Please take note of this — Coronavirus cases remain high across the globe. World Health Organization and other health officials caution that travel increases your chances of getting and spreading the virus. Below is information on what to know if you still plan to travel, last updated on June 19
Traveling to Africa during Covid-19: What you need to know before you take a step:
If you’re planning to travel to Ghana and other parts of Africa, here’s what you’ll need to know and expect if you want to visit during the global coronavirus pandemic season.
THE BASIC INFORMATION:
Ghana reopened to international flights on September 1, 2020. However, land and sea borders remain closed. All visitors must have proof of a negative covid-19 test and take a further test on arrival.
Ghana may be blessed with some of West Africa’s finest beaches, but it’s so much more than a place to sunbathe. Its coastal forts offer an unflinching insight into the slave trade which was run by the British from these shores. The rambling Kejetia Market, in Kumasi, in the southwest of the country, is said to be the largest in this part of the continent, selling everything from jewelry to footwear. It’s a must see for yourself! In the north, Mole National Park is the ideal place to see some of Africa’s most famous animals, including elephants, hippos and warthogs.
WHO CAN TRAVEL?
All visitors are now allowed into Ghana via Accra, as long as they have a negative test or undertake a second test on arrival at Kotoka International Airport. Same applies to other African countries too like Togo, Benin, Nigeria, La Cote d’Ivoire, and others.
ARE THERE ANY RESTRICTIONS?
Unless they are Ghanaian residents who are returning to the country after having been away for one week or less, all passengers aged five and over must have proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure and also undertake an additional antigen test on arrival. This costs $50 per passenger for Ghanaians and citizens of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and $150 for everyone else, with results available within 30 minutes. Payment must be made online prior to boarding the flight to Ghana. Ghanaian residents who have left Ghana for one week or less do not need to present a negative PCR test for departure, but still have to undertake the mandatory antigen test on arrival. In April, Ghana began digital verification of Covid-19 test results, to combat the circulation of fake result. Anyone testing positive on arrival will immediately be transferred to hospital for further assessment. Non-residents required to isolate in a government health facility must do so at their own cost, while for Ghanaians the cost will be covered by the state. All passengers must complete an online health declaration form and may be asked to do so again on board before landing.
WHAT CAN VISITORS EXPECT?
Masks are compulsory in public and when using public transit — not wearing one can get you into trouble. This includes in places such as markets and car parks.
IMPORTANT LINKS TO READ:
