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15 Best Countries to Visit in Africa Right Now

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Last update: 03/13/2024

If you’re interested in discovering the best countries to visit in Africa right now, keep reading. In this guide, you’ll find the top places in Africa open for tourism, along with entry requirements.

While many countries have opened for tourism, not all countries in Africa are open to travel. Check this list to see where the best vacations in Africa are amidst the pandemic.

We’re updating this list regularly, so check back at any time to see where you can travel to next.

Countries in Africa reopening to tourists

This map shows which countries in Africa are open to tourists right now.

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Below, you’ll find our list of travel restrictions in Africa. Remember, certain countries may have different entry requirements based on nationality or origin.

You can also check our specific guides on:

Before we list the top countries open for travel in Africa, I want to remind you of the importance of COVID-19 travel insurance. Even if this insurance isn’t an entry requirement (it is for most African countries), it’s a good idea to have it.

Also, countries that required travelers to have a valid tourist visa before the COVID-19 pandemic still have that rule in place. You can check below whether you need a travel visa.

Finally, remember that some places in Africa open to travel may enter a lockdown phase in the future. We’ve written specific guides to all the countries that are open in Africa, so you can check the latest information about entry restrictions, quarantine and testing requirements, curfews, and open attractions.

15 Best places to visit in Africa

Below are the best countries to visit in Africa. Keep reading to learn what makes them a top destination, as well as any travel restrictions or entry requirements.

1. South Africa

South Africa is one of the best places to visit in Africa. It’s full of beautiful natural landscapes, including serene beaches and national parks. Tourists usually visit the metropolitan areas of Cape Town and Johannesburg, the “City of Gold.”

If you’re interested in ecotourism or you’d like to experience a different culture, South Africa won’t disappoint.

South Africa, best countries to visit in Africa

1. South Africa

As of October 1, 2020, it’s one of the best countries in Africa to visit. It began accepting all nationalities on November 11.

Tourists must present a medical certificate with a negative COVID-19 PCR test result that was obtained within 72 hours of departure. As long as they present this medical certificate, they will not need to quarantine upon arrival in South Africa.

All travelers must download the COVID Alert SA mobile app.

For more information, check our guide on South Africa reopening to tourists.

2. Egypt

A trip to Egypt is one of the best vacations in Africa. Here, you can see the Giza Necropolis, the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World. The coastlines along the Mediterranean and the Red Sea attract visitors from around the world.

Egypt is also one of the countries in Africa open for tourism.

Egypt, best places to visit in Africa

2. Egypt

Most tourists must submit a negative PCR test result issued within 72 hours of arrival. However, some countries can submit a result issued within 96 hours of travel. Also, travelers must complete a health form when they arrive, and they must have COVID-19 travel insurance, like this one.

You can get more information about Egypt reopening for travel in our specific guide.

3. Tanzania

Tanzania is an amazing land of ancient fossils, natural landscapes, and wildlife, making it one of the best countries to visit in Africa.

Many tourists take the time to do a circuit including Zanzibar, Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro and other national parks in the northern part of the country. Tanzania is also one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa.

Tanzania, places in Africa to visit

3. Tanzania

As of June 2020, Tanzania is one of the countries in Africa open to tourists.

Travelers to Tanzania must complete an online Health Surveillance Form within 24 hours prior to arrival. They will then receive a Unique Health Code, which they must present to officials on arrival. Travelers must also present a medical certificate for a negative RT-PCR test result that was obtained within 72 hours prior to arrival.

On arrival in Tanzania, travelers will undergo rapid testing, which costs $25 per traveler. If they test positive, they will have to quarantine in a quarantine hotel at their own expense.

For more information, check our guide on Tanzania reopening its borders.

4. Ethiopia

Ethiopia is known for its food, but it’s also one of the most interesting countries in Africa. The nation is full of World Heritage Sites, national parks, and important historical and religious sites.

