Visa Free African Countries for the US Worth Visiting

African Countries That are Visa-free to US Travellers

South Africa

Visa Free: Maximum stay of 90 days

Good To Know:

One of Africa's more popular destinations, in order to obtain entrance into South Africa, you'll need:

• 2 blank pages in your passport for entry and exit stamps
• Your passport to be valid for 6 months from your arrival date
• Passports must be machine-readable for entry and onward transit
• Hold return / onwards travel tickets
• Travellers under 18 must hold an original, or certified copy, of their unabridged birth certificate; AND
  • A parental consent letter containing their identity document and contact details

Why We Recommend Visiting South Africa:

Fortunately, South Africa is one of the African countries that do not require a visa for US citizens. A fantastic array of parks and reserves make it one of the best places to go on safari, with the likes of the iconic Kruger National Park, and family-friendly malaria-free reserves, there is ample room for adventure. From safari to cityscapes, the “Mother City” of Cape Town and surrounding world-renowned winelands are a must for travellers looking to experience vibrant city life, delicious dining, and one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World, Table Mountain.

Discover the infamous Big 5, explore exquisite beaches in Cape Town, along the Garden Route, on the Whale Coast, and up to KwaZulu-Natal, for the ultimate bush and beach escape. With excellent infrastructure and superlative accommodation, from camps and lodges to exclusive-use villas, a South Africa safari is fantastic for honeymooners, couples, multi-generational families, and group travel.

Zambia

Visa Free: Maximum stay of 90 days

Good To Know:

While Zambia does not require a visa, you will need the following to enter:

• 2 blank passport pages for entry and exit stamps
• A minimum passport validity of 6 months beyond the intended visitation period
• Hold return / onward travel documents
• Travellers under 18 must hold an original, or certified copy, of their unabridged birth certificate

Why We Recommend Visiting Zambia:

As the birthplace of walking safaris, Zambia is one of the more popular visa free African countries for US travellers. Offering a myriad of fascinating destinations, exhilarating activities, and opulent camps and lodges, the country has much to offer. Experience lauded walking safaris in the place of their origin, South Luangwa National Park, explore the remote Kafue National Park, or one of the other fantastic parks in the country.

One of the primary draws to Zambia and its neighbour, Zimbabwe, is the vast Victoria Falls. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known as the world's largest sheet of falling water and also one of the 7 Natural Wonders. In addition to a Zambia safari, visitors can enjoy a walk along the Knife-Edge Bridge found 100 metres (328 feet) above the gorge and a swim in Devil's Pool – a natural rock pool right on the edge of the waterfall. Alternatively, sunset cruises along the Zambezi River are also a favoured pastime. As some of these activities are water-level dependent, consult our guide on the best time to visit Africa.

Botswana

Visa Free: Maximum stay of 90 days

Good to know:

No visas are required for US citizens looking to visit Botswana; however, you will need:

• 2 blank pages in your passport for stamps
• A minimum passport validity of 6 months beyond the intended visitation period
• Hold onward / return travel tickets
• Yellow fever vaccination if arriving within 6 days of visiting a country with a risk of yellow fever transmissions (children under 1 year are exempt)
• Travellers under 18 will require an unabridged birth certificate, or a certified copy thereof, in order to enter

Why We Recommend Visiting Botswana:

With diverse landscapes, year-round game viewing, and ample accommodations to suit every traveller, it's never a bad time to consider Botswana safari tours. Enjoy some of Africa's top game reserves and wildlife areas such as the kaleidoscopic Okavango Delta, wildlife rich Moremi Game Reserve, and elephant-heavy Chobe National Park. Botswana is also home to a variety of unusual and rare animals like the red lechwe, brown hyena, and wild dog to name a few – not to mention the prolific birdlife.

In total contrast to the winding waterways of the Okavango, Botswana's Makgadikgadi Pans offer a fascinating, desolate destination for exceptional photography and interesting sightings. Botswana's location and infrastructure also lend the country well to being a combination destination, easily linking to the likes of Cape Town, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Namibia.

Malawi

Visa Free: Maximum stay of 90 days

Good To Know:

Malawi is another example of African countries that are visa-free to US travellers, but entrants will still require:

• 2 blank pages in your passport for stamps
• A minimum passport validity of 6 months beyond the intended visitation period
• Hold onward / return travel tickets
• Yellow fever vaccination if arriving within 6 days of visiting a country with a risk of yellow fever transmissions (children under 1 year are exempt)
• Travellers under 18 will require an unabridged birth certificate, or a certified copy thereof, in order to enter

Why We Recommend Visiting Malawi:

One of Malawi's primary calling cards is the vast Lake Malawi, Africa's third-largest freshwater lake and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famed for its friendly people and laid-back approach, this small but mighty African country has plenty to offer both first-time and return travellers.

