Welcome to Africa: A country-by-country guide to reopening
Editor's note: This post has been updated with new information.
The continent of Africa is at the top of our wish list as travel resumes. Many countries in Africa have reopened to tourism despite a rise in COVID-19 variant cases. However, some countries on the continent are accepting visitors, so you still may be able to make your bucket list trip.
This guide summarizes each country’s current status for international travel.
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Algeria
COVID-19 test required: Yes.
Other restrictions: All arriving travelers are required to self-quarantine at a hotel for 14 days and undergo a medical screening.
What’s open: Most businesses are open, but some regions, including capital city Algiers, are subject to a curfew.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Algeria, some domestic flights resumed in December 2020, and domestic public transportation is operating. International air travel partially resumed on June 1, but this resumption is extremely limited with a total of five flights a day to certain cities, according to an AP News report.
U.S. citizens are permitted to enter, but the embassy says entry may be restricted to individuals with dual citizenship or special permission only. A visa is also required.
The U.S. Department of State's advisory for Algeria is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
A curfew is in effect from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. in nine provinces. Most restaurants and cafes have reopened but may have capacity restrictions.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Algeria.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Algeria must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
Angola
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before departure.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: A second test and quarantine upon arrival also may be required.
What’s open: Most businesses and many attractions are open, but some are operating with limited hours and restricted capacity. Public transport is operating at limited capacity, while beaches and pools remain closed for recreational use.
Limited international flights to and from Angola have resumed. Although flights from Australia, Nigeria and the U.K. remain suspended, Angolan authorities have lifted the suspension on flights from Brazil, Portugal and South Africa.
Travelers arriving in Angola must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel and fill out this form to register their travel. Additionally, according to the U.S. Embassy in Angola, arriving passengers may be required to take a second test, then quarantine at home (or in a government quarantine site) until taking a third COVID-19 test after 10 days and being cleared by Angolan authorities.
While there is no curfew in place, travel in and out of Luanda province -- the capital city and surrounding area -- requires government permission. Land borders to Angola remain closed, and a negative rapid test is required for domestic air travel.
Noncompliance with quarantine or mask requirements can result in fines or criminal charges.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Angola is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. The U.S. Embassy also reports that "International travelers arriving in Luanda with a tourist visa are advised that immigration authorities may hold their passport from their arrival in Angola until the traveler presents a second negative COVID-19 result following 10 days of quarantine."
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Angola must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Angola.
Botswana
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before departure.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Health screening upon entry; a negative test is also required to exit the country.
What’s open: Some businesses, many safari lodges and Chobe National Park; some transportation within Botswana is limited.
Botswana is one of Africa's more southern tourist locations and is known as a top safari destination. Americans are allowed to visit (and a visa is not required), although the U.S. State Department's advisory for Botswana is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Botswana, limited commercial flights to Botswana are available through South Africa and Ethiopia, and some charter flights to Kasane and Maun may be available (check with tour companies operating in Botswana). Also, be aware that the U.S. banned travel from South Africa (for non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents) on Jan. 30.
Arriving travelers must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel to Botswana, but are not required to quarantine. All passengers must also present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their departure from Botswana. This parallels the Jan. 26 U.S. requirement that everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Botswana must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
Capital city Gaborone has a curfew from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. in place as of April 12. Permits are required to travel between any of the country's nine zones and are restricted to essential travel. Tourism is considered essential, but additional COVID-19 testing may be required to travel between zones. There are fines for noncompliance with Botswana's mask mandate and other restrictions.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Botswana.
Benin
COVID-19 test required: Yes, upon arrival and before departing Benin.
Other restrictions: Travelers are encouraged to self-isolate for 14 days.
What’s open: Businesses and public transportation are operating normally; there's no curfew.
Benin is welcoming international travelers via Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport (COO), which is operating at close to pre-pandemic levels, according to the U.S. Embassy in Benin. To enter the country travelers will need to apply for an eVisa and upon arrival undergo both a COVID-19 rapid test and a PCR test for a pre-booked fee of 50,000 CFA ($91); testing is also required prior to departure. A positive rapid test upon arrival will result in quarantine until receiving a negative PCR result. Anyone staying longer than 15 days must also undergo a third test. If all testing is negative, no quarantine is required.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Benin must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Benin is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Benin.
Burkina Faso
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 120 hours before arrival.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Face masks are required throughout the country.
What’s open: Most businesses, services and public transportation
The airports in Ouagadougou (OUA) and Bobo (BOY) returned to normal operations on Aug. 1, 2020, and according to the U.S. Embassy in Burkina Faso, Americans are allowed to visit. The U.S. State Department, however, has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for the country due to terrorism, crime and kidnapping.
All travelers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival in Ouagadougou, dated within 120 hours (five days) of arrival. The results can be in English or French, and travelers with a negative test result are not required to quarantine. Rapid diagnostic tests or antibody tests are currently not accepted.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Burkina Faso must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Burkina Faso.
