Last Updated July 22 2020

By August 1, three East Africa countries will be open for tourists: Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda

With safari guests and staff members in mind, every possible safety protocol has been planned and prepared for in advance of the return of visitors. All of the camps, lodges, and safari vehicles that Extraordinary Journeys will book for our guests have health and safety protocols in place in anticipation of your arrival to ensure the safety of both guests and staff.

It is our goal to make sure that there will be minimal contact with others and maximum privacy, to make sure you have a truly luxurious experience, even during this unique time. 

Kenya

Safari Destinations Welcoming 2020 Travelers, Reopening Airports, When the threat of COVID-19 emerged, Kenya immediately began implementing stringent health and safety guidelines to slow the virus. With fewer than 12,000 deaths across the entire continent of Africa, Kenya and other notable safari destinations have determined that starting August 1, they will reopen the airport for international travelers.

Kenya has been awarded the global “SAFE TRAVEL STAMP” by the World Travel & Tourism Council and is ready to welcome visitors after a long hiatus.

New arrival process at Jomo Kenyatta Airport in Nairobi, Kenya

Tourist activities have been open since June 17, but only if you had a charter plane to get into the country. On August 1, commercial flights will be allowed to land in Kigali airport.

All passengers, including those in transit, will be required to show proof of COVID-19 PCR negative test from a certified laboratory, taken within 120 hours (5 days) of arriving in Rwanda. For passengers entering Rwanda, a second PCR test will be conducted upon arrival, with results delivered within 24 hours during which time they will remain in designated hotels at own cost.

Tanzania has removed the mandatory 14-day quarantine requirements since May 14th. 

The Government of Tanzania is implementing temperature scanning and collecting tracking information for all international passengers arriving into Tanzania but have removed mandatory 14-day quarantine requirements on arrival.

  • If you show symptoms of COVID-19 on arrival, you may be required to quarantine at a government-designated facility at your own expense.
  • Travelers entering the country should be aware of possible health risks posed by inadequate protocols and facilities within the quarantine locations. You should comply with any additional screening measures put in place by the authorities.

Here are some of the highlights about the new safety protocols and how life may be a little different while visiting Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda with COVID safety in mind — but we still have the elements of luxury you need to relax and rejuvenate covered!

Protocols uniformly in place

  • To travel to Kenya or Rwanda, guests will need to have a COVID-19 negative test result from less than 96 hours prior to departure. Upon arrival in Africa, guests will be screened and in Rwanda a second test will be performed with visitors required to quarantine for 24 hours at a hotel of their choosing while awaiting results. * please note that airlines have their own protocols
  • Per protocols, only 4-5 guests will now ride in vehicles meant for 7 people and all drivers must have COVID-19 negative certificates.
  • our gourmet meals will always be delivered to you at your table by an appointed steward. Buffet meals will not be allowed.

These protocols are being updated daily. These are not the definitive list so please email us for the latest updates.

 List of Airlines flying to East Africa beginning August 1:

  • Qatar Airlines and Emirates started flights again in July to Tanzania and will fly into the rest of East Africa 
  • Turkish Airlines will resume International flights
  • Kenya airways will resume International flights 

Our recommendations for booking an ASAP extraordinary journey:

  • Chem Chem is ready for guests to return in time for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch the migration. With a private airstrip, guests can even charter a private plane to travel solo if they prefer not to fly with other guests. Try this itinerary
Safari Destinations Welcoming 2020 Travelers, Reopening Airports, swimming pool with deck and chairs and giraffe walking in the plains behind
Chem Chem Lodge
  • Private charters in Kenya are not much more expensive than shared flights. Turn this Kenya: Barefoot Luxury & Adventure itinerary into a private trip.
Safari Destinations Welcoming 2020 Travelers, Reopening Airports

There is concern in everyone’s mind about traveling as Safari Destinations Welcome Travelers, but we also know that our air transport providers, pre-flight protocols, and visiting countries with some of the lowest COVID infection rates in the world is a great option to finally give yourself the break you need. Experience the Big 5 up close, watch the sunset from luxurious camps and lodges, and savor exquisite meals, and know we are with you every step of your journey.

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