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South Africa drops PCR testing for fully vaccinated travellers

The South African tourism industry has received a welcome boost with the announcement that South Africa will further relax some of its COVID-19 regulations, including getting rid of its PCR testing requirement.

The South African tourism industry has received a welcome boost with the announcement that South Africa will further relax some of its COVID-19 regulations, including getting rid of its PCR testing requirement.

President Cyril Ramaphosa made the announcement that South Africa will be easing its restrictions in an address to the nation.

President Ramaphosa said the further changes to Adjusted Alert Level One will see the following being implemented:

  • International travellers entering South Africa through the various ports of entry will require proof of vaccination OR a negative PCR test not older than 72 hours.
  • Furthermore, all travellers entering South Africa will be offered vaccination on arrival, where requested or required.
  • The capacity of gatherings will be increased to 50% for all venues, for both indoor and outdoor gatherings. This is significant for the tourism industry, as it will impact positively on the business events sector.
  • The wearing of masks will no longer be required when one is outdoors in a public area. However, wearing masks is required when one is indoors such as at a mall, gallery, restaurant and public transport etc.

“We welcome the further easing of COVID-19 restrictions, as this presents great news for the tourism sector’s outlook towards recovery,” said South African Tourism Acting CEO, Themba Khumalo.

“Providing international travellers with a choice between producing proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours adds to South Africa’s accessibility, as a competitive and attractive tourism destination.”

South Africa Tourism Image Library
Image: South Africa Tourism

Last week over 500 trade partners attended South African Tourism’s ‘The South Africa Show’ sponsored by Singapore Airlines and hosted live by comedian Julia Morris both in-person and virtually.

The event was a huge success, with Julia Morris helping bring South Africa to life; taking people around the country to explore 18 magical South African experiences.

Some of these experiences included paddling with the African Penguins at Boulders Beach, sleeping in a luxury treehouse, rhino ear-notching with veterinarians, and jumping off the world’s highest swing at Oribi Gorge.

Ten lucky agents even won themselves a spot on the upcoming famil!

For more information visit www.southafrica.net.