When the pandemic started, several opinions rushed to say that the consequences of the pandemic on the continent would be devastating, and many believed that we would see an apocalyptic disaster across the continent.

There were fears that the new virus could quickly overwhelm largely fragile health systems on the continent., but fast forward, covid-19 cases in Africa have largely remained low, and the level of pandemic control is somewhat admirable!

African countries are surviving the pandemic with endurance, prudence, and vigilance.

Right from the start, the measures imposed were quick and strict. The use of masks was mandatory and people did not resist. On the contrary, African knew that the only way to contain this pandemic is by being all on the same. 

As a result, Africa was one of the first continents that began to open up to tourism.

So, if you think you have the covid phobia and want to escape from the pandemonium that comes with significant stress, excessive concern over safety, public places, and situations, these are the countries you should check for short or long escapism. Just be sure to check with CDC and the country’s rules, practice social distancing, and take all the necessary precautions before, during and after your gateways.

Additionally, the African Union Commission andthe Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) launched the Saving Lives, Economies and Livelihoods campaign to promote hassle-free travel across Africa while, at the same time, preventing the cross-border spread of COVID-19 infection. Together with its partners, African Union and Africa CDC are providing this #TrustedTravel, My COVID Pass tool to simplify verification of public health documentation for travelers during exit and entry across borders.

That said, let's dive into some of the amazing African destinations were Americans are welcome amid Covid-19. 

Photo courtesy: Zeyrep Gokalp

TANZANIA

Among safaris and pristine beaches, Tanzania was one of the first countries to open its doors to international tourism, and hey, American tourists are welcome.

The Tanzanian government has not released much information regarding COVID-19 cases since April 29. Consequently, there not much information available.

All travelers whether foreigners or returning residents whose countries or airlines require them to provide negative testing for COVID-19 as a condition for traveling will be required to present a certificate on arrival.

Photo courtesy: Jason Zhao

ZIMBABWE

The magnificent Victoria falls is one of the main reasons to come here. Plus, contact with nature is one of the best therapies out there.

As of December 1, the Government of Zimbabwe requires all new arrivals to the country to present a negative COVID-19 test result issued within the previous 48 hours. The government provides no option for testing upon arrival for such travelers.

Nevertheless, bear in mind that caution should be exercised due to increased risk of crime and civil unrest in the country. 

RWANDA

Known as the land of thousand hills, with its stunning scenery, extraordinary biodiversity, and spectacular wildlife living throughout its volcanoes, montane rainforest, and sweeping plains.

All travelers arriving in Rwanda must have a negative COVID-19 certificate. (RT-PCR) performed within 120 hours of departure (meaning travelers must be tested and get results within 5 days of their first flight).

Photo Courtesy:David Clode

KENYA

With its immense herd of wildlife, epic landforms, and stunning land of the Masai Mara is welcoming US visitors as long as they follow the country’s Covid-19 procedures. All passengers arriving in Kenya must have a PCR Covid-19 negative certificate for a test conducted 96 hours before travel. U.S. citizens who do not have such a test may be refused to board or denied entry to Kenya.

GHANA

Accra Kotoka International Airport reopened for regular international passenger travel on Tuesday, September 1, 2020.

Individuals arriving in Ghana by air must present a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test conducted by an accredited laboratory in the country of origin, not more than 72 hours before departure.

Upon arrival, each traveler age five and over must undergo a temperature screening and COVID-19 test conducted at the airport.

Photo courtesy: Curioso Photography

SENEGAL

Senegal is one of West Africa's most stable countries, and this beautiful, rich, vibrant country.

US citizens are all welcome, but of course, they need to have a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry. The test must occur within five days of entry into Senegal.

All travelers to Senegal may also be required to complete a passenger location form for public health officials, in accordance with recommendations from the International Civil Aviation Organization.

Photo courtesy: Tania Anderson

BOTSWANA

If Safari isn’t your thing, now is the time to reconsider. Need a hint? There are more elephants here than in any other country on the planet!

All travelers are required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test valid within 72 hours of their departure for Botswana. Travelers who are symptomatic or who do not meet the test requirement will be tested and quarantined at their own expense.

NAMIBIA

The lonely deserts of Namibia have probably come from another planet. Get ready to be blown away with its surreal beauty!

Arriving international tourists do not have to quarantine if they present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result that is not older than 7 days. However, non-Namibian travelers arriving with a negative result that is older than 7 days will be placed in quarantine and tested for COVID-19 on the same day at their own cost. If the results of this test come out negative, they will be released from quarantine.