Burundi
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before departure.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: A test upon arrival is required.
What’s open: All businesses and services; Burundi never had a lockdown.
Burundi has weathered the COVID-19 pandemic well, according to the U.S. Embassy in Burundi, and Americans are allowed to enter the country, but only via Melchior Ndadaye International Airport (BJM), which reopened on Nov. 8, 2020.
All travelers to Burundi will be tested for COVID-19 upon arrival in the country. After being tested, travelers must self-quarantine at home or at their hotel until negative results arrive. The test results arrive within 24 hours, so there is the possibility of having an impressively short quarantine period.
Burundi's land border with Tanzania reopened as of June 14, though it is unclear if American travelers can enter the country by land as well. Travelers entering Burundi by land are subject to a testing process similar to the one for airport arrivals with a required test and quarantine until the results come.
There is no mask mandate, but wearing one is encouraged.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Burundi must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Burundi is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Burundi.
Cameroon
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before arrival to Cameroon (and also prior to exiting Cameroon).
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: None.
What’s open: Most businesses and public transportation.
Cameroon's borders remain officially closed, according to the U.S. Embassy in Cameroon, although the government has given permission to airlines to resume limited flights, and U.S. citizens with a valid Cameroonian visa or permanent residency card are permitted to enter the country. All travelers are required to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival in Cameroon. A negative PCR test result (taken within 72 hours) from a designated lab in Cameroon is also required for exit.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Cameroon must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
Cameroon has no curfew, quarantine or restrictions on travel within the country — although travel to certain regions is not advised due to crime, kidnapping, terrorism and armed conflict. Mask-wearing is mandatory on all public transportation with a fine of about $11 for noncompliance.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Cameroon is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Cameroon.
Cape Verde
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before departure.
• PCR or rapid antigen test required.
Other restrictions: Interisland travel restrictions are in place.
What’s open: Most businesses and restaurants are open with reduced opening hours and capacity restrictions; the use of beaches is regulated differently on each island, but travelers should expect limited hours.
International flights to Cape Verde, a group of 10 islands located off of the east coast of Africa, resumed on Oct. 12, 2020, and according to the U.S. Embassy in Cape Verde, Americans are allowed to visit. All travelers age 7 and older must provide a negative COVID-19 PCR or rapid antigen test taken within 72 hours of travel. A health questionnaire must be completed, and authorities will conduct a health screening upon arrival.
There is currently no curfew, but interisland travel restrictions are in place. First off, all interisland travelers must provide a surveillance form. After this, requirements vary: Islands with a COVID-19 infection rate below 20 per 100,000 inhabitants are considered “green,” and passengers from those islands do not need COVID-19 tests for interisland travel. Travelers from islands with higher rates of COVID-19 must provide a negative COVID-19 rapid test result taken no more than 72 hours prior to departure.
Face masks are required in public spaces, including sidewalks, and violators are subject to fines of about $165.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Cape Verde must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Cape Verde is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Cape Verde.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before departure.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: More testing is required upon arrival with a self-quarantine (typically 24 hours) until getting the result; another test is required before departure; proof of yellow fever vaccination is also mandatory.
What’s open: Most businesses and public transportation.
The Democratic Republic of Congo reopened its borders in August 2020. It is perhaps best known for Virunga National Park and for being home to the mountain gorilla. Virunga reopened this spring and is now accepting bookings -- a list of health precautions has been created to protect visitors (and the gorillas, who can contract COVID-19, too).
Important to know: Conflict is ongoing in the DRC and six park rangers were ambushed and killed by militia inside Virunga National Park in January. In February, the Italian ambassador to DRC was killed, along with two others, in an ambush.
According to the U.S. Embassy in the Democratic Republic of Congo: "All arriving international travelers age 11 and older must arrive with proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days (72 hours) of their departure to DRC. Upon arrival, travelers age 11 and older must take a second COVID-19 test at the airport. Travelers should register their information and pay for the test at INRBCOVID.com before they begin their travel. The cost of the required test is $45. After testing at the airport, arriving passengers must self-quarantine until they receive a negative test result, usually within 24 hours."
Americans need a visa to visit as well as a World Health Organization card with proof of yellow fever vaccination.
The embassy also states that "to exit the DRC, all travelers age 11 and older must pay for and present a negative COVID-19 test from an approved lab taken within 72 hours of travel." This parallels the Jan. 26 requirement by the U.S. government that everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from the Democratic Republic of Congo must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights.
The DRC has a nationwide curfew from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. and testing is required for travel between some provinces.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for the Democratic Republic of Congo is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in the DRC.
Côte d’Ivoire
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 120 hours (five days) before arrival.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: All travelers must fill out an Air Travel Declaration Form and pay fees online.
