travel to africa without vaccine

The countries you can travel to without a vaccine

By Abigail Malbon

Travel around the world is easier now, particularly for those who are fully vaccinated with an approved Covid vaccine – but some countries are allowing unvaccinated travellers to enter. Yet with restrictions constantly changing, how do the latest rules affect those who aren't fully vaccinated, and which countries are allowing tourists to enter if they're unvaccinated?

Where can I travel unvaccinated?

There are currently a number of countries that will allow visitors who have not been vaccinated to enter. A few of them are in Europe , and the others are slightly farther afield. We recommend always closely following UK health guidance, including having your Covid vaccine and booster if you are able to. Before travelling, you should regularly check government guidelines both for the country you might be considering visiting and for the UK when you return.

You can find the full list of countries allowing people to enter without a vaccine below:

Since 1 May 2022, unvaccinated travellers are able to visit the country without proof of a negative PCR or rapid antigen test. Passenger locator forms are also no longer required.

Arrivals may, however, be required to undergo a rapid Covid test on arrival. If you test positive on arrival in Greece, you (and those you are travelling with) will have to self-isolate for at least five days, either at home or in a hotel (this will be paid for by the Greek state). If you have no symptoms on day five you will be allowed to leave quarantine.

For holiday inspiration, see our guide to the best Greek Islands to visit .

Read the rules on travel to Greece .

2. Portugal and Madeira

Portugal ’s mainland and Madeira are open to travellers who have not been vaccinated, as long as they can prove they don't have coronavirus when they enter the country. To enter mainland Portugal, you will be required to show proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 or an antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure for the country as well as complete and submit a traveller questionnaire before departure for the country. Self-administered tests are not accepted. Your temperature will also be screened on arrival.

To enter Madeira, you must register on the Madeira Safe travellers platform and download a QR code to present to airport staff on arrival. You must provide proof of a negative antigen test taken within 48 hours of departure that has been administered by a trained healthcare professional.

Your airline may deny boarding if you cannot show one of these documents when you check in for your flight. Check with your airline before you travel.

Read the rules on travel to Portugal .

Unvaccinated adult travellers can enter Spain if they are able to show proof of a negative test taken before entering the country. Previously, only fully vaccinated travellers aged 12 and over could enter Spain from the UK, but the destination has relaxed rules slightly, so it is now accepting negative PCR tests taken in the 72 hours before departure for the country or negative antigen tests taken in the 24 hours before departure for the country in lieu of full vaccination in adults. However, those who cannot meet either criteria will not be able to enter.

As of 1 February, you need to have received your second jab between 14 and 270 days before travel to Spain and the Canary Islands to be classed as fully vaccinated. Children aged 12-17 no longer need to show proof of a vaccine, but will need a negative PCR test to enter.

Read the rules on travel to Spain .

Unvaccinated travellers can enter Croatia without showing proof of a vaccine or negative test. The requirement to fill out a passenger locator form also no longer exists.

Read the rules on travel to Croatia .

Unvaccinated travellers to  Cyprus  must provide proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure for the country or an antigen test taken in the 24 hours before departure for the country. Travellers over 12 may then be asked to take another PCR test upon arrival at Larnaca or Paphos airports, and remain in isolation until the result comes back (this should take roughly three hours). This costs €15–€19 and must be paid for by the traveller.

Read the rules on travel to Cyprus .

If you are unvaccinated and over 12 years old, you must provide a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours or an antigen test result taken within 48 hours pre-departure for entry to France.

Read the rules on travel to France .

7. Maldives

All travellers to the Maldives must fill in a Traveller Declaration form in the 72 hours prior to departure. A PCR test is no longer required regardless of vaccination status.

Read the rules on travel to the Maldives .

Unvaccinated tourists entering Italy from the UK must show a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours before entering, or a negative lateral flow test taken within 48 hours before entering. The requirement to fill in a passenger locator form has now been lifted.

Read the rules on travel to Italy .

9. Dubai and United Arab Emirates

You do not have to be fully vaccinated to visit the UAE. Unvaccinated arrivals to the Emirates must present evidence of a negative PCR test taken 48 hours before departure. Unvaccinated travellers from the UK to Dubai may be required to have a Covid-19 PCR test on arrival.

Read the rules on travel to Dubai .

10. Slovenia

Unvaccinated British travellers to Slovenia must provide a Digital Passenger Locator Form, but are not required to show proof of a negative test or vaccination to enter.

You do not need to be fully vaccinated to visit Turkey, but you must be able to show proof of a negative PCR test (taken no more than 72 hours before entry), rapid antigen test (taken no more than 48 hours before entry), or proof of a recent recovery from Covid-19 within the last six months. Arrivals into the country should also show an online form completed 72 hours before travel and will be subject to a medical evaluation for symptoms of coronavirus, including temperature checks. Arrivals may be subject to random PCR testing on arrival.

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

You must wear a face mask at all times while in an airport and for the duration of all flights, to and from Turkey.

Read the rules on travel to Turkey .

Mexico  does not currently require visitors to show a negative PCR test or quarantine on arrival. Resorts are also able to request guests fill in a health questionnaire on arrival.

Read the rules on travel to Mexico .

13. Ireland

If you are travelling to Ireland as of Sunday 6 March 2022, you do not need to show any proof of vaccination, proof of recovery, negative test or passenger locator form.

Read the rules on travel to Ireland .

As of Friday 1 April 2022, UK travellers visiting Sweden are no longer required to present a negative Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination.

15. Seychelles

Travellers are able to enter Seychelles regardless of vaccination status, but must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to departure for the country or a rapid antigen test done within 24 hours. There is no requirement to quarantine on arrival, but travellers must stay in approved accommodation.

