South Africa removed from the UK Red List (UK)

British travellers can now visit South Africa without requiring hotel quarantine upon return. With its wide-open spaces and COVID secure protocols, South Africa cannot wait to welcome travellers again.

London, 8th October 2021: The review of the UK's traffic light travel system announced on 7th October moved South Africa from a ‘red’ list destination to ‘ROW - Rest of The World’ category. The decision is based on a reduction in Covid19 cases, increase in the number of vaccinations as well as the South African government’s efforts to contain the spread of the virus. The decision also follows increased collaboration between the British and South African governments in ensuring that up-to-date information from scientists on the spread of Covid19, especially the Beta variant is referenced when making decisions on which destinations are moved from the red list.

This announcement comes as President Cyril Ramaphosa moved South Africa to adjusted alert level 1 on 30th September which reduced the hours of curfew, increased the numbers permitted at gatherings and extended hours when alcohol can be purchased. South Africa remains open for international travel.

The vaccine roll-out is continuing momentum, and the country still aims to get 70% of its adult population fully vaccinated by the end of 2021.

The UK, an important market for South Africa

Tourism is one of South Africa’s key contributors to the country’s economy and one that will contribute to the destination’s economic recovery post the Covid19 pandemic. The United Kingdom plays a crucial role in the country’s recovery as an important and biggest source market for tourism arrivals into South Africa. In 2019 the destination welcomed 466, 841 British travellers, which was a 1.4% increase when compared to the previous year.

Consideration for South Africa remains stable

A consumer study conducted by South African Tourism and YouGov* in March 2021 showed that the British public’s intent to travel to the destination remained stable despite a turbulent year. Half of respondents (53%) would consider travelling to South Africa on holiday, which increases to almost three quarters (72%) for the 18–34-year-old age bracket. Other findings revealed that “scenic beauty” is the main reason for considering South Africa according to 73% of respondents, followed by “wildlife and safari” (66%) and “history and culture” (53%). Read full report here

South Africa (Cape Town) is the second best value long-haul destination
South Africa offers an exceptional value for money year-round – the 2021 Post Office Worldwide Barometer** again ranked Cape Town as the fifth best value destination and even more affordable than the Costa Del Sol, Spain and better value than Vietnam and Sri Lanka. Holidaymakers to South Africa can spend as little as £1.57 on coffee, £1.84 on a bottle of beer, £2.99 on a glass of wine and only £35.01 for dinner for two with wine. Direct flights from London to Johannesburg and Cape Town with British Airways are from £481 and £585 respectively. Full report here: https://www.postoffice.co.uk/travel-money/holiday-money-report

Enjoy ‘Big Five’ game viewing on a South African safari in wide open spaces

The world-famous Kruger National Park which covers an area the size of Wales, is home to the Big Five and hundreds of species of birds, ancient trees, winding rivers and vast, awe-inspiring landscapes. Activities including guided game drives, bush walks and walking trails in the wilderness mean the game viewing opportunities are practically endless.

G Adventure (0207 313 6953, is offering a seven-night ‘Kruger in Depth’ holiday from just £839. For travel on 22 December 2021 the price includes transfers, accommodation, game drives and some activities.

Witness breath-taking wildlife spectacles on SA’s sun-soaked coast
The removal of South Africa from the red list means that travellers can catch the whale season which runs from June to November, as the Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales come closer to the shoreline and make their way from the Western Cape to KwaZulu-Natal. Walker Bay in Hermanus is a prime breeding ground with many companies offering boat tours that practically guarantee close encounters with the gentle giants.

Africa Travel (020 7843 3500) is offering a 12-night stay in Cape Town, Knysna, Drakensberg Mountain and Durban from £2100pp. The classic self-drive tour combines the famed wine region and varied attractions of the Cape & Garden Route with the scenery and beaches of KwaZulu Natal. The price includes international flights, car hire and accommodation.

SSthembiso Dlamini, Acting CEO at South African Tourism:

“We are delighted to see the UK restrictions on travel to South Africa have been lifted, following a successful vaccine rollout in South Africa and continued decline in new COVID-19 cases. We are hopeful that we’ll be able to welcome visitors in time for the South African summer season and look forward to working with the UK travel trade to ensure the success of South Africa’s tourism recovery”.

Download Press Release and Images here
Email: mediauk@southafrica.net
Telephone number: 0208 971 935
Website: www.southafrica.net
Online image library: http://digitalassets.southafrica.net/

Note to editors

*Survey Results: All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2,094 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 12th - 15th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.

* Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel Report for 2021

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South Africa removed from the UK Red List

The UK, an important market for South Africa

Consideration for South Africa remains stable

SSthembiso Dlamini, Acting CEO at South African Tourism:

Note to editors

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