What’s open: Most businesses (restaurants, bars, shops) and public transportation with virus mitigation measures.
Côte d’Ivoire is under a Health State of Emergency, with a reduction of nonessential movement and increased protective health measures, through at least June 30 (but no update was available at press time), according to the U.S. Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire. International air travel resumed with limited service as of July 1, 2020, but land and maritime borders remain closed.
Travelers who wish to visit Côte d’Ivoire must present a COVID-19 PCR test result (in this case, taken no more than 120 hours before arrival) and fill out a travel declaration form.
Those departing from Côte d’Ivoire must also present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within five days prior of departure to exit the country.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Côte d’Ivoire must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
Face masks and social distancing are required when traveling through any public area and there are capacity limitations for venues.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Côte d’Ivoire is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Côte d’Ivoire.
Djibouti
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before departure (and up to 120 hours before arrival).
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Both an eVisa obtained in advance of travel and a second saliva-based COVID-19 test upon arrival are required.
What’s open: Most businesses (restaurants, shops) and some, but not all, public transportation.
The East African nation of Djibouti started to reopen its economy in early May 2020 and began allowing air travelers last fall. In addition to pre-travel testing required for boarding any flight to the country, the U.S. Embassy in Djibouti reports that travelers arriving at Ambouli International Airport (JIB) will also be screened using a minimally invasive saliva test ($30); a positive result will require the traveler to quarantine at their hotel or seek treatment in a local hospital.
There is no quarantine required for visitors who test negative to both the pre-travel PCR test and the saliva test upon arrival. Masks are required throughout the country, but there is no curfew, and there are no domestic travel restrictions.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Djibouti must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Djibouti is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Djibouti.
Equatorial Guinea
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 48 hours before arrival.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Health screenings and rapid testing and quarantine upon arrival; PCR tests are required for internal flights and interdistrict travel.
What’s open: Most businesses (restaurants, shops) and public transportation; beaches and nightclubs remain closed as of February.
In mid-June, Equatorial Guinea began to loosen the restrictions present in the country. Limited international flights have resumed, but travelers must present proof of residency, employment or business purpose of the visit. Travelers from the United Kingdom are currently not permitted.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Equatorial Guinea, all arriving travelers also must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 48 hours of arrival, submit to a rapid test upon arrival and then quarantine for five days (all at the traveler's expense), with a test for release taken after day five.
Travelers are also advised that all internal flights and interdistrict transport within Equatorial Guinea require authorization and a negative COVID-19 PCR test. There is also a nationwide curfew from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Equatorial Guinea must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Equatorial Guinea is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Equatorial Guinea.
Egypt
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before departure.
• 96 hours before departure for passengers from Japan, China, Thailand, North America, South America, Canada, London Heathrow, Paris and Frankfurt, Germany (due to transit times).
• PCR test required; physical (original paper certificate) test results are the only kind accepted.
Other restrictions: A visa is also required (Americans can get theirs prior to travel via online enrollment or upon arrival).
What’s open: Most hotels, shops, restaurants and some tourist sites; the pyramids at Giza reopened in July 2020.
International tourism resumed in Egypt on July 1, 2020, although tourism at sites such as Luxor has reportedly been quite slow. The pyramids at Giza, for instance, reopened on July 1, 2020, after being closed since March and undergoing a deep cleaning, reported Reuters.
COVID-19 PCR tests are required for all international arrivals age 6 and older. All U.S. citizens need a tourist visa (available via online enrollment) and proof of health insurance to enter the country, according to the U.S. Embassy in Egypt. Check with the Egyptian Embassy in Washington, D.C., for more details.
Anyone not following mask requirements may be subject to fines or prosecution. Businesses and restaurants have also been ordered to operate at 50% capacity.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Egypt must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Egypt is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Egypt.
Eritrea
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before arrival.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Rapid antigen test will be administered upon arrival; unvaccinated travelers must self-quarantine for five days and take another test after those five days
What’s open: Businesses can operate until 8 p.m. each night; restaurants can operate until 9 p.m.; public transportation has resumed with capacity limits of 70 passengers per bus.
Limited commercial flights resumed in April, according to the U.S. Embassy in Eritrea, and charter flights are operating but must be approved by the Eritrean government. Land borders are still closed.
American travelers must provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test dated within 72 hours of their arrival in Eritrea. Additionally, travelers must take a rapid antigen test when they arrive. Vaccinated travelers who test negative with the rapid antigen test can freely enter the country. Unvaccinated travelers who test negative must self-quarantine for five days and take another test at the end of their quarantine.
The U.S. Embassy reports that businesses are open as of May 25, with restrictions in place. However, it also reports that COVID-19 cases in Eritrea have recently been rising, and that could cause new restrictions to be imposed.
Public transportation has resumed its normal operation, and any movement within the country is allowed. There is a 9 p.m. curfew for private cars and a 10 p.m. curfew for pedestrians countrywide.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Eritrea must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Eritrea is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Eritrea.
