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Safari Visa Requirements — Africa Entry Guide | SafariSync

Visa & Entry Requirements

Everything you need to enter Africa's top safari destinations. Country-by-country visa types, fees, validity, and vaccination requirements.

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Countries

Visa types & fees

Info

Vaccination requirements

Health

Joint visas

Multi-country

Country-by-Country Requirements

CountryVisaFeeValidityVaccinations
KenyaeVisa required — apply at evisa.go.ke$5190 days single entryYellow fever certificate if arriving from an endemic area
TanzaniaVisa on arrival or eVisa at immigration.go.tz$5090 daysYellow fever certificate required
UgandaeVisa required — apply at visas.immigration.go.ug$5090 days single entryYellow fever vaccination mandatory
RwandaVisa on arrival (free for most nationalities, 30 days)Free for most nationalities30 daysYellow fever certificate required
BotswanaVisa-free for US/EU/UK passport holdersFree90 daysYellow fever certificate if arriving from an endemic area
South AfricaVisa-free for US/EU/UK passport holdersFree90 daysYellow fever certificate if arriving from an endemic area
NamibiaVisa-free for US/EU/UK passport holdersFree90 daysNone required (yellow fever only if arriving from an endemic area)
ZimbabweVisa on arrival$30 single / $45 double entrySingle or double entryYellow fever certificate if arriving from an endemic area
ZambiaeVisa or visa on arrival$50Single entryYellow fever certificate if arriving from an endemic area
MozambiqueVisa on arrival at major entry points$5030 daysYellow fever certificate if arriving from an endemic area
EthiopiaeVisa required — apply at evisa.gov.et$8230 or 90 daysYellow fever vaccination recommended
MadagascarVisa on arrivalFree up to 30 days30 days (extendable to 60 days for $35)Yellow fever certificate if arriving from an endemic area

General Travel Tips

1

Book accommodations before applying for your visa

Many visa applications require proof of accommodation. Having confirmed bookings speeds up the approval process and strengthens your application.

2

Keep digital and printed copies of all documents

Store copies of your passport, visa, vaccination certificates, and travel insurance in your email, cloud storage, and as physical printouts in your luggage.

3

Check COVID-19 requirements before travel

Most African countries have lifted COVID-19 restrictions, but some may still require proof of vaccination or testing. Verify before departure.

4

Travel insurance is highly recommended

Comprehensive travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage is essential for safari travel. Some countries require proof of insurance at entry.

5

Register with your embassy before traveling

Registering with your home country's embassy ensures you can be contacted in case of emergencies, natural disasters, or political unrest.

Before You Travel

Passport validity

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your planned travel date

Blank pages

At least 2 blank passport pages required for entry stamps

Check latest requirements

Always check with your embassy or consulate for the latest requirements

Nationality-specific

Requirements vary by nationality — information below is for US/EU passport holders

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to go on a safari in Africa?+
It depends on the country and your nationality. Some popular safari destinations like Botswana, South Africa, and Namibia are visa-free for US/EU/UK passport holders. Others like Kenya and Tanzania require an eVisa or visa on arrival.
What vaccinations do I need for an African safari?+
Yellow fever vaccination is the most commonly required. Tanzania and Rwanda require a yellow fever certificate, while most other countries require it only if you are arriving from an endemic area. Malaria prophylaxis is also recommended for most safari destinations.
What is the East Africa Tourist Visa?+
The East Africa Tourist Visa is a $100 multi-country visa that allows you to travel between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda on a single visa. It is valid for 90 days and is a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple East African countries.
What is the KAZA UniVisa?+
The KAZA UniVisa is a $50 joint visa that covers entry to both Zimbabwe and Zambia. It is ideal for travelers visiting Victoria Falls, which borders both countries, allowing unlimited crossings between them during the visa validity period.
How long must my passport be valid for African travel?+
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned travel dates. Most African countries also require at least 2 blank pages in your passport for entry and exit stamps.

Ready to Plan Your Safari?

Now that you know what documents you need, start exploring Africa's most incredible safari destinations.