Tag: Covid-19

Please note that this blog post was written in October 2020. For the latest travel updates, please visit our Travel with Confidence pages.

Africa is generally considered as a complex travel destination. If you consider that there are between 1500 and 2000 different languages spoken on the continent, that public transport is often unreliable or non existent and there are vast distances between places – there is no wonder people are nervous about travelling here. It is not surprising that most visitors to Africa choose to travel with a travel agent – or an African Travel Expert as we like to call our agents who take care of our guests. 

Given the increased fear and uncertainty about travelling during Covid-19, it makes even more sense to utilise the services of someone who make it their job to know everything there is to know about African travel. And even above this, to be able to trust that person, who is on the ground and has a first-hand knowledge of every aspect of your trip. Still unsure? Here are all the reasons it is so important to use a travel agent when travelling to Africa. 

Utilise our Travel Expert’s Knowledge

When we say we know Africa better than an elephant knows its trunk, we really mean it. Our Travel Experts have travelled to every corner of our incredible continent making sure they know all the subtleties to provide you with the best insights. While they might not have slept in every bed in every lodge, they have actually got pretty close. If your particular Travel Expert has not been to the lodge themselves, rest assured that someone in the office definitely has and they would never recommend it unless they have first-hand knowledge to provide. 

Why does this matter? Africa is not only about what you know, it’s also about who you know. Since our Travel Experts have personally travelled to all the top lodges and hotels in Africa, they also personally know all the people at the lodge. From the owners to the managers, and from the chef to the receptionist – they have met them all. Should you have any issues, they not only know the name of the person who can help, they more than likely have their cell/mobile number as well and not just the number on the website. 

During a time of uncertain travel, this kind of relationship is more valuable than gold. This is the kind of person you want to be looking after your dream African holiday. This is the kind of person you want to have looking after you and your loved ones.

Take Advantage of the Best Prices

People often mistakenly think that booking with an agent is more expensive. The assumption is that you are adding on their “fee” to a base price when using their services thus making it more costly. The reality is the opposite.

Using a trusted travel company which has been around for a long time, like Rhino Africa, means you can take advantage of their relationships and influence within the travel industry. This is why we can offer prices to our guests which are not available anywhere else, even when booking direct! Don’t believe me? Contact our Rhino Experts and put them to the test.

Reduce your Stress

The last few months have been rough, for everyone! And a holiday is not only desperately wanted it’s more of a necessity than ever before. Imagine sitting on a game drive vehicle, gazing into the distance as the sun slowly sets on the horizon. Or sitting around the camp fire listening to the lonely call of the hyena late at night. These are the things you should be focusing on while on your safari – not worrying about travel restrictions and Covid tests and cancelled flights. 

How do you reduce your stress when there is so much uncertainty? Simple. You partner with the best in the business when planning your African safari. Rhino Africa is Africa’s Leading Safari Company with over 16 years experience tailor-making the perfect African adventure. From planning your holiday to landing back home, Rhino Africa has you covered and our new T&C’s make travelling during Covid-19 easy and stress free – exactly what a holiday should be. 

Let your Travel Agent assist you with all Covid-19 Travel Restrictions

Let’s be honest – the number of travel restrictions and the rate they change is enough to scare anyone off travelling anytime soon. But should this scare you off from all travels? The simple answer is no, you just need to be clever in how you travel. 

The travel landscape has changed dramatically in recent times and will probably continue to shift and pivot over the next few months as well. The necessity of having a good travel insurance has never been more relevant or topical, so naturally Rhino Africa offers our guests the most comprehensive travel insurance on the market to cover you for all eventualities. 

But what about the actual logistics of travel? What happens with changing travel restrictions and changing requirements about pre-travel Covid tests? What happens if you are travelling through multiple countries with varying Covid-19 travel requirements? What are the quarantine restrictions and what happens if you test positive? How do you know if you have all the information, that it’s accurate and up to date? 