16. Bahamas

Unvaccinated travellers aged 12 and over must show a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to the date of arrival to The Bahamas. All visitors of any age must submit a Bahamas Travel Health Visa Trip application. Seventeen-year-olds and under must be included in a parent or guardian’s profile.

All travellers to Egypt must complete a declaration form before entering the country. Unvaccinated travellers are required to show either a negative PCR test, taken no more than 72 hours before arrival in Egypt, or a rapid antigen test. Proof of Covid-19 recovery will not be accepted.

18. Cape Verde

You do not need to be fully vaccinated to enter Cape Verde, but you do need to be able to prove that you don't have Covid, either with a negative PCR test taken 72 hours before departure for the country or a lateral flow test taken 48 hours, when you check-in for your flight to Cape Verde.

19. Iceland

On 25 February 2022 all Covid restrictions were removed, including domestic rules. This means you do not need to test or show proof of vaccination status to enter the country.

20. Luxembourg

All travellers to Luxembourg need to fill in a passenger locator form before their flight. Those who are not vaccinated need to show proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before their flight, or a negative lateral flow test taken no more than 24 hours before. If you’re not fully vaccinated but have tested positive for Covid in the last year you can show proof of recovery to enter.

The travel restrictions upon entry into Norway have been lifted, which means that the same rules as before the pandemic now apply.

Read the rules on travel to Norway .

22. Sri Lanka

Covid travel insurance is mandatory for all visitors, and unvaccinated travellers need to show proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before their flight, or a negative lateral flow test taken no more than 48 hours before – be aware that self-swab tests are not recognised.

23. South Africa

Travellers to South Africa must present proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before departure for the country. You may be screened on arrival.

Read the rules on travel to South Africa .

Unvaccinated travellers to Belize must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before arrival, or a negative antigen test taken in the 48 hours before arrival. You may also opt to take a rapid test at the airport, at a cost of BZ$100 or US$50 (which must be paid in cash). If you test positive, you will be required to quarantine at your own cost. Foreign tourists are required to pay BZ$36 (US$18) for Belize Travel Health Insurance – this is mandatory even if you already have personal travel insurance and helps protect against incurred medical and non-medical expenses should you test positive for Covid during your stay in Belize.

There are no direct flights from the UK to Belize, so it's important to check the rules of the country you will be transiting through too.

25. Costa Rica

Since 1 April 2022 there have been no requirements for entry to Costa Rica in regards to coronavirus. However, the government acknowledges that these may be brought back at short notice, in which case travellers should always check guidance before their trip.

Since 6 April 2022, there have been no requirements for travellers from the UK to show either a Covid vaccination or Covid test when entering Cuba. However, random testing is still being carried out at airports, and anyone who tests positive will be moved to quarantine in a designated government health centre, at their own expense.

27. Denmark

There are no Covid-related requirements regarding test or self-isolation when entering Denmark.

Read the rules on travel to Denmark .

You do not need to show proof of vaccination to enter Monaco, however travellers over the age of 16 who are not fully vaccinated will need to provide either a negative result of a PCR or antigen test taken within the last 24 hours, or a certificate showing proof of recovery from Covid-19 (a positive PCR or antigen test, taken more than 11 days before arrival and within the last six months).

Do I have to quarantine when returning to the UK?

No. On 18 March 2022 all Covid travel rules within the UK were removed – which means that travellers do not need to test, quarantine or even fill in a passenger locator form , regardless of their vaccination status, upon return to the country.

A Guide to Travel Restrictions Throughout Africa

By Sarah Khan

Many predicted dire consequences when COVID-19 made its way across Africa , but the case numbers in African countries have largely remained low, especially in contrast with the United State s and Europe . 

Experts have posited that factors like climate, strict lockdown, the continent’s relatively young population (more than 60 percent of Africans are under 25), and preparation measures already in place for other outbreaks may have all played a role. 

But case counts, as well as government responses, have varied across the continent. South Africa has been the continent’s worst-affected country, accounting for nearly half the deaths despite a rather strict lockdown, and now a new, more infectious variant ; Rwanda, which has also implemented strict measures, has reported just over 200 deaths; while Tanzania stopped releasing official numbers after April and resumed international travel early, with surprisingly relaxed measures.

Many African nations are welcoming foreign travelers again, but quite a few exclude visitors from America. On the flip side, the United States has recently added South Africa to its COVID travel restrictions, meaning that non-U.S. citizens (including residents), may not enter the country if they were in South Africa within the 14 days prior. If you do decide to travel, be conscientious about not overburdening the local health systems. Stay on top of each country’s rules—which are subject to change based on rising case numbers—and wear masks , practice social distancing, and sanitize regularly.

Northern Africa

As of July, Egypt has been open to international travelers. All visitors must present printed results from a negative PCR test taken within 96 hours of entry, and must fill out a Public Health Card for contact tracing on arrival. Anyone flying directly into Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, Marsa Alam, or Taba who doesn’t have a PCR test must test on arrival and stay in their hotel room until the results are available. All indoor events are canceled, and restaurants and cafes are operating at 50 percent capacity.

Though Morocco began lifting travel restrictions in September, the country is under a new state of emergency, with a nationwide curfew. 

Morocco , which began lifting restrictions in September, has since instated a Health State of Emergency until February 10 at the earliest and implemented a nationwide curfew. Under that, restaurants, cafes, shops, and supermarkets throughout the country close at 8 p.m. 

Travelers from visa-exempt countries—including the U.S.—with confirmed hotel reservations are allowed, as are business travelers invited by Moroccan companies. Visitors must have a negative PCR test taken less than 72 hours before departure, with printed results to be presented at check in and health screenings at the port of entry. The rules change frequently and can make travel within Morocco a challenge.

