For all travellers, regardless of nationality, you must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from Africa. Additionally, your passport should have a minimum of two consecutive blank visa pages per country you visit, and endorsement/amendment pages do not count. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in denied entry.
Now, let's explore the visa requirements for some of the key African countries you may be visiting on your safari:
Botswana
- Visa Requirement: No visa required for UK and USA passport holders.
- Important for Families: If travelling with children under 18, you will need the child’s original unabridged (full) birth certificate in English, along with their passport. This applies whether you're entering or transiting through Botswana. Ensure you carry these documents to avoid complications.
Congo
- Visa Requirement: Visa required and must be obtained in advance. Costs are £75 for UK passports and $200 for US passports.
- Recommendation: Use a visa service for assistance.
Kenya
- Visa Requirement: An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is mandatory and must be applied for in advance.
- Cost: $32.50 per person. All ages must have an ETA.
- Process: You can apply online at Kenya ETA up to three months before travel but no later than three days before arrival. We recommend applying 4–6 weeks in advance to avoid delays.
Malawi
- Visa Requirement: Visa required and recommended to be obtained in advance. The cost is £65 for UK passports and $100 for US passports.
Mauritius
- Visa Requirement: No visa required for UK and USA passport holders.
Mozambique
- Visa Requirement: Visa required and recommended to be obtained before travel. The cost is £40 for UK passports and $160 for US passports.
Namibia
- Visa Requirement: No visa required for UK and USA passport holders.
- Travelling with Children: As with Botswana, children under 18 require an original unabridged birth certificate in English, along with their passport.
Rwanda
- Visa Requirement: Visa required but can be obtained on arrival for $30 per person.
Seychelles
- Visa Requirement: An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required and must be applied for in advance. The cost is €10.90 per person, and the ETA must be completed at least 10 days before travel.
South Africa
- Visa Requirement: No visa required for UK and USA passport holders.
- Travelling with Children: If travelling with children under 18, you will need their original unabridged birth certificate in English along with their passport.
Tanzania
- Visa Requirement: Visa required, and it can be obtained either in advance or on arrival. The cost is $50 for UK passports and $100 for US passports. For those arriving at Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, or Zanzibar airports, we recommend applying for the visa in advance due to potential delays at immigration.
Uganda
- Visa Requirement: Visa required and must be obtained prior to travel. The cost is $50 per person. Ensure you apply through the official website at Uganda Visas
Zambia
- Visa Requirement: No visa required for UK and USA passport holders. However, for those visiting Livingstone and Victoria Falls, a UniVisa is available for $50, allowing multiple entries into both Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe
- Visa Requirement: Visa required and can be obtained on arrival. Costs are $30 for US citizens and £55 for UK citizens. The UniVisa for $50 allows multiple entries into Zimbabwe and Zambia.
East Africa Tourist Visa
For travellers visiting Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, an East Africa Tourist Visa is available, allowing seamless travel between these three countries. You can apply for the visa from the first country you plan to enter.
Important Notes for Families Travelling with Children
If you are travelling with children under 18, particularly to Botswana, Namibia, or South Africa, ensure you have the necessary documentation:
- Original unabridged birth certificate in English.
- If travelling with only one parent, additional documentation such as a parental affidavit or death certificate may be required.
Final Thoughts
At Royal Safari Collection, we provide this information to guide you through the visa process, but it's essential to verify details directly with the relevant embassies and official websites for the most current regulations. Always check visa requirements well in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
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