South Africa's tourism sector celebrates weakening restrictions on entry into the country. These changes should revitalize the tourism industry and give jobs to millions of people whose livelihood depends on foreign tourists.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the changes late last week.
According to medical experts, 60 & ndash; 80 percent of the country's population is currently immune to the coronavirus — they have either been ill or have been vaccinated.
Both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers arriving in the country do not need to quarantine for any period of time. Those vaccinated should receive a second dose at least 14 days before arrival. There are no vaccination or testing requirements for children under the age of five.
Unvaccinated foreigners at the border will be asked to show a negative PCR test. It must be returned less than 72 hours prior to arrival. These travelers will be asked to be vaccinated at the airport if they choose to.
A health questionnaire must be completed prior to departure for South Africa and screened for symptoms upon arrival. You will also need to download the Covid Alert app — it gives authorities the ability to track tourists while they are in the country.
One of the most significant changes — face masks are no longer required to be worn in public outdoor areas.
Former capacity limits for venues and events — sports grounds, stadiums, theaters, music and other festivals — have also changed. It is now allowed to operate at 50 percent capacity.
These activities may take place provided the facility has a system in place to ensure guests have proof of vaccination or a recent negative PCR test. If this cannot be ensured or verified, the limit of 1,000 people indoors and 2,000 people outdoors will still apply.
Recall that in the first week of May, after a two-year break, South Africa will host the international tourism exhibition Africa Travel Indaba.
Emirates and Etihad Airways have already resumed regular flights to Cape Town and Johannesburg.
South Africa is open to Russians who come for tourism purposes.