Trust someone who is invested in your wellbeing to look after all these things for you. Our Travel Experts spend hours everyday making sure they know all this information – to help guide and assist you through it. Now more than ever you should be using their expert knowledge to your advantage, to give you peace of mind so all the tricky, complicated Covid-19 related issues are not an issue at all. 

Always on-call to assist 

Any regular traveller will tell you that you should always plan well but also to be prepared for the unexpected. One of the most crucial elements of travelling is knowing that should anything happen, you have a travel agent to contact immediately who will be able to help. Our Travel Experts are available at any stage during booking, while on your holiday as well as afterwards to make sure that everything is as perfect as it should be. 

If you have any problems, they are just a call away. Travel in Africa is often a little more complex than other destinations. Being in the wild often means that you are far away from towns, cities or roads and hospitals so having someone who lives in Africa, speaks the language, is in the same time zone and knows the lay of the land is crucial.

As we like to say, why would you trust anyone but an African to plan your African holiday?

Let our Travel Experts Tailor-make your next African Holiday

Using a travel agent when booking your next African adventure will allow you to focus on the most important things, spending time with your loved ones and immersing yourself in the magic of Africa.

Simply put, there is no-one better equipped to make your dream African adventure a reality than Africa’s Leading Safari company, Rhino Africa. Our Expert Travel Consultants are the best in the business and the perfect kind of expert to have in your corner, looking after all the details for you.

Please note that this blog post was written in September 2020. For the latest travel updates, please visit our Travel with Confidence pages:

Africa is a bucket list destination for adventure seekers and romantics alike. Given the current circumstances, many of our clients are wondering: When will I be able to travel to Africa again? To make it easy, we have compiled a reference guide to when all your favourite Africa destinations are open for international visitors as well as some detailed information on what to expect for all Covid-19 travel to these countries. Here are the latest news on Covid-19 travel restrictions, travel protocols as well as border statutes of African countries.

Last updated: 13. November 2020

With every country seemingly applying a variety of different Covid-19 travel policies and protocols; it is difficult to keep up. As the authorities in African travel, we’ve collected all the travel information on the safest Covid-19 African destinations in order for you to best plan your next adventure to Africa.

Southern Africa

South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Mozambique

East Africa

Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Republic of Congo

Indian Ocean Islands

Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, Maldives, La Réunion, Madagascar

Southern Africa

Experience a safari in Southern Africa

Encounter the Big 5 on a safari in Kruger National Park, hiking up dunes in Namibia or feeling the spray of the mighty Victoria Falls – Southern Africa is the ultimate post Covid-19 safari destination.

South Africa

Since 12 November 2020, South Africa’s borders are open to travellers from ALL countries, given that they provide a negative Covid-19 test. The “high risk country” list has been removed, which makes exploring Southern Africa possible again.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?12 November 2020 for ALL countries
• Who is allowed to visit?Everyone with a negative Covid-19 test that isn’t older than 72 hours.
• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?The following is needed from every passenger to be granted entry into South Africa:- Negative Covid-19 test (not older than 72 hours);- The test must be conducted by a certified medical practitioner and must contain the name and signature of the person who conducted the test;- If no negative test is produced, the traveller will be required to quarantine at their own cost;- Travel insurance;- Proof of accommodation within South Africa.All travellers will undergo temperature screening on arrival in South Africa. Social Distancing will be encouraged and every traveller will be required to wear a mask.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?Any traveller who tests positive for Covid-19 upon arrival in South Africa will be required to undertake a mandatory 10 day quarantine in a state facility at their own cost. Travel insurance would however cover all testing and quarantine costs.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?https://www.southafrica.net/za/en/

Botswana

With some of the lowest reported Covid-19 cases in the world, Botswana was quick to close borders and limit the spread of Covid-19 within the country. In the beginning of November 2020, Botswana’s government announced the border reopening from 1 December 2020.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?1 December 2020

• Who is allowed to visit?All international tourists with a negative Covid-19 test that isn’t older than 72 hours. Visitors who fail to provide such proof will not be allowed entry intro Botswana.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?Visitors will be screened for Covid-19 symptoms upon entry.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?Upon arrival, symptomatic clients will be required to undertake mandatory testing and possible isolation and or quarantine. If tested positive in Botswana, travellers will be required to remain in contact with the local health authority for a period of 14 days doing self-monitoring.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?Ask our Africa experts for more information on Botswana.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe imposed a country-wide lockdown on 30 March 2020 and will resume international flights from 1 October 2020.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?1 October 2020 for international travellers.