East Africa

One of the first African countries to open widely for tourism, back in June, was Tanzania . At the time, there were no testing or quarantine requirements. That was changed in August to require a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel, but the rule was later lifted in September. Now only enhanced screenings (and testing on arrival, if deemed necessary) are required. That said, your airline will likely require a negative PCR test to board, so it’s best to get tested regardless of changing rules. Keep in mind that the Tanzanian government has not released any of its COVID-19 statistics since April, so accurate information about the impact of the pandemic on locals is not readily available. The U.S. has also given the destination a Level 4 travel warning , saying “travelers should avoid all travel to Tanzania” due to a “very high level of COVID-19.” 

Tanzania was one of the first African countries to reopen for tourism, though the U.S. government warns travelers against visiting right now.

Kenya reopened its borders to international travelers—Americans included—in August. As of February, all travelers must present a digitally verified COVID test through the Trusted Traveler program . Group gatherings are banned throughout the country, with the exception of funerals and weddings, which are allowed to host up to 150 people . 

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

Rwanda is open to travelers, but you'll have to jump through some hoops before you can go gorilla trekking . First, fill out Rwanda’s passenger locator form online —you’ll have to upload a negative PCR test taken less than 120 hours before departure, along with your hotel reservation. A second PCR test is administered upon arrival in Kigali (at a cost of $50, plus a $10 medical services fee), and you’ll quarantine in your hotel room at your own expense until the results come back within 24 hours. To enter Volcanoes , Nyungwe , or Akagera national parks, you’ll have to submit a registration and indemnity form prior to arrival (ask your local tour operator for this), and also test negative within 72 hours of your park visit. Travelers must test negative once again before departure.

Uganda reopened borders October 1 with new safety measures: a negative PCR test issued within 120 hours of travel is required. Officials recommend arriving at the airport four hours prior to your flight to clear all medical screenings. In addition to regulated social distancing around other people, visitors to Uganda’s national parks must stay at least 32 feet away from gorillas during sightings.

Visitors to Ethiopia can fly into Addis Ababa Bole International Airport’s brand-new $300 million contactless, biosafety-focused airport terminal —but to do so, you’ll need to present a negative PCR test taken within five days of arrival in Ethiopia. Even with the negative test, all visitors must self-isolate at a hotel for seven days.

Indian Ocean islands

Seychelles has been slowly reopening to international travel, but Americans have not yet made the cut—except for those who are fully vaccinated. Anyone who’s received both doses of the vaccination is welcome from anywhere in the world, provided they show proof of vaccination and they’re traveling more than two weeks after their second dose. A negative PCR test within 72 hours is still required. The country projects that the majority of Seychelles’ adults will be vaccinated by mid-March, which is when they plan to open fully for international tourism.

Southern Africa

South Africa recorded the highest number of COVID-19 cases in Africa—more than half of the total numbers on the continent. The country began reopening its borders to Americans in November, requiring a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival and the use of a COVID tracing app. Travelers must also fill out a health questionnaire two days prior to arriving and two days prior to departing. The emergence of a new variant in recent weeks has caused concerns. Last week, Biden added South Africa to a list of restricted countries (though U.S. citizens can return from South Africa), and there’s now a national lockdown in place from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.

U.S. citizens will be permitted enter Zambia upon presenting a negative PCR test result taken within seven days of departure. You can apply for an e-visa online . Travelers to Zimbabwe must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure, but should be aware that a new, strict lockdown began this month, which prohibits all gatherings, the closure of non-essential businesses, and a 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew. For Namibia , a negative PCR test taken 72 hours before arrival is required; if your test was taken more than 72 hours but less than one week before arrival, you’ll have to undergo supervised isolation at a government-approved hotel for seven days.

West Africa

Arriving in Ghana is a two-test process: First, you need a negative PCR test result from within 72 hours of departure in hand; then, you'll head to a new state-of-the-art lab that has been set up at Accra’s Kotoka International Airport for mandatory antigen tests at each travelers’ own expense ($150). Results typically arrive within 15 minutes, though the test must be paid for online in advance.

Nigeria reopened in September with strict testing protocols. Travelers must upload proof of a negative PCR test taken within 96 hours before boarding their flight to receive a QR code with a Permit to Travel certificate; both this and the negative PCR test must be shown in order to board any flight to Nigeria, and then again on arrival. After seven days, a second PCR test must be taken at the traveler's expense (ranging from about $112 to $132). Before traveling to Nigeria, visit the country’s travel portal to fill out a health questionnaire, upload your first negative PCR test result, and schedule and pay in advance for your second test.

All travelers to Senegal must present a negative PCR test dated within five days of arrival, as well as submit a passenger locator form . While some public spaces, like bars and theaters, remain closed, restaurants, private beaches, and markets are partially open with social distancing measures in effect, and a nightly curfew from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.

This article was originally published in November 2020. It has been updated with new information. We’re reporting on how COVID-19 impacts travel on a daily basis. Find our   latest coronavirus coverage here , or visit our complete guide to   COVID-19 and travel .

Recommended

Angama Amboseli

Farasha Farmhouse

Africa Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

South Africa Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to South Africa

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Ready to travel?

Find flights to south africa, find stays in south africa, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to South Africa from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter South Africa.

Can I travel to South Africa if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter South Africa without restrictions.

Can I travel to South Africa without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter South Africa without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter South Africa?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering South Africa.

Can I travel to South Africa without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in South Africa?

Mask usage in South Africa is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in South Africa?

Restaurants in South Africa are open. Bars in South Africa are .

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.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

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.

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.

COVID-19 test required: Yes:

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.

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

• 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.

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.

• 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.

• 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

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.

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

• 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.

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

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.

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

• 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.

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.

• 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.

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

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):

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

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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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

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.

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

• 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.

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.

• 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

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.