Eswatini
COVID-19 test required: Yes.
Other restrictions: Curfew, roadblocks.
What’s open: Only essential businesses and public transportation.
The only businesses open in the country are considered essential, such as grocery stores and health clinics. According to the U.S. Embassy in Eswatini, there is a curfew from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. The embassy also reports that there is one daily flight from Johannesburg (JNB) to King Mswati III International Airport (SHO) in Eswatini and public transportation is operating. Masks are required on all transportation and there are roadblocks between cities, where temperatures are checked.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Eswatini must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Eswatini is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Eswatini.
Ethiopia
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 120 hours (five days) before arrival.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Health check upon arrival and mandatory seven-day self-quarantine.
What’s open: Most business and public transportation, with capacity limits.
Commercial flights have resumed to Ethiopia and every international traveler over the age of 10 is required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 120 hours (five days) of arrival, according to the U.S. Embassy in Ethiopia. Upon arrival, passengers will undergo a health check, register with authorities and self-quarantine at home or in a hotel for seven days. Anyone showing symptoms will be taken to a government-run isolation center.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Ethiopia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Ethiopia is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Ethiopia.
Gabon
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 120 hours (5 days) before arrival.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: All arriving passengers must pay for and take a second COVID-19 PCR test and quarantine until receiving the results; a negative test taken within 14 days is required for any travel between cities and provinces.
What’s open: Hotels, restaurants and most businesses — all at reduced capacity.
In July 2020, many pandemic measures were lifted in Gabon, but according to the U.S. Embassy in Gabon, restrictions were reimposed and land borders were closed in late January after COVID-19 cases began to rise.
Restaurants and hotels are open, but with capacity limits. Social distancing and masks are mandated at all times. There is a curfew in effect in the capital Libreville from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Travelers are being permitted into Gabon by air (there are flights several times per week), but not by land or sea.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Gabon must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Gabon is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Gabon.
Ghana
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before departure.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Second COVID-19 test conducted upon arrival.
What’s open: Essential businesses, restaurants and public transportation, with social distancing measures in place; all entertainment venues, beaches and sports facilities remain closed.
Kotoka International Airport (ACC) reopened for regular international service on Sept. 1, 2020, although the country’s land and sea borders remain closed. According to the U.S. Embassy in Ghana, all passengers arriving by air must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test "conducted by an accredited laboratory in the country of origin no more than 72 hours prior to departure."
In addition, upon arrival, each traveler age 5 and older must undergo a COVID-19 test conducted at the airport. There is a $150 fee per person. Travelers are required to pay the fee online before departure.
Ghana’s Ministry of Public Health has mandated the use of face masks in public.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Ghana must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Ghana is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Ghana.
Guinea
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before arrival.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: All travelers to Guinea must have three masks with them; testing from a specific lab is required for departure.
What’s open: Most businesses, including restaurants and bars, with social distancing measures in place.
Gbessia International Airport (CKY) in Conakry is open, and most airlines have resumed flights, although the country's state of emergency was extended into May, according to the U.S. Embassy in Guinea. Masks must be worn in all public places, and there is currently an overnight curfew in certain parts of the country, including Conakry. Guinea's land borders with Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea Bissau, Liberia and Senegal are now open.
Anyone who wishes to travel into the country must provide a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival. They must also carry three masks when entering. If flying into Guinea without a negative PCR test result, travelers will be tested upon arrival and quarantined until results are received. If they receive a positive result, they must quarantine for 14 days and have two negative tests before they are released.
Guinea also requires that all departing travelers must be tested by the National Public Health Institute (Agence Nationale de la Sécurité Sanitaire) lab, with the test taken within 72 hours of departure. This parallels the new U.S. requirement as of Jan. 26 that everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Guinea must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Guinea is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Guinea.
Kenya
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 96 hours before travel.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: All arrivals require a visa and face a health screening; departing passengers must also obtain a negative test result before their flight if their destination country requires it.
What’s open: Hotels, safari lodges, game reserves, restaurants, most businesses and public transportation, all with virus mitigation measures in place; certain establishments have limited hours.
Kenya reopened to tourism on Aug. 1, 2020. At the time, President Uhuru Kenyatta said the country had reached enough preparedness to lessen restrictions, but precautions should still be taken, Reuters reported at the time.
Under the reopening plan, travel in and out of Nairobi is allowed. However, 13 counties throughout Kenya have been identified as "hotspot zone" counties and are subject to elevated restrictions.
All visitors need to obtain an eVisa, fill out an online health form (and obtain a QR code for scanning) and present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 96 hours of travel, according to the U.S. Embassy in Kenya. They’ll also face a health screening on arrival.
