NEW YORK — The South African government has announced eased COVID-19 restrictions for international travellers.

South Africa will remain on Adjusted Alert Level One, with some further relaxation of COVID-19 regulations, according to an update issued by South African Tourism.

South Africa’s President Cyril 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, notes South African Tourism.
• The wearing of masks will no longer be required when one is outdoors in a public area. However, wearing of masks is required when one is indoors such as at a mall, gallery or restaurant, and in 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,” he added.

Khumalo noted that the MICE sector is a major contributor to South Africa’s economy and the easing of restrictions on gatherings will allow the sector to host events with more delegates.

“After a two-year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic, South African Tourism’s flagship leisure tradeshow, Africa’s Travel Indaba, is back and will take place May 2 – 5, 2022,” said Khumalo. “We look forward to hosting the world on our shores once again to showcase all that Africa has to offer travellers from around the world.”