What necessary documentation must I organise before my trip?
Before embarking on your journey, ensuring you have the necessary documentation is crucial.
Here’s what you need to organise:
Passport:
A valid, machine-readable passport issued by your country of citizenship is essential for international travel, including for travellers under 18 years old. Please make sure your passport remains valid for at least six months after your return date and has at least two consecutive blank pages for visas and entry stamps. Airlines and immigration officials may require this for boarding and processing.
Pro tip: Make physical and digital copies of your passport for emergencies.
Visas:
Most Commonwealth and European Union countries and the United States typically do not require visas for Southern Africa. However, you should check with your Explore Africa consultant or local embassy for specific requirements. For Zimbabwe or Zambia travel, consider the KAZA Univisa, which allows unlimited entry to both countries for 30 days.
Vaccination certificates:
Yellow Fever: Visitors to countries within the Yellow Fever Belt require a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Read “Exploring Africa Safely: A Comprehensive Guide to Vaccinations” (https://exploreafrica.com.au/exploring-africa-safely-a-comprehensive-guide-to-vaccinations/) for more information.
COVID-19: Some countries may have COVID-19 entry and exit rules. You may need proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result. Keep updated with each African country’s entry requirements by contacting our team or visiting “Covid-19 and Travel” (https://www.health.gov.au/topics/covid-19/travel) or Smart Traveller (https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/).
Ensuring these documents are organised beforehand will help streamline your travel experience and provide a smooth journey.