• Who is allowed to visit?International guests, who can provide a Covid-19 clearance certificate.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?If you plan to visit Zimbabwe, you have to get a Covid-19 clearance certificate issued by a recognised facility within 48 hours from the date of your departure.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?Our travel consultants can tell you more about these details.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?Keen to travel to Zimbabwe in the near future? Let our travel experts explain you all about your travels to Zimbabwe.

Zambia

Any foreign travellers arriving in Zambia for non-essential work purposes will not be permitted entry. As of 30 June 2020, no visitor visas are being issued and any travellers arriving with existing visitor visas will be denied entry.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?Zambia’s borders are not officially closed but under very tight restrictions. Airports have been opened as of 27 June 2020.

• Who is allowed to visit?Zambia has not placed any specific restrictions on any countries.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?Anyone entering Zambia may be tested for Covid-19 and then must spend up to 14 days in self-quarantine at their residence or preferred place of stay. If asked, you must inform Ministry of Health officials where you will be staying, and give them your contact details. Even if your test result is negative, you must complete the 14-day self-quarantine period.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?Anyone entering Zambia with symptoms of Covid-19 will be taken to government facilities for treatment and quarantine.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?Get in touch with our travel experts in order to receive the latest information on safe travels to Zambia.

Namibia

Namibia is open for international tourism. If you’re interested in experiencing dramatic landscapes and vast open spaces, read the following travel information.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?Open since September 2020.

• Who is allowed to visit?Everyone with a Covid-19 clearance certificate. Please note that the test has to be taken within 72 hours prior to your departure. International visitors without a negative Covid-19 test will not be granted entry into Namibia. If a negative test is between 72 hours and 7 days old, travellers will be allowed into the country, but they have to undergo a 7 day supervised quarantine at a tourism facility.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?Travellers will no longer get tested on their fifth day in the country and can enjoy their holiday.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?Should you test positive during your stay in Namibia, quarantine and self-isolation protocols apply.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?http://www.namibiatourism.com.na

Mozambique

All international travel into Mozambique has been suspended. As of 30 June 2020, no travel visas are being issued however the land border between South Africa and Mozambique is currently open for cargo only.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?No information is currently available on reopening.

• Who is allowed to visit?Mozambique has not placed any specific restrictions on any countries.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?All arrivals into Mozambique will be required to observe self-quarantine for a period of 14 days.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?No information has been provided.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?Our Africa experts will be more than happy to share the latest news on Mozambique with you. Feel free to send them an email or give them a call.

Southern Africa

South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Mozambique

East Africa

Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Republic of Congo

Indian Ocean Islands

Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, Maldives, La Réunion, Madagascar

East Africa

Your “Out of Africa” adventure awaits

From the romantic charm of the open grasslands and the Great Wildebeest Migration to the foggy volcanic mountains in Africa’s rainforest, where our planet’s last gorillas live – East Africa should be on your travel bucket list.

Tanzania

The Tanzanian government 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 follow the new standard operating procedures. To ensure a safe environment for locals and tourists alike, the government 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.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?Open since 1 June 2020

• Who is allowed to visit?There are no restrictions for certain countries. If passengers’ body temperatures test normal, they will be able to enter the country without being quarantined.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?No visitors will be subjected to 14 days quarantine when landing in Tanzania. However, you are expected to adhere to full protective measures against the spread of Covid-19.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?No set policy or procedure has been announced.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?https://www.tanzaniatourism.go.tz/

Kenya

Kenya has reopened its borders for international travellers on 1 August 2020. There are a few precaution measures in place, which we explain below.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?Since 1 August 2020, international travellers from “safe countries” are allowed into Kenya once again. A review of those countries will be undertaken by the Ministry of Health on a day-to-day basis.

