Updated: March 2021

We know that travelling during this time can be stressful. Please see the below information for everything you need to know about the precautions we’re taking to make sure your trip is both fun and safe.

Important Information

Visit the sacoronavirus.co.za portal for the official statistics, toolkits and designated hospitals relating to the virus in South Africa. 

Emergency Hotline: 0800 029 999

Whatsapp Support: 0600 123 456

Is it possible to travel to Cape Town now?

Yes! Cape Town is open for travellers. The City has established a set of safety protocols for ensuring people adhere to health and safety guidelines. All international travellers arriving must provide a valid certificate of a negative COVID-19 test, recognised by the World Health Organisation, which was obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel.

Cape Town is blessed with mild weather and plenty of open space, so there are many opportunities for outdoor dining, nature adventures & experiences away from crowds.

What are the rules?

Wearing a mask in public is mandatory. People are also requested to sanitise their hands before entering any public space and maintain social distancing of 1.5 metres.

What do I need to know about lockdowns?

South Africa has locked down in various levels of restrictions over the past year in order to contain the spread of the virus.  We are currently at Alert Level 1.

Visit the SA Coronavirus Portal for the latest information on lockdowns. You can also use the live chat on our site (see the red sidebar) to help you to find the information you need.

Where can I get tested?

Cape Town has world-class medical testing laboratories that can process your test in 48 hours. 

If you think you might have contracted the virus, you can call the NICD helpline (0800 029 999) and you will be advised on possible testing facilities. 

There are different tests available: PCR testing, rapid antigen testing, and antibody testing. 

What about the new variant?

It is incorrect to call the 501Y.V2 variant “South African”. Although the variant was first identified in South Africa through the excellent work of our researchers, there is to date no evidence that it originated in the country, nor is it exclusive to South Africa.

Current evidence shows that certain vaccines are not as effective against this variant, but that others remain very effective against all known variants of the virus. Please visit sacoronavirus.co.za for the latest information about South Africa’s vaccination programme. 

Is South Africa vaccinating?

Yes! South Africa has opened up vaccinations to everyone about the age of 12. The country has had a robust vaccine roll-out and continues to vaccinate thousands of citizens every single day.

A list of vaccine sites and registration information is available on the country’s Coronavirus portal.

What can I do to help?

COVID Alert SA is South Africa’s free exposure notification app. It lets people know when they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

Everyone in South Africa who has a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone can access this app. COVID Alert SA is entirely anonymous. The app protects your privacy and security at all times. It does not need or store any of your personal information.