Starting September 23, 2020, Ethiopia is one of the countries in Africa open to travel.

Ethiopia, Africa best places to visit

4. Ethiopia

Travelers must present a digital negative RT-PCR test result that was obtained within 5 days (120 hours) of arrival in Ethiopia.

Travelers must also complete a Passenger Health Registration Form.

For more information, check our guide on Ethiopia travel requirements.

5. Malawi

Malawi is a top destination in Africa, thanks to its stunning landscapes. One of the most popular spots is Lake Malawi, where you can participate in water sports or visit the national park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Malawi is one of the countries in Africa open to tourists, but only by air.

Malawi, best places to go in Africa

5. Malawi

All travelers must have a medical certificate for a negative PCR COVID test result that was obtained within 72 hours of arrival in Malawi. They must also complete Travel Surveillance Forms, which they will be given on board their flight or in the airport terminal building.

Travelers with a valid certificate for a negative test result must self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms for 14 days from their arrival in Malawi and may be tested on arrival.

For more information, visit our guide on is Malawi open for travel.

6. Uganda

Uganda is one of the top countries in Africa for ecotourism.

You can kayak along the Nile River or take a cultural tour. There are plenty of forests and national parks where you can see leopards, elephants, cheetahs, and more. However, Uganda is best known as one of the top places in the world for gorilla trekking.

Uganda, best places in Africa to vacation

6. Uganda

Besides, Uganda is another place in Africa open for tourism regardless of nationality.

Visitors must submit a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of their flight. At the airport, they’ll go through a medical evaluation.

For more information, visit this website.

7. Botswana

Botswana is one of the most beautiful countries in Africa. There are lots of landscape photography opportunities, particularly in the Okavango Delta region.

Botswana, best vacations Africa

7. Botswana

Botswana is one of the places in Africa open for travel without nationality restrictions.

Tourists must submit a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of their flight. If they don’t present this certificate, they’ll have to self-isolate for 14 days upon their arrival.

For more information, check our guide on Botswana is open for travel.

8. Zambia

Zambia is one of Africa’s best countries, thanks to its friendly locals, abundant wildlife, and gorgeous landscapes.

A vacation in Zambia can be laid-back, or you can be adventurous and join one of the many safari tours in the country. In fact, this is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa and it is a quite safe country.

Zambia, Africa places to visit

8. Zambia

It’s also one of the countries in Africa open for tourism.

All travelers must have proof of a negative PCR test from within 72 hours prior to departure. Upon arrival in Zambia, all travelers will undergo a health screening and have to complete a Traveler Health Questionnaire.

Travelers from countries that are not considered “high-risk” and have a valid negative PCR test result do not have to quarantine upon arrival.

Travelers from “high-risk” countries must undergo PCR testing at their own expense on arrival in Zambia, either at the airport or within 48 hours of entry. They must also quarantine for 14 days from their arrival, although they can end their quarantine early if they receive a negative result from their arrival test.

You can also visit our guide on Zambia open for tourism for more information.

9. Morocco

Morocco is one of the best countries to visit in Africa, as it appeals to a variety of interests. Be sure to explore the mountains, sand dunes, and beaches around the country. The cities of Marrakesh and Casablanca are home to important mosques and incredible attractions.

Morocco, where to go in Africa

9. Morocco

Morocco is one of the countries where you can travel, but travel restrictions depend on if you’re traveling from a country on List A or List B.

Travelers from List A countries must present either a vaccination certificate or a certificate for a negative PCR test result that was obtained within 72 hours prior to boarding.

Travelers from List B countries must submit a certificate for a negative PCR test result that was obtained within 48 hours prior to boarding and either a vaccination certificate or a completed affidavit, and a voucher for payment for 10 days of quarantine at a designated hotel with PCR testing on day 9 of the quarantine period.

Also, all travelers must submit a Public Health Passenger Form.