And as of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Kenya must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
A mandatory face mask requirement while in public remains in effect along with a nightly curfew from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. The curfew in the hotspot zone counties is more strict: 7 p.m. to 4 a.m.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Kenya is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Kenya.
Liberia
COVID-19 test required: Yes, a pre-travel PCR test and a test upon arrival (at traveler's expense).
Other restrictions: Health screening upon arrival in the country, including a test and temperature check.
What’s open: Some businesses and public transportation with social distancing and capacity limits in place.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Liberia, all arriving passengers will be tested at the airport, per the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 Testing Protocol for Travelers. Travelers who test negative upon arrival should self-quarantine for seven days and monitor symptoms for 14 days; those who test positive will undergo treatment based on Liberia's case management guidelines.
American travelers are allowed to enter the country as long as they follow these outlined protocols. However, Americans and any other travelers who have been to Bangladesh, India or Pakistan within 14 days of arrival to Liberia will be denied entry.
Travelers departing Liberia need to arrive at the airport four hours early. And as of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Liberia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Liberia is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Liberia.
Madagascar
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Entry is forbidden to most American citizens with few exceptions; arriving passengers face health screenings and testing and must quarantine in a hotel until receiving a negative result.
What’s open: Markets are operating on limited hours with capacity restrictions; restaurants are open at 50% capacity.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Madagascar, almost all American travelers are banned from entry. Mask-wearing is mandatory in public places, and certain regions of the country have a curfew from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. To make sure all rules are followed, Madagascar is imposing consequences, including 24-hour arrest, for failure to wear masks. Madagascar extended its state of emergency on June 13.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Madagascar must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Madagascar is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Madagascar.
Mauritius
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Entry for most American travelers is not allowed; a 14-day quarantine is required for all arrivals into the country and for anyone possibly exposed to COVID-19.
What’s open: Essential businesses and markets are open with sanitary measures in place; restaurants are open but are only offering takeout and delivery; beaches remain closed.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Mauritius, most scheduled international flights to Mauritius have been suspended, and Americans are not allowed to enter the country. All arrivals into the country (though most travel to Mauritius is currently not allowed) must undergo a 14-day quarantine in a government-approved facility.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Mauritius must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S State Department's advisory for Mauritius is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Mauritius.
Related: Planning a dream trip to Mauritius
Morocco
COVID-19 test required: Maybe. For "List A" countries, proof of vaccination or a negative test is required; for "List B" countries, a negative test is required (along with other strict entry rules):
• 48 hours before arrival.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Travelers coming from List B countries have stricter entry requirements.
What’s open: Many hotels, restaurants and shops, with virus mitigation measures in place.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Morocco, Morocco reopened to travelers coming from many countries on June 15. The Moroccan government has split up countries into two groups: List A countries and List B countries. List A countries have fewer requirements to enter the country, and the United States is on List A as of June 30. This means that Americans -- and other travelers whose country is on List A -- can travel to Morocco with either a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of arrival or proof of vaccination. Travelers coming from List B countries have stricter entry requirements: In addition to needing to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, they must also receive authorization from the Moroccan government to travel to the country and quarantine for 10 days in a government-approved hotel.
Morocco recently extended its strict state of emergency until July 10 -- this means that American travelers must fly nonstop from the U.S. to Morocco or "obtain an exceptional authorization" when coming from other countries to Morocco. Commercial flights are running but limited, and masks are mandatory in flight and in all public spaces. Royal Air Maroc currently flies nonstop from Morocco to two destinations in the U.S. -- New York (JFK) and Washington, D.C. (IAD).
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Morocco must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The government of Morocco has imposed additional measures designed to curb the spread of COVID-19. There is a nationwide curfew between 11 p.m. and 4:30 a.m., and written permission is needed to travel between cities and/or after curfew.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Morocco is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Morocco.
Related: Fly to a reopened Morocco this fall for just 44,000 miles each way in business class
Mozambique
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before departure.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Visas or resident permits are required for entry.
What’s open: Most businesses, shops and restaurants are open, subject to early closures; public transportation is running with limited capacity.
Limited international flights are available to Mozambique, where enhanced mitigation measures were put into place in early February for at least 30 days. Arriving travelers age 12 and older are required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure. There is health screening upon arrival, but quarantining isn't required with a negative test result.
According to the U.S Embassy in Mozambique: "For travelers arriving for tourism purposes only, visas are available upon arrival with proof of a return ticket and hotel booking. Please be aware that U.S. citizens have been denied entry for not having obtained the proper type of visa in advance. Obtaining your visa in advance from the Mozambican Embassy in Washington, DC is strongly encouraged." Non-Mozambican business travelers must seek authorization to enter the country from the Ministry of the Interior, according to the U.S. Embassy.
Public transportation is running and face masks are required. In the greater Maputo area and many other parts of the country, a curfew is in place from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Mozambique must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Mozambique is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Mozambique.
