With the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, travelling came to a standstill in most countries around the world. While the pandemic is still very present globally, countries have started to open up their borders in recent months to allow travellers to visit. This includes South Africa who is open for travellers from around the world.
The country is a popular destination for its stunning biodiversity, superb hospitality, and friendly people. While game safari trips to the Kruger Park are a big winner for many travellers to the country, visiting the scenic Cape Town is just as popular.
Ensuring your travels are safe is a number one priority for the country’s tourism industry. Read on to discover how to ensure safe travels while visiting Cape Town and the rest of the country during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why are Cape Town and the Western Cape so Popular?
Before the Coronavirus arrived on the shores of South Africa, Cape Town and the rest of the Western Cape was a top holiday destination for the following reasons:
- It’s safe for both individuals and families.
- The climate is ideal all year round with warm summers and mild winters.
- It offers a range of accommodation to suit all budgets.
- It’s famous for its world-renowned wines.
- High healthcare standards.
These same reasons still apply during the COVID-19 pandemic, making this part of South Africa an attractive spot for travellers.
Travelling Safely in South Africa During the COVID-19 Pandemic
While South Africa is still in lockdown, regulations do allow for travellers to visit the country. When deciding to travel to South Africa at any time, always be fully informed of the current travel status and lockdown regulations. To ensure you travel safe Cape Town follows the health and safety protocols stipulated by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).
What Are the WTTC Safe Travels Protocols?
WTTC, together with stakeholders in the tourism sector, developed a recovery effort to help the industry recover during the COVID-19 pandemic. The strategy included the “Safe Travels” stamp which is awarded to countries who align their health and safety standards with WTTC protocols. Whenever a traveller sees this stamp, they are ensured every effort is being made to keep them safe.
South Africa has been awarded the WTTC Global Stamp of Approval which means the country is recognised as a safe destination for travellers. The WTTC Safe Travels seal is awarded by the country’s Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) to industry-related businesses who align their services with the WTTC protocols.
When travelling in Cape Town, the rest of the Western Cape region, or any other part of South Africa, look out for the WTTC Safe Travels seal to give you peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way many businesses operate and this includes the tourism industry. Stringent health and safety standards are necessary to ensure the safety of every person, be it the traveller or the person working in the industry. To ensure you travel safely the next time you visit Cape Town or anywhere else in South Africa, look out for the WTTC Safe Travels seal.