictions to South Africa

Date 2020/11/27 10:06:04 by Various

Government has relaxed South Africa’s level 1 lockdown rules around international travel, allowing visitors from any country provided they follow health and safety guidelines.  International travel will open to all countries subject to the necessary health protocols and the presentation of a negative Covid-19 certificate.

While this is a welcome step, several key international markets are experiencing a second wave in coronavirus infections which may prevent potential tourists from visiting South Africa.  Restrictions and bans on overseas travel are in place for countries such as Australia, England, France and Germany.  If considering travel to South Africa please check restrictions for your departure Country.

Regulations as of 11 November 2020

Ports of Entry:

•          International air travel is restricted to the following airports-

(a) OR Tambo International Airport;

(b) King Shaka International Airport; and

(c) Cape Town International Airport.

•          The 18 land borders which were partially operational, will be fully operational, and the 34 land borders which were closed, will remain closed.

•          All commercial seaports will be opened.

Travelling to South Africa

Travellers intending to visit the country will be expected to produce a PCR  (polymerase chain reaction) test that is not older than 72 hours from the time of departure from the country of origin to South Africa. This test must be conducted by a certified medical practitioner and should have the name and signature of the practitioner who conducted such test.

Upon arrival in the port of entry, the traveller will be screened for any COVID-19 symptoms or for contact with people who have been infected with the COVID-19 virus.

Travellers will also need to provide proof of accommodation address should they need to  self-quarantine at the time of arrival in the country. 

Should the traveller display any COVID-19–related symptoms or been in contact with an infected person(s), they will be expected to take a mandatory COVID-19 test.  This test will be at the traveller’s cost.  If the COVID-19 test comes back positive, the traveller will be subjected to a 10 day quarantine at a designated site.  The accommodation at a quarantine site will be at the traveller’s cost. 

It is strongly advisable that all guests travelling, will be expected to adhere to full protective measures against the spread of COVID-19 and continuously monitor travel regulations and updates.  Your safety and well-being are our main priority.