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. Kenya requires a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date, along with proof of onward travel. Additionally, you may need yellow fever certification depending on your country of origin or recent transit history.
Tanzania
Tanzania operates an e-Visa system for most nationalities, available online before travel. Major international airports still process on-arrival visas for many passport holders, though applying in advance is advisable. Travellers arriving from endemic countries must carry yellow fever certification.
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 consequently offers one of the most straightforward entry processes in the region. Book gorilla trekking permits well in advance — they sit 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. All travellers must have yellow fever vaccination — this is mandatory. Furthermore, gorilla trekking permits are in high demand and travellers should secure them 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. These nationalities need no pre-travel visa application. However, families travelling with children under 18 should note South Africa’s documentation requirements — immigration requires unabridged birth certificates and in some cases parental consent letters.
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. Most travellers need no pre-arrival application. Immigration may ask for a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds and onward travel confirmation 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 travellers should confirm requirements before travel.
Zimbabwe Visa Application Process
General Requirements Across All Destinations
All destinations require a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended travel dates. Most countries additionally require a minimum of two to four blank pages. Several destinations require yellow fever vaccination or strongly advise it, particularly when travelling from endemic regions. Immigration commonly requests proof of onward travel. We strongly recommend travel insurance covering medical evacuation 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