You can find more details on our guide on Morocco reopening for travel.

10. Kenya

Kenya offers the possibility to participate in ecotourism, making it one of the best countries to visit in Africa. There are dozens of national parks and natural areas where you can experience the incredible landscape and see animals in the wild.

Since August 1, 2020, Kenya has been one of the places open to travel in Africa.

Kenya, most interesting countries in Africa

10. Kenya

All travelers must have a negative PCR test result that was obtained within 96 hours of travel to Kenya. The test result must be digitally verified through the Trusted Travel Initiative. All travelers must also complete an online Travelers Health Surveillance form prior to travel. Once they arrive in Kenya, travelers must submit daily updates on their health to the Jitenge app for 14 consecutive days.

Travelers from regions and countries that are on this list are exempt from quarantine on arrival in Kenya as long as they have a valid negative PCR test result and do not exhibit symptoms of COVID-19.

You can check our guide on Kenya open for travel for more details.

11. Namibia

Namibia is another top tourist country in Africa for ecotourism.

Along with its national parks, Namibia offers lots of opportunities for sports and activities, such as windsurfing, kayaking, and hiking. It’s also a popular place among photographers, thanks to its beautiful landscapes.

Starting on September 1, 2020, Namibia is a place in Africa open to travel.

Namibia, most beautiful African countries

11. Namibia

All international travelers must have proof of a negative PCR test result that was obtained within 72 hours prior to entering Namibia. 

You can find more information on our guide on Namibia is open for tourism.

12. Seychelles

One of the best places to travel to in Africa is Seychelles. Its beaches are the perfect backdrop for watersports, hikes, and wildlife viewing.

All travelers, even if they are vaccinated, must have a medical certificate for a negative PCR test result that was obtained within 72 hours before departure. They must also submit a health travel authorization application online before departure.

Seychelles, most popular African country

12. Seychelles

International travelers must have valid travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage and a reservation at a certified accommodation.

Check our guide on Seychelles reopening for travel for more information.

13. Tunisia

With its combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions, Tunisia is one of the best African countries.

Tunisia has lots of ancient ruins and religious sites to explore, as well as gorgeous beaches and warm, sunny weather to enjoy.

Tunisia, best african destinations

13. Tunisia

As of November 16, 2020, Tunisia has been a country in Africa open for tourists from all countries.

Currently, all travelers, regardless of vaccination status, must present proof of a negative PCR test result from within 72 prior to travel and complete an online questionnaire. They must also download the Tunisian government’s Track and Trace app.

Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine for 10 days from their arrival at a government-approved hotel and take a PCR test between day 7 and day 10 of their quarantine period.

Vaccinated travelers are exempt from quarantining at a government-approved hotel as long as they provide proof of vaccination, but they must still self-isolate at their residence for 10 days from their arrival.

Check our guide on is Tunisia open for tourism for more information.

14. Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is one of the nicest countries in Africa, with its majestic mountains, ancient ruins, and wondrous geological structures. Be sure to visit Victoria Falls and one or more of the eight national parks in the country.

Zimbabwe, places in Africa open for tourists

14. Zimbabwe

Since October 1, 2020, Zimbabwe has been one of the places in Africa open to travel without nationality restrictions.

All travelers must have a medical certificate for a negative PCR test that was obtained within 48 hours departure. The negative test result must be verified through the Trusted Travel Initiative.

Travelers from countries that are considered COVID-19 hotspots must quarantine for 10 days from their arrival in Zimbabwe. They must also undergo COVID-19 testing within 48 hours of arrival in Zimbabwe, and on days 3, 5, and 10 of their quarantine period. The government of Zimbabwe has not yet declared which countries it considers COVID-19 hotspots.

Travelers must also present a negative PCR test result that was obtained within 48 hours of departure in order to leave Zimbabwe.

You can check our guide on Zimbabwe travel restrictions for more information.