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.

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.

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

• Quick Links
• Make An Appointment
• Our Services
• Price Estimate
• Price Transparency
• Pay Your Bill
• Patient Experience
• Careers at UH

Schedule an appointment today

• Babies & Children
• Bones, Joints & Muscles
• Brain & Nerves
• Diet & Nutrition
• Ear, Nose & Throat
• Eyes & Vision
• Family Medicine
• Heart & Vascular
• Integrative Medicine
• Lungs & Breathing
• Men’s Health
• Mental Health
• Neurology & Neurosurgery
• Older Adults & Aging
• Orthopedics
• Skin, Hair & Nails
• Spine & Back
• Sports Medicine & Exercise
• Travel Medicine
• Urinary & Kidney
• Weight Loss & Management
• Women's Health
• Patient Stories
• Infographics

Stay Healthy During Your Trip to Africa With the Right Vaccines

June 17, 2019

It sounds so exciting. A safari in Africa … rafting down the Nile … shopping in Nairobi. But amid the excitement of trip preparations, be sure to think about taking the necessary precautions to stay healthy and well while traveling.

“Many of our patients who visit Africa are afraid of getting sick,” says Keith Armitage, MD , Medical Director of University Hospitals Roe Green Center for Travel Medicine .

“With appropriate medical precautions -- which includes vaccinations as well as prevention against malaria and illness from food and water -- travel to Africa is relatively safe and remarkably enjoyable,” he says.

Tips for Travel to Africa

All travelers to Africa require the hepatitis A and typhoid vaccine, and many destinations require the yellow fever vaccine.

Equally important is to protect against mosquitoes using insect repellent with DEET.

In addition, travelers should only drink beverages that are bottled and only eat fruits and vegetables that are cooked.

And, of course, wearing a seat belt while in a motor vehicle, drinking plenty of water, and protecting yourself against the sun also is critical.

Where to Get the Yellow Fever Vaccine

Certain destinations within Africa, such as Ghana, require proof of yellow fever vaccination to enter.

Yellow fever vaccination is often required for entry to other countries in Africa and other continents once you have been in an African country listed as having yellow fever, including India, Brazil, Kenya, Peru, and Tanzania.

Travel to South Africa does not require the vaccine.

Limited vaccine supply of the yellow fever vaccine throughout the United States requires advanced planning. It is recommended the vaccine be given 4-6 weeks before your trip.

Related links

The Roe Green Center for Travel Medicine is the only non-profit medical provider in Northeast Ohio to offer the yellow fever vaccine. Learn more .

To schedule a consultation with the Roe Green Center for Travel Medicine at one of our three convenient locations , call 216-844-8500 .

Tags: Vaccines , Yellow Fever Vaccine , Yellow Fever , Global Health

• Client Reviews
• Safari Blog
• Send an Inquiry
• Map of Africa
• Contact Details
• African Safari Cost
• Travel Insurance
• You are here 
• The Budget Safari Blog
• Recommended Vaccines for…

Recommended Vaccines for Travel to Africa: Vaccinations for African Safari Trips

Posted by Briony Chisholm on November 12 2018 in OLD Safari Health and Medical Advice Enquire Now!

Our consultants often deal with clients who are anxious about various medical concerns before their trips, the main one being what vaccinations are needed for Africa. It’s not quite as simple as ‘Africa’ – considering Africa covers over 30 million km 2 – and different areas have different vaccination requirements.

That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive blog, detailing exactly what shots you need for the countries in southern and East Africa that our safaris visit, when to get them, and where.

IMPORTANT NOTE/DISCLAIMER:

This is a general, basic overview of some vaccinations needed for safaris. Before traveling to Africa, every person should visit their own doctor or local travel clinic, well in advance of their departure, to obtain advice. Each person is different and has different underlying conditions, allergies, etc., so a pre-trip health check and discussion of what vaccines and malaria prophylaxis are necessary, and other health concerns, are imperative.

This blog does not replace the advice of your doctor/travel nurse.

Medical Insurance

This is a non-negotiable must. Before traveling to Africa, be sure to get good medical insurance, including medical evacuation. Many areas visited are far from medical facilities and difficult to reach. Should there be a medical emergency, you want to feel safe in the knowledge that your insurance will cover any eventuality. Check out our full section on medical insurance  on how to get it.

Recommended Vaccines for Travel to Africa

The only vaccine that is compulsory in some countries (i.e. you won’t be allowed across the border without proof of vaccination) is the yellow fever vaccine, but there are many recommended shots in others. We have a whole blog on yellow fever, so head over there for all things yellow fever , including a map of where it is endemic.

Remember to check that all your routine childhood vaccinations – which in most countries include tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough, measles, mumps, rubella, polio, TB and meningitis – were done and get boosters where necessary. You can also discuss getting various optional shots, like the flu and pneumococcal shots, with your healthcare provider/travel clinic.

The choice of whether to get the recommended vaccinations or not depends on a number of things including:

• Where you’re traveling to in each country e.g. rural vs. urban
• Local outbreaks e.g. cholera
• Length of stay
• What your accommodation will be e.g. camping vs. 5-star hotel
• Activities you’re going to be involved in e.g. swimming in dams, helping out at a clinic, being involved in veterinary work
• Your medical history e.g. underlying conditions, medicines that may affect immunity
• Vaccination history i.e. did you receive all your childhood immunizations?

Local outbreaks/Travel warnings

Outbreaks of diseases such as cholera do, at times, occur and this will mean that you may need to get a specific vaccine for that outbreak (or, in severe cases, avoid travel to some places). The Centre for Disease Control (CDC) publishes these travel warnings  and it’s advisable to keep an eye on these in the build-up to your safari.

