By Clinton Moodley 
Jul 23, 2021
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Vaccinated South Africans can finally take their much-anticipated holiday with some countries now granting them access.
Of course, you will need to be fully vaccinated, and air routes will need to recommence, but the welcoming of vaccinated travellers is a step in the right direction.
With South Africa’s vaccination programme being rolled out, more of its citizens have options to travel abroad. Sherpa, an independent resource, allows travellers to see which destinations they can travel to if they are vaccinated.
The interactive map highlights in green the destinations that permit South African travellers.
Around 30 destinations are open for travel and do not require Covid-19 testing or quarantine.
Around 97 destinations are restricted for South Africans and open for only returning citizens and those meeting strict requirements.
Where to go
France
Travellers from South Africa can travel to France. No proof of Covid-19 test results is required for entry.
Norway
Travellers from South Africa can enter Norway, but there are restrictions for vaccinated travellers.
“Norway only accepts vaccination certificates issued in specific countries,” Sherpa says on its site. Vaccinated travellers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in Norway.
Estonia
Most travellers from South Africa can visit Estonia. They will require a valid Schengen visa to enter, and no negative PCR test is required.
“Travellers who are fully vaccinated must present an immunisation passport, a copy of the immunisation passport, or a relevant certificate, in Latin or Slavic alphabet, in Estonian, Russian, or English. A certificate will show proof of Covid-19 vaccination. Travellers may present proof via EU Digital Certificate,” Sherpa says. They will need to fill a mandatory health declaration form. Once there, masks are mandatory in some places.
Ukraine
Most travellers from South Africa can visit Ukraine. However, valid health insurance with Covid-19 coverage, purchased from a company registered in Ukraine or a foreign company with a representative office or an insurance partner in Ukraine, is required.
Romania
Most travellers from South Africa can enter Romania. While no proof of a negative Covid-19 test is required, they will need to provide a mandatory travel declaration, proof of vaccination and a health declaration form. Once there, mask are mandatory in public. Other European destinations open include Belarus, Albania and Switzerland.
Egypt
Most travellers from South Africa can visit Egypt, and if they are vaccinated, they do not require a negative Covid-19 test. However, a mandatory vaccination certificate and health declaration form is required. Masks are mandatory in public.
Mexico
South African travellers can enter Mexico by air without a negative Covid-19 test required. They will need to fill a health declaration form before arrival. Masks are mandatory in public in some cities.
Colombia
South African travellers can visit Colombia but need to fill a pre-registration form 48 hours before departure. When they visit, masks are mandatory in public.
Costa Rica
South African travellers can explore Costa Rica. Travellers will need proof of international travel insurance or travel insurance purchased in Costa Rica. Plus, a mandatory vaccination certificate and mandatory health declaration form are required. Masks are mandatory in public places.
Please note:
*Travellers need to check the documentation, quarantine and/or testing requirements before travelling as governments can change the regulations at any time.
*The countries may be open to vaccinated South Africans, but flights may be restricted to and from the country.
*Most African countries are permitting South African travellers with a negative PCR test.