15. Rwanda

Rwanda is one of the best African countries to visit if you love the outdoors.

Rwandans respect the wild animals here, and you can visit the King’s Palace Museum and see traditional singers croon for the cows. There are also lots of volcanoes, waterfalls, and rainforests to explore, and it’s a popular place for Gorilla trekking, too.

Rwanda, places in Africa open for tourism

15. Rwanda

As of August 1, 2020, Rwanda is one of the countries in Africa open to travel without nationality restrictions.

All travelers must present a medical certificate with a negative RT-PCR result issued within 72 hours of departure for Rwanda. They must also complete a Passenger Locator Form and upload their test result certificate.

All travelers will take a second RT-PCR test, which costs $60, on arrival in Rwanda. They must then stay in a designated transit hotel and wait 24 hours to receive the results of that test. If this test is negative, travelers can explore Rwanda freely.

For more information, check our guide on Rwanda reopening to tourists.

Other countries in Africa open for travel

While there are other countries open for tourism in Africa, the 15 destinations above are the safest places to visit in Africa. However, if you want to explore other less touristy options, you can check which other countries are open in Africa and entry requirements below.

Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso is another country in Africa that is open for tourists of all nationalities.

Travelers to Burkina Faso must present a negative PCR test no later than five days after arrival. Otherwise, they’ll have to pay for a test at the airport ($150) and quarantine for 14 days.

For more information, check this Ministry of Health document.

Cape Verde

Cape Verde is another destination in Africa, allowing visitors of all nationalities since October 12, 2020.

Travelers must submit a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of arrival. They don’t have to quarantine, but they should complete this registration.

Cape Verde, countries in Africa open for tourists

Cape Verde

Those who want to move between islands must submit this form and a negative PCR test within 72 hours of departure.

You can go to this website for more information.

Central African Republic

The Central African Republic is another country in Africa you can visit.

Traveler must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival and undergo a medical examination, which may include a PCR test at the Institut Pasteur.

For more information, consult this website.

Chad

Chad is also accepting travelers of all nationalities.

Tourists are required to submit a negative PCR test certificate within seven days of arrival.

If they’re staying longer than one week, they’ll have to self-isolate for one week at their accommodation. On the last day of their quarantine, they will retake the PCR test.

For more details, check this website.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been open to all nationalities since August 15, 2020.

Travelers must submit a negative PCR test result within seven days of arrival. They should also register for a second test with the Institut National de la Recherche Biomédicale ($45) and take it once they reach their destination. The results take about 24 hours, during which tourists must quarantine.

For more details, check out this website.

Gabon

Gabon is another country in Africa open to tourists. As of June 30, 2020, commercial flights are very limited.

Tourists must submit a PCR test upon arriving at the airport. The results take about 48 hours, during which they must quarantine. If they receive a negative result, they’ll get a 14-day certificate of free movement. They must take another PCR test if they want to renew it after 14 days.

You can visit this website for more information.

Gambia

The Gambia is one of the countries in Africa that is open for tourism. As of October 16, 2020, the country is open for tourism without nationality restrictions, but flights are very limited.

Travelers must submit a negative PCR test within 72 hours of arriving. If they don’t have a test result, they must undergo a medical examination and adhere to a 14-day quarantine.

You can find more information on this website.

Ghana

Ghana is another country in Africa open to travelers.

Ghana, countries in Africa open for tourism

Ghana

Tourists must submit a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of their departure and complete a Health Declaration Form.

Also, travelers must pay for a mandatory rapid test ($150), which they’ll take at the airport. They’ll get the results in 30 minutes and, if they’re negative, they can bypass quarantine.

For more information, visit this website.

Liberia

Liberia is another place in Africa you can visit, and it has been open to tourists since July 22, 2020.

Travelers are required to download the Lib Travel mobile app and use it to purchase a PCR test ($75) that they’ll take upon arrival. They can also pay for it at the United Bank for Africa (UBA) once they arrive.