When to get your vaccinations for African safari travel

Remember that vaccinations may take a little while to work and some are given over a couple of days/weeks, sequentially. This means you may need to visit your doctor/travel clinic on a couple of occasions if you need to get numerous shots, so go as early as possible.

To help you plan, here we’ll list the most common shots recommended for an African safari (there are numerous other vaccines that you could consider prior to your African safari, depending on all risk factors), how the disease they protect you against is spread, how long they take to work and who the American Advisory on Immunization Practices (ACIP), Centre for Disease Control and/or World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends gets them. Later in the blog, we will list each country our safaris visit and specify what’s needed for where.

Transmission: food and water Recommended for: at-risk travelers to an area of active cholera transmission How long before entering the area should the vaccine be given: > 10-14 days

Transmission: person-to-person (air-borne) Recommended for: all travelers should be up-to-date with the diphtheria toxoid vaccine How long before entering the area should the vaccine be given: Boosters are given every 10 years

Hepatitis A

Transmission: person-to-person, food and water Recommended for: all travelers to countries with high or intermediate HAV endemicity  How long before entering the area should the vaccine be given: > 1 month/as soon as possible (3 doses)

Hepatitis B

Transmission: blood and body fluids Recommended for: all unvaccinated travelers to areas with a prevalence of HBV infection  How long before entering the area should the vaccine be given: as soon as possible (3 doses)

Transmission: person-to-person (air-borne) Recommended for: travelers to parts of sub-Saharan Africa known as the “meningitis belt” How long before entering the area should the vaccine be given: > 10 days

Transmission: Faecal-oral, oral-oral Recommended for: travelers to areas that have polio should ensure that they have completed the recommended age-appropriate polio vaccine series and that adults have received a single lifetime IPV booster dose. In addition, a booster dose for certain adult travelers to some countries that border areas with polio is recommended How long before entering the area should the vaccine be given: > 4 weeks (booster)

Transmission: animal bites Recommended for: travelers to rabies-endemic countries who may come in contact with animals How long before entering the area should the vaccine be given: > 1 month (3 doses)

Transmission: non-intact skin, injuries/bites from contaminated objects Recommended for: travelers who do not have up-to-date immunization (10-yearly booster)

Transmission: food and water, fecal-oral Recommended for: travelers to areas where there is an increased risk of exposure How long before entering the area should the vaccine be given: > 2 weeks

Yellow fever

Transmission: mosquito-borne Compulsory for: all travelers≥ 9 months of age to areas with yellow fever risk How long before entering the area should the vaccine be given: > 10 days

Where to get vaccinations for travel to Africa

The best place to go and get advice on what shots to get for your African safari is a travel clinic. Most major towns across the world have specialist travel clinics, so seek out the nearest one. If there isn’t one close, get your doctor to call one and then you can decide which shots you should have for the specific countries you’re visiting.

While you’re at the doctor, have a general check-up, stock up on any meds you take chronically (and get an official prescription, with generic names. Keep a copy with your passport). Remember that some medications may not be available in the countries you visit on your safari, so go prepared. If you want an overview of all things health-related, see our blog, The Complete African Safari Medical Guide .

Country-specific vaccinations for African travel

Vaccinations for south africa  travel.

Required vaccinations : proof of yellow fever vaccination, if traveling from or transited (> 12 hours spent) through a yellow fever endemic country Recommended shots : routine vaccinations should be up-to-date; hepatitis A; hepatitis B, if going to be exposed to blood/body fluids (including sexual contact); typhoid, if going to be traveling in rural areas Consider : cholera, diphtheria, tetanus, rabies, flu, meningococcal and others (dependent on risk)

Vaccinations for travel to  Namibia

Required vaccinations : proof of yellow fever vaccination, if traveling from or transited (> 12 hours spent) through a yellow fever endemic country Recommended : routine vaccinations should be up-to-date; hepatitis A; hepatitis B, if going to be exposed to blood/body fluids (including sexual contact); typhoid, if going to be travelling in rural areas Consider : cholera, diphtheria, tetanus, rabies, flu, meningococcal and others (dependent on risk)

Vaccinarions for Botswana safari  trips

Required vaccinations : proof of yellow fever vaccination, if traveling from or transited through a yellow fever endemic country Recommended shots : routine vaccinations should be up-to-date; hepatitis A; hepatitis B, if going to be exposed to blood/body fluids (including sexual contact); typhoid, if going to be traveling in rural areas Consider : cholera, diphtheria, tetanus, rabies, flu, meningococcal and others (dependent on risk)

Vaccinations for travel to  Zimbabwe

Required vaccinations : proof of yellow fever vaccination, if traveling from or transited (> 12 hours spent) through a yellow fever endemic country Recommended shots : routine vaccinations should be up-to-date; hepatitis A; hepatitis B, if going to be exposed to blood/body fluids (including sexual contact); typhoid, if going to be traveling in rural areas Consider : cholera, diphtheria, tetanus, rabies, flu, meningococcal and others (dependent on risk)

Vaccinations for  Mozambique holidays

Vaccinations for travel to  Malawi

Vaccinations for  Zambia  safari trips

Vaccinations for Tanzania safaris

Required vaccinations : proof of yellow fever vaccination, if traveling from or transited (> 12 hours spent) through a yellow fever endemic country Recommended vaccinations : routine vaccinations should be up-to-date; hepatitis A; hepatitis B, if going to be exposed to blood/body fluids (including sexual contact); typhoid, if going to be traveling in rural areas Consider : cholera, diphtheria, tetanus, rabies, flu, meningococcal and others (dependent on risk)

Vaccinations for Kenya safaris  trips

Required shots : proof of yellow fever vaccination for all travelers traveling from a country with a risk of YFV transmission and all of those visiting yellow fever-endemic regions of the country Recommended : routine vaccinations should be up-to-date; hepatitis A; hepatitis B, if going to be exposed to blood/body fluids (including sexual contact); typhoid, if going to be travelling in rural areas Consider : cholera, diphtheria, tetanus, rabies, flu, meningococcal and others (dependent on risk)

Vaccinations for travel to  Uganda

Required vaccinations : yellow fever vaccination is recommended for all travelers and proof is required if traveling from YFV endemic country Recommended shots: routine vaccinations should be up-to-date; hepatitis A; hepatitis B, if going to be exposed to blood/body fluids (including sexual contact); typhoid, if going to be traveling in rural areas Consider : cholera, diphtheria, tetanus, rabies, flu, meningococcal and others (dependent on risk)

What vaccines do you need for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)?