Other top places to visit in Malawi include the country's flagship park, Majete Wildlife Reserve. Visit the more recent Liwonde National Park for a chance to discover Africa's iconic Big 5 – be it on foot, by boat, or 4×4 safari vehicle. For a taste of castaway-style paradise, Mumbo Island is a must-visit; fantastic activities such as snorkelling and scuba diving await alongside barefoot luxury.

Namibia

Visa Free: Maximum stay of 90 days (set to change April 2025)

Good To Know:

Namibia is currently a visa-free destination for US travellers, however, in April 2025 nations from 32 countries, including the US, UK, and Canada, will require a visa upon entry. Here are the entrance requirements for Namibia:

• 2 blank pages in your passport for stamps
• A minimum passport validity of 6 months beyond the intended visitation period
• Hold onward / return travel tickets
• Yellow fever vaccination if arriving within 6 days of visiting a country with a risk of yellow fever transmissions (children under 1 year are exempt)
• Travellers under 18 will require an unabridged birth certificate, or a certified copy thereof, in order to enter

Why We Recommend Visiting Namibia:

Aside from the striking, ancient, and sometimes desolate landscapes the country has to offer, a Namibia safari will not be soon forgotten. Discover the fascinating desert-adapted animals that call the country home and uncover safari big hitters in the lauded Etosha National Park.

Venture to the Skeleton Coast to discover waves crashing upon desert sand, shipwrecks the coastline has claimed, and the elusive brown hyena. Spend time crusading up towering dunes or marvelling at the petrified trees in Deadvlei. From Damaraland and the depths of Fish River Canyon to the deserted houses in Kolmanskop and sprawling Etosha salt pan, Namibia is vast and varied, perfect for adventurers.

African Countries That Require A Visa

Kenya

Visa Required: Electronic visa

Good To Know:

US visitors to Kenya are required to submit an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) at least 2 weeks before travel, but no more than 90 days prior to. In order to qualify, please ensure the following:

• A minimum of $500 to show sufficient funds for the stay
• Booking confirmation from accommodations
• Passports must be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the arrival date
• Onward / return travel tickets
• Yellow fever vaccination if arriving within 6 days of visiting a country with a risk of yellow fever transmissions (children under 9 months are exempt)
• A cost is associated with filing for the eTA and a headshot is required for application (one can also be taken during the application process)
• A Kenya eTA is valid for single entry only – there are very specific exceptions to this, which are best directed to an Africa Safari Expert

To note: If travellers have been granted and possess a valid “East African Tourist Visa” from Rwanda or Uganda, that is accepted provided the traveller entered the country of issue first.

Why We Recommend Visiting Kenya:

One of the biggest draw cards to Kenya is the world-renowned natural phenomenon of the Great Migration; an annual pilgrimage undertaken by mega-herds of wildebeest across the plains and daring river crossings. Experience the ultimate Kenya safari in the likes of the Laikipia Plateau, the famed Masai Mara, Amboseli National Park, or even the UNESCO Mount Kenya-Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.

Explore the country's wilderness and uncover its secrets in the likes of Shaba and Samburu National Reserves. Alternatively, settle by the still waters of Lake Nakuru – a dream destination for bird watchers with 400 odd recorded species flitting around. As a lauded bush and beach destination, the barefoot luxury and unspoilt sands of Kenya's Lamu Archipelago beckon travellers for a seaside sojourn to bring their adventure to a close.

Tanzania

Visa Required: E-visa applications

Good To Know:

Tanzania is unfortunately not one of the visa free countries in Africa, however, their e-visa application process is fairly straightforward and can be completed online.

• A passport valid for 6 months from arrival date
• Onward / return travel tickets
• At least 1 blank page for travel stamps
• Visitors travelling to Zanzibar or Pemba must have travel insurance purchased through their official website, which is in addition to any personal travel insurance.
• US nationals are able to obtain a visa on arrival, the cost of which must be paid on a valid card or notes of USD 50 or USD 100
• Yellow fever vaccination if arriving within 6 days of visiting a country with a risk of yellow fever transmissions (children under 1 year). Those not holding a vaccination certificate, or exempt, will be subject to vaccination on arrival at a cost of USD 50 for US nationals

Why We Recommend Visiting Tanzania:

Tanzania safari tours are undoubtedly one of the primary draw cards, boasting  the likes of the flagship Serengeti National Park– which also houses part of the annual Wildebeest Migration – and the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater. The magic of Tanzania's northern circuit extends to the wonderful Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park, where tree-climbing lions dwell.

To the south, the remote and unclaimed wild of Ruaha and Nyerere National Parks await. Known as some of Tanzania's hidden gem destinations, these spots may be off the beaten track but are home to big cats, endangered African wild dogs, and few other travellers. Finally, heed the call of island life and venture to Zanzibar and its private islands – Mnemba, Pemba, and Mafia – or combine chimpanzee trekking with tropical bliss on Rubondo Island.

