It's been a confusing time. Where can one go? Which countries are safe to travel to and which ones can travel to us?
Level 1 has unleashed a whole new set of questions. The country opened for limited international travel this month and the passport gang is rejoicing.
But what do you need to know before you travel?
Only countries that are low risk of Covid-19 infections can enter South Africa.
Read more| Do you think people are taking level 1 regulations seriously?
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula recently shared several compliance requirements relating to passengers who will be travelling within the region or internationally.
Here are five things flight passengers need to know:
Always wear a mask
Minister Mbalula said it was compulsory for everyone travelling to wear a mask. “Passengers are required to wear face masks at all times and may only remove face masks during emergencies or when instructed by cabin crew to take them off, and must observe social distancing, ensure handwashing, and sanitize regularly.”
Children under the age of two may be exempt from wearing a mask
He said children under the age of two years may be exempted from wearing a face mask as masks can restrict breathing for small children as their airways are smaller.
Passengers with symptoms
Mbalula emphasized that if a passenger is symptomatic, the necessary protocols of the Department of Health will be followed.
Read more| Column: Confessions of a level fiver: I have severe level one anxiety
Travelling danger hotspots
International travel from countries listed as having a high Covid-19 infection and transmission rate is prohibited.
The minister said the exception is for business travel, which may be allowed with the approval of the Cabinet member responsible for Home Affairs, in which case such passengers must comply with the stipulated requirements.
Quarantine
If a passenger fails to submit a certificate as proof of a negative PCR test certificate or a valid Covid-19 negative test certificate upon arrival in South Africa, the passenger shall be subjected to a compulsory quarantine at a government-designated facility at his or her own cost.
For more information on the regarding alert level 1 lockdown travelling , visit the Department of Transport website.