• Who is allowed to visit?You find the latest information on those safe destinations here. The list is being updated by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?If you want to travel to this beautiful East African country, you must present a negative PCR Covid-19 test before boarding the plane (tested within 96 hours before take off). The Kenyan government announced that only passengers who exhibit coronavirus symptoms will be subjected to a mandatory 14-day quarantine. Any visitor arriving in Kenya with no symptoms of coronavirus and a body temperature of less than 37.5 degrees Celsius will be allowed to continue with their travels.If there is a suspected case on the flight, passengers on the first and the second row from where the case was will all be tested. If they test negative, they will be allowed to leave the airport, if they test positive then they will be quarantined according to the Ministry of Health’s guidelines.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?Positive patients will be quarantined, more detailed information on what this will entail for international visitors is still to be provided.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?https://magicalkenya.com/ (official site of the Kenya Tourist Board)

Uganda

Uganda is ready to welcome visitors again from 1 October 2020. The Ugandan Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities has announced a set of standard operating procedures. In order to make sure that all service providers follow the new guidelines, the Uganda Tourism Board continues to inspect hotels and other accommodations.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?On 1 October 2020, Uganda opened its borders.

• Who is allowed to visit?Visitors with a Covid-19 clearance certificate.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?Within 72 hours of travelling to Uganda, you must obtain a Covid-19 clearance certificate.Health screening and COVID-19 protocols are as follows:Arriving passengers must present a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result from an accredited laboratory in their country of origin, issued within 72 hours of departure for Uganda. All visitors will undergo temperature checks and health screening on arrival. Visitors are expected to wear masks, maintain a social distance of 1.5 metres (5 feet) where possible, and practice good personal hygiene.Departing passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least four hours before their scheduled flights. Passengers must present a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result, issued within 120 hours of departing from Uganda. Travellers will undergo temperature checks and health screening. Travellers who are not expected to present a negative COVID-19 test certificate in their destination country must ensure they have special clearance from their destination country to board an airplane.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?Feel free to contact our travel experts for more detailed information.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?https://www.visituganda.com/

Rwanda

Rwanda’s Covid-19 management plan has been recognised internationally and the EU has added the country to its “safe” list.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?17 June 2020

• Who is allowed to visit?All tourists are welcome, but visitors must test negative for Covid-19 in two consecutive tests.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?If you are travelling to Rwanda, you must take two Covid-19 tests. The first one in your country of origin at an ISO-certified laboratory, not more than 72 hours before your departure. You have to submit your test results to lab@rbc.gov.rw before you start your journey and then again upon arriving in Rwanda. You will take a second Covid-19 test upon arrival at Kigali International Airport and have to wait up to 8 hours for your test results at designated hotels near the airport.If you are unable to get tested in your country of origin, you will be tested twice in Rwanda. The first test will be taken directly upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, while the second test will be taken 48 hours after your arrival. In addition, you have the option to get tested again before you fly home. The cost of the Covid-19 tests will be included in your tour packages.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?If a tourist tests positive, they will be treated in a state healthcare facility.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?https://www.visitrwanda.com/tourism/

Republic of Congo

Are you looking for an adventure in Africa’s rainforest? The Republic of Congo is currently working on health protocols to ensure safety of both citizens and visitors.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?The government of the Republic of Congo has announced the suspension of all commercial flights in and out of the country. The country’s land and sea borders remain closed until further notice.

• Who is allowed to visit?No information is available as yet.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?None have yet been stipulated.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?No information is available as yet.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?Please contact our experienced Africa experts for further information on travelling to the Republic of Congo.

Southern Africa

South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Mozambique

East Africa

Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Republic of Congo

Indian Ocean Islands

Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, Maldives, La Réunion, Madagascar

Indian Ocean Islands

Welcome to your tropical paradise

Crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, your own beach villa – do we need to say more? The Indian Ocean Islands not only offer you privacy paired with luxury, they also let you experience a wonderful tropical flora and fauna.