Required vaccinations : proof of yellow fever vaccination for all travelers Recommended : routine vaccinations should be up-to-date; hepatitis A; hepatitis B, if going to be exposed to blood/body fluids (including sexual contact); typhoid, if going to be traveling in rural areas Consider : cholera, diphtheria, tetanus, rabies, flu, meningococcal and others (dependent on risk)

Vaccinations are not 100% effective

Please remember that no vaccine protects you 100%. The most important way to not get an infectious disease – after vaccination – is to avoid the causes.

This means, amongst other measures, mosquito repellants and nets and covering up between dusk and dawn, to avoid mosquito bites (yellow fever and malaria), drinking bottled water (no ice!), being careful about what you eat, and washing fruits well before eating, using condoms and avoiding risky behavior.

On the matter of malaria, for which there is no vaccination, chemoprophylaxis is recommended in endemic areas (many of the places our trips go). See our blog Malaria made simple .

Planning well & being prepared = dream safari trip

That, in a nutshell, is what you need to do regarding getting your vaccines after you’ve booked your dream African safari . As discussed, only the yellow fever vaccine is compulsory – if going to, or passing through, a yellow fever endemic country.

The rest of the recommended vaccines for travel to Africa can be decided on, in consultation with your travel health consultant, according to the current risks in the areas you’re traveling to and your personal health. Speak to our consultants for more guidance about what vaccinations you need to travel to Africa.

Here’s to a magnificent, healthy African safari!

If you liked this post, these trips cover similar ground…

• 4 Day Private Garden Route Tour from Cape Town (return)
• 6 Day South Africa Safari - Garden Route Small Group Tour

About the Author

Briony chisholm wordsmith & pharmacist.

Places Mentioned in this Post

1. South Africa

3. Botswana

4. Zimbabwe

5. Mozambique

8. Tanzania

10. Democratic Republic of the Congo

Similar & Related Blog Posts

Below you’ll find further reading and articles related or similar to this post.

Malaria Made Simple: How to Stay Safe on African Safaris

Briony Chisholm | February 13 2015

Malaria-free South African Safaris for family holidays

Landia Davies | July 22 2012

Yellow Fever: Facts you need to know for safe African Safaris

Briony Chisholm | September 01 2015

The Complete African Safari Medical Guide

Briony Chisholm | March 23 2017

5 Must See South African Movies to Watch Before you Travel

Andrew Hofmeyr | May 02 2017

Complete Safari Packing List: Easy Guide 2 What to Pack for African Safaris

Landia Davies | February 01 2022

The Safari Safety Guide: How to Stay Safe on African Safaris

Briony Chisholm | June 15 2022

Tipping on Safari: The Best African Safari Tipping Guide on Who & How to Tip

Andrew Hofmeyr | August 23 2023

Private Group?

A private, tailor-made safari is within your reach. Experience all of your bucket-list safari related items on a budget now.

• Travel Website
• Travel trade website
• Business events website
• Corporate & media website
• Welcome to South Africa
• What you need to know
• Things to do
• Places to go
• Get in touch

Choose your country and language:

• South Africa

Asia Pacific

• South Korea
• Netherlands
• United Kingdom

By creating an account, I agree to the Terms of service and Privacy policy

Yellow fever entry requirements

I I f you are an inbound traveller – here's all you need to know about yellow fever vaccination or inoculation before you visit our country.

South Africa requires all travellers journeying from yellow fever risk countries to show proof of yellow fever vaccination by means of a valid yellow fever certificate. This also applies to those who have transited through a yellow fever risk country.

The certificates, which are valid for 10 years, must be approved by the World Health Organization, and should be administered at a yellow fever approved vaccination centre at least 10 days before departure to South Africa, as the vaccine only offers protection 10 days after administration.

Failure to produce a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate at a South African port of entry could lead to refusal of entry, or quarantine until your certificate becomes valid. Quarantine will not be longer than six days. If you have exemption certificate due to medical reasons, you will be allowed entry, but you will be required to report any fever or other symptoms to the health authorities, and you will be placed under surveillance. Countries for which a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into South Africa are:

• Burkina Faso,
• Central African Republic,
• Guinea-Bissau,
• Côte d’Ivoire,
• Democratic Republic of the Congo,
• Equatorial Guinea,
• French Guyana,
• Mauritania,
• Sierra Leone, 
• Trinidad and Tobago,
• Uganda, and 

Do I need a yellow fever inoculation before entering South Africa?

If you're coming into South Africa from an infected area, a yellow fever inoculation and certificate is an official requirement.

Do I need to take malaria precautions for South Africa?

Most parts of South Africa are malaria-free. Consult your doctor or travel clinic regarding appropriate malaria prophylaxis. You can further minimise the risk by wearing mosquito repellent and sleeping under a mosquito net.  

What entry documents do I need?

You need a valid passport to enter the country. Some visitors require a visa and/or a yellow fever certificate. A yellow fever inoculation is required for those who pass through the yellow fever belt of Africa or South America.