Namibia
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 7 days before arrival.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: WIth a negative PCR test on arrival, no additional testing or quarantine is required.
What’s open: Most businesses (hotels, safari lodges and camps, restaurants, shops); public transportation is running.
Namibia has been open for international tourism since Sept. 1, 2020, although most of its land borders are currently closed.
Tourists, including Americans, are allowed to travel to the country, according to the U.S. Embassy in Namibia, as long as they have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within seven days of arrival. Those whose test result is more than seven days old will need to take a test upon arrival and undergo a quarantine until getting a negative result before being allowed to move freely in the country. Children under the age of 5 are exempt from the testing requirement.
However, the embassy notes that Namibia is in its third wave of COVID-19, and cases are rising throughout the country. As of June 16, the Namibian government has also implemented local entry and exit restrictions in certain parts of the country.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Namibia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
There is a nationwide curfew in Namibia from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Namibia is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Namibia.
Niger
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before arrival (and another test 72 hours before departure).
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Seven-day self-quarantine for travelers staying more than 14 days.
What’s open: Restaurants, markets, stores and public transportation.
The government of Niger's state of emergency has continued into 2021, according to the U.S. Embassy in Niger. Travelers arriving into the country must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test dated within 72 hours of arrival and undergo a health screening. Travelers who plan to stay in Niger for more than 14 days must also provide precise home/accommodation information and self-quarantine for seven days before getting tested again (for free) at a specified COVID-19 testing facility.
The U.S. Embassy also reports that travelers departing Niger by air must provide a negative COVID-19 test dated within 72 hours of departure. This parallels the U.S. requirement as of Jan. 26 that requires everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Niger to show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights.
Social distancing rules are in effect in Niger and it is mandatory to wear a face mask in public spaces in Niamey.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Niger is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Niger.
Nigeria
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 96 hours before departure.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Self-isolate for seven days and undergo a second test.
What’s open: Most basic services like grocery stores and gas stations; public transportation at 50% capacity.
Nigeria reopened its airports on July 8, 2020, after months of closure. Abuja (ABV), Lagos (LOS), Kano (KAN), Port Harcourt (PHC), Owerri (QOW) and Maiduguri (MIU) airports all reopened for domestic flights in July, and international flights resumed in August 2020.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, arriving international passengers over the age of 10 must have proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours (three days) of departure. A Quarantine Protocol issued in September requires all international visitors to register via the Nigeria International Travel Portal, upload test results prior to travel, then self-isolate and get another test seven days after arrival in Nigeria and continue self-isolating until receiving a negative result (typically in 24-48 hours).
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Nigeria must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
Travelers from the United Kingdom and South Africa have been subject to additional protocols since Dec. 28, 2020.
The country saw a surge in COVID-19 cases in December and January, when restrictions were increased. However, the country has recently been seeing a reduction in cases. There is currently a curfew in place from 12 a.m. to 4 a.m., but certain states may have stricter curfews.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Nigeria is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Nigeria.
Rwanda
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before departure.
• RT-PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Testing upon arrival and 24-hour quarantine with another test before release; testing is again required for departure; travelers from India and Uganda must undergo a seven-day quarantine.
What’s open: Most businesses, hotels and public transportation, as well as all three national parks, including Volcanoes National Park; restaurants are open with restricted hours and capacity.
Related: Why Rwanda should be on your travel list
Rwanda had been doing a relatively good job controlling the coronavirus outbreak since reopening to commercial flights on Aug. 1, 2020, although cases have spiked in recent weeks. There are restrictions on travel within the country, but movement requests can be made for tourism purposes. There is also a curfew from 7 p.m. to 4 a.m.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Rwanda, all arriving passengers are required to fill out a Passenger Locator Form and upload a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours (three days) of departure for Rwanda. All travelers are also subject to testing upon arrival (at a cost of $60) and spend 24 hours in a designated transit hotel; travelers from India and Uganda must undergo a seven-night quarantine at specific isolation hotels.
Related: You can't visit Europe, but how about Rwanda?
Travelers departing Rwanda must also test negative within 72 hours (three days) of their flight. The embassy encourages travelers to not wait until the last minute to schedule the test. As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Rwanda must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights.
Rwanda is offering visas on arrival as well for all nationalities. There are a number of additional planning resources available at VisitRwanda.com. All three major national parks in the country are open but visitors will have to test negative for COVID-19 within 48 hours of visiting. You can even book a trip to see the endangered mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Rwanda is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Rwanda.
São Tomé and Príncipe
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before departure.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Anyone traveling between the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe must submit to a COVID-19 rapid test within 24 hours of departure.
What’s open: Most businesses; markets have restricted hours.
São Tomé and Príncipe, an island nation located off the coast of western Africa in the Gulf of Guinea, released a three-phase plan for reopening the country beginning in June 2020. Currently, travelers are welcome, but there are social distancing restrictions in place and people are encouraged to remain at home for all but essential business.