Mauritius

Your picture-perfect island holiday might be possible sooner than expected. Mauritius was officially one of the Covid-free countries in Africa and does everything in its power to retain that status.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?Mauritius has announced the phased opening of borders from 1 October 2020.

• Who is allowed to visit?Borders will be open to Mauritian nationals, residents and tourists travelling to Mauritius for long stays.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?Passengers will have to undergo a PCR test 5 days prior to travel. Upon arrival in Mauritius, a 14-day quarantine will be mandatory at an establishment approved by the authorities.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?Visitors with symptoms will be examined more thoroughly and, if required, will be kept in quarantine or isolation at designated centres. All travellers leaving Mauritius will be screened before their departure.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?https://www.tourism-mauritius.mu/

Seychelles

Like Mauritius, the Seychelles is another Covid-free country in Africa and therefore safe for you to visit. All 11 patients (on the main island Mahé) have fully recovered and the island paradise hasn’t reported any new cases since 7 April 2020. The have also confirmed that commercial flights can enter the country from 1 August 2020.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?1 June 2020 (under certain conditions, e.g. travellers arriving via private jet and direct chartered flights). Commercial flights are operating since 1 August 2020.

• Who is allowed to visit?The Seychelles has a list of stipulating which countries fall within the low-risk or medium-risk category. The full list is updated every 14 days.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?The Seychelles has a strict screening processes upon arrival. They require proof of a negative Covid-19 test prior to boarding the flight into the Seychelles. In addition to this, for low-risk countries travellers are required to submit to an antigen test within 72 hours of travel. For travellers from medium-risk countries are expected to conduct a PCR test within 72 hours of travel.  All travellers need to provide proof of travel insurance and proof of accommodation.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?No information is available as yet.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?https://www.seychelles.com/

Zanzibar

The Tanzanian standard operating procedures do also apply to tourism entities on the Famous Spice Island.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?1 June 2020

• Who is allowed to visit?Tourists from all countries.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?As long as visitors’ body temperatures test normal, they will be able to enter the country without being quarantined for 14 days. All tourists are expected to adhere to full protective measures against the spread of Covid-19.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?No information is available as yet.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?https://www.tanzaniatourism.go.tz/en

Maldives

The Maldives and the new normal: The luxury holiday destination has established a set of safety measures and is welcoming international travellers again.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?Open since 15 July 2020

• Who is allowed to visit?If you want to travel to the Maldives, you have to be symptom-free and in possession of a confirmed booking for one tourist establishment registered with the Ministry of Tourism (exemptions will be made for transit arrangements) as well as a negative PCR test that has been taken no longer than 72 hours prior to your arrival in the Maldives. In addition, travellers must submit an electronic Traveller Health Declaration within 24 hours prior to their departure to the Maldives.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?All arriving travellers must undergo a non-intrusive thermal screening at entry. Visitors with Covid-19 like symptoms (e.g. sneezing and a temperature above 38 degrees celsius) will get tested upon arrival.Please wear a mask at the airport and make sure that you follow the general physical distancing protocol. Hand sanitisation will be available at the arrival terminal.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?If the result of the Covid-19 test is positive, the tourist will either continue isolation at the resort or will be transferred to a state-run isolation facility. If the result of the PCR test is negative, no further quarantine is required and the visitor can continue his travels as planned. Although released from isolation, a symptomatic person will have to follow the usual restrictions.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?https://www.tourism.gov.mv/covid19Consider downloading the contact tracing app “TraceEkee” for real-time updates.

La Réunion

As a French overseas region, La Réunion follows the French and EU guidelines on reopening its borders for international travellers.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?Open, however, there are restrictive measures at airports in place.

