Since March, we’ve all watched as the coronavirus forced the closures of nearly every border around the globe. For those eager to travel, this year has been difficult and disheartening. In recent weeks, we’ve started to see a light at the end of the tunnel. Countries around the world are starting to welcome back tourism by reopening their borders to international travelers. After nearly six months of lockdown, South Africa is one of the latest countries on that list.

The African nation was one of the hardest-hit countries by the deadly pandemic with reports of more than 650,000 coronavirus cases and more than 15,000 deaths. In recent weeks, they have managed to flatten the curve. President Ramaphosa announced they will be allowing visitors from a select number of low-risk countries to visit South Africa starting October 1^st.  It is not clear yet if the United States will be included on that list.

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“We are ready to open our doors again to the world,” South African president Cyril Ramaphosa said in a statement announcing the decision, “and invite travelers to enjoy our mountains, our beaches, our vibrant cities, and our wildlife game parks in safety and confidence.”

Traveling to South Africa amid the pandemic will still look and feel differently. While many attractions will be open, face masks will be required in all public spaces, a midnight curfew will be in effect, all travelers will need to provide a negative PCR COVID test taken within 72 hours before departure, and visitors will have to use a contract-tracing app. Also, after landing at the airport in South Africa, travelers will undergo temperature checks.

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With news around the pandemic changing daily, be sure to check current guidelines and restrictions before booking any future travel.