Tourists who receive a negative result must self-isolate and track their symptoms on the app, if any, for 14 days. Check here for exceptions.

Unlike other African countries with open borders, Liberia requires anyone leaving the country to undergo a PCR test within 72 hours of their departure.

You can find more information on this website.

Mali

As of June 16, 2020, Mali is open to tourists of all nationalities.

Travelers must present a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of arriving. They should also fill out this Coronavirus Disease Surveillance Form.

For more information, check the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs website.

Mauritania

Mauritania is one of the places in Africa open for tourism to travelers who present a negative PCR test within 72 hours of their trip.

For more information, check this website.

Mauritius

Mauritius is another country in Africa that has reopened to tourists.

Tourists must submit a negative PCR test certificate within seven days of their departure. They should also quarantine for 14 days at one of these accommodations. Upon arrival, they’ll complete this Passenger Self Declaration Form and this Passenger Locator Form.

Once they land in Mauritius, they’ll take a PCR test on their day of arrival, their 7th day in the country, and their 14th day.

You can find more information on the official tourism website.

Nigeria

Nigeria is also open for travelers, but it’s not one of the safest countries in Africa right now.

Tourists must present a negative PCR test certificate within 72 of their departure. They will take a second test after being in Nigeria for seven days, and they must quarantine until the results arrive.

To board their flight, travelers must use this form to register and pay for the second test and upload the results of their first test.

You can go to this website for more information.

Republic of the Congo

The Republic of the Congo is also open regardless of your nationality.

Travelers are required to submit a negative PCR test within 72 hours of their flight. If they don’t, they will undergo a test at the airport and self-isolate until they receive a negative result (up to 14 days).

For more information, check this website.

Sierra Leone

As of June 15, 2020, Sierra Leone is one of the countries open for tourism.

Travelers must fill out this travel authorization form and submit a negative PCR test within 72 hours of arriving in Sierra Leone.

They’ll also have to pay for any additional PCR or rapid tests they take at the airport. If they receive a positive result, they’ll have to immediately self-isolate. All other tourists may travel freely with a negative result.

You can check this website for more information.

Somalia

Somalia is open for tourism by air regardless of nationality.

Somalia, best countries Africa

Somalia

Visitors must submit a negative PCR test certificate within 96 hours of arrival. Otherwise, they must self-isolate for 14 days.

Given the social and political instability and terrorist attacks in Somalia, we don’t recommend traveling there.

Sudan

There aren’t nationality restrictions to visit Sudan. However, all travelers must submit a negative PCR test within 72 hours of arriving in Sudan.

If they show COVID symptoms, tourists may also undergo temperature checks and medical evaluations at the airport.

For more information, check this website.

Togo

Togo is another country in Africa open without nationality restrictions.

Tourists must present a negative PCR test within seven days of their departure. They should also fill out this form and pay for the mandatory PCR test they’ll take at the airport. It takes about 24 hours to receive the results, during which travelers should self-isolate.

Togo also requires tourists to download the TOGO SAFE mobile app and purchase COVID-19 travel insurance.

You can find more information on the official tourism website.

These are the current countries in Africa open for tourism, although the list may vary as the COVID situation develops. We’ll update the list if anything changes.

If you have any questions about a specific African country, leave us a comment and we will be happy to help.

Safe travels!

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CHIEF ADVENTURER, TRAVEL GURU, AND MASTER PLANNER AT CAPTURE THE ATLAS
Hey there, I'm Ascen, your personal trip planner on a mission to help you craft the most incredible adventure of your life. While I'm based in Las Vegas, you won't find me there often. As a full-time traveler, I'm always on the go, exploring new destinations and capturing the world through my lens. From the enchanting shores of Almeria, Spain, where I grew up, to the far reaches of the globe, I'm here to provide you with detailed travel guides and practical tips to make your trip planning a breeze. Find out more about me here.

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