• Who is allowed to visit?Travel restrictions to mainland France have been lifted. Travel to Reunion will require a negative COVID-19 test taken in the previous 72 hours. Non-French nationals remain barred from entry.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?We recommend that you take a Covid-19 test 72 hours prior to departure, in order to avoid being subject to a 14-day quarantine upon arrival.If a visitor presents symptoms such as fever, cough and difficulty breathing within 14 days of travel in La Réunion, he or she is advised to dial 15 and provide further details. In suspected cases identified by a medical professional, the Urgent Medical Aid Service (SAMU) will be contacted. SAMU will then inform the nearest Infectious Disease Centre, which determines if the patient needs to be quarantined.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?If you test positive for Covid-19, you will have to isolate yourself for 14 days and are subject to telephone follow-ups. At the end of the quarantine, you will get screened again at a dedicated health facility.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?https://en.reunion.fr/

Madagascar

You might have heard the rumours about Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina and his herbal tonic, which supposedly heals Coronavirus. So far, the travel information for this adventurous destination remains mostly uncertain. Please let our travel experts know if you have a specific region or accommodation in Madagascar in mind.

• When is the country (re-)opening for international guests?Madagascar will be open as of 1 October 2020, however only the island of Nosy Be.

• Who is allowed to visit?No information is available as yet.

• What health/screening procedures will likely take place?All arriving passengers are required to present a return air ticket and must present a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test, carried out 72 hours before arriving in Madagascar. A letter of commitment must be signed by arriving passengers, acknowledging the COVID-related health measures in Madagascar.All visitors must complete a health form and comply with all airport health procedures, such as temperature scans and using a disinfectant corridor.A COVID-19 PCR test must be conducted at a traveller’s hotel (at own expense) 72 hours before departure from Madagascar, if the destination country requires a negative test result.

• What will happen should I test positive in this country?No information is available as yet.

• Where do I get reliable travel information for this country?Please check your home country’s official travel advice for Madagascar or contact our travel experts for further information.

Travelling to Africa in times of Covid-19

Travel Safety during Covid-19

We understand that many people are concerned about travelling in uncertain times like these. Booking a safari through an expert travel company like Rhino Africa has never been more important. Our dedicated travel experts will keep you informed about possible travel restrictions, safety measures and will explain everything from mandatory quarantine to general precautions that you can take to ensure you keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

What is a safe destination?

Endless open savannahs, a private island paradise, being surrounded by the waterways of the world’s largest inland delta – Africa offers you a whole variety of safe destinations. Untouched wilderness and a comparatively small number of tourists make our continent the perfect destination for your first post-Covid-19 journey. Remote locations in combination with highest safety and health standards ensure that you will spend a safe holiday in Africa.

Make sure that you keep yourself informed and use trustable sources such as the website of your home country’s Department of Foreign Affairs.

Our Travel Advice

Why is now the best time to book your 2021 safari in Africa? First of all, a lot of accommodations have really good “book now, travel later” offers. And who doesn’t want to save on the adventure of a lifetime? Since most tourists who were meant to travel now have postponed their Africa holiday to next year, you want to make sure that you book your customised tour, while your dream destinations are still available. Our experienced travel experts are looking forward to planning your next holiday on our magnificent continent. Africa awaits you.

Please note that this blog post was written in September 2020. For the latest travel updates, please visit our Travel with Confidence pages.

 

Like many of you, my travel bug has been itching for quite some time and now that South Africa is open for domestic travel, there is no better reason to get out and explore our beautiful rainbow nation once again. I think we can all agree that travel is unlikely to look the same post Covid-19, but the real question is what exactly will travel look like? One of the biggest concerns about travel right now is what to expect at the airport and how best to navigate this busy and complicated space. As the authority on African travel, we wanted to provide you with some insight in what safety measures are taking place at our airports right now and what you are likely to experience when flying in South Africa.

Flying from Cape Town to Johannesburg

Living in the glorious city of Cape Town, I decided to head up to the Kruger National Park for some much needed R&R and to be surrounded by the sounds and smell of the bush. As not all flight options or airlines are fully operational at the moment, I flew to Johannesburg’s O.R Tambo Airport and did a self-drive up to the park.