According to the U.S. Embassy (which overseas Gabon as well as São Tomé and Príncipe), all arriving passengers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure. Any arriving passenger displaying symptoms (temperature above 38 degrees Celsius/100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) must undergo a rapid test. The embassy also reports that there is a curfew in place in Príncipe but not in São Tomé.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from São Tomé and Príncipe must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for São Tomé and Príncipe is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in São Tomé and Príncipe.
Senegal
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 120 hours (five days) before arrival.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Passenger locator form required upon entry.
What’s open: Hotels, most businesses and public transportation; restaurants, casinos and beaches are open with social distancing measures in place.
International flights have resumed to Senegal, but most land and sea borders remain closed. According to the U.S. Embassy in Senegal, Americans are welcome to visit and must follow entry protocols. The embassy notes, however, that it has received reports from some Americans who report difficulty booking travel to Senegal because of current restrictions.
Senegal requires a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken with five days (120 hours) of arrival from an approved lab or international health organization. The country also requires all arrivals to submit a "Public Health Passenger Locator" form.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Senegal must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
Hotels are open, as are restaurants and casinos with social distancing measures in place. A mandatory mask order remains in effect countrywide.
Senegal's land border with Gambia is open for all types of travel, but all other Senegalese land borders are only open for commercial purposes.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Senegal is Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Senegal.
Sierra Leone
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• Seven days before travel (and again 72 hours before departure from Sierra Leone).
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Travel authorization and testing upon arrival are both required.
What’s open: Most businesses and public transportation.
Sierra Leone is one of the poorest countries in Africa. During the pandemic, conditions have only worsened. Land and sea borders remain closed, but commercial flights are currently operating.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Sierra Leone, all travelers must obtain authorization from the Sierra Leone government prior to travel, present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within seven days of travel, have their temperature taken and submit to two tests upon arrival (one rapid and one PCR test at a cost of $80). If the rapid test is positive, the traveler will be held in quarantine until the PCR tests are received 24-72 hours later. During this time, their passports will be held by authorities.
A negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours is also required to depart Sierra Leone, at a cost of $50. This parallels with a new U.S. requirement as of Jan. 26 that everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Sierra Leone must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights.
There is no curfew as of June 29, and travelers are free to move between districts within the country. Public transportation is running with capacity restrictions. Masks and social distancing are required in public spaces.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Sierra Leone is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Sierra Leone.
Seychelles
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before travel.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Travelers must complete a Travel Authorization form.
What’s open: Essential businesses and certain hotels; restaurants and businesses outside of hotels operating with limited hours and restrictions.
Seychelles has gone to extremes to protect itself from coronavirus. TPG cruise reporter Gene Sloan wrote about the small island nation off the coast of Africa banning cruise ships until 2022.
Commercial flights resumed in July 2020, and Seychelles has currently reopened to visitors from most countries who have a negative COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours before they arrive and complete a Travel Authorization form.
Interisland travel is allowed, and restaurants inside of hotels are still able to serve hotel guests. However, there is a curfew from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. until further notice.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Seychelles must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Seychelles is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Seychelles.
South Africa
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before departure.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Without the proper test, travelers must quarantine for 14 days.
What’s open: Most businesses (with limited hours and capacity restrictions); many hotels, safari lodges and game reserves and national parks are open.
In December 2020, both South Africa and the United Kingdom began reporting troubling new COVID-19 variants, which resulted in a widespread suspension of flights and travel to and from both the U.K. and South Africa. The U.S. government on Jan. 26 then banned travel from South Africa, with the exceptions of U.S. citizens and legal U.S. residents (travel from the U.K. and Brazil, where another COVID-19 variant has emerged, had already been banned).
South Africa has now entered a dangerous third wave and has surpassed 1.9 million COVID-19 cases, forcing a Level 4 lockdown alert on June 28. Restrictions under this alert include no more indoor dining, a curfew from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m., travel restrictions in and out of the Johannesburg area and the reaffirmation of measures such as mask-wearing.
South Africa reopened to tourism on Oct. 1, and according to the U.S. Embassy, as of Nov. 11, U.S. citizens can enter South Africa for tourism purposes, but they need to present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours from the time of departure, or they must remain in mandatory quarantine for 14 days at their own cost.
All arriving travelers will face a health screening. If a passenger has a negative test result, they will not have to quarantine. Those who don’t bring tests will need to quarantine for two weeks at their own expense. Travelers must also download the South Africa coronavirus mobile tracing app, and fill in all the information on that app.
As of Jan. 26, any U.S. citizen or permanent U.S. resident age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from South Africa must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for South Africa remains at Level 3: Reconsider Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in South Africa.
Sudan
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before arrival.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Travelers who originate from or transit in the United Kingdom, South Africa and the Netherlands must also complete a 14-day self-quarantine.