Seychelles

Visa Required: Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

Good To Know:

US travellers entering Seychelles with an eTA are welcome to stay for 90 days with single entry rights.

• Passport must be valid for the period of intended stay
• Applications can be done as early as 30 days prior to travel but need to be completed no later than 72 hours before, preferably longer
• Upon successful application, a permit will be issued, which needs to be printed and brought along
• Travellers can apply for a “Visitor's permit” on arrivals for a maximum stay if they have:
  • Onward / return travel tickets
  • Sufficient funds: a minimum of USD 150 per day
  • Proof of accommodation for the trip duration
• Yellow fever vaccination if arriving within 6 days of visiting a country with a risk of yellow fever transmissions (children under 1 year)

Why We Recommend Visiting Seychelles:

Aside from the obviously exquisite beaches, the Seychellois coastline is ranked amongst the best diving spots in the world – from the picturesque La Digue to the lauded Anse Lazio. Explore shipwrecks, intricate rock formations, coral reefs, and a seemingly infinite number of sea-dwelling species. For the crème de la crème, visit the Aldabra Atoll – discover our top ranked luxury dive lodges in Seychelles.

One of the more common questions amongst travellers centres around the best time to visit Seychelles, fortunately, it's a fantastic year-round destination. Its proximity to the equator ensures tropical climes and ample sunshine, alongside a warm, humid winter with intermittent showers.

Zimbabwe

Visa Required: eVisa or visa on arrival

Good To Know:

For travellers interested in enjoying a variety of activities across Zimbabwe and Zambia, including bungee jumping, white river rafting, and the gorge swing to name a few, a KAZA Visa may be preferable.

The KAZA UNIVISA  allows tourists to apply for a single visa to visit both Zimbabwe and Zambia multiple times. The visa is valid for 30 days in any given 12 month period – as long as the holder remains within Zambia and Zimbabwe.

• Passport must be valid for the period of intended stay
• Visas for US nationals are valid for a maximum stay of 3 months
• Onward / return travel tickets
• Tourists can also obtain a Kaza Visa upon arrival to Harare or Victoria Falls, which also allows for entry into Zambia. This also entitles the holder multiple entries to both countries
  • Important to note: The combined stay must not exceed 30 days
• Yellow fever vaccination if arriving within 6 days of visiting a country with a risk of yellow fever transmissions

Why We Recommend Visiting Zimbabwe:

Aside from being home to the town of Victoria Falls, and the awe-inspiring waterfall itself, the country also houses a host of incredible landscapes and wildlife. When looking at a Zimbabwe safari, the flagship Hwange National Park cannot be overlooked, nor can Mana Pools National Park, where land meets river. With 11 vast national parks to choose from, visitors are spoilt for choice.

Discover abundant game with the ultimate trifecta – with both land- and water-based safari viewing as well as walking safaris. Visitors to Hwange also have the opportunity to experience night drives. Zimbabwe also features some incredible accommodation options – from authentic camps in the bush and luxury lodges overlooking watering holes to exclusive-use villas and suites overlooking the falls.

Rwanda

Visa Required: eVisa or visa on arrival

Good To Know:

Rwanda is sadly not on the list of visa free African countries for US citizens, but their visa on arrival process is simple, with a further option of applying for an eVisa beforehand.

For an eVisa:

• Apply as soon as possible to avoid any potential issues and allow ample time for confirmation
• A printed copy of the eVisa to present upon entry
• Valid for 30 days

In general, and for visa on arrival applications:

• A passport valid for a minimum of 6 months from arrival date
• Onward / return travel tickets
• Yellow fever vaccination if arriving within 6 days of visiting a country with a risk of yellow fever transmissions (children under 1 year)
• A visa on arrival is valid for 30 days

To note: If travellers have been granted and possess a valid “East African Tourist Visa” from Kenya or Uganda, that is accepted provided the traveller entered the country of issue first.

Why We Recommend Visiting Rwanda:

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience – the volcanoes, biodiversity, and fantastic parks make it a sensational destination to visit. Venture into the rainforests of Nyungwe Forest National Park and Volcanoes National Park and seek out its primate population. Golden monkeys, chimpanzees, and a vast variety of birds adorn the trees, providing fascinating sights along the way.

Embark on a journey to Akagera National Park for a classic safari filled with safari big hitters such as lions and Africa's giants, elephants. If there's time, visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund & Ellen DeGeneres Campus to learn more about gorilla conservation, explore the campus, and more.

Are You Ready To Explore Africa?

Now you know there are African countries that do not require visas for US citizens, and the requirements for ones that do, it's time to start planning a trip. If you're not sure where to start, get in contact with one of our Africa Safari Experts who are always on hand to curate a tailor-made itinerary.