Finding and booking flights was a very simple process and all the usual flights between South Africa’s largest cities are available (and even some of the smaller ones too). The route between Cape Town and Johannebsurg, two of South Africa’s most visited cities and easily South Africa’s busiest route, gives a great indication of what to expect when doing any domestic flying within South Africa.

At Cape Town International Airport

Arriving at the departures platform of Cape Town International on a Saturday afternoon, it looked like any other day at the airport. While everyone is wearing a mask, from outside the airport there is no other visible difference to the operations during this Covid-19 pandemic. Inside, however, is quite different.

All passengers are required to wear masks throughout the airport and are encouraged to use hand sanitiser at all times as well. You are given hand sanitiser at every point of contact during this process which provides great peace of mind, and there are many foot-stand sanitiser stations throughout the airport too.

Entering the airport everyone is funnelled through one entrance and directed to complete the Traveller Health Questionnaire – Exit Screening from South Africa form. Even when travelling domestically, every passenger needs to complete this form. You are allowed to print your own and bring it with you, which we highly recommend as it allows for less contact and delays within the airport.

Once you complete the form you are then directed towards tables where health officials take your temperature and collect your form. All passengers with temperatures below 38 degrees Celsius are allowed to continue. Should your temperature be above 38 degrees, you will be moved away, isolated and allowed time to relax before being tested again. If your temperature is still above 38 degrees then they will commence with a full medical check to ascertain if there are reasons that your temperature might be elevated, such as medication or underlying conditions.

All effort is taken for passengers to successfully complete the health and safety protocols and be allowed to travel. Likewise, all measures are taken to make sure every passenger is kept safe while travelling. If you are concerned about your temperature, we advise that you test yourself before going to the airport. And if you are not feeling well, delay your trip all together.

Checking In

One of biggest differences with travel right now is that the airport is very quiet. Normally a bustling hive of activity, it feels more like an abandoned city with only a few people moving around. We arrived a full two hours before our flight, just to be safe, but found we had a lot of time to kill before our flight.

We checked in our luggage in the normal fashion, but found plastic screens in front of every counter. Instead of handing over your identification document, we were requested to hold it up to the plastic screen  to avoid hand to hand contact.

Going through the bag screening as well as when going through the boarding gate, you are requested to scan your own ticket to avoid any hand to hand contact. Before boarding the plane you will also be asked to drop your mask briefly, just to complete the identity screening process.

The Flight

Boarding does take a little longer as everyone is encouraged to social distance during this process. The gate does open 30 minutes before departure, instead of 20 minutes, to allow a little more time to board safely.

Our flight was full. So expect to be sitting very close to people you have been socially distancing from for the past hour or two. Everyone is also expected to keep their masks on for the full duration of the flight. No inflight service takes place and it is amazing how much longer the flight feels without the expectation of food and drinks being served and cleared.

Getting off the airplane we were asked to depart two rows at a time from the front and back of the aircraft to ease congestion. I have heard that this is not standard on every airline but I found this to be a fantastically ordered way to control the proverbial scrum which usually takes place. I hope this is something which does continue post Covid-19.

Travelling with Children

All health and safety protocols apply to children as well so they will also need to have a Traveller Health Questionnaire completed, have their temperature checked and wear a mask at all times during travel.

Flying in South Africa: Restaurants and lounges

We found that the usual restaurants were operational within the airport and were practicing social distancing and adhering to the various regulations. The airport lounges were not open however with no indication as to when they would be.

It’s time to scratch that Travel itch

I must confess that wearing a mask for the duration of being in the airport and the flight was not great. That said I was pleasantly surprised how orderly the process was, how friendly and kind the various staff members were and how safe I felt flying through Covid-19.

With South Africa currently open for domestic travel, and soon to be open for international travel, now is the perfect time to explore our incredible country. Spending a few days in the Kruger National Park, sipping gin & tonics and connecting with nature has been the dream holiday to reignite the senses and refuel the heart and soul.

There are some incredible SADC rates being offered for local travel. The world’s best and most awarded hotels and lodges in South Africa are ready – now is the time to contact our Travel Experts and book your dream South Africa holiday today.