What’s open: Most businesses and public transportation.
International travel to Sudan resumed on July 13, 2020, to Khartoum International Airport (KRT). According to the U.S. Embassy in Sudan, all passengers age 7 and older must possess a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate dated within 72 hours of arrival. Temperature checks and other health screening may be conducted upon arrival.
The Sudanese Civil Aviation Authority is also currently requiring passengers who originate from or transit through the United Kingdom, South Africa and the Netherlands -- in addition to providing a negative PCR test -- to undergo a mandatory 14-day home quarantine.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Sudan must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Sudan is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Sudan.
Tanzania
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before arrival.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Mandatory Health Surveillance Form to be completed within 24 hours before arrival; rapid test on arrival in the country at the passenger's expense.
What’s open: Most businesses, hotels, safari lodges and camps and national parks.
The U.S. Embassy in Tanzania is reporting that community transmission is widespread and that the use of masks, social distancing and other prevention strategies are largely absent throughout the country. Tanzania has received a lot of criticism on how it has handled the coronavirus pandemic. The government hasn’t actively revealed data about infection rates or death since April 2020.
Tanzania was among the first African nations to reopen to tourism after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many tourists are required to have a visa. See details here.
The government is asking passengers to complete a Health Surveillance Form within 24 hours before arriving in the country. According to the U.S. Embassy in Tanzania, all arriving travelers should also expect enhanced health screenings at the airport, including a required rapid COVID-19 test at a cost of $25. Mask-wearing and social distancing are also still in place for anyone planning a visit. Readers have confirmed that they have had no issues flying into the country.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Tanzania must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Tanzania is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Tanzania.
Uganda
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 120 hours before departure (and 120 hours before departure from Uganda, 72 hours for those traveling to the United States).
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Health screening and temperature check upon arrival.
What’s open: Many businesses and restaurants with restrictions; the tourism industry and national parks; bars and movie theaters are closed due to a recent surge.
Americans can currently travel to Uganda, known as one of the top destinations for gorilla trekking. The country's national parks reopened to tourists in October 2020, and the country's tourism industry is fully operating, as it is considered an essential sector of the Ugandan economy. However, the Ugandan government recommends against nonessential travel to the country, especially for those who are not yet vaccinated.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Uganda, arriving passengers must have a negative PCR COVID-19 test from an accredited laboratory in the country of origin taken not more than 120 hours before departure for Uganda. Passengers will be subjected to temperature and health screening upon arrival at Entebbe Airport (EBB) but are not required to quarantine. However, anyone arriving who is symptomatic with "an infectious disease" will be brought to a quarantine center and tested, where they need to stay until they receive their test results back. Anyone who tests positive will be provided treatment by the Ugandan Ministry of Health.
The U.S. Embassy also notes that the government of Uganda also now requires that all departing passengers present a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken not more than 120 hours before departure. This requirement is mandatory for all departing passengers out of Uganda even if the destination country does not require it. But the U.S. now does: As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Uganda must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights.
Uganda has experienced a recent surge in cases and new restrictions were announced on June 18 in response to this surge. There is a nightly 7 p.m. curfew and masks are required in public.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Uganda is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Uganda.
Zambia
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 72 hours before departure.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Health screening and temperature check upon arrival; no indoor dining.
What’s open: Most businesses, hotels, safari lodges and camps, national parks and tourist sites.
Zambia, home to Victoria Falls and known as a top safari destination, is open to international travelers, including Americans. However, according to the U.S. Embassy in Zambia, Zambia has seen a recent surge in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Level 4: Very High warning for the country. The embassy strongly recommends reconsidering travel to Zambia.
Zambia now requires a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within three days of arrival. Tourists also need a visa (apply online here). There are no quarantine requirements right now, but there are reports of some health screenings, and symptomatic individuals will be required to quarantine and undergo additional COVID-19 testing.
As of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Zambia must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory for Zambia is Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Zambia.
Zimbabwe
COVID-19 test required: Yes:
• 48 hours before arrival.
• PCR test required.
Other restrictions: Ten-day quarantine in a government holding facility for travelers arriving in the country from India only.
What’s open: Retail businesses can be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. only; restaurants and bars are closed for dine-in service unless serving hotel guests; public transportation is running.
Zimbabwe reopened its borders to international flights on Oct. 1, 2020. U.S. citizens can travel to Zimbabwe, according to the U.S. Embassy. However, there is a curfew from 10:30 p.m. to 5 a.m., and businesses have limited hours. Also, the embassy notes that based on a January sample of COVID-19 cases in the country, 95% of cases are from the variant first found in South Africa.
The U.S. State Department's advisory for Zimbabwe is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
Check the Johns Hopkins University website for updates on cases in Zimbabwe.
Additional reporting by Jordyn Fields, Jacob Harrison and Donna Heiderstadt.