The last few months have seen many countries adjust their entry requirements for fully vaccinated tourists. This has resulted in many people finally fulfilling their long-awaited plans to travel. However, with current data showing that only 30.4% of South Africans are fully vaccinated that means most of the population is still unvaccinated – and yet equally in need of a holiday to relax and rejuvenate.
So, if you are unvaccinated and looking for your next great adventure, here is a quick guide to our favourite holiday destinations that are allowing entry to unvaccinated travellers.
France
When you think of France, you think ski! And we know many avid skiers missed their snow getaway the past few years. But France is open, so now is the time to book your November – April 2023 ski adventure. Hit the largest snow playground in the French Alps and enjoy thrilling slope runs, sightseeing the charming countryside villages or being a kid again and playing in the snow.
If you are keen to try your first ever ski holiday, leaders in all-inclusive ski holidays in South Africa, Club Med, are your best bet and have many resorts to choose from. They also offer ski (and snowboarding) lessons to make sure you bring home memories and new passions.
Requirements
- PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure.
- A negative lateral flow test taken within 48 hours of departure.
To Note: Passengers may be asked to complete the EU’s passenger locator form before boarding.
Seychelles
The archipelago of Seychelles is one of those destinations that will take your breath away. Not just a beach destination, there is so much to see and do in Seychelles.
Grab a bike and go for a sight-seeing cycle around La Digue, enjoy a Robinson Crusoe experience at Club Med Seychelles or try your hand at fishing in what many believe to be one of the richest fishing grounds in the world.
Requirements
- Negative COVID-19 PCR test done within 72 hours prior to departure.
- Complete Health Travel Authorisation.
- Valid Travel and Health insurance COVID-19 cover for related quarantine, isolation or treatment
Maldives
The Maldives is a tropical nation in the Indian Ocean known for its beaches, blue lagoons and extensive reefs. Here you will enjoy some of the best diving and snorkelling sites in the world with dazzling coral walls, manta rays and schools of brightly coloured tropical fish.
If you are looking to spoil a loved one, book yourself into an overwater villa at the romantic Club Med Kani and enjoy the best of all-inclusive luxury.
Requirements
- Travellers to the Maldives are not required to present a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test result on arrival.
- Passengers must complete a Traveller Health Declaration Form within 48 hours of both their arrival and their departure flights.
Turkey
Having witnessed many empires and civilizations, Turkey has a remarkable number of archaeological sites steeped in history – from Istanbul’s palaces and mosques to the ruins of Ephesus and underground cities of Cappadocia. Turkey also has plenty of natural escapes for active travellers: ski in the Uludağ Mountains or hike in the Rize Province. For the sightseer, the very famous white travertine terraces of Pamukkale are a sight to behold.
Requirements
- PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival into Greece
- A rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours
- A recovery certificate, showing proof of having recovered from Covid.
- Completed health registration form
To Note: There may be random PCR testing on arrival.
Greece
Greece is a country steeped in rich history that will further delight with its breathtaking beaches and archaeological wonders. From the Parthenon, world-famous Santorini Island, beaches of Crete, Greek cuisine to the historical Meteora Monastries – there is something to delight every traveller!
Requirements
- PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival into Greece
- A rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours
- A recovery certificate, showing proof of having recovered from Covid.
To Note: A vaccination certificate is required to visit most entertainment spaces.
Mexico
Mexico is a delightful vibrant destination whose sights, cuisine and entertainment offering is a feast for the senses – which is to be expected from the country that gifted us tequila and chocolate! Not only will you find incredible beaches, depending on when you travel, you can join
in the fun during one of their cultural festivals. A must-see is the historical Mayan site of Chichén Itzá where you can take a walk down memory lane in this new Wonder of the World. Not sure where to stay in Mexico?
The gorgeous all-inclusive Club Med Cancun located at the tip of the Cancun peninsula has access to three white sandy beaches and the world’s second-largest coral reef. A sports lover’s paradise, you can get your pulse racing with all-inclusive activities like sailing, tennis, archery, and flying trapeze.
Requirements
- No vaccination or PCR Test is required.
- Mandatory to register with Mexico Vuela Seguro (a health declaration and contact form) before flying to the country, and to show the QR code generated on arrival.
Please Note: There may be temperature checks at the airport.
Please note: Regulations are subject to change, so please check the official government sites for the latest information on a chosen destination before travelling.