Africa Entry Requirements
Visa rules, ETA systems and passport validity standards vary by country across East and Southern Africa, and requirements change periodically. The information below covers the key entry requirements for the main safari destinations. Always verify current requirements through official government portals before travel, as regulations update without notice.
East Africa
Kenya
Kenya operates an Electronic Travel Authorization system. Most nationalities must apply online before departure — on-arrival processing is not available. A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date is required, along with proof of onward travel. Yellow fever certification may be required depending on your country of origin or recent transit history.
Tanzania
Tanzania operates an e-Visa system for most nationalities, available online before travel. On-arrival visas are still processed at major international airports for many passport holders, though applying in advance is advisable. Yellow fever certification is required for travellers arriving from endemic countries.
Tanzania Visa Application Process
Rwanda
Rwanda offers visa-free entry for all African Union passport holders. Nationals of most other countries can obtain a visa on arrival or through the e-Visa system online. Rwanda is one of the most straightforward entry processes in the region. Gorilla trekking permits must be booked well in advance and are separate from visa arrangements.
Rwanda Visa Application Process
Uganda
Uganda requires an online visa application before travel for most nationalities. The e-Visa system is straightforward and processes within a few working days. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travellers. Gorilla trekking permits are in high demand and should be secured well ahead of the travel date.
Uganda Visa Application Process
Southern Africa
South Africa
South Africa offers visa-free entry for nationals of the UK, EU, US, Australia, Canada, most GCC countries and many others for stays of up to 30 or 90 days depending on passport. No pre-travel visa application is required for these nationalities. Families travelling with children under 18 should note South Africa’s documentation requirements — unabridged birth certificates and in some cases parental consent letters are required at immigration.
South Africa Visa Requirements
Botswana
Botswana offers visa-free entry for nationals of most Western countries, GCC states and many African nations for stays of up to 30 or 90 days. No pre-arrival application is required for most travellers. A valid passport, proof of sufficient funds and onward travel confirmation may be requested at entry.
Namibia
Namibia’s visa policy varies by nationality. Many European, North American and GCC passport holders receive visa-free entry on arrival. Others require a pre-arranged visa. Check current requirements for your specific passport before travel as regulations change periodically.
Namibia Visa Application Process
Zambia
Zambia offers e-Visa applications online and visa-on-arrival at major entry points. The KAZA Univisa is available for travellers combining Zambia and Zimbabwe — a single visa covering both countries, valid for 30 days, available at Livingstone, Victoria Falls and Harry Mwanga Nkumbula airports.
Zambia Visa Application Process
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe offers single and double entry visas on arrival at major ports of entry. The KAZA Univisa covers both Zimbabwe and Zambia for travellers visiting Victoria Falls across both sides of the border. Most Western and GCC passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival, though requirements should be confirmed before travel.
Zimbabwe Visa Application Process
General Requirements Across All Destinations
Across all safari destinations, a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended travel dates is standard. Most countries require a minimum of two to four blank pages. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory or strongly advised for several destinations, particularly when travelling from endemic regions. Proof of onward travel is commonly requested at immigration. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is strongly recommended for all safari travel.
If you are travelling with Oloi Shorua, we verify all entry requirements relevant to your nationality and itinerary before departure. For any questions, begin with a conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions — African Safari Guide
Kenya Immigration — etakenya.go.ke
Tanzania Immigration — immigration.go.tz
South Africa Home Affairs — dha.gov.za