R R elated links

Department of Health

South Africa on social media

The BMW International Open has made us excited for the BMW Golf Cup World Final to be hosted in SA. We caught up wi… https://t.co/XiU3waBo1T

Always a pleasure partnering with local businesses to promote SA on the global stage. Warren Weitsz, Co-Founder of… https://t.co/YRxoX6Jdtx

To say the players are bringing their A-game is an under statement! Round 2 has given us many unforgettable moments… https://t.co/4bBdAuXMUL

"...Patrons have been keen and interested in engaging on where the best fairways in SA are. Paired with some of our… https://t.co/tIoXM2uUrh

Our stand at the BMW International Open has been drawing a lot of attention – and rightfully so! “We are proud and… https://t.co/ulYSTje4CB

Clear skies, rolling greens, supportive crowds – the conditions couldn’t be better for a day at Golfclub München Ei… https://t.co/3TMmUxsN0m

What happens when an amateur and pro hit the fairway together? Find out in the Pro-Am Tournament, where 3 amateurs… https://t.co/hkvHUw0H0E

Ready to get into the swing of things? The Pro-Am Tournament of the 2023 BMW International Open starts today in Mün… https://t.co/WqLU7FshdH

South Africa has many exquisite golf courses. As we gear up for The BMW International Open in Germany, we hope to s… https://t.co/vTFwgOa78W

South African Tourism will be showcasing our beautiful country's offerings in Germany! We have so much to offer glo… https://t.co/O1m4yVy491

#DidYouKnow South Africa has produced some of the top golfers in the world. As we gear up for the BMW International… https://t.co/E1GsW6z1Fy

#DidYouKnow ? #VisitSouthAfrica ❤️🇿🇦 https://t.co/Y4zWjb8xIz

RT @Roberto_EUBXL: Amazing #YouthDay2023 long weekend in @MidlandsMeander ! Another 💎 of multifaceted #SouthAfrica : touches of 🇬🇧 🇧🇪 🇱🇺 co…

What does golf, South Africa, BMW and Germany have in common? The 34th staging of the BMW International Open in Ger… https://t.co/YdvuWOjs8O

Golf was first played in South Africa in 1885, in Cape Town. Now we are taking our love of golf to the world, as we… https://t.co/dXc5uIyGxI

RT @PublicSectorMan: Today marks 47 years since the youth uprising of 16 June 1976. Deputy President Paul Mashatile will lead the commemor…

We look forward to showcasing South Africa’s abundant tourism offerings to a global audience while reminding them a… https://t.co/yVz97hDGaa

A dynamic collaboration between SA Tourism and the iconic BMW Group is set to supercharge the country’s efforts tow… https://t.co/JhLDwHlLix

50 days until the kick-off – or shall we say the tip-off – of the Vitality #NWC2023 in SA! Excitement levels are at… https://t.co/Ni2fHwh2NJ

#VisitSouthAfrica ❤️🇿🇦 https://t.co/ApcA6wNNop

• Useful links
• Travel partners
• Business events
• Travel trade
• Accommodation
• Useful contacts
• Visa & entry info
• Digital Assets Library
• Image Library

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Global Health

Millions of Girls in Africa Will Miss HPV Shots After Merck Production Problem

The company has told countries that it can supply only 18.8 million of the 29.6 million doses it was contracted to deliver this year.

By Stephanie Nolen

Stephanie Nolen has been following efforts to bring the HPV vaccine to girls in Africa for more than a decade.

Nearly 1.5 million teenage girls in some of the world’s poorest countries will miss the chance to be protected from cervical cancer because the drugmaker Merck has said it will not be able to deliver millions of promised doses of the HPV vaccine this year.

Merck has notified Gavi, the international organization that helps low- and middle-income countries deliver lifesaving immunizations, and UNICEF, which procures the vaccines, that it will deliver only 18.8 million of the 29.6 million doses it was contracted to deliver in 2024, Gavi said.

That means that more than 10 million girls will not receive their expected HPV shots this year — and 1.5 million of them most likely will never get them because they will be too old to qualify for the vaccine in subsequent years.

Patrick Ryan, a spokesman for Merck, said the company “experienced a manufacturing disruption” that required it to hold and reinspect many doses by hand. He declined to give further details about the cause of the delay.

“We are acting with urgency and rigor to deploy additional personnel and resources to resolve this matter as soon as possible,” he said.

Mr. Ryan said that Merck would deliver the delayed doses in 2025.

He also said the company would ship 30 million doses of the vaccine to Gavi-supported countries this year. However, about a third of these are doses that were supposed to have been sent in 2023, leaving Gavi with the 10.7 million dose shortfall.

The delay is a big setback for countries that had already waited years to begin vaccinating girls against HPV, the human papillomavirus, which causes an estimated 90 percent of cervical cancers.

About 350,000 women die from cervical cancer annually, according the World Health Organization . Ninety percent of them are in low-income countries, where routine screening for the disease is rare. The vaccine offers near-total protection against HPV infection, making it the lone vaccine against cancer.

“HPV is the highest impact vaccine Gavi has: If you vaccinate 1,000 girls, you prevent 17.4 future deaths,” said Dr. Aurélia Nguyen, Gavi’s chief program officer. “If there is one vaccine that you want to get out and do well on, this is it.”

The W.H.O. recommends the vaccine for girls up to age 14. The delay means that girls in countries including Sierra Leone, Burkina Faso and Mozambique who are now 14 will no longer be eligible for vaccination when these campaigns finally start.

The HPV vaccine is a complex one to deliver , since it is associated with sexual activity, a taboo topic for teenagers in many of the cultures affected by the delay, and because it is given to children who are outside the usual age for routine immunization. Both girls and their parents must be amenable to vaccination, and that requires crafting distinct messages, delivered on different media, to drum up demand. The vaccine has to be given before girls are sexually active to be effective.

