South Africa Announces Reopening To All Travelers

Finding a travel destination is always about weighing the pros and cons. But when searching for the perfect winter sun destination, there’s one where almost everything is pro, making it just about impossible to beat South Africa.

Really, does it get better, or more beautiful? The weather is grand, the value is extraordinary, the people couldn’t be friendlier, the food rivals any destination in the world – and the wine – yeah there’s a lot to love there too.

After being closed for most of the year, and putting travelers through a disappointing walk back of initial reopening plans, South Africa is officially opening to all international travelers, provided they follow key safety rules and bring a negative covid-19 test.

It’s the news many have been waiting for, and as the best weather sets in, it couldn’t come at a better time.

South Africa Reopens To All Visitors

Home legit is this news? Well, when the President of South Africa tweets it, there’s probably some truth to it. South African President Cyril Ramasphosa just announced the good news that the country will reopen almost immediately to ALL international visitors, as part of the country’s move into the lowest level of alertness.

President #Ramaphosa:  
We are also opening up international travel to all countries subject to the necessary health protocols and the presentation of a negative COVID-19 certificate.

— Presidency | South Africa (@PresidencyZA) November 11, 2020

So what rules will visitors to South Africa need to adhere to? For a start, you’ll need a negative covid-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure to be allowed into the country. It’s unclear exactly when the new measures will take place, but South African media reports that there shouldn’t be much delay in reopening.

Testing access is expanding rapidly around the world, and President Ramaphosa’s tweets suggest South Africa will have their own rapid testing facilities available as well. No quarantine period is expected for international travelers presenting the negative covid-19 certificate, but symptomatic travelers who test positive on arrival may be isolated.

For South Africa’s tourism industry, which has faced its worst times in decades, being able to capture this high season is essential to survival. With abundant sun and plenty of beaches to spread out, not to mention vineyards and hiking trails, they just may pull it off.

Incredible Opportunities This Year Or Next

If Europe and the United States are any indicator, covid-19 is less impactful during months of warm weather and outdoor activity, provided practical social distancing is maintained. As the Northern Hemisphere heads into grim winter months, South Africa now heads for peak summer season, and many will want to join in on the fun.

Who wouldn’t want to sit on a beach right now?

South Africa is usually booming with international visitors this time of year, and all the way through spring, but not this year. Even if many international routes do resume, a large number of visitors have ruled out travel for 2021, or until a vaccine emerges and is distributed. But from these tough times come serious travel opportunity.

For those who weigh the risks and are looking for a getaway, this means there will be better rates on accommodations in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and on safari’s across the country, with even easier access to tricky dining reservations too. And hey, maybe even a few less people in line to catch a wave on one of the untouchable beaches.

Here’s 10 things you must do in Cape Town on your first visit. See you there?