JOHANNESBURG, (The Southern African Times) – Mauritius has lifted the travel ban on South Africans in what is expected to be a serious tourism boost for the island nation ahead of the December holiday season.
The lifting of restrictions means that South Africans can now travel to Mauritius on authorised commercial flights without first having to spend fifteen days outside the country, said Arvind Bundhun, director of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA).
“We welcome the decision by the Mauritian government. South Africa remains a proximity and priority market for tourism on the island. We are delighted that we will be able to restart our long-standing relationship after an 18-month ban on travel.”
Authorised commercial flights from South Africa to Mauritius will commence on 1 October 2021 through Air Mauritius, Comair South Africa, SAA and Fly Safair and other carriers, he said.
From 1 October 2021, fully vaccinated travellers from South Africa, will be allowed to stay at any hotel, resort or accommodation of their choice and move freely around the island. Unvaccinated travellers will have to undergo 14 days quarantine in a state-designated quarantine facility.
“Mauritius has worked hard to develop and implement protocols that will keep both travellers and citizens as safe as possible from Covid-19 and the effects of the pandemic. Travellers can be assured of the government’s commitment to the health and safety of all travellers,” said Bundhun.
“South Africans have been longing for the Mauritius they know and love – from white sandy beaches and clear blue seas and skies, to our warm and friendly people, and so much more. Mauritius is ready and we can’t wait to welcome South Africans back to our beautiful country.”