The countries affected have some of the lowest-resource health systems in the world, Dr. Nguyen said. They have invested in planning for the scrapped HPV campaign, while juggling other urgent vaccination needs such as measles or cholera, and can ill-afford the disruption, she said.

The delay will disrupt carefully laid plans to catch up on vaccinations — most of the delayed doses were bound for what’s called “multi-age cohorts,” when countries try to reach all unvaccinated girls between 9 and 14, alongside a standard immunization program for 9-year-olds, usually run in schools.

Most high-income countries routinely vaccinate both girls and boys against HPV, but the global coverage rate for the vaccine is only 20 percent.

Gavi has been trying to expand HPV vaccination for more than a decade. Many low-income countries had designed programs to begin in 2018, but Gavi could not get shots then either because it and UNICEF were competing with a global market and suppliers did not increase production to meet Gavi’s predicted demand.

The version of the Merck HPV vaccine used in the United States costs about $285. UNICEF, which typically negotiates big discounts from pharmaceutical companies, pays $3 to $5 per shot for the large volumes of vaccine it sought to procure.

“UNICEF and Gavi have struggled for years to get sufficient supply, and that was finally starting to change,” said Andrew Jones, UNICEF’s deputy director, immunization supplies.

UNICEF has contracts with other suppliers, but because the Merck product is in high demand from countries, the Gavi program is dependent on the company’s supply. That means this delay disrupts vaccination campaigns in a half-dozen countries, many of which have already had to postpone repeatedly.

“It affects countries’ confidence because for years they were told there wasn’t sufficient supply, but when finally supply opened up, they campaigned, got political buy-in, and now delivery is delayed by six or eight months,” Mr. Jones said.

Mr. Ryan of Merck said the company was committed to supporting the drive to vaccinate millions of girls in developing countries against HPV and had invested more than $2 billion in that effort.

Though Mr. Ryan said the company will deliver the delayed doses next year, Merck has yet to notify Gavi when countries can expect those deliveries, which means they cannot yet begin to plan new campaigns.

The countries that won’t get doses this year include Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso. They were going to do the multi-age blitz campaigns aimed at catching as many girls as possible, in addition to the routine vaccination of 9-year-olds. The routine program will continue using doses Merck has delivered.

In addition, Burundi, and, in Asia, Tajikistan, were supposed to get supplies at the end of this year to start doing both multi-age and routine vaccinations, while Cameroon and Liberia were to take delivery of shots so they could start doing multi-age vaccination early in the new year. All of those campaigns will be postponed.

The girls who won’t get vaccinated this year are some of the least likely in the world to be screened or treated for cervical cancer, said Dr. Cathy Ndiaye, the Dakar-based director of the HPV vaccine program for the health-focused nonprofit organization PATH.

“In some countries you can say, ‘OK, you weren’t vaccinated but if you have anything later on in life you can go and get treated’, but not for these girls,” Dr. Ndiaye said.

The delay also complicates the challenge of maintaining political and community support for the HPV shot, she said.

“When you have momentum you want to take advantage of that: When you manage to create demand from the community, you want to deliver, to give them what they need,” she said. “Even at the national level you have to convince them this is important, that it should be a priority because they don’t see cervical cancer, they don’t see the disease now, they say, ‘No let’s deal with polio, let’s deal with measles, that is urgent now.’”

In Mozambique, the plan was to begin the multi-age campaign in June. “There is huge demand, people are asking for it,,” said Dr. Betuel Sigaúque, who works to support routine immunization in Mozambique through JSI, a global nonprofit focused on health and education.

Merck also failed to deliver 7.7 million doses of vaccine to Ethiopia that were scheduled to arrive late last year, and now says they will arrive in June. The country had to scrap a planned school campaign set for spring. Instead, that campaign will take place later this year and will miss girls who have aged out.

Stephanie Nolen is a global health reporter for The Times. More about Stephanie Nolen

The Fight Against Cancer

We asked experts what to know about melanoma symptoms, treatment and prevention. Here’s how to avoid one of the deadliest forms  of skin cancer.

Colon and rectal cancers are increasing among people younger than 50. Experts have a few ideas about why .

Should alcoholic beverages have cancer warning labels? Ireland will require them starting in 2026, and there are nascent efforts elsewhere .

Risk calculators can offer a more personalized picture of an individual patient’s breast cancer risk. But experts warn that the results need to be interpreted with the help of a doctor .

The human papillomavirus vaccine provides powerful protection against the leading cause of cervical cancer and against a strong risk factor for anal cancer. Here’s what to know about the shot .

A recent study adds to growing evidence that exercise is an important part of preventing prostate cancer , the second most common and second most fatal cancer in the United States for men.

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Ghana Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Ghana. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Measles April 26, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Timor-Leste (East Timor), Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

There is no longer active cholera transmission and vaccine is not recommended.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Ghana.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Ghana.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to Ghana take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Ghana.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

Recommended for travelers 2 months old or older traveling to  areas of Ghana  that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season.

Meningococcal disease - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis Belt Map

In Ghana poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Ghana are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Ghana who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Ghana. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Ghana, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Ghana. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for all arriving travelers ≥9 months old.

Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Lassa Fever

• Breathe in air or eat food contaminated with the urine or droppings of infected rats
• Touch the body fluids of a person infected with Lassa virus or objects contaminated with infected body fluids

Lassa fever

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Ghana, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Ghana. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Ghana—such as dengue, leishmaniasis, and African sleeping sickness—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Ghana include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Ghana. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Ghana’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Ghana. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Ghana may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Ghana, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Ghana, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Ghana .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Ghana, dial 193 for an ambulance, 192 for the fire department, and 191 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you during your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Ghana before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Ghana from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Ghana for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.