Top 5 visa-free travel destinations for South Africans

Got itchy feet? No time to queue for a visa before jumping on a plane? South Africans can visit 104 destinations visa-free, or with a visa issued on arrival – saving you time and money, according to the latest Henley Passport Index released by Henley & Partners. Here is our selection of the top five places to travel to, visa-free, for South African passport holders.

COVID-19 has made travelling a lot more complicated

Our passports rank at 53 out of 111 – after Japan and Singapore in joint first place, and ahead of Afghanistan, in last position – based on the number of destinations that don’t require a visa or issue a visa on arrival. But travellers today need to negotiate additional complexity with COVID-19 regulations still in place for many destinations.

“Entry regulations differ from destination to destination. Travellers can check the Flight Centre Travel Group’s free Travel News information hub, a website that allows you to search for any country and get up-to-date COVID-19 travel information and access other useful resources. However, it’s always best to consult with an expert to advise, as regulations can change from day to day,” says Sue Garrett, general manager for supply, pricing and marketing at Flight Centre Travel Group.

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“Many countries still require PCR tests; some require proof of vaccination and others have varying quarantine requirements. A passenger also needs to review how their proof of vaccination should be presented or captured prior to travel,” Garrett says. “Travel insurance is an absolute must, and it’s worth paying a little more for a flexible air ticket.”

Garrett says travellers should also consider the costs of PCR tests, any tests that may be needed while you are travelling, and quarantine costs should these become necessary – as well as potential exchange rate fluctuations. Once you’ve selected your destination, always double-check with the relevant embassy that entry requirements have not changed. And make sure you have your travel insurance in hand. With that in mind, here are five top picks for a visa-free holiday.

#1: Mauritius

Mauritius has long been South Africans’ destination of choice, offering romantic getaways and family-friendly all-inclusive packages. It’s less than five hours by air, so it’s accessible enough for a long weekend if you’re desperate for a break. Most people go for the long white beaches with great swimming and water sports. Do find time to visit the Mauritius Botanical Gardens and the Black River Gorges National Park.

Affordability:

Most South Africans opt for all-inclusive packages at one of the beach resorts, which offer great value. This approach allows you to control your spending and know upfront how much the holiday will cost.

COVID-19 regulations:

Visitors need to have COVID-19 health cover and a test on arrival. If you have a valid vaccination certificate showing that you are fully vaccinated, you are free to explore the island. If you are not fully vaccinated, you must self-isolate for seven days in accommodation of your choice. You’ll then take a second COVID-19 test and if it’s negative you are free to explore Mauritius for the rest of your stay.

#2: Thailand

Thailand has soared in popularity over the past 20 years, thanks to its spectacular scenery, great food and ancient culture. Accommodation options run the gamut from basic and budget to high-end luxury, and everything in between. Phuket, Ko Samui, and the Phi Phi islands are among the world’s most popular beach destinations. Take in the city vibes in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, visit ancient Ayutthaya and floating bazaars, or take in a yoga retreat and make a pilgrimage to a local Buddhist temple.

Affordability:

Good, with packages to suit most budgets.

COVID-19 regulations:

Most travellers with proof of full COVID-19 vaccination can enter Thailand, but there are restrictions. Thailand now offers three entry schemes: test and go, sandbox, and alternative quarantine. You need to be able to show a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test, and there is a mandatory test on arrival. You will need to download a contact-tracing app, and book at an approved accommodation and register for the Thailand Pass. Depending on the entry scheme you qualify for, you may need to test again during your stay and may be restricted from travelling outside specific regions.

Ready to start exploring the world again? Here are some pro travel tips to help you adjust to jet-setting in the ‘new normal’.

#3: Kenya

Kenya is one of the world’s greatest wildlife destinations, and boasts a spectacular coastline. With trade between South Africa and Kenya steadily increasing, it’s also a common destination for business travellers.

Affordability:

Kenya can be expensive for South African travellers. An Out of Africa-style Maasai Mara safari, watching the great migration across the Serengeti, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so you’ll need to budget accordingly. But there are more wallet-friendly alternatives, too.

COVID-19 regulations:

Most South African travellers can enter Kenya provided they are fully vaccinated, and will not need to show a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test or undergo quarantine. You will need to download a mandatory symptom tracing app and health declaration form, and show proof of vaccination status.

#4: Ireland

When it comes to tourism, the Emerald Isle has long punched above its weight. History, music, poetry and storytelling are all part of Ireland’s mystique. Visit the Guinness storehouse, tour a whiskey distillery, see the Cliffs of Moher and the Giant’s Causeway, take in Galway’s music and nightlife, and stroll through Dublin’s Georgian squares. You can walk the Irish Camino, cruise the River Shannon, or take a cycle tour through the green countryside.

Affordability:

European destinations are usually more expensive than other regions, particularly if you’re earning rands.

COVID-19 regulations:

Most South African travellers can enter Ireland and will not need to show a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test or undergo quarantine. Want to know what it’s like to take an international flight during COVID-19? Find out here.

#5: Jordan

If you’re interested in ancient history, or love deserts, the Middle East is the place to be. And Jordan, one of the most stable countries in the region, has much to offer. Visit the famous ‘Red Rose City’ of Petra, carved entirely from pink rock, swim in the Dead Sea and visit Crusader-era castles, hike through the canyons of Wadi Rum (Valley of the Moon) – where Lawrence of Arabia was filmed, and take in the Roman ruins of Jerash.

Affordability:

Jordan is considered more expensive than other countries in the region and prices are similar to those in North America.

COVID-19 regulations:

Most South Africans can enter Jordan without proof of full COVID-19 vaccination. You will not need to show a